Local Gardening Guide

What Can I Grow in North County San Diego?

North County San Diego is in USDA Hardiness Zone 10aa. Here's what thrives in your area and when to plant it.

🌡️ Zone 10aa 📍 California

Zone 10a at a Glance

USDA Zone

10aa

Winter Low

35–45°F

Grow Cycles

3/yr

Frost Risk

rare

North County San Diego falls in USDA Zone 10a (10aa specifically). Summer highs reach 85–100°F+ and winter lows drop to 35–45°F.

Best Plants to Grow in North County San Diego

105 plants grow well in Zone 10a conditions. Here are the top picks by season.

Spring Picks

Kale 50–65 days Swiss Chard 45–60 days Carrots 55–70 days Beets 50–65 days Broccoli 55–75 days Cauliflower 55–85 days Cabbage 70–110 days Brussels Sprouts 90–120 days

Summer Picks

Tomatoes 60–90 days Cherry Tomatoes 55–75 days Roma Tomatoes 70–80 days Bell Peppers 65–90 days Hot Peppers 65–90 days Jalapeños 65–90 days Habanero Peppers 75–100 days Cucumbers 50–70 days

Fall Picks

Kale 50–65 days Swiss Chard 45–60 days Carrots 55–70 days Beets 50–65 days Broccoli 55–75 days Cauliflower 55–85 days Cabbage 70–110 days Brussels Sprouts 90–120 days

Cool Season Picks

Lettuce 35–60 days Spinach 35–50 days Radishes 25–35 days Potatoes 75–120 days Snap Peas 55–70 days Cilantro 25–45 days Dill 40–60 days Arugula 20–40 days

Year-Round Picks

Green Onions 50–70 days Basil 45–70 days Parsley 60–80 days Mint 50–60 days Rosemary 90–120 days Oregano 70–90 days Thyme 70–90 days Sage 75–90 days

Garden Kits for North County San Diego

Themed collections that grow well in Zone 10a.

Everything for fresh homemade salsa, all season long.

Fresh salad greens and toppings straight from your garden.

Kid-Friendly Crunch

High-engagement crops kids love to pick and eat.

Smoothie Greens

Nutrient-packed greens for smoothies and juicing.

The essential culinary herb collection.

Classic Italian garden: tomatoes, basil, zucchini, and garlic.

Grow your own taco toppings: fresh lettuce, tomatoes, peppers, and cilantro.

The best of summer: cucumbers, peppers, eggplant, and basil.

Pollinator Paradise

Flowers that attract pollinators and look gorgeous in your garden beds.

Asian-inspired garden with bok choy, Thai basil, lemongrass, and more.

Beautiful Foods

Colorful, photogenic crops that look as good as they taste.

The cool-season powerhouse: broccoli, cauliflower, kale, and more.

Grab-and-go snacking crops the whole family will graze on.

Strawberry Patch

A dedicated strawberry bed with companion flowers and herbs.

Sun-loving flavors of the Mediterranean: eggplant, tomatoes, and fresh herbs.

Cocktail garden essentials: fresh herbs and garnish crops for drinks.

Stir fry essentials: bok choy, scallions, cilantro, snow peas, and Thai basil.

Build Your Plant Playlist

Start with a themed kit and customize from there.

Start Your Playlist

Frequently Asked Questions

What USDA zone is North County San Diego, CA?

North County San Diego is in USDA Hardiness Zone 10a. Winter lows typically range from 35–45°F and summer highs reach 85–100°F+.

What can I grow in North County San Diego?

North County San Diego gardeners can grow 105 different plants across multiple seasons. Popular choices include tomatoes, peppers, herbs, and leafy greens. See our full Zone 10 guide for detailed plant lists.

When should I start planting in North County San Diego?

Timing depends on the crop. Cool-season crops can be started in early spring or fall. Warm-season crops should wait until after frost risk passes. Check individual plant guides for Zone 10a planting windows.

What garden kits work in North County San Diego?

Most of our garden kits work in Zone 10. Popular options include the Salsa Box, Salad Lovers, and Herb Heaven kits. Each includes plants that grow well together in your zone.

Explore Zone 10a

See the full Zone 10a planting guide for complete plant lists, timing, and growing tips for all Zone 10a gardeners.