Diary of a Gardener: The Best Time to Start Planning Your Garden? Sooner Than You Think.
If you’ve ever found yourself standing in the garden center in spring, overwhelmed by plant options and unsure what to do next, you’re not alone. Many homeowners wait until the growing season is in full swing to start thinking about their gardens—but by then, they’re already behind.
Whether you’re dreaming of a lush butterfly haven, a tidy HOA-approved front yard, or a low-maintenance tropical retreat, the best time to start planning your garden is before you're ready to plant.
Here’s why earlier is better—and what you can start doing now to set your future garden up for success.
Timing is Everything in Florida
In most parts of the country, spring is planting season. But in Florida, we do things a little differently. Our planting windows vary depending on the region and the types of plants, but fall (October/November depending on storms) is often prime time for getting new landscapes established. Also, February to early May. Anything planted after early May, could suffer as our temperatures rise quickly.
Why? Because:
The soil is still warm but not hot.
Rainfall is typically more predictable
Cooler temps reduce transplant stress
Plants have time to develop roots before the heat of summer
If you want a thriving garden next spring or summer, plan in late summer or early fall so you’re ready to install when the time is right.
Good Gardens Begin on Paper
Great landscapes don’t start at the nursery—they start with a plan.
Designing your garden ahead of time allows you to:
Choose the right plants for the right place
Ensure color, texture, and height are balanced
Work around irrigation, sun exposure, and drainage
Budget in phases if needed
Avoid impulse purchases and costly mistakes
When you plan early, you plant smarter.
Plan with Purpose
Now is the time to think about your why. What do you want from your garden?
Pollinator paradise?
Low-maintenance curb appeal?
Edible herbs and veggies?
Shade and privacy?
A personal retreat?
Your goals will guide your plant choices, layout, and timeline. Early planning gives you the space to be intentional, not reactive.
Things You Can Do Right Now
Even if you’re not planting yet, there’s plenty to do:
Observe your yard: Where does the sun hit? Where does water pool? Watch it at different times of day.
Clean up & prepare: Remove dead or unwanted plants, prune overgrown shrubs, and improve soil.
Make a wishlist: Jot down your favorite colors, textures, or plants you’d love to try.
Book your pro: Designers and installers book up fast—getting on the schedule early ensures you’re ready for the ideal planting window.
Final Thought
The best gardens aren’t rushed—they’re rooted in thoughtful planning. If you're dreaming of blooms next season, the time to start isn’t spring…
…it’s now.
Because a well-planned garden doesn’t just grow—it thrives.
