When to Plant in Tempe, AZ

In Tempe, Arizona, the garden calendar is defined by a median last spring frost date of February 8 and a median first fall frost on December 5, allowing for an impressive 300 frost-free days. This extended growing season provides local gardeners with abundant opportunities to cultivate a wide range of plants, from vegetables to flowering ornamentals, ensuring that you can enjoy a diverse garden year-round. When planning your planting schedule, understanding these critical frost dates is essential for maximizing your gardening success.

Tempe is characterized by a hot desert (Sonoran) microclimate, which significantly influences what can be successfully grown. Crops like tomatoes, peppers, and various melons thrive in the high temperatures and abundant sunlight. In contrast, crops that require cooler conditions, such as lettuce and spinach, often struggle in the intense heat and limited moisture. These factors highlight the importance of selecting the right plants that can withstand the local climate and flourish throughout the growing season.

What to plant now in Tempe

Spring: Start planting warm-season crops like tomatoes, peppers, and squash after February 8, as the risk of frost has passed. Aim for planting in March for a bountiful harvest before the summer heat sets in.
Summer: Mid to late June is ideal for planting heat-tolerant crops such as okra and eggplant, which will thrive in the August sun. Ensure watering is consistent to combat the increased evaporation during this period.
Fall: Begin your fall planting in late September with hardy crops such as kale and carrots, which can handle the cooler temperatures leading up to the first frost on December 5. This timing will ensure a successful harvest.
Winter: The beginning of December is perfect for preparing soil and planting cover crops, as most of the garden will be winding down for winter. Don't forget to assess your garden before the frost comes in early December to protect any remaining crops.

In Tempe (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 Tempe

Month	What to do
January	In January, focus on planning your spring garden layout and purchasing seeds for summer planting. Use this time to prepare soil and amend it with compost to get ready for sowing.
February	As we approach February 8, monitor nighttime temperatures and be ready to plant warm-season crops like tomatoes and peppers. This is the last month to prepare before spring planting begins.
March	With the threat of frost having passed after February 8, March is the time for direct sowing seeds of squash and warm-weather herbs. Ensure soil temperatures are rising for optimal growth.
April	In April, continue planting and sowing a variety of warm-season vegetables while managing water for newly sprouted crops. Regular harvesting of early spring plants keeps the garden productive.
May	May brings substantial heat, perfect for established plants. Monitor irrigation closely for heat-sensitive plants and start planning for summer crops that will thrive in rising temperatures.
June	June marks the peak of heat. Plant heat-tolerant crops such as eggplants and okra while ensuring consistent watering to prevent wilting and stress during hotter days.
July	In July, manage weeds and pests actively while continuing to care for established vegetable plants. Prepare for fall crops by thinking ahead about what to plant once temperatures moderate.
August	August is critical for harvesting warm-season crops. Ensure you take advantage of this time before transitioning to fall planting, as temperatures remain high but begin to cool down in late month.
September	September is ideal for planting fall crops like kale and carrots. Start sowing seeds as temperatures cool down, but monitor for any lingering summer heat.
October	October gardening tasks involve maintaining your fall crops and making preparations for winter. Feeding your plants and ensuring they receive adequate moisture is key as fall progresses.
November	November is a time for harvesting fall crops and preparing for the upcoming frost. Begin plotting out winter garden plans and consider cover crops for soil health.
December	In December, with the first fall frost expected on December 5, ensure all fall crops are harvested. Use this time to protect any vulnerable winter plants and start covering soil to prepare for the next growing season.

Frost dates for Tempe ZIP codes

ZIP	Last spring frost (50%)	First fall frost (50%)	Zone
85281	February 8	December 5	9b

FAQ

When is the last frost in Tempe?

The last frost in Tempe typically occurs on February 8, making it crucial for gardeners to start planting after this date to ensure crop success.

What vegetables grow best in Tempe?

Vegetables such as tomatoes, jalapeños, and sweet corn thrive in Tempe’s hot desert climate, taking advantage of the sunny days and warm nights.

When should I plant tomatoes in Tempe?

Tomatoes can be planted in Tempe after the last frost on February 8, with optimal planting in March to secure a robust crop before the summer heat.

Can I garden year-round in Tempe?

Yes, gardening can be done year-round in Tempe due to the long frost-free period, though selection of appropriate crops is essential based on seasonal conditions.

How does Plan My Garden help Tempe gardeners?

Plan My Garden offers customized gardening advice tailored to Tempe's unique climate, helping gardeners select the right plants and timing for successful gardening throughout the year.