Zone 11

USDA Hardiness Zone 11 encompasses regions with average minimum winter temperatures ranging from 40°F to 50°F (4°C to 10°C). This zone includes parts of Hawaii, southern Florida, and some tropical territories of the United States. Gardeners in Zone 11 enjoy a year-round growing season, making it ideal for a wide variety of tropical and subtropical plants. The climate supports lush vegetation, including many exotic flowers, fruits, and palms. Successful gardening in Zone 11 involves selecting plants that thrive in consistently warm temperatures and managing the challenges of high humidity and occasional heavy rains.

What is the climate like in Zone 11?

Zone 11 experiences average minimum winter temperatures between 40°F and 50°F (4°C to 10°C). These consistently warm temperatures mean that frosts are virtually nonexistent, but gardeners must still be prepared for occasional temperature fluctuations. Plants must be selected for their ability to thrive in year-round warm conditions.

The year-round growing season in Zone 11 allows for continuous planting and harvesting, providing opportunities to grow a wide variety of plants, including many tropical and subtropical species. However, this also requires diligent management to prevent soil nutrient depletion and maintain plant health throughout the year. Crop rotation and the use of organic fertilizers can help sustain soil fertility.

Many areas within Zone 11 experience high humidity levels, which can promote the growth of mold, mildew, and other fungal diseases. Effective ventilation, proper plant spacing, and the use of fungicides when necessary can help manage these issues. Selecting disease-resistant plant varieties is also a crucial strategy for maintaining healthy gardens in humid conditions.

Zone 11 regions often face periods of heavy rainfall, especially in tropical locations. This can lead to waterlogging and root rot if proper drainage is not maintained. Raised beds, well-draining soil, and strategic planting on slopes can help mitigate these issues. Additionally, installing rain barrels and other water management systems can help control excess water and utilize it during drier periods.

The warm, humid environment of Zone 11 is ideal for many pests and diseases. Common issues include aphids, mealybugs, scale insects, and various fungal and bacterial infections. Integrated pest management (IPM) practices, such as encouraging beneficial insects, using organic pesticides, and implementing proper sanitation measures, are essential for keeping gardens healthy and productive.

What is the recommended planting schedule?

Below, you can see the recommended planting schedule for vegetables and herbs.

Vegetables

Plant	Sow seeds indoor	Transplanting to outdoor	Harvesting Month	Last date
Cucumber	June 15	June 22	August 16	August 5
Brussels Sprouts	All year	All year	All year	All year
Tomato	March 26	March 31	May 25	September 25
Spinach	All Year	All Year	All Year	All Year
Beets	All Year	All Year	All Year	All Year
Zucchini	March 12	March 19	April 28	October 15
Cabbages	June 15	June 22	August 21	July 30
Potato	All year	All year	All year	All year
Radish	All year	All year	All year	All year
Broccoli	All year	All year	All year	All year
Carrot	All Year	All Year	All Year	All Year
Cauliflower	All year	All year	All year	All year
Onion	All year	All year	All year	All year

Herbs

Plant	Sow seeds indoor	Transplanting to outdoor	Harvesting Month	Last date
Marjoram	All year	All year	All year	All year
Parsley	All year	All year	All year	All year
Dill	May 26	June 5	July 3	September 23
Fennel	All year	All year	All year	All year
Sage	All year	All year	All year	All year
Thyme	All year	All year	All year	All year
Oregano	All year	All year	All year	All year
Mustard	All year	All year	All year	All year
Mint	March 26	April 5	June 4	September 12
Lavender	All-year	All-year	All-year	All-year
Rosemary	All year	All year	All year	All year
Ginger	All year	All year	All year	All year
Basil	January 29	February 8	March 29	October 11
Cilantro	All year	All year	All year	All year