When to Plant in Glendale, AZ

In Glendale, the gardening calendar is primarily influenced by the last spring frost date of February 8 and the first fall frost date of December 5. With approximately 300 frost-free days each year, gardeners can enjoy a long growing season that allows for the cultivation of a wide variety of plants. The challenge, however, lies in the extreme temperatures typical of the region, which necessitate careful planning and crop selection to ensure gardening success.

Being in a hot desert (Sonoran) microclimate means that certain crops thrive while others may struggle. Vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants excel due to their preference for high heat and minimal humidity. On the other hand, cool-season crops such as lettuce and spinach may struggle, as the scorching temperatures can cause them to bolt quickly, limiting their growth potential and yield.

What to plant now in Glendale

Spring is the moment to plant heat-loving crops such as tomatoes and peppers. Plant these in the ground after February 8 to avoid frost damage and ensure a bountiful harvest as they favor the warm conditions.
As summer approaches, late spring is perfect for planting cucumbers and zucchini. Sow these directly into your garden beds from mid-April through early May to capitalize on the increasing warmth and longer days.
In the fall, start planting hardy vegetables like carrots and radishes as temperatures cool down. You can sow these seeds from late September to mid-October, allowing enough time for growth before the first frost date on December 5.
During winter, use this time to prepare for the upcoming spring planting. Consider starting indoor seeds for crops like basil and peppers in late winter, ensuring they are ready to transition outdoors after February 8.

In Glendale (300 frost-free days, a very long season), 30 of 56 planner crops fit outright, 25 get two plantings, 1 crop is perennial.

Month by month in Glendale

Month	What to do
January	January is a great time for garden planning. Research which crops will do best in Glendale's hot desert climate, and consider starting seeds indoors for spring planting.
February	As February approaches, keep an eye on the weather. The median last spring frost date is February 8, so prepare your garden beds and consider starting to plant hardy crops.
March	March marks the start of spring in Glendale. It's ideal for planting tomato and pepper seedlings outside, taking advantage of the warming temperatures.
April	By April, the danger of frost has passed, making it safe to plant faster-growing crops like cucumbers and squash. Prepare soil and water liberally as temperatures rise.
May	May is a month of abundance, with plants growing vigorously. Continue to sow seeds for warm-season crops, and ensure regular watering to manage soil moisture in the heat.
June	June can be brutally hot in Glendale, so focus on maintaining your garden. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and prevent desiccation while monitoring for pests.
July	In July, continue harvesting warm-season crops like zucchini and eggplant. This is a critical month for irrigation, ensuring that your plants receive adequate water.
August	August is still quite hot. As summer winds down, start planning for fall crops. It’s a good time to prepare garden beds for planting cool-season crops in September.
September	September ushers in the possibility of planting cool-season crops. Begin sowing seeds for carrots, radishes, and other greens in preparation for their growth before the first frost.
October	In October, keep monitoring frost forecasts as temperatures cool. Continue to enjoy the harvest of summer crops while planting additional fall crops for a staggered harvest.
November	November is the month when temperatures continue to drop. Focus on harvesting remaining summer crops and preparing your garden beds for winter.
December	As December arrives, the first frost is anticipated around December 5. Prepare to clear the garden of finishing crops and start planning for spring.

Frost dates for Glendale ZIP codes

ZIP	Last spring frost (50%)	First fall frost (50%)	Zone
85301	February 8	December 5	9b

FAQ

When is the last frost in Glendale?

The last frost in Glendale typically occurs around February 8, making this a critical date for gardeners to prepare for spring planting.

What vegetables grow best in Glendale?

Vegetables that thrive in Glendale include tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants, which all love the heat. They can grow robustly throughout the long, hot summer.

When should I plant tomatoes in Glendale?

Tomatoes should be planted outdoors in Glendale after February 8, well past the last expected frost, to ensure successful growth.

Can I garden year-round in Glendale?

Yes, you can garden year-round in Glendale, thanks to its hot desert (Sonoran) climate, but careful selection of crops is essential to avoid heat stress.

How does Plan My Garden help Glendale gardeners?

Plan My Garden offers tailored gardening advice, taking into account the unique climate and growing conditions of Glendale, helping gardeners maximize their yields and garden health.