When to Plant in Mesa, AZ

Mesa, Arizona has an average last spring frost date of February 14 and a first fall frost date of November 29, providing residents with about 289 frost-free days for gardening. This extended growing season allows for a wide range of crops, from vegetables to ornamental plants, to thrive in the region's warm climate, making it possible for gardeners to get multiple harvests in a single year.

The hot desert (Sonoran) microclimate in Mesa is characterized by high temperatures and low humidity, allowing for thriving warm-season crops. Vegetables such as tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants excel under these conditions due to their heat tolerance and need for long growing seasons. However, crops like lettuce and spinach may struggle, as they prefer cooler temperatures and can bolt quickly in the heat.

What to plant now in Mesa

Spring is ideal for planting tomatoes, cucumbers, and squash after the last frost on February 14. Start seeds indoors in late January and transplant outdoors after soils warm up, ensuring robust production throughout spring and summer.
In summer, planting heat-tolerant vegetables such as okra, beans, and sweet potatoes is recommended. Sow seeds directly from late June to early August, taking advantage of Mesa's arid climate that supports their growth.
As fall approaches, consider planting cool-season crops like carrots, beets, and kale. Begin planting in mid-September, allowing time for them to mature before frost sets in on November 29.
During winter, it’s an excellent time for planting garlic, onions, and certain herbs. Plant them from late November through December, utilizing the mild temperatures for robust root establishment before spring arrives.

In Mesa (288 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 Mesa

Month	What to do
January	January is a great month for planning your spring garden. If you'd like to start tomato and pepper seeds, now is the time to do so indoors. Get ready for the transition to outdoor planting after the last frost.
February	With the last frost date on February 14, it’s crucial to watch the weather closely. Finish indoor starts and prepare garden beds for direct planting of heat-loving crops by the end of the month.
March	March is perfect for transplanting seedlings outside as the risk of frost diminishes. Those who started seeds indoors should ensure they are hardened off and ready for the warmer weather ahead.
April	April is a busy time for Mesa gardeners, with ideal conditions for planting annuals and warm-season vegetables. Be vigilant about watering as the heat begins to pick up.
May	May brings intense heat, making it excellent for crops like melons and peppers. Keep a regular watering schedule to ensure your plants don’t suffer from heat stress.
June	June heats up significantly in Mesa. Continue planting drought-tolerant vegetables like okra and summer squash, and keep an eye on soil moisture levels to combat the dry air.
July	In July, focus on maintenance tasks like weeding and pest control. Consider starting a second planting of beans and cucumbers to take advantage of the long growing season.
August	As August rolls in, maintain your garden's health with regular watering. Begin planning for fall crops by choosing cool-season vegetables to start as the summer heat begins to wane.
September	September is the ideal time to plant fall crops like carrots and beets. With the first frost date approaching on November 29, timing is key for a successful harvest.
October	October continues to provide opportunities for planting as the temperatures cool. Monitor for pests and ensure to prepare any remaining crops before the first frost.
November	With the first fall frost on November 29, it’s time to start covering sensitive plants as temperatures drop. Harvest remaining crops and plan for winter preparations.
December	December is cooler but still offers planting opportunities for garlic and onions. Focus on preparing the garden beds and considering any winter crops that may thrive in the mild conditions into spring.

Frost dates for Mesa ZIP codes

ZIP	Last spring frost (50%)	First fall frost (50%)	Zone
85204	February 14	November 29	9b

FAQ

When is the last frost in Mesa?

The last frost date in Mesa typically occurs on February 14, which allows for early spring planting of tender crops.

What vegetables grow best in Mesa?

Vegetables such as tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants thrive in Mesa due to the hot desert climate, while cooler crops like lettuce may struggle.

When should I plant tomatoes in Mesa?

Tomatoes should be started indoors in January and transplanted outdoors after February 13, taking advantage of the warm soil.

Can I garden year-round in Mesa?

Yes, the frost-free days in Mesa allow for year-round gardening, with careful planning to accommodate seasonal crops.

How does Plan My Garden help Mesa gardeners?

Plan My Garden provides tailored advice for planting schedules and crop selection based on Mesa’s unique climate, ensuring successful gardening year-round.