Planting Schedule Arizona

Arizona’s arid climate presents a unique set of challenges for gardeners, with scorching summers and mild winters. To successfully grow a variety of plants, it’s essential to understand the state’s planting schedule. By dividing the year into distinct planting seasons, gardeners can make the most of Arizona’s climate and enjoy a thriving garden year-round.

Spring Planting Season (March to May)

As the last frost date approaches, Arizona gardeners can begin planting a wide range of warm-season crops. This is an ideal time to plant:

• Tomatoes: With over 100 days to maturity, tomatoes are a staple in many Arizona gardens. Look for heat-tolerant and drought-resistant varieties like ‘Patio’ or ‘Tiny Tim’.
• Peppers: Both sweet and hot peppers thrive in Arizona’s spring weather. Try ‘Bell Boy’ or ‘Jalapeño’ for a bountiful harvest.
• Cucumbers: These versatile vegetables can be grown on a trellis or in a container. ‘Slicing’ and ‘Pickling’ are popular varieties.
• Squash: Summer squash like ‘Zucchini’ and ‘Yellow Crookneck’ are perfect for Arizona’s spring season.
• Herbs: Basil, cilantro, and dill are just a few of the many herbs that can be planted in the spring.

Summer Planting Season (June to August)

The intense heat of Arizona’s summers can be challenging for gardeners, but there are still plenty of opportunities to plant:

• Okra: This heat-loving vegetable is perfect for Arizona’s summer weather. ‘Clemson Spineless’ is a popular variety.
• Southern peas: These peas are highly resistant to heat and drought, making them an excellent choice for summer gardens.
• Pumpkins: While it may seem counterintuitive to plant pumpkins in the summer, Arizona’s warm weather allows for a second crop. ‘Jack Be Little’ and ‘Baby Boo’ are good options.
• Sunflowers: These towering flowers can provide shade and beauty to your garden. ‘Mammoth’ and ‘Velvet Queen’ are popular varieties.

Fall Planting Season (September to November)

As the weather cools, Arizona gardeners can plant a variety of cool-season crops. This is an ideal time to plant:

• Broccoli: This nutritious vegetable thrives in Arizona’s mild fall weather. ‘Deep Purple’ and ‘Waltham 29’ are good varieties.
• Cauliflower: Like broccoli, cauliflower prefers the cooler temperatures of fall. ‘Snow Crown’ and ‘Graffiti’ are popular choices.
• Kale: This superfood is perfect for Arizona’s fall season. ‘Lacinato’ and ‘Red Russian’ are tasty and nutritious options.
• Carrots: Little Finger’ and ‘Danver’s Half-Long’ are good varieties for Arizona’s fall season.
• Radishes: These fast-growing roots can be harvested in as little as 20 days. ‘Cherry Belle’ and ‘White Icicle’ are popular varieties.

Winter Planting Season (December to February)

While it may seem like a challenging time to garden, Arizona’s mild winters offer plenty of opportunities to plant:

• Lettuce and other greens: These cool-season crops thrive in Arizona’s winter weather. ‘Romaine’, ‘Buttercrunch’, and ‘Spinach’ are good varieties.
• Spinach: This nutritious green is perfect for Arizona’s winter season. ‘Tyee’ and ‘Space’ are popular choices.
• Beets: Both the greens and roots of beets can be harvested in Arizona’s winter season. ‘Detroit Dark Red’ and ‘Chioggia’ are good varieties.
• Peas: Sugar snap peas and snow peas are excellent choices for Arizona’s winter season.
• Garlic: While it may seem counterintuitive to plant garlic in the winter, Arizona’s mild weather allows for a bountiful harvest. ‘Silverskin’ and ‘Rocambole’ are popular varieties.

By following Arizona’s planting schedule and choosing the right varieties for each season, gardeners can enjoy a thriving and diverse garden year-round. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, the key to success lies in understanding the unique challenges and opportunities presented by Arizona’s arid climate. With the right knowledge and techniques, you can grow a wide range of delicious and nutritious plants, from tomatoes and peppers to lettuce and spinach. Happy gardening!