4-Inch Soil Temperature in Florida
The current average 4-inch soil temperature across Florida is 82°F, measured at 5 USDA and NOAA monitoring stations. Readings range from 79°F to 85°F. Soil across Florida is right at the seasonal normal of 81°F for late September, based on 5 of 5 stations with historical records. Last updated September 23, 2026.
Why the 4-Inch Reading
Every reading here is measured at native 4-inch depth by USDA SCAN (Soil Climate Analysis Network) and NOAA USCRN (US Climate Reference Network) stations, not modeled. The 4-inch root-zone temperature changes more slowly than the surface, making it the steadier signal for established-lawn and garden timing: pre-emergent and broadleaf herbicide windows, fertilizer applications, and core aeration.
Stations Measuring 4-Inch Depth in Florida (5)
| Station | 4" Temp | Last Reading |
|---|---|---|
| Wakulla #1 (Leon) | 79°F | 2026-09-23 |
| Sellers Lake #1 (Lake) | 85°F | 2026-09-23 |
| Everglades ARS (Miami-Dade) | 81°F | 2026-09-23 |
| Titusville 7 E | 82°F | 2026-09-23 |
| Everglades City 5 NE | 83°F | 2026-09-23 |
Cities in Florida (175)
4-Inch Soil Temperature FAQ for Florida
What is the current 4-inch soil temperature in Florida?
The current average 4-inch soil temperature across Florida is 82°F, measured at 5 USDA and NOAA stations. Readings range from 79°F to 85°F depending on location and elevation. Soil across Florida is right at the seasonal normal of 81°F for late September, based on 5 of 5 stations with historical records.
What does the 4 inch soil temperature mean?
The 4 inch soil temperature shows conditions deeper in the root zone than the 2 inch germination reading. It is commonly used for established lawn, garden, and agricultural timing because it changes more slowly than the surface layer, so it is a steadier signal for fertilizer, aeration, and weed-control decisions.
Why use 4-inch soil temperature instead of 2-inch?
Use 2 inches for germination decisions, since that is where seeds sit. Use the 4 inch soil temperature for established lawn and garden timing: it reads the root zone, changes more slowly than the surface, and is the depth most fertilizer, aeration, and disease guidance references.
See the national 4-inch soil temperature map, the full Florida soil temperature directory (all depths), the national soil temperature by depth comparison, or the live national soil temperature map.