When to Plant in Scottsdale, AZ

In Scottsdale, the gardening calendar is defined by a median last spring frost date of February 6 and a median first fall frost date of December 13, giving residents an impressive 310 frost-free days to cultivate a wide variety of plants. This long growing season allows enthusiasts to experiment with numerous species, particularly those that thrive in warmer climates. Preparing the garden after the last frost can pave the way for vibrant blooms and delicious harvests well into the winter months.

Scottsdale is characterized by its hot desert (Sonoran) microclimate, which provides ample sunshine and warmth that is ideal for growing certain crops. Vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants flourish in the heat, allowing for bountiful summer harvests. On the other hand, leafy greens such as spinach and lettuce often struggle with the intense heat and can become bitter or bolt quickly. Understanding these dynamics can significantly enhance your gardening success in Scottsdale.

What to plant now in Scottsdale

In early spring, after the last frost on February 6, plant warm-season crops such as tomatoes, peppers, and squash. This is the ideal time to start sowing seeds outdoors for a fruitful summer harvest.
As summer approaches, focus on planting heat-loving crops. From late March through June, consider sowing beans, cucumbers, and corn, which thrive in the scorching sunlight and longer days typical of the Scottsdale climate.
In the fall, after the last extreme heat, which may occur in late September, start planting cool-weather crops such as broccoli, cabbage, and carrots in October to ensure strong growth before the first frost on December 13.
During winter, take advantage of the frost-free period to plant hardy crops like peas, garlic, and onions from December through early February. This will provide a head start before the next spring planting season.

In Scottsdale (310 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 Scottsdale

Month	What to do
January	In January, prepare your garden beds for spring planting by incorporating compost and mulch. Start planning your seed choices, focusing on heat-tolerant varieties that thrive in the hot Sonoran climate.
February	By February, winter crops should be harvested, making way for spring planting. The average last frost date, February 6, marks the moment to begin sowing warm-season crops like tomatoes and peppers.
March	March is a transition month in Scottsdale; temps rise significantly. Start planting your warm-season vegetable seeds, ensuring to stagger planting dates for continuous harvest throughout the warmer months.
April	April brings warmer temperatures. Make sure that warm-season crops are well-established. Regular watering is crucial as temperatures rise, especially for crops like peppers and squash.
May	In May, summer heat peaks. Ensure all your heat-loving plants are watered deeply to prevent stress. This is an excellent time to harvest early crops and begin succession planting of beans.
June	June continues the heat, making it essential to maintain consistent irrigation. You can still plant heat-loving crops, like cucumbers and melons, for a summer harvest.
July	July can be extremely hot, but vegetables like okra and eggplant continue to thrive. Ensure ample watering, and consider adding mulch to retain soil moisture and reduce temperature extremes.
August	August marks the gradual transition to fall gardening. Continue watering your summer crops while preparing for the planting of fall vegetables to take advantage of the cooler months ahead.
September	September is an excellent month for soil preparation and planting fall crops like broccoli and Brussels sprouts. The weather begins to cool slightly, making this a great time for new vegetation.
October	October is the prime time to plant cool-season crops. With frost-free conditions from the previous month, start your fall planting to allow crops like carrots and spinach ample growing time.
November	As November arrives, continue caring for your fall crops. Watch for temperature drops and ensure proper protection from potential early frosts while enjoying harvests from earlier plantings.
December	In December, temperatures lower as winter settles in. Focus on harvesting remaining crops from fall plantings and preparing for winter sowing. The first frost on December 13 indicates careful planning for the next planting cycle.

Frost dates for Scottsdale ZIP codes

ZIP	Last spring frost (50%)	First fall frost (50%)	Zone
85254	February 6	December 13	10a

FAQ

When is the last frost in Scottsdale?

The median last frost date in Scottsdale is February 6, marking a significant time for gardeners to start planting warm-season crops.

What vegetables grow best in Scottsdale?

Tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants thrive in the hot desert climate of Scottsdale, while leafy greens like spinach tend to struggle in the intense heat.

When should I plant tomatoes in Scottsdale?

Tomatoes should be planted in early spring, typically right after the last frost date of February 6, ensuring warm soil for optimal growth.

Can I garden year-round in Scottsdale?

Yes, the long growing season in Scottsdale allows for a continuous gardening cycle, from cool-season crops in winter to heat-loving crops in summer.

How does Plan My Garden help Scottsdale gardeners?

Plan My Garden provides tailored advice and resources for Scottsdale gardeners, helping them choose appropriate plants according to local frost dates and climate conditions.