Figuring out when to plant vegetables in Phoenix is the first step to a successful garden. Our optimal planting schedule guide will help you work with the unique desert climate, not against it.
Phoenix has two main growing seasons: a cool season and a warm season. The intense summer heat makes traditional summer crops tricky, but with the right timing, you can harvest fresh produce almost year-round. This guide breaks it all down into a simple, actionable plan.
When To Plant Vegetables In Phoenix – Optimal Planting Schedule Guide
Your planting calendar in Phoenix revolves around avoiding the extreme summer heat for most crops and the rare light frost in winter. The key is to plant warm-season crops after the last frost and in time to mature before scorching heat, and to plant cool-season crops as the weather begins to cool in fall.
Understanding Phoenix’s Growing Seasons
Our desert climate is defined by long, hot summers and short, mild winters. This creates two distinct planting windows.
The Cool Season (October – March)
This is the prime time for growing leafy greens, root vegetables, and brassicas. The mild temperatures and ample sunlight allow these plants to thrive without bolting or wilting in heat.
- Planting begins in late September through February.
- Peak harvest is typically December through April.
- Watch for occasional frosts in December and January, especialy in low-lying areas.
The Warm Season (March – June & September)
This is for heat-loving plants like tomatoes, peppers, and melons. The trick is to get them established early so they produce before the most intense summer heat or to plant a second round in late summer for a fall harvest.
- Plant from mid-February through mid-April.
- Harvest runs from May through early July.
- A second, shorter planting window exists in late August to early September for a fall harvest.
Month-by-Month Planting Schedule
Here is a detailed breakdown of what to plant and when. Remember, these dates are averages; always observe your local microclimate.
January
It’s still cool. Focus on maintaining and harvesting cool-season crops. Towards the end of the month, you can start seeds indoors for warm-season plants like tomatoes and peppers.
- Transplant: Broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower (early in month).
- Direct Seed: Beets, carrots, radishes, spinach.
February
The transition begins. Start planting warm-season crops outdoors by mid-to-late February, but be prepared to protect them from a late frost.
- Transplant: Tomatoes, peppers, eggplant (late month).
- Direct Seed: Beans, corn, cucumbers, squash.
March
The main planting month for warm-season vegetables. Get everything in the ground early to ensure fruit set before extreme heat.
- Transplant: All remaining warm-season crops.
- Direct Seed: Melons, okra, sweet potatoes.
April & May
Finish planting heat-lovers like okra and sweet potato slips. Begin shading sensitive plants as temperatures rise. Harvest spring crops.
June, July, & August
These are the hardest months. Focus on heat-tolerant survivors like Armenian cucumbers, black-eyed peas, and some peppers. Provide afternoon shade and consistent, deep watering. In late August, start seeds indoors for your fall garden.
September
The most important planting month for your cool-season garden. Start seeds indoors or outdoors in shaded areas. Transplant seedlings as the weather breaks.
- Transplant: Broccoli, cauliflower starts.
- Direct Seed: Beans, carrots, squash (early month), then lettuce, kale, peas (late month).
October
The prime cool-season planting continues. The soil is still warm, aiding germination, but the air is cooling.
- Transplant: Lettuce, kale, Brussels sprouts.
- Direct Seed: Beets, carrots, radishes, spinach, turnips.
November & December
Finish planting all cool-season crops. Use row covers if frost is forcasted. Enjoy a continuous harvest through the winter.
Essential Tips for Phoenix Garden Success
Timing is only part of the equation. These practices are crucial in our desert.
Soil Preparation is Key
Phoenix soil is often alkaline and clay-heavy. Amend it generously with compost and well-aged manure. Raised beds filled with quality soil mix can be a game-changer, improving drainage and root health.
Watering Wisely
Deep, infrequent watering is better than frequent sprinkles. It encourages deep roots. Drip irrigation is highly recommended to conserve water and deliver it directly to the roots, reducing evaporation and disease.
Sun and Shade Management
Most vegetables need 6+ hours of sun. In summer, use 30-50% shade cloth to protect plants from scorching afternoon sun. In winter, maximize sun exposure.
Choosing the Right Varieties
Select heat-tolerant and short-season varieties. Look for descriptions like “heat-set,” “drought-tolerant,” or “early maturing.” Local nurseries often carry varieties proven for the area.
Common Vegetables and Their Best Planting Times
- Tomatoes: Transplant Feb-Mar & Aug-Sept.
- Peppers: Transplant Feb-Mar & Aug.
- Lettuce: Direct Seed Sept-Mar.
- Carrots: Direct Seed Sept-Mar.
- Beans: Direct Seed Feb-Apr & Sept-Oct.
- Squash/Zucchini: Direct Seed Feb-Apr & Aug-Sept.
- Broccoli: Transplant Sept-Jan.
- Kale: Transplant Sept-Feb.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the best month to start a garden in Phoenix?
There are two “best” months: September for starting your cool-season garden and February/March for starting your warm-season garden.
Can you grow vegetables in Phoenix year-round?
Yes, with careful planning and variety selection, you can harvest something fresh every month of the year. The summer is the most challenging period.
How do you protect plants from the extreme heat?
Use shade cloth, ensure consistent deep watering, and apply a thick layer of organic mulch around plants to keep soil roots cool and retain moisture.
When should I plant tomatoes in Phoenix?
The primary planting is from mid-February to mid-March. A second, smaller planting can be done in late August for fall fruit. Getting them established before the extreme heat is critical for the spring crop.
What vegetables grow well in the Phoenix summer?
Okra, Armenian cucumbers, black-eyed peas, certain peppers like chiltepin, and sweet potatoes can handle the summer heat with proper care and adequate water.
By following this optimal planting schedule for Phoenix, you align your gardening efforts with the natural rhythms of the desert. Start with a few easy crops in the right season, pay attention to your soil and water, and you’ll be rewarded with a productive and enjoyable vegetable garden.