Best Plants for Florida’s Dry Season: What to Plant in Winter for a Thriving Spring

Introduction

Florida’s winter is unique, dry, mild, and sunny, with cooler nights and far less rainfall. While many states shut down their gardening efforts for the season, Florida homeowners have an opportunity to plant, refresh, and strengthen their landscape. Winter is not only a great time to work outdoors comfortably, but it’s also the ideal season to establish new plants before the intense summer heat returns.

Whether you're revitalizing a tired yard, adding color to your garden beds, or planning ahead for spring, here are the best plants to grow in the Florida winter and why this season gives them a head start.

Why Plant in Florida’s Winter?

Florida’s winter offers several advantages:

• Cooler temperatures reduce plant stress

• Lower humidity helps prevent pests and disease

• Plants establish deeper roots before summer

• Dry-season sunlight boosts early growth

For Florida homeowners, winter is truly the “secret season” for landscape success.

Best Winter Annuals for Color

1. Petunias

Petunias thrive in cooler, dry weather and deliver non-stop color. They’re available in countless colors and look beautiful in borders, containers, and hanging baskets.

Why they’re great: Long bloom cycle, drought tolerant, and quick to establish.

2. Snapdragons

These tall, elegant flowers add height and richness to any garden bed. Snapdragons love cool weather and can bloom well into late spring.

Perfect for: Garden beds, entryways, and cut flower gardens.

3. Geraniums

Geraniums dislike Florida's humid summers but absolutely love winter. They can bloom from November all the way through April.

Tip: Plant in well-drained soil and avoid overhead watering.

Best Perennials and Shrubs to Plant in Winter

4. Firebush (Hamelia patens)

A Florida-native favorite, firebush produces bright orange-red blooms and grows quickly once established.

Benefits: Attracts pollinators, heat tolerant, and drought resistant.

5. Coontie Palm (Zamia integrifolia)

This hardy Florida native requires almost no maintenance and adds texture to any landscape.

Why plant in winter? Cool temperatures help it root faster, making it more resilient for summer.

6. Muhly Grass

Known for its pink fall plumes, muhly grass is equally beautiful year-round. Planting in winter helps the clumps spread and strengthen.

Ideal for: Borders, natural areas, and rock gardens.

Best Winter Herbs and Edibles

7. Rosemary

One of the toughest herbs for Florida’s climate. Rosemary thrives in dry, cool winter air.

Bonus: Works as both an edible and a landscape shrub.

8. Lettuce & Leafy Greens

Winter is prime season for growing greens in Florida, including:

• Lettuce

• Kale

• Collards

• Spinach

They mature quickly in cool weather and resist pests better than in warm months.

9. Strawberries

Florida’s famous crop! Plant in early winter and enjoy berries from February through April.

Best Trees to Plant in Florida Winter

10. Live Oak

Winter planting allows oaks to develop strong root systems before hot weather.

11. Crepe Myrtle

These ornamental trees benefit from winter planting, which reduces transplant shock.

12. Magnolia

Magnolias appreciate cooler temps during establishment and respond well to winter watering patterns.

How to Prepare Your Landscape for Winter Planting

1. Improve the Soil

Florida soil varies widely. Add:

• Compost

• Pine bark fines

• Slow-release fertilizer

This boosts long-term root growth.

2. Mulch Properly

A 2–3 inch layer of mulch helps:

• Retain soil moisture

• Suppress weeds

• Protect young roots from temperature swings

  
  

3. Water Wisely

Even during dry season, new plants need consistent watering. Use a simple schedule:

• Daily for the first week

• Every other day for weeks 2–3

• Twice weekly after that

Tips for Choosing Plants That Thrive

Pick Florida-Friendly Plants

Look for tags labeled:

• "Florida native"

• "Drought tolerant"

• "Heat resistant"

Think Long-Term

Winter is the best time to plan for what your landscape will look like in spring and summer.

Use the Right Plant in the Right Place

Match each plant with:

• Sunlight needs

• Soil type

• Watering requirements

Final Thoughts

Winter planting in Florida gives homeowners a chance to create a thriving, colorful, low-maintenance landscape before the summer heat rolls in. By choosing plants suited to the dry season and establishing strong roots now, you’ll enjoy healthier gardens, fewer pest problems, and vibrant spring growth.

If you'd like help installing any of these plants or planning your winter landscape, our team is ready to assist!