Seed Starting in Florida

Seed starting in Florida looks very different than it does in colder climates. With mild winters, warm soil, and a long growing season, Florida gardeners have more flexibility — and more opportunities — to grow year-round. Understanding when to start seeds indoors and when to plant directly outdoors can make all the difference in a successful garden.

At Lindley’s Garden Center, we help gardeners navigate Florida’s unique growing conditions with confidence.

Why Seed Starting Is Different in Florida

In much of Florida, including New Smyrna Beach, winter rarely brings hard freezes. That means many seeds can be planted directly outdoors during fall and winter. However, shorter daylight hours, occasional cold snaps, heavy rain, and pests can still challenge young seedlings.

Starting seeds indoors isn’t always required in Florida, but it can provide better control and stronger plants for certain crops.

When to Start Seeds Indoors in Florida

Indoor seed starting is most helpful for:

Warm-Season Vegetables
Tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, and basil benefit from being started indoors so they’re ready to transplant when temperatures stabilize.

Slow-Growing Plants
Some flowers and perennials take longer to mature and perform better with an early start.

Rain-Sensitive Seedlings
Indoor starts protect young plants from heavy rain, wind, and insects common during Florida’s cooler months.

Container Gardening
Gardeners growing in pots often prefer indoor starts for better spacing and control.

What Can Be Direct-Sown Outdoors

Many crops grow best when planted directly in the garden during Florida’s cooler months:

• Lettuce and leafy greens

• Spinach and kale

• Carrots and radishes

• Beans and peas

• Cilantro, dill, and parsley

These plants prefer cooler temperatures and typically establish well outdoors.

Tools for Successful Seed Starting

Florida seed starting works best with the right supplies. Seed-starting trays and lightweight seed-starting mix promote healthy root growth. Grow lights can help indoors during winter months when daylight hours are shorter, especially for warm-season crops.

Good airflow, proper drainage, and consistent moisture are key to preventing issues like damping-off and root rot.

Timing Is Everything

Florida gardeners often plant in cycles rather than one short season. Fall and winter planting leads into spring harvests, and spring planting can continue into summer with heat-tolerant varieties. Knowing what to plant and when helps maximize Florida’s long growing season.

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Florida Seed Starting FAQs

Do I need grow lights in Florida?
Not always, but grow lights help when starting warm-season crops indoors during winter.

Can seeds be planted outdoors in winter in Florida?
Yes. Many cool-season crops thrive when planted outdoors during Florida’s winter months.

Why are my seedlings struggling outdoors?
Heavy rain, pests, or inconsistent temperatures can stress young seedlings. Indoor starts help avoid these issues.

When should warm-season plants be transplanted outside?
Once nighttime temperatures stay consistently above 50–55°F.

Is seed starting worth it in Florida?
Yes — especially for gardeners who want earlier harvests, stronger plants, and more control.

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Grow Smarter With Florida’s Seasons

Seed starting in Florida is about working with the climate, not against it. By choosing the right plants and starting methods, gardeners can enjoy fresh growth nearly all year long.

Visit Lindley’s Garden Center at 1232 Canal Street in New Smyrna Beach, or call 386-428-7298.
Hours:
Sunday: 11:00 AM–4:00 PM
Tuesday–Saturday: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Closed Mondays

Our team is always happy to help you choose seeds, supplies, and planting strategies that fit Florida’s unique growing conditions.