What can I plant in October in zone 11a?

In USDA hardiness zone 11a (last spring frost around Jan 18, 2026, first fall frost around Jan 13, 2026), October is a good time to start indoors artichoke, bunching onion, celeriac, celery; direct sow outside annual ryegrass, crimson clover, hairy vetch, rye.

What to plant in October in zone 11a

15 crops to start indoors, direct sow, transplant, or harvest in October in USDA hardiness zone 11a. Typical last spring frost around Jan 18, 2026, first fall frost around Jan 13, 2026 — exact dates vary by location within the zone.

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Start indoors

Sow these under lights or on a windowsill now for transplants later.

Artichoke
Bunching Onion
Celeriac
Celery
Chinese Celery
Leek
Leek Microgreens
Onion
Onion Microgreens
Primula
Shallot

Direct sow outside

Sow these straight into the garden bed this month.

Annual Ryegrass
Crimson Clover
Hairy Vetch
Rye

Keep going

Full zone 11a planting calendar →
What to plant in October (all zones) →
Succession planting for a continuous harvest →

Timings use NOAA 1991–2020 climate normals for a representative location (Miami, FL) in zone 11a, computed with the same engine as GardenDraft’s in-app schedule. Guidance, not guarantees — your exact dates depend on your address.