What to grow in Phoenix

A local planting guide for Arizona, United States — USDA zone 9a, average frost dates, and the vegetables, herbs and flowers that thrive here.

Phoenix climate at a glance

Decoded from long-run climate normals for Phoenix's location. Use it as a starting point — your own garden's aspect, walls and soil shift these by a week or two.

USDA hardiness zone
Zone 9a
Average winter low
5°C (41°F)
Average summer high
42°C (107°F)
Last spring frost
February 21 (avg)
First fall frost
December 10 (avg)
Frost-free growing season
~292 days
Annual rainfall
225 mm/yr (9 in)
Hot days (≥30°C) per year
~194 days

Best plants for Phoenix

214 plants in the library suit USDA zone 9a. Tap any one for its sowing calendar, spacing and companions.

Easy starter picks for Phoenix

New to growing? These are forgiving, fast, and can go straight into the ground — a good first season in USDA zone 9a.

Plan your Phoenix garden →