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Arizona Vegetable Planting Guide: A Visual Guide for Low Desert Vegetables

Your go-to Arizona Vegetable Planting Guide for what to plant and when in the low desert, based on real experience and updated for today’s climate.

Gardening in Arizona’s low desert comes with unique challenges, and timing is everything. I created this Arizona Vegetable Planting Guide based on what actually works in my own garden in Mesa, with updated planting dates that reflect our warming climate.

If you’re gardening in areas below 3500 feet (like Phoenix or Tucson), this guide has pictures, timing tips, and planting windows for nearly 75 vegetables. You’ll know what to plant, when to plant it, and whether to use seeds or transplants, so your garden has the best chance to thrive.

Arizona Vegetable Planting Guide: A Visual Guide for Low Desert Vegetables

Want the information from te Arizona vegetable planting guide in a format you can hold in your hands? This same month-by-month planting information is available in my printed planting guides and garden journals, which are designed specifically for Arizona gardeners. Keep it by your garden bench, in your kitchen, or wherever you plan your next season.

Shop Guides and Calendars Here

A collage showing hands holding garden planting guides and colorful charts to help your garden survive summer, featuring tips for flowers and vegetables.

Be sure to scroll to the end of this Arizona Vegetable Planting Guide for links to helpful articles that answer common questions about growing a vegetable garden in Arizona.

Monthly Planting Resources

Need help knowing what to plant each month? I’ve got you covered.

  • January, February, and March offer cool-season and spring planting opportunities.
  • April and May are all about adjusting to the heat.
  • June and July are tricky, but you can still plant with care.
  • August marks the start of fall planting and the continued planting of warm-season crops.
  • September and October are the busiest months for planting.
  • November is still a great time to grow.
  • December brings mild winter conditions that allow for another round of cool-season crops.

Click any month to see what to plant and how to keep your garden growing.

Use this Arizona Vegetable Planting Calendar for a compiled month-by-month guide to planting in the low desert.


Click on a vegetable to go directly to that crop in the Arizona Vegetable Planting Guide:



Arizona Vegetable Planting Guide: A Visual Guide for Low Desert Vegetables


Amaranth

Tall green plants with feathery yellow flower clusters thrive in a sunny garden next to a fence, perfect for adding to your Three Sisters container garden.
Amaranth

When to plant Amaranth in Arizona:

Plant seeds outside: March – April and July – August

How to grow Amaranth in Arizona:

  • Grows best from seed
  • Harvest leaves as needed and cut the seed heads with stems for drying to collect seeds. 
  • Leaves are high in protein. 

Read this article for more information about how to grow amaranth.


Armenian Cucumber

Green striped cucumbers, both round and elongated, in a rustic brown bowl with leafy greens nearby—perfect for those enjoying the rewards of summer gardening in Arizona.
Armenian Cucumbers

When to plant Armenian Cucumbers in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: February – June
Plant seeds or transplants outside: March – July

How to grow Armenian Cucumbers:

  • Grows best from seed or transplant
  • Don’t rush to plant in the spring; Armenian cucumbers prefer warm temperatures. Heat tolerance is their number one attribute; high temperatures do not stress these plants.

Read this article for more information about how to grow Armenian cucumbers


Artichoke (Globe)

Close-up of a green artichoke growing on its plant with leaves in the background.
Globe Artichoke

When to plant Globe Artichokes in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: August – December
Plant seeds outside: October – December
Plant transplants outside: October – February

How to grow Globe Artichokes:

  • Grows best from transplant
  • Time to harvest: 4 – 6 months
  • Buds are edible when harvested young (before opening and developing into flowers). 
  • At the end of flowering, plants should be cut down to ground and mulched heavily. Plants normally come back each year.

Read this article for more information about how to grow artichokes


Artichoke (Jerusalem)

A colander filled with freshly harvested Jerusalem artichokes, labeled with a small sign.
Jerusalem Artichoke

When to plant Jerusalem Artichokes in Arizona:

Plant seeds or transplants outside: February – May

How to grow Jerusalem Artichokes:

  • Grows best from tubers planted in late winter to early spring
  • Tubers are edible and harvested after the plant dies back in late fall
  • At the end of the season, cut stalks to the ground; plants regrow each year from remaining tubers. Can spread aggressively if not contained.

Arugula

A wooden basket on a table holds lush green arugula leaves, with a garden in the background.
Arugula

When to plant Arugula in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: August – December
Plant seeds or transplants outside: September 15 – January

How to grow Arugula:

  • Grows best from seed
  • Prolonged warm temperatures cause arugula to bolt and become bitter.
  • Harvest outer leaves using cut-and-come-again method to allow additional harvests.
  • Arugula tolerates a little frost.

Read this article for more information about how to grow arugula.


Asparagus

Fresh asparagus spears laid out on a perforated metal surface with green foliage in the background.
Asparagus

When to plant Asparagus in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: August – November
Plant seeds outside: November – January

How to grow Asparagus:

  • Asparagus grows quickest from 2 year old roots; can also start from seeds or transplants
  • Time to harvest: 1 – 2 years

Read this article for more information about how to grow asparagus


Beans (Black-eyed-peas)

A dense patch of leafy green plants growing outdoors in a garden with some dry leaves on the ground.
Black-eyed-peas

When to plant Beans (Black-eyed-peas):

Plant seeds outside: April – August

How to grow Beans (Black-eyed-peas):

  • Grows best from seed directly sown in the garden.
  • Also called cowpeas.

Read this article for more information about how to grow black-eyed-peas.


Beans (Bush & Pole)

A wooden planter box filled with leafy green Eureka bean plants, with light yellow beans hanging down—perfect for anyone interested in planting beans or learning how to grow beans at home.
Beans

When to plant Bush and Pole Beans in Arizona:

Plant seeds outside: March 15 – April and August – September

How to grow Bush and Pole Beans:

  • Grows best from seed directly sown in the garden.
  • Time to harvest: 60 – 90 days
  • Harvest beans when they are small and tender. Picking beans often encourages more bean production.

Read this article for more information about how to grow bush and pole beans.


Beans (Fava)

Green fava bean pods growing on a leafy plant in a garden, perfect for those interested in growing fava beans, especially in warm climates.
Fava Beans

When to plant Fava Beans in Arizona:

Plant seeds outside: October – January

How to grow Fava Beans:

  • Grows best from seed directly sown in the garden.
  • Pods are edible when young; mature beans can be shelled and eaten fresh or dried
  • At the end of the season, pull plants and compost or chop and drop as green manure—adds nitrogen to the soil. Cold-hardy and ideal for winter gardens.

Read this article for more information about how to grow fava beans.


Beans (Garbanzo, Lentil)

Close-up of green chickpea pods and leaves on a chickpea plant in sunlight.
Garbanzo Beans

When to plant Garbanzo and Lentil Beans in Arizona:

Plant seeds outside: October – January

How to grow Garbanzo and Lentil Beans:

  • Grows best from seed directly sown in the garden.
  • Pods are edible once dry; harvest when plants begin to yellow and dry out
  • At the end of the season, pull plants and compost or use as green manure. Both are cool-season crops and fix nitrogen in the soil. Drought-tolerant and low maintenance.

Beans (Lima)

Green bean pods hanging from a plant with bright green leaves and sunlight in the background.
Lima Beans

When to plant Lima Beans in Arizona:

Plant seeds outside: March 15 – April and July – August

How to grow Lima Beans:

  • Grows best from seed directly sown in the garden.
  • Time to harvest: 60 – 100 days
  • Lima beans prefer warm but not hot temperatures and may begin producing once temperatures drop in the fall.

Beans (Tepary)

Brown and green bean pods growing on a leafy plant in a garden.
Tepary Beans

When to plant Tepary Beans in Arizona:

Plant seeds outside: March and July – August (monsoon season)

How to grow Tepary Beans:

  • Grows best from seed directly sown in the garden.
  • Time to harvest: around 100 days
  • Tepary beans have been grown in the Sonoran Desert for hundreds of years.
  • Do not overwater. 
  • Harvest when pods are dry.

Read this article for more information about how to grow tepary beans.


Beans (Yardlong)

How to grow yardlong beans in the low desert of Arizona:

A bowl filled with fresh, long green beans surrounded by green leaves—perfect inspiration for learning how to grow beans at home.
Yardlong Beans

When to plant Yardlong Beans in Arizona:

Plant seeds outside: March 15 – July

How to grow Yardlong Beans:

  • Grows best from seed directly sown in the garden.
  • Time to harvest: 60 – 90 days
  • Yardlong beans tolerate heat and humidity better than snap bean varieties.
  • Also called asparagus beans or Chinese-longbeans.

Read this article for more information about how to grow yardlong beans


Beets

A variety of freshly harvested golden and purple beets with leafy green tops on a wooden surface, showcasing the rewards of growing beets at home.
Beets

When to plant Beets in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: August – January
Plant seeds or transplants outside: September 15 – February

How to grow Beets:

  • Grows best from seed directly sown in the garden. But can be carefully transplanted when young.
  • Time to harvest: 60 – 80 days
  • Beets tolerate a little frost.
  • Beet thinnings can be carefully transplanted.
  •  Plant beet seeds every few weeks for a continual harvest. 

Read this article for more information about how to grow beets


Bok Choy

Close-up of healthy, green bok choy plants growing in rich, dark soil in a garden.
Bok Choy

When to plant Bok Choy in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: August – January
Plant seeds outside: September 15 – January
Plant transplants outside: September 15 – February

How to grow Bok Choy:

  • Grows best from seed or transplant
  • Time to harvest: 45 days
  • Bok Choy likes cool temperatures.
  • A light frost improves the flavor of Bok Choy. 

Read this article for more information about how to grow bok choy


Arizona Vegetable Planting Guide: A Visual Guide for Low Desert Vegetables (continued)


Broccoli

Broccoli plants with large green leaves growing in a garden under bright sunlight.
Broccoli

When to plant Broccoli in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: August – December
Plant seeds outside: September 15 – November
Plant transplants outside: September 15 – January

How to grow Broccoli:

  • Grows best from seed or transplant
  • Time to harvest: 
    • Seed: 120 – 130 days
    • Transplants: 80 – 90 days
  • In many varieties, smaller side shoots will form after the main head is harvested.

Read this article for more information about how to grow broccoli


Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts growing on a stalk in a garden bed surrounded by green leaves and plants.
Brussels Sprouts

When to plant Brussels Sprouts in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: July – September
Plant transplants outside: September 15 – November

How to grow Brussels Sprouts:

  • Grows best from transplant in the low desert of Arizona.
  • Time to harvest: 100 – 120 days
  • Once buds form, if temperatures are beginning to climb or if you want to harvest all the Brussels sprouts at one time, pinch off the rosette (growing tip at the top of plant) about a month before the desired harvest. This directs the plant’s energy to increasing the size of the buds and they will develop all at once.

Read this article for more information about how to grow Brussels sprouts


Buckwheat

Green leafy plants with small clusters of white buds growing among brown mulch and soil.
Buckwheat

When to plant Buckwheat in Arizona:

Plant seeds outside: March – April and September – October

How to grow Buckwheat:

  • Grows best from seed directly sown in the garden
  • Seeds are edible and ready to harvest about 10–12 weeks after planting
  • At the end of the season, cut plants before seeds fully drop. Great as a quick cover crop—improves soil and attracts pollinators. Heat-sensitive; avoid midsummer planting.

Cabbage

A close-up of a leafy green cabbage growing in a garden, showcasing the healthy results you can achieve by learning how to grow cabbage at home.
Cabbage

When to plant Cabbage in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: August – December
Plant seeds outside: September 15 – November
Plant transplants outside: September 15 – January

How to grow Cabbage:

  • Grows best from seed or transplant
  • Time to harvest: 
    • Seed: 120 – 130 days
    • Transplants: 80 – 90 days
  • Cabbage will not form a head but split or bolt if exposed to too much heat or severe frost.

Read this article for more information about how to grow cabbage. 


Cantaloupe

Three cantaloupes hanging from green vines in a garden, surrounded by leaves—a perfect example of how to grow cantaloupe at home.
Cantaloupe

When to plant Cantaloupe in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: January – June 
Plant seeds or transplants outside: February 15 – July

How to grow Cantaloupe:

  • Grows best from seed if soil is warm enough.
  • Time to harvest: 80 – 120 days
  • Can be started indoors, but do not let seedlings become pot bound.
  • Try growing native-adapted varieties from Native Seeds Search.

Read this article for more information about how to grow cantaloupe.


Carrots

How to grow carrots in the low desert of Arizona:

Freshly harvested carrots with green tops lying on mulch and soil in a garden, perfect for gardeners concerned about bolting carrots.
Carrots

When to plant Carrots in Arizona:

Plant seeds outside: September 15 – March

How to grow Carrots:

  • Grows best from seed. DO NOT USE TRANSPLANTS.
  • Time to harvest: 60 – 100 days
  • Thin carrot seedlings for good-sized carrots.
  • Harvest carrots before the heat of the summer; the heat turns them bitter. 

Read this article for more information about how to grow carrots.


Cauliflower

A cauliflower plant with broad green leaves growing in soil, viewed from above—one of the best vegetables to grow in pots for those interested in container gardening.
Cauliflower

When to plant Cauliflower in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: August – December
Plant seeds outside: September 15 – November
Plant transplants outside: September 15 – January

How to grow Cauliflower:

  • Grows best from seed or transplant
  • Time to harvest:
    • Seed: 120 – 130 days
    • Transplants: 90 – 100 days
  • To grow cauliflower successfully, it needs at least 2 months of cool weather (60 degrees is ideal) to mature. 

Read this article for more information about how to grow cauliflower. 


Celery

Close-up of green celery stalks growing in soil inside blue-edged rectangular containers, perfect for those interested in how to grow celery at home.
Celery

When to plant Celery in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: July – September
Plant transplants outside: September 15 – November

How to grow Celery:

  • Grows best from transplant
  • Time to harvest: 120 – 150 days
  • Harvest individual stalks of celery as needed rather than cutting off the entire base. 
  • Celery can also be grown with the cut-off base of grocery store celery.

Read this article for more information about how to grow celery


Chichiquelite

Clusters of small, shiny black berries growing among green leaves and stems.
Chichiquelites

When to plant Chichiquelites in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: January – February
Plant transplants outside: March – April

How to grow Chichiquelites:

  • Grows best from transplant
  • Berries are edible when fully ripe. They are slightly sweet, with a mild flavor, great for jams or fresh eating
  • Annual in hot climates. Prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Related to nightshades, only eat ripe berries; unripe fruit and foliage may be mildly toxic.

Chiltepin

Close-up of small red and green chili peppers growing on a leafy plant.
Chiltepin

When to plant Chiltepin in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: December – January
Plant transplants outside: February 15 – April and July 15 – September

How to grow Chiltepin:

  • Grows best from transplant
  • Berries are edible when fully ripe. Small, fiery fruits with a bold, smoky heat, perfect for salsas and traditional dishes.
  • Perennial in mild climates, often grown as an annual in hot regions. Prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Related to nightshades; only eat ripe berries, as unripe fruit and foliage can be mildly toxic.

Read this article for more information about how to grow chiltepin.


Collard Greens

Young collard green plant with broad green leaves growing in soil in a garden.
Collard Greens

When to plant Collard Greens in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: August – January
Plant seeds outside: September 15 – January
Plant transplants outside: September 15 – February

How to grow Collard Greens:

  • Grows best from transplants or direct seed in fall
  • Leaves are edible and harvested young for tenderness or mature for cooking
  • Cold-hardy and frost-tolerant. It can be grown as a short-lived perennial in mild winters. Thrives in full sun with consistent moisture.

Comfrey

Green comfrey plant with pointed leaves and small purple flowers growing outdoors in sunlight.
Comfrey

When to plant Comfrey in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: January – February
Plant transplants outside: March – April

How to grow Comfrey:

  • Grows best from root cuttings or transplants
  • Leaves are useful for compost, mulch, or external herbal remedies, not for internal use
  • Tolerates heat and drought once established. Deep roots improve soil. Great for pollinators and permaculture gardens.

Corn

Several ears of corn with green husks, some kernels white and others multicolored, are close together.
Corn

When to plant Corn in Arizona:

Plant seeds outside: February 15 – March and July – August

How to grow Corn:

  • Grows best from seed
  • Time to harvest: 70 – 90 days
  • Plant corn in blocks rather than rows to encourage pollination. 

Read this article for more information about how to grow corn.


Cucamelon

A small green cucumber melon hanging on a vine among lush green leaves.
Cucamelon

When to plant Cucamelons in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: December – March and June – August
Plant transplants outside: February 15 – April and August 15 – September

How to grow Cucamelons:

  • Grows best from transplant in the low desert of Arizona
  • Time to harvest: 65 – 75 days
  • Growing in Arizona can be challenging. If you have trouble getting plants to grow, try starting seeds indoors.
  • Also called Mexican sour gherkin and Mouse Melon.

Read this article for more information about how to grow cucamelons


Cucumber

A wooden basket filled with several long, bumpy cucumbers and a few smooth ones.
Cucumbers

When to plant Cucumbers in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: January – March and July – August
Plant seeds or transplants outside: February 15 – April and August 15 – September

How to grow Cucumbers:

  • Grows best from seed
  • Time to harvest: 60 – 90 days
  • For spring planting, choose short-season varieties that will ripen before the hottest days of summer. Arizona summer heat makes cucumbers bitter. 

Read this article for more information about how to grow cucumbers


Arizona Vegetable Planting Guide: A Visual Guide for Low Desert Vegetables (continued)


Edamame

Close-up of green edamame pods growing on a plant, surrounded by lush green leaves in sunlight.
Edamame

When to plant Edamame in Arizona:

Plant seeds outside: March 15 – April and August – September

How to grow Edamame:

  • Grows best from seed
  • Days to harvest: 75 – 110 days
  • Harvest pods as soon as they are plump and still bright green. Once pods turn yellow, the consistency and flavor deteriorates rapidly.

Eggplant

A single eggplant growing on a plant, surrounded by green leaves in a garden.
Eggplant

When to plant Eggplants in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: December – February and May – July
Plant transplants outside: March – April and July 15 – September

How to grow Eggplants:

  • Grows best from transplant
  • Time to harvest: 70 – 120 days 

Read this article for more information about how to grow eggplant. 


Garlic

Freshly harvested garlic bulbs with long stems and roots, lying in a pile on soil—perfect for anyone interested in how to grow garlic or even learning how to grow garlic in Arizona. The bulbs still have some dirt, and the green stalks are tangled together.
Garlic

When to plant Garlic in Arizona:

Plant seeds outside: October – November

How to grow Garlic:

  • Planted from cloves
  • Soft-neck varieties grow best in the low desert of Arizona
  • Time to harvest: 5 – 7 months
  • Place whole cloves in a brown paper bag in the refrigerator 6 weeks before planting. Vernalization helps ensure correct bulb formation.

Read this article for more information about how to grow garlic


Ground Cherries

Green leafy plant with small, round, pale yellow fruits enclosed in papery husks growing among the leaves.
Ground Cherries

When to plant Ground Cherries:

Start seeds indoors: December – January and May – June 
Plant transplants outside: February 15 – March  and July 15 – September

How to grow Ground Cherries:

  • Grows best from transplant
  • Ground cherry plants are sprawling and grow wide. Allow 2 – 3 feet between each plant. 

Read this article for more information about how to grow ground cherries.


Jicama

Several freshly harvested jicama roots with dirt still on them, lying on green leaves outdoors.
Jicama

When to plant Jicama in Arizona:

Plant seeds indoors: January – February
Plant seeds or transplants outside: March – April

How to grow Jicama:

  • Grows best from seed
  • Roots are edible, crisp, and sweet—harvest when vines begin to yellow in fall
  • Requires a long growing season (at least 5–9 months). Prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Vines can be trellised. Only the root is edible—leaves and seeds are toxic.

Kale

Curly green kale leaves from a healthy kale plant growing in a garden, surrounded by other lush green plants.
Kale

When to plant Kale in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: August – December
Plant seeds outside: September 15 – December
Plant transplants outside: September 15 – January

How to grow Kale:

  • Grows best from seed or transplant
  • Time to harvest: 60 – 90 days
  • For a continual harvest, harvest only the outer leaves of kale (known as the cut-and-come-again method). 

Read this article for more information about how to grow kale


Kohlrabi

Green kohlrabi plants growing in a garden bed with leafy stems and round bulbs above the soil.
Kohlrabi

When to plant Kohlrabi in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: August – December
Plant seeds outside: September 15 – December
Plant transplants outside: September 15 – January

How to grow Kohlrabi:

  • Grows best from seed or transplant
  • Time to harvest: 45 – 60 days
  • Kohlrabi tastes best when harvested small and before the weather gets hot. Begin harvesting when bulbs are about 2 inches wide. 

Read this article for more information about how to grow kohlrabi.


Leek

A pile of freshly harvested leeks with roots and green leaves, spread out on a wooden surface.
Leeks

When to plant Leeks in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: August – November
Plant seeds outside: October – November
Plant transplants outside November – January

How to grow Leeks:

  • Grows best from seed or transplant
  • Time to harvest: 120 -150 days
  • Densely plant seeds and then thin and replant seedlings 6 – 8 inches deep and 4 – 6 inches apart; or plant from transplant. 

Read this article for more information about how to grow leeks. 


Lettuce / Endive

Close-up of lush, green lettuce plants growing in a garden.
Lettuce

When to plant Lettuce in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: August – December
Plant seeds or transplants outside: September 15 – January

How to grow Lettuce:

  • Grows best from seed or transplant 
  • Time to harvest: 50 – 100 days, depending on the variety
  • For a continual harvest, harvest only the outer leaves of lettuce (known as the cut-and-come-again method). 
  • Warm temperatures cause lettuce to bolt.

Read this article for more information about how to grow lettuce.


Luffa

Green luffa gourds hanging from a vine with lush leaves in a garden setting.
Luffa

When to plant Luffa in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: January – March
Plant seeds or transplants outside: February 15 – April

How to grow Luffa:

  • Grows best from seed
  • Time to harvest: At least 120 days when harvested as a sponge, usually much longer.
  • Once gourd is longer than 6 inches, the insides become fibrous and it is too tough to eat. 

Read this article for more information about how to grow luffa


Malabar Spinach

A dense cluster of shiny green leaves covers the malabar spinach plant, creating a lush and vibrant vine.
Malabar Spinach

When to plant Malabar Spinach in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: January – March
Plant seeds or transplants outside: March – May

How to grow Malabar Spinach:

  • Grows best from seed or transplant
  • Although Malabar spinach tolerates hot Arizona summers, it is a tropical plant and needs consistent moisture throughout the growing season. For best flavor, keep soil evenly moist. 

Read this article for more information about how to grow Malabar spinach.


Mustard

Large, deep red mustard greens with yellow flowers and green leaves in a garden setting.
Mustard

When to plant Mustard in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: August – January
Plant seeds outside: September 15 – January
Plant transplants outside: September 15 – February

How to grow Mustard:

  • Grows best in moist, fertile soil
  • Leaves are edible raw or cooked—young leaves are tender, older ones have a spicy kick
  • Fast-growing and frost-tolerant. Prefers full sun and regular watering. May bolt early in heat; harvest frequently to extend season. Also great as a cover crop.

Arizona Vegetable Planting Guide: A Visual Guide for Low Desert Vegetables (continued)


Okra

A hand holds a metal colander filled with freshly picked okra pods outdoors, a perfect reward for learning how to grow okra in your own garden.
Okra

When to plant Okra in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: February – May
Plant seeds or transplants outside: March 15 – June

How to grow Okra:

  • Grows best from seed
  • Time to harvest: 70 – 100 days
  • Good to know: Make it a point to harvest okra daily while it is producing; leaving pods on the plant slows or stops production.

Read this article for more information about how to grow okra


Onions (Bulb)

A freshly harvested onion with roots and soil, green leaves still attached, held in a garden.
Bulb Onions

When to plant Onions in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: August – November
Plant seeds outside: October – November
Plant transplants outside:  November – January

How to grow Onions:

  • Grows best from seed or onion transplants (not sets)
  • Time to harvest: 7 – 8 months
  • Densely plant seeds and then thin and replant seedlings.
  • Onion sets commonly sold in stores have often dried out and will bolt (flower). 

Read this article for more information about how to grow onions


Onions (Green)

Close-up of fresh green chives growing outdoors with a blurred green background.
Green Onions

When to plant Green Onions in Arizona:

Plant from seeds outside: September 15 – April

How to grow Green Onions:

  • Grows best from seed
  • Time to harvest: 90 – 100 days
  • Good to know:  Harvest individual onions as needed. 

Read this article for more information about how to grow green onions


Onions (I’itoi)

Freshly harvested onions with green tops lay drying on a woven tray in a sunny garden bed.
I’itoi Onions

When to plant I’itoi Onions in Arizona:

Plant seeds outside: August – November

How to grow I’itoi Onions:

  • Grows best from bulbs
  • Harvest greens as needed and bulbs when they reach the desired size. 
  • I’itoi onions thrive in the harsh growing conditions of the Sonoran Desert. One bulb becomes 8 or 10 bulbs, which in turn become more bulbs. You will be amazed at how quickly these bulbs multiply.

Read this article for more information about how to grow I’itoi onions.


Onions (Shallot)

Shallots labeled Davidor shallots lie on a wire rack among dried leaves and mulch.
Shallots

When to plant Shallot Onions in Arizona:

Plant sets outside: August – November

How to grow Shallot Onions:

  • Grows best from sets planted in the fall
  • Bulbs are edible, mild, and sweet—used in cooking like garlic and onions
  • Prefers cool-season growing with harvest in late spring. Needs full sun and loose, well-drained soil. Cure bulbs after harvest for storage. Divide and replant for continuous crops.

Parsnips

Several freshly harvested parsnips with green tops in a woven basket, perfect for those learning how to grow parsnips at home.
Parsnips

When to plant Parsnips in Arizona:

Plant outside: September 15 – November

How to grow Parsnips:

  • Grows best from seed. DO NOT USE TRANSPLANTS
  • Use fresh seeds each year.
  • Time to harvest: 100 – 120 days

Read this article for more information about how to grow parsnips.


Peanuts

Freshly harvested peanuts still attached to their roots and surrounded by green leaves.
Peanuts

When to plant Peanuts in Arizona:

Plant seeds outside: March 15 – April

How to grow Peanuts:

  • Grows best from seed
  • Time to harvest: 5 months
  • The flowers of peanut plants are above ground, but the pods (shells) containing the seeds develop underground. 

Peas

Green pea pods growing on a leafy vine with several pods hanging and some white flowers visible.
Peas

When to plant Peas in Arizona:

Plant seeds outside: September 15 – January

How to grow Peas:

  • Grows best from seed
  • Time to harvest: 60 – 150 days, depending on when planted and variety
  • Peas are sweetest when eaten fresh; the sugar in the peas turns to starch within hours of harvesting.

Read this article for more information about how to grow peas.


Peppers

A close-up of a metal colander filled with fresh, shiny green poblano peppers—perfect inspiration if you want to learn how to grow poblano peppers at home.
Poblano Peppers

When to plant Peppers in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: December – February and May – July
Plant transplants outside: February 15 – April and July 15 – September

How to grow Peppers:

  • Grows best from transplant
  • Time to harvest: 90 – 120 days
  • Start seeds indoors in late December or January for spring transplants.

Read this article for more information about how to grow peppers


Potatoes

Several sprouting potatoes with pinkish eyes in a gray metal container, showing an early stage of growth perfect for learning how to chit potatoes.
Potatoes

When to plant Potatoes in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: August – December
Plant seeds outside: September – January

How to grow Potatoes:

  • Grows best from seed potatoes
  • Time to harvest: 90 – 120 days
  • Potatoes grow well in grow bags or containers.
  • If plants are killed by frost, harvest potatoes (regardless of size) within a week or two to prevent them from rotting.

Read this article for more information about how to grow potatoes


Pumpkins

Several small orange pumpkins with green stems sit in a woven wooden basket, perfect for anyone interested in planting pumpkins or learning how to grow pumpkins at home.
Pumpkins

When to plant Pumpkins in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: February and June – July
Plant seeds and transplants outside: March and July – August

How to grow Pumpkins:

  • Grows best from seed
  • Time to harvest: 90 – 120 days
  • Growing pumpkins requires a lot of room and water. 

Read this article for more information about how to grow pumpkins.


Radishes

A person harvesting a bunch of fresh red radishes with green leaves from a garden bed, showcasing the rewarding results of learning how to grow radishes.
Radishes

When to plant Radishes in Arizona:

Plant seeds outside: September 15 – March

How to grow Radishes:

  • Grows best from seed. DO NOT PLANT TRANSPLANTS
  • Time to harvest: 40 – 60 days
  • Radishes sprout easily, grow quickly, and are a perfect first seed to grow for new or young gardeners.

Read this article for more information about how to grow radishes.


Arizona Vegetable Planting Guide: A Visual Guide for Low Desert Vegetables (continued)


Roselle Hibiscus

A pile of fresh red roselle calyces with green leaves scattered among them, perfect for those wondering how to use roselle hibiscus in teas, jams, or refreshing drinks.
Roselle Hibiscus

When to plant Roselle Hibiscus in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: February – April
Plant seeds and transplants outside: March 15 – May

How to grow Roselle Hibiscus:

  • Grows best from seed or transplant
  • Time to harvest: 120 – 180 days
  • Although the plants don’t bloom until fall, planting roselle earlier in the season ensures a large plant with plenty of blooms and calyces to harvest. 

Read this article for more information about how to grow roselle hibiscus


Rutabaga

A row of freshly harvested rutabagas with green leaves and purple-yellow roots lying on soil.
Rutabaga

When to plant Rutabaga in Arizona:

Plant seeds outside: September 15 – January

How to grow Rutabaga:

  • Grows best from seed directly sown in the garden
  • Roots are edible—mild, sweet, and excellent roasted, mashed, or in stews
  • Prefers cool weather and takes about 90 days to mature. Harvest before spring heat sets in. Needs full sun and consistent moisture. Leaves are edible when young. Cold-hardy and great for winter gardens. 

Sorghum

Close-up of a sorghum plant with clusters of small yellow-orange seeds and green leaves in the background.
Sorghum

When to plant Sorghum in Arizona:

Plant seeds outside: March – April and July – August

How to grow Sorghum:

  • Grows best from seed directly sown in the garden
  • Grain heads are edible, used for flour, syrup, or popped like popcorn
  • Drought-tolerant and heat-loving, it thrives in full sun with minimal water. Can be used as a cover crop or forage. Harvest grain when seed heads dry and turn brown. Tall, striking plants—also great for ornamental use.

Spinach

Close-up of fresh green tatsoi leaves with small flower buds forming in the center, resembling young spinach planting in its early stages.
Spinach

When to plant Spinach in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: August – December  
Plant seeds or transplants outside: September 15 – January

How to grow Spinach:

  • Grows best from seed
  • Time to harvest: 40 – 90 days
  • Larger leaves can become bitter; don’t wait too long to harvest.
  • Harvest outer leaves (leaving inner leaves for continual harvest) or harvest the entire plant at once by cutting it off at the base.

Read this article for more information about how to grow spinach


Squash (Summer)

Person harvesting a yellow zucchini from a garden plant with large leaves and yellow flowers.
Summer Squash

When to plant Summer Squash in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: January – February and July – August
Plant seeds or transplants outside: February 15 – March and August 15 – September

How to grow Summer Squash:

  • Grows best from seed
  • Time to harvest: 60 – 90 days
  • If you are finding that female fruits are withering, hand-pollinate by transferring pollen from the male stamen to the female pistil.

Read this article for more information about how to grow summer squash


Squash (Winter)

Butternut squash growing on a vine in a garden bed with green leaves and mulch.
Winter Squash

When to plant Winter Squash:

Start seeds indoors: February and June – July
Plant seeds or transplants outside: March and July – August

How to grow Winter Squash:

  • Grows best from seed
  • Time to harvest: 90 – 120 days
  • Winter squash mature on the vine and can be stored indoors for several months. 

Read this article for more information about how to grow winter squash


Sweet Potatoes

Three freshly harvested sweet potatoes, covered in soil, lie on the ground in a garden bed—an abundant harvest inspired by tips from the Arizona Vegetable Planting Guide.
Sweet Potatoes

When to plant Sweet Potatoes:

Start sweet potato slips indoors: January – April
Plant slips outside: March – June

How to grow Sweet Potatoes:

  • Grows best from slips – small pieces of rooted sweet potato vines grown from a sweet potato.
  • Time to harvest: 120 – 160 days
  • Sweet potatoes need a long warm growing season, are heat tolerant and drought resistant, and have few pests or diseases.

Read this article for more information about how to grow sweet potatoes


Swiss Chard

A person holds a basket of colorful Swiss chard with yellow, red, and green stems, freshly picked from the garden—an inspiring scene for anyone interested in how to grow Swiss chard at home.
Swiss Chard

When to plant Swiss Chard in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: August – January
Plant seeds outside: September 15 – January
Plant transplants outside: September 15 – February

How to grow Swiss Chard:

  • Grows best from seed or transplant
  • Time to harvest: 60 – 90 days
  • To harvest Swiss chard, cut off the outer leaves with a sharp pair of garden scissors 1½ to 2 inches above the ground while they are young and tender (about 8 to 12 inches long).

Read this article for more information about how to grow Swiss chard


Tomatillos

How to grow tomatillos in the low desert of Arizona:

Green tomatillos growing on a leafy plant in bright sunlight.
Tomatillos

When to plant Tomatillos in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: December – January and May – July
Plant transplants outside: February 15 – March  and July 15 – September

How to grow Tomatillos:

  • Grows best from transplant
  • Time to harvest: 80 – 100 days
  • Plants grow large and will need trellising.
  • Plant 2 to ensure pollination

Read this article for more information about how to grow tomatillos


Tomatoes

A mix of red, yellow, and purple cherry tomatoes with green stems clustered together—these are among the best tomatoes for Arizona gardens.
Tomatoes

When to plant Tomatoes in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: December – January and May – July
Plant transplants outside: February 15 – March  and July 15 – September

How to grow Tomatoes:

  • Grows best from transplant
  • Time to harvest: 50-120 days
  • Look for plants with a short (60-90) days to maturity.

Read this article for more information about how to grow tomatoes


Turnips

A basket filled with freshly harvested turnips, with green tops, sitting on soil in sunlight.
Turnips

When to plant Turnips in Arizona:

Plant seeds outside: September 15 – January

How to grow Turnips:

  • Grows best from seed. DO NOT USE TRANSPLANTS.
  • Time to harvest: 90 – 120 days
  • Thin when plants are 4 inches tall. 

Read this article for more information about how to grow turnips. 


Watermelon

A large, light green watermelon growing on a vine among green leaves and brown stems.
Watermelon

When to plant Watermelon in Arizona:

Plant seeds outside: February 15 – June

How to grow Watermelon:

  • Grows best from seed
  • Time to harvest: 90 – 120 days
  • Watermelon leaves produce the sugars that sweeten the watermelon. Allow leaves to sprawl and grow; do not pinch off vines or leaves. 

Read this article for more information about how to grow watermelon.


Wheat

Close-up of green wheat stalks in a field with long, slender leaves and seed heads.
Wheat

When to plant Wheat in Arizona:

Plant seeds outside: November – January

How to grow Wheat:

  • Grows best from seed
  • Grain can be milled into flour, sprouted, or used whole in cooking
  • Grows through the cool season and finishes before summer heat. Prefers a sunny location and well drained soil. Harvest when stalks turn golden and heads are dry to the touch. Easy to grow on a small scale and great for building soil health.

Looking for more help planning your Arizona garden? These visual guides are designed specifically for low desert gardeners:

A visual guide collage of tulips, daffodils, bulbs being planted, and flower bulbs in baskets and soil—perfect for those interested in Arizona bulbs or low desert flowering bulbs.

Just like this Arizona Vegetable Planting Guide, each of these guide include detailed planting tips and seasonal advice tailored for growing in Arizona’s low desert.


Want to learn more about vegetable gardening in Arizona?

Click on a question below to be taken to a blog post about the topic. 


The University of Arizona Cooperative Extension Planting Calendar was a valuable resource as I learned to grow a vegetable garden in Arizona. I also used it as a reference in this Arizona Vegetable Planting Guide. 


If this Arizona Vegetable Planting Guide was helpful, please share it.

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9 comments on "Arizona Vegetable Planting Guide: A Visual Guide for Low Desert Vegetables"

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  1. Great list! Might try some of it. Thank you for sharing us some information about each of the vegetables. I love that you made it is easy to navigate and easy to understand. Thanks again.

  2. The Arizona zoning part was not clear in the picture. The information was helpful but would like more hands on input for the Arizona east central area such as Heber-Show Low-Eagar-Springerville-Nutroisis-Alpine area’s…. Probably talk to the local yokels to learn their gardening success I would think ???

    1. Hi – These planting dates are more specific to the low desert of Arizona. Your dates would be a bit different. Check with your local county extension office, they may be able to help.

  3. Hi, I was wondering if you have a book for purchase with all of this information. I love your webside, blog. Thank you for all the information you provide.

  4. I am getting a little confused on the time to harvest or time to maturity. For example on the tomatoes… it lists a time frame for starting seeds and putting out transplants it then gives a time to harvest. In general when it lists a time to maturity or harvest is it the time from when you started the seeds or when you put the transplants out? I am using the tomatoes as an example but more wondering just in general when it says the time to harvest or maturity on your blog and on seed packets… when does the clock for that start?

    1. Generally, the days to harvest are understood to mean the time from planting outside in the garden. For seeds directly sown in the garden, it begins when you plant the seeds. For seeds started indoors and then transplanted outside, it means from the time of transplanting outside. It can be confusing, and isn’t an exact time to be sure.