What to Plant in Arizona in February: A Guide to the Best Spring Crops

What to Plant in Arizona in February

The weather in Arizona can be unpredictable in February, with warm days and cool nights. This makes it a great time to plant a variety of crops, from cool-season vegetables to warm-season fruits and flowers.

In this article, we’ll discuss the best crops to plant in Arizona in February, as well as tips for success. We’ll also provide a planting schedule so you can get your garden started on the right foot.

So whether you’re a new gardener or a seasoned pro, read on for all the information you need to know about planting in Arizona in February.

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Vegetable	When to Plant	Tips
Beets	February-March	Sow seeds directly in the ground after the last frost.
Carrots	February-March	Sow seeds directly in the ground after the last frost.
Cucumbers	February-March	Start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost, then transplant seedlings outdoors after the soil has warmed up.
Eggplants	February-March	Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost, then transplant seedlings outdoors after the soil has warmed up.
Kale	February-March	Sow seeds directly in the ground after the last frost.
Lettuce	February-March	Sow seeds directly in the ground after the last frost.
Peas	February-March	Sow seeds directly in the ground after the last frost.
Potatoes	February-March	Start potatoes indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost, then transplant seedlings outdoors after the soil has warmed up.
Radishes	February-March	Sow seeds directly in the ground after the last frost.
Spinach	February-March	Sow seeds directly in the ground after the last frost.

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February is a great time to start planting cool-season vegetables in Arizona. The weather is still cool, but the days are getting longer, so plants have plenty of time to grow before the summer heat sets in.

This guide will provide you with a list of vegetables that are suitable for planting in Arizona in February, as well as tips on how to grow them successfully.

Cold-Hardy Vegetables

The following vegetables are all cold-hardy and can be planted in Arizona in February:

• Broccoli
• Cabbage
• Cauliflower
• Kale
• Lettuce
• Onions
• Peas
• Radishes
• Spinach

These vegetables can tolerate temperatures down to 20 degrees Fahrenheit, so they can be planted outside as soon as the soil is warm enough. However, it is important to note that these vegetables will not grow as well in the heat of summer, so it is best to harvest them before the temperatures start to rise.

To plant cold-hardy vegetables in Arizona in February, you will need to:

1. Choose a sunny spot in your garden that has well-drained soil.
2. Till the soil to a depth of 12 inches and remove any rocks or debris.
3. Add a 2-inch layer of compost to the soil.
4. Sow seeds according to the package directions.
5. Water the seeds well and keep the soil moist until they germinate.

Once the seedlings have emerged, thin them to the recommended spacing. Fertilize the plants regularly with a water-soluble fertilizer. Water the plants deeply and frequently, especially during dry periods.

Harvesting

Cold-hardy vegetables can be harvested as soon as they are mature. The best time to harvest is in the morning, when the vegetables are cool and crisp.

To harvest, simply cut the vegetables off of the plant with a sharp knife. Be sure to leave a few inches of stem attached to the vegetable so that it can continue to grow.

Storage

Cold-hardy vegetables can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. To store, simply place the vegetables in a plastic bag and put them in the crisper drawer.

Warm-Season Vegetables

The following vegetables are all warm-season and should not be planted in Arizona in February:

• Beans
• Corn
• Melons
• Peppers
• Squash
• Tomatoes

These vegetables need warm weather to grow properly, so they should not be planted until the soil has warmed up to at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit.

February is a great time to start planting cool-season vegetables in Arizona. The weather is still cool, but the days are getting longer, so plants have plenty of time to grow before the summer heat sets in.

By following these tips, you can successfully grow a variety of delicious vegetables in your Arizona garden.

3. Flowers

Annuals

Annuals are plants that complete their life cycle in one year. They germinate, grow, flower, set seed, and die all within the same year. Annuals are a great option for gardeners in Arizona because they can be sown directly in the ground after the last frost date. Some popular annuals for Arizona include:

• Zinnias
• Marigolds
• Petunias
• Cosmos
• Begonias
• Impatiens

Perennials

Perennials are plants that live for more than two years. They typically go dormant during the winter months and then come back to life in the spring. Perennials are a great option for gardeners in Arizona because they can provide beautiful blooms year after year. Some popular perennials for Arizona include:

• Lavender
• Rosemary
• Sage
• Yarrow
• Daylilies
• Peonies

Bulbs

Bulbs are plants that store their energy in a bulb, which is a modified stem. When the conditions are right, the bulb will sprout and produce a new plant. Bulbs are a great option for gardeners in Arizona because they can be planted in the fall and will bloom in the spring. Some popular bulbs for Arizona include:

• Tulips
• Daffodils
• Hyacinths
• Crocuses
• Iris
• Snowdrops

Roses

Roses are a popular choice for gardeners in Arizona because they are beautiful and fragrant. However, roses can be challenging to grow in Arizona due to the hot, dry climate. To grow roses successfully in Arizona, it is important to choose a variety that is well-suited to the climate. It is also important to water roses regularly and to fertilize them according to the package directions. Some popular rose varieties for Arizona include:

• ‘Peace’
• ‘New Dawn’
• ‘David Austin’
• ‘Knock Out’
• ‘Carefree Beauty’

Herbs

Herbs are a great addition to any garden in Arizona. They can be used for cooking, medicinal purposes, or simply to add a touch of fragrance to the garden. Herbs are relatively easy to grow in Arizona, and they can be planted in the ground or in containers. Some popular herbs for Arizona include:

• Basil
• Oregano
• Thyme
• Rosemary
• Mint
• Cilantro

4. Trees and shrubs

Fruit trees

Fruit trees are a great way to add beauty and productivity to your Arizona garden. There are many different types of fruit trees that can be grown in Arizona, including citrus trees, apple trees, peach trees, and pear trees. When choosing a fruit tree for your garden, it is important to consider the climate, soil conditions, and amount of sunlight available. Some popular fruit trees for Arizona include:

• Citrus trees (oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruit)
• Apple trees
• Peach trees
• Pear trees
• Figs
• Mangoes

Shade trees

Shade trees are a great way to provide relief from the hot Arizona sun. They can also help to improve the air quality and reduce noise pollution. When choosing a shade tree for your garden, it is important to consider the size of the tree, the amount of sunlight it will receive, and the amount of water it will need. Some popular shade trees for Arizona include:

• Palo verde trees
• Mesquite trees
• Acacia trees
• Sycamore trees
• Cottonwood trees

Ornamental trees

Ornamental trees are trees that are grown for their beauty rather than their fruit or shade. They can add a touch of elegance to any garden, and they can also help to attract birds and other wildlife. When choosing an ornamental tree for your garden, it is important to consider the size of the tree, the amount of sunlight it will receive, and the amount of water it will need. Some popular ornamental trees for Arizona include:

• Jacaranda trees
• Bougainvillea trees
• Rose of Sharon trees
• Crepe myrtle trees
• Mexican plum trees

Shrubs

Shrubs are a great way to add structure and interest to your Arizona garden. They can be used to create borders, hedges, or foundation plantings. When choosing a shrub for your garden, it is important to consider the size of the shrub, the amount of sunlight it will receive, and the amount of water it will need. Some popular

What are the best vegetables to plant in Arizona in February?

• Tomatoes. Tomatoes are a warm-season crop that can be started indoors in February and transplanted outdoors in late March or early April. Choose varieties that are resistant to pests and diseases, such as “Early Girl” and “San Marzano.”
• Peppers. Peppers are another warm-season crop that can be started indoors in February and transplanted outdoors in late March or early April. Choose varieties that are resistant to pests and diseases, such as “Bell Boy” and “Jalapeo.”
• Cucumbers. Cucumbers are a cool-season crop that can be planted directly in the ground in February. Choose varieties that are resistant to pests and diseases, such as “Burpless Bush” and “Marketmore.”
• Squash. Squash is a warm-season crop that can be started indoors in February and transplanted outdoors in late March or early April. Choose varieties that are resistant to pests and diseases, such as “Acorn” and “Zucchini.”
• Beans. Beans are a warm-season crop that can be started indoors in February and transplanted outdoors in late March or early April. Choose varieties that are resistant to pests and diseases, such as “Bush Blue Lake” and “Kentucky Wonder.”

What are the best flowers to plant in Arizona in February?

• Marigolds. Marigolds are a hardy flower that can tolerate the hot, dry climate of Arizona. They come in a variety of colors and sizes, and they make a great addition to any garden.
• Petunias. Petunias are another popular flower for Arizona gardens. They come in a variety of colors and shapes, and they are easy to care for.
• Lavender. Lavender is a beautiful and fragrant flower that is perfect for adding a touch of Mediterranean flair to your garden. It is drought-tolerant and requires little maintenance.
• Roses. Roses are a classic flower that can add beauty and fragrance to any garden. However, they do require some care, such as regular watering and pruning.
• Dahlias. Dahlias are a stunning flower that comes in a variety of colors and shapes. They are a great choice for gardeners who want a show-stopping flower garden.

What are the best fruits to plant in Arizona in February?

• Strawberries. Strawberries are a delicious and nutritious fruit that can be grown in Arizona. They are a cool-season crop that can be planted directly in the ground in February.
• Blueberries. Blueberries are a tart and delicious fruit that is native to North America. They are a cool-season crop that can be planted directly in the ground in February.
• Peaches. Peaches are a sweet and juicy fruit that is a popular choice for home gardeners. They are a warm-season crop that can be started indoors in February and transplanted outdoors in late March or early April.
• Nectarines. Nectarines are a close relative of the peach, and they have a similar sweet and juicy flavor. They are a warm-season crop that can be started indoors in February and transplanted outdoors in late March or early April.
• Apricots. Apricots are a delicious and nutritious fruit that is a popular choice for home gardeners. They are a warm-season crop that can be started indoors in February and transplanted outdoors in late March or early April.

  February is a great time to start planting in Arizona. The weather is warm enough for most plants to germinate and grow, but there is still a chance of frost, so it is important to choose frost-tolerant varieties. Some of the best plants to plant in February in Arizona include tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, beans, peas, lettuce, spinach, and carrots. By following these tips, you can have a successful garden in Arizona this year.