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Spring Planting in Northwest Florida: What to Grow in April and May
Spring is in full swing along the Emerald Coast and there is no better time to breathe new life into your garden! Whether you’re sprucing up your landscaping before listing your home to sell or simply enjoying the sunny season in your new home, April and May are prime conditions for planting in Northwest Florida.
While Navarre’s subtropical climate means a longer growing season, knowing what to plant, and when, is key to a thriving lush garden. Here’s your go-to guide for spring planting in Navarre, Pensacola, Milton and beyond.
🌿 Top Plants to Grow in April
April is a fantastic time to get a jump start on annuals, perennials, herbs and veggies that thrive during the spring season.
Flowers & Ornamentals
Marigolds: Easy to grow and pest-resistant
Petunias: Perfect for hanging baskets and garden beds
Zinnias: Bright, butterfly-attracting blooms
Salvia & Pentas: Thrive in full sun and attract pollinators
Vegetables
Tomatoes: Get them in the ground early April
Peppers: Bell, banana, and jalapeños do great here
Squash & Zucchini: Quick growers in warm soil
Cucumbers: Prefer well-drained soil and trellises
Herbs
Basil: Loves the heat and grows fast
Thyme & Oregano: Low-maintenance and great in containers
Parsley: Tolerates spring temps and partial shade
🌸 Best Plants for May
As temps rise, May is all about heat-loving plants that thrive in Florida’s sun-soaked climate.
Flowers
Vinca (Periwinkle): Tough, drought-resistant color
Portulaca (Moss Rose): A low-growing beauty for borders
Sunflowers: A cheerful choice that grows fast in full sun
Vegetables
Sweet Potatoes: Perfect for planting in late spring
Okra: Loves the heat and sandy soil
Eggplant: Start from transplants for best results
Tropical Touches
Hibiscus & Bougainvillea: Bold blooms that scream “Florida”
Crotons & Caladiums: Bring rich color and texture to shaded spots
🌱 Tips for Planting Success in Spring
Soil Prep Matters: Be sure to mix in compost or organic matter to improve sandy soils.
Water Wisely: Early mornings are best; deep, less frequent watering encourages strong roots. If you’re watering in the afternoons, you risk scorching your plants in the sun.
Mulch It: Helps retain moisture and keeps weeds down—essential during hot days.
Know Your Zones: Northwest Florida is mostly in USDA Zone 9a/9b, which means frost is rare after March.
🏡 Curb Appeal That Sells
Thinking of listing your home? A fresh garden or flowerbed can be a major curb appeal booster. Bright flowers in containers, tidy hedges and a freshly mulched yard send a strong first impression to buyers. Need more prep tips? Our team at Navarre Real Estate Source is happy to help get your home market-ready—inside and out.
Happy planting, and here’s to a beautiful spring in Navarre Florida! 🌞🌷