Florida’s subtropical climate permits planting jicama in both spring and late summer for a fall harvest. Knowing the best time to plant jicama in florida is key to getting those crisp, sweet tubers before the first frost or the intense summer heat ruins them. Jicama needs about 150 to 200 warm days to mature, so timing your planting window correctly makes all the difference between a successful crop and a disappointing one.
Jicama is a tropical legume that thrives in heat but hates cold soil and frost. In Florida, you have two main planting windows: early spring after the last frost, and mid-to-late summer for a fall harvest. The exact dates depend on your specific region—North Florida, Central Florida, or South Florida—since the state spans USDA zones 8b through 11.
Best Time To Plant Jicama In Florida
The best time to plant jicama in florida is generally from March to April for spring planting, and again from July to August for a fall crop. In South Florida, you can even push the spring window into February if the soil is warm enough. The key is to ensure soil temperatures are consistently above 60°F (15°C) before planting, as jicama seeds will rot in cold, wet ground.
For a fall harvest, plant jicama about 100 to 120 days before your area’s first expected frost. In North Florida, that means planting by mid-August. In Central Florida, you have until early September. South Florida gardeners can plant as late as October for a winter harvest, since frost is rare there.
Spring Planting Window
Spring is the most popular time to start jicama in Florida. The soil warms up quickly, and the long, hot days of summer give the plants plenty of energy to grow large tubers. Here’s a breakdown by region:
- North Florida (zones 8b-9a): Plant from late March to mid-April. Wait until the danger of frost has passed completely.
- Central Florida (zones 9b-10a): Plant from mid-March to early April. Soil temps are usually warm enough by then.
- South Florida (zones 10b-11): Plant from February to March. You can even start in late January if the weather is mild.
Spring-planted jicama will be ready to harvest from late summer to early fall, typically September through November. The tubers need those long, hot days to swell properly, so don’t rush to plant too early if the soil is still cool.
Late Summer To Fall Planting Window
If you missed the spring window or want a second crop, late summer planting works well in most of Florida. The heat of August and September gives jicama a strong start, and the cooler fall weather helps the tubers develop sweetness. Here are the guidelines:
- North Florida: Plant from late July to mid-August. This gives you about 100 days before the first frost, which typically arrives in November.
- Central Florida: Plant from early August to early September. You have a bit more time before frost.
- South Florida: Plant from August to October. You can harvest well into winter or even early spring.
Fall-planted jicama often has a milder flavor and smaller tubers than spring-planted ones, but it’s still worth growing. Just make sure to protect young plants from any unexpected cold snaps in November or December.
Soil Temperature And Frost Considerations
Jicama is extremely sensitive to cold. Soil temperatures below 60°F will stunt growth, and frost will kill the vines and damage the tubers. Use a soil thermometer to check your garden bed before planting. If the soil is below 65°F, wait a week or two.
In North Florida, the first frost can come as early as mid-October in some years. That’s why spring planting is more reliable there. In Central Florida, you have until late November or early December. South Florida gardeners rarely see frost, so they have the longest planting season.
How To Plant Jicama In Florida
Once you’ve chosen your planting window, follow these steps to get your jicama off to a strong start. Jicama is grown from seeds, not transplants, because the taproot doesn’t like being disturbed.
Step 1: Prepare The Soil
Jicama prefers loose, well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Florida’s sandy soils are actually ideal for jicama, as long as you add plenty of organic matter. Mix in 2 to 3 inches of compost or aged manure before planting. This improves moisture retention and provides nutrients.
Avoid heavy clay soils or areas that stay waterlogged. Jicama roots can rot if they sit in wet ground for too long. If your soil is heavy, consider planting in raised beds or mounds.
Step 2: Soak The Seeds
Jicama seeds have a hard outer coat. Soak them in warm water for 12 to 24 hours before planting. This softens the seed coat and speeds up germination. Discard any seeds that float, as they are likely non-viable.
After soaking, plant the seeds about 1 inch deep. Space them 6 to 8 inches apart in rows that are 3 to 4 feet apart. Jicama vines can grow 10 to 15 feet long, so give them plenty of room to spread.
Step 3: Provide Support
Jicama is a climbing vine. Install a trellis, fence, or stakes for the vines to grow on. This keeps the plants off the ground, reduces disease, and makes harvesting easier. You can also let them sprawl, but the tubers may be smaller and harder to find.
If you use a trellis, make sure it’s sturdy enough to support the heavy vines. Jicama can get quite large by late summer.
Step 4: Water Consistently
Jicama needs regular moisture, especially during the first 6 to 8 weeks. Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on rainfall. Florida’s summer rains usually provide enough water, but during dry spells, supplement with irrigation.
Once the vines start flowering, reduce watering slightly. Too much water at this stage can cause the tubers to crack or become watery. Aim for about 1 inch of water per week.
Step 5: Fertilize Lightly
Jicama is a light feeder. Too much nitrogen will produce lush vines but small tubers. Use a balanced fertilizer like 10-10-10 at planting time, then switch to a low-nitrogen formula (like 5-10-10) once the vines start growing. Apply fertilizer every 4 to 6 weeks.
In Florida’s sandy soils, nutrients leach quickly. Consider using a slow-release fertilizer or supplementing with liquid seaweed or fish emulsion every few weeks.
Growing Jicama In Florida: Tips For Success
Jicama is relatively easy to grow in Florida, but a few extra tips can help you maximize your harvest. Here’s what experienced Florida gardeners recommend:
Choose The Right Variety
Most jicama sold in the US is the Mexican variety (Pachyrhizus erosus). It’s well-suited to Florida’s climate. Look for seeds labeled “Jicama de Agua” or simply “Jicama.” Avoid the Asian variety (Pachyrhizus angulatus), which is more bitter and less common.
Some seed companies offer improved varieties that mature faster, like ‘Early Jicama’ or ‘Crisp.’ These can be helpful for North Florida gardeners with shorter growing seasons.
Watch For Pests
Jicama is generally pest-resistant, but Florida’s humidity can attract some problems. Keep an eye out for:
- Aphids: These small insects suck sap from new growth. Spray them off with water or use insecticidal soap.
- Spider mites: They thrive in hot, dry conditions. Increase humidity by misting the vines.
- Root-knot nematodes: These microscopic worms attack roots in sandy soils. Rotate crops and add organic matter to reduce populations.
Most pests are easy to control if you catch them early. Healthy plants can tolerate minor infestations without much damage.
Harvest At The Right Time
Jicama is ready to harvest when the vines start to yellow and die back, usually 150 to 200 days after planting. The tubers should be 4 to 6 inches in diameter and feel firm. Don’t wait too long, or they may become woody and fibrous.
To harvest, gently dig around the base of the plant with a garden fork. Lift the tuber carefully to avoid bruising. Jicama stores well in a cool, dark place for up to 2 months.
Common Mistakes When Planting Jicama In Florida
Even experienced gardeners make mistakes with jicama. Here are the most common ones to avoid:
Planting Too Early In Spring
It’s tempting to plant jicama as soon as the weather warms up, but cold soil will kill the seeds. Always check soil temperature before planting. If you’re unsure, wait until after the last frost date for your area.
In North Florida, that means waiting until late March or early April. In Central Florida, mid-March is usually safe. South Florida gardeners can start in February.
Overwatering
Jicama needs consistent moisture, but too much water can cause root rot. Florida’s summer rains are often heavy, so you may not need to water at all during wet periods. Let the soil dry out slightly between waterings.
If you’re growing in raised beds or containers, make sure they have good drainage. Add perlite or sand to heavy soils to improve drainage.
Ignoring Frost Warnings
Jicama is not frost-tolerant. If a frost is predicted, cover your plants with row covers or blankets. In North Florida, it’s best to harvest all tubers before the first frost, even if they are small. You can store them indoors and let them continue to develop flavor.
In South Florida, frost is rare, but a cold snap can still damage young plants. Keep an eye on the forecast and be ready to protect them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Plant Jicama In Florida During The Summer?
Yes, you can plant jicama in Florida during the summer, but the intense heat and humidity can stress young plants. It’s better to plant in spring or late summer for a fall harvest. If you do plant in summer, provide partial shade and consistent watering.
How Long Does Jicama Take To Grow In Florida?
Jicama takes about 150 to 200 days to mature in Florida, depending on the variety and weather. Spring-planted jicama is usually ready from September to November. Fall-planted jicama may take a bit longer but can be harvested into winter in South Florida.
What Is The Best Month To Plant Jicama In Florida?
The best month to plant jicama in Florida depends on your region. For spring planting, March is ideal for most of the state. For fall planting, August is the best month for North and Central Florida, while September works well in South Florida.
Can Jicama Survive Florida’s Winter?
Jicama cannot survive frost, but it can grow through mild winters in South Florida. In North and Central Florida, you need to harvest before the first frost. The tubers can be stored indoors for several months.
Do I Need To Trellis Jicama In Florida?
Yes, trellising is recommended for jicama in Florida. The vines can grow 10 to 15 feet long, and keeping them off the ground reduces disease and makes harvesting easier. A sturdy trellis or fence works well.
Final Thoughts On Planting Jicama In Florida
Jicama is a rewarding crop for Florida gardeners, as long as you time it right. The best time to plant jicama in florida is spring for most areas, with a second window in late summer for a fall harvest. By paying attention to soil temperature, frost dates, and your specific region, you can enjoy fresh, homegrown jicama from your garden.
Start with good soil, provide support for the vines, and water consistently. Avoid common mistakes like planting too early or overwatering. With a little care, you’ll have a bountiful harvest of crisp, sweet tubers that taste nothing like the store-bought ones.
Remember, jicama is a tropical plant that loves heat but hates cold. In Florida, you have the perfect climate to grow it successfully. Just pick your planting window, follow the steps above, and enjoy the fruits of your labor. Happy gardening!