Gardening in Phoenix is different than anywhere else in the country. The heat is intense, the air is dry, and winter can sneak in with a frost. Timing is everything. If you’ve ever wondered what can I plant right now?—this guide has your answer.
That’s why the University of Arizona Cooperative Extension created the Maricopa County Planting Calendar. It’s the go-to resource for Valley gardeners who want to grow vegetables the right way, at the right time.
Why This Guide Matters
In the low desert, not every plant thrives year-round. Some love the cool fall season. Others need the warm days of spring. The calendar takes out the guesswork. It tells you which crops to start from seed, which to start as transplants, and the best months to plant them.
It’s science-based. It’s local. And it’s built for our soil and climate here in Maricopa County.
How to Use the Planting Calendar
The guide lists vegetables and fruits alphabetically with symbols showing the best planting months.
- S = Seeds
- T = Transplants
- X = Sets or cloves
Want lettuce? Check the calendar. It shows when you can plant seeds and when transplants work best. Thinking about tomatoes? The chart shows the window that gives you the highest chance of success before summer heat arrives.
In short—match your crop to the right month, and you’re set up for success.
Quick Wins for Fall Gardening
Fall is our prime growing season in Phoenix. Cooler nights and softer sun mean it’s time to get plants in the ground. Some of the easiest fall crops include:
- Leafy greens (lettuce, spinach, kale, chard)
- Root crops (carrots, beets, radishes, turnips)
- Brassicas (broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage)
- Herbs (cilantro, parsley, dill)
If you’re new to gardening, start with these. They’re forgiving, fast, and rewarding.
Don’t Forget the Basics
The calendar tells you when to plant. But you still need to set your garden up the right way. My three keys to success are simple:
- Get the soil right. Don’t waste money on building beds and then filling them with cheap soil. Healthy soil is the foundation.
- Use mulch. It protects, conserves water, and breaks down over time to feed your soil.
- Follow the sun. Plants need 6–8 hours of light. In fall, shadows get longer—plant where the sun really falls.
Do these three things, and your garden has every chance to thrive.
Full Credit to the Experts
This guide was created by the University of Arizona Cooperative Extension. We’re sharing it here so local gardeners can always find it easily. All credit goes to them for producing this fantastic resource.
If you want more gardening help, classes, and local tips, that’s where The Garden Nerd comes in. We’re here to help you grow better, every season.
Need a Little Extra Help?
Healthy soil is the key to a healthy garden. If you’d like help feeding your soil—monthly or even just one time—we can help with our Soil Feeding Service.
👉 Learn More Here
FAQs (for Phoenix Gardeners)
What vegetables grow best in Phoenix in the fall?
Leafy greens, root crops, and cool-season veggies like broccoli and cauliflower do best in fall.
When should I plant tomatoes in Arizona?
Late winter to early spring is the sweet spot. Too early and frost gets them. Too late and summer heat shuts them down.
Is it better to plant seeds or transplants here?
Both work. Leafy greens and root crops do best from seed. Tomatoes, peppers, and broccoli are easier from transplants.
How do I prepare my soil for Arizona gardening?
Start with compost and worm castings. Add mulch. Keep the soil alive. Good soil is the foundation for everything you grow.
🌱 Download the guide, start planting, and remember—you don’t have to do it alone. We’re here to help you grow an awesome garden in Phoenix.