More than Saguaro will grow in Phoenix when the temperature is right.
Phoenix, Arizona, located in the northeastern part of the Sonoran Desert, experiences hot and dry weather that can make vegetable gardening challenging. Due to the differences between Phoenix's climate and northern areas of the state, vegetable planting in Phoenix follows an unconventional schedule.
Seasons
While most of the country bases gardening schedules on frost dates, avoiding hot temperatures plays more of a role in Phoenix vegetable gardening. Plant summer vegetables, such as melons, cucumbers tomatoes and peppers as early as mid-February for a late spring harvest. Plant squashes and bush beans from seed in July for a fall harvest. Plant cool-season root vegetables, such as turnips and potatoes, and members of the cabbage family anytime from September to November.
Benefits
Due to warm weather, several traditional summer vegetables can be grown twice annually in Phoenix. Plant tomatoes in early spring and again in the fall. Grow radishes year-round, but expect hotter flavors from those grown in warmer temperatures.
Warning
Tomatoes and peppers will experience pollination problems and generally do not set fruit in temperatures above 90 degrees F. Transplant tomatoes and peppers in February and November for best results.
Considerations
June is usually the driest month in phoenix, so plan to use additional water if gardening during this time. Also invest in a shade screen to protect plants from the harsh summer sun.
Tags: harvest Plant, summer vegetables, vegetable gardening, vegetables such