Planting calendar
April Planting Guide for Jacksonville, FL: Raised Beds, Containers & In-Ground Gardens
April in Jacksonville is ideal for planting warm-season vegetables and herbs in raised beds, containers, or directly in the ground. Focus on heat-tolerant crops and start some seeds indoors for fall planting. Avoid frost-sensitive plants that need cooler temperatures.
Plant now (quick list)
Tomatoes, Peppers, Eggplants, Okra, Sweet potatoes, Basil, Southern peas, Cucumbers
Plant now
- Tomatoes
- Peppers
- Eggplants
- Okra
- Sweet potatoes
- Basil
- Southern peas
- Cucumbers
- Beans
- Herbs like oregano and thyme
Start indoors
- Watermelon
- Cantaloupe
- Pumpkins
- Winter squash
- Broccoli (for fall transplant)
- Cauliflower (for fall transplant)
- Cabbage (for fall transplant)
- Collards (for fall transplant)
Avoid
- Cool-season crops like lettuce and spinach (will bolt quickly)
- Peas (prefer cooler weather)
- Potatoes (better planted earlier)
- Brussels sprouts (start later for fall)
- Kale (best planted in fall)
Next 2 weeks
- Mulch raised beds to retain moisture and reduce weeds
- Monitor for pests like aphids and caterpillars
- Water containers daily as temperatures rise
- Begin side-dressing tomatoes with fertilizer
- Thin seedlings in containers for proper spacing
- Prepare soil for fall crop planting
- Check irrigation systems for efficiency
- Pinch basil to encourage bushier growth
FAQs
Can I plant tomatoes directly in the ground in April in Jacksonville?
Yes, April is a good time to plant tomatoes directly in the ground as the risk of frost has passed and soil temperatures are warm enough.
How often should I water container plants in April?
In April's warming weather, container plants typically need watering once daily, but always check soil moisture to avoid overwatering.
Is it necessary to start warm-season crops indoors in April?
Starting crops like watermelon and pumpkins indoors in April helps ensure strong seedlings for transplanting later in the season.
What vegetables should I avoid planting in April in Jacksonville?
Avoid cool-season crops such as lettuce, spinach, and peas as they will bolt quickly in the heat.
How can I protect my raised beds from pests in April?
Regularly inspect plants for pests, use row covers if needed, and encourage beneficial insects to maintain a healthy garden.
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