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Arizona Planting Seasons

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Arizona Planting Seasons

Did you know that there are actually 3 planting seasons in Arizona?

Arizona’s diverse climate, especially in the low desert areas like Phoenix and Tucson, offers a unique opportunity for year-round gardening. Unlike most regions with one or two planting seasons, Arizona boasts three distinct planting seasons: cool-season (fall), warm-season (spring), and monsoon planting (summer). Understanding these seasons is key to growing a thriving garden in the desert.

  1. Cool-Season Planting (Fall & Winter) – September to February

Arizona’s mild winters make fall one of the best times to plant. As temperatures drop, cool-season crops thrive.

Best for planting:

  • Leafy greens: lettuce, spinach, kale, Swiss chard
  • Root veggies: carrots, beets, radishes, turnips
  • Brassicas: broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, Brussels sprouts
  • Herbs: cilantro, parsley, dill

Why it works:
Cool temperatures reduce pest pressure, and crops like leafy greens grow quickly and taste sweeter after a light frost.

  1. Warm-Season Planting (Spring) – February to May

As the desert begins to warm up, it’s time to get those heat-loving crops into the ground before summer arrives in full force.

Best for planting:

  • Tomatoes (early)
  • Peppers
  • Squash and zucchini
  • Beans
  • Corn
  • Cucumbers
  • Melons

Timing tip:
Start seeds indoors in late January or early February and transplant after the last frost (usually mid-February in low desert areas).

  1. Monsoon Planting (Summer) – July to September

The monsoon season brings much-needed rain and humidity—perfect for a second round of warm-season crops.

Best for planting:

  • Okra
  • Cowpeas (black-eyed peas)
  • Tepary beans
  • Armenian cucumbers
  • Pumpkins
  • Sunflowers
  • Basil

Why it works:
The extra moisture and cloud cover help young plants establish in the otherwise brutal summer heat.

Final Tips for Arizona Gardeners:

  • Know your zone: Most of southern Arizona is USDA Zone 9 or 10. Use local planting calendars to fine-tune your timing.

  • Use shade cloths and mulch: These help protect plants from temperature extremes.

  • Water wisely: Drip irrigation and early morning watering are best for conserving water and reducing stress on plants.