Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Maricopa, AZ, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 9b.
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Maricopa, AZ Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Maricopa, AZ
The average last frost date in spring for Maricopa is February 15th. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until March 1st before moving plants outdoors. Waiting these extra few weeks significantly reduces the risk of a late freeze damaging young transplants.
First Fall Frost Date for Maricopa, AZ
The average first frost date in fall for Maricopa is December 1st. This date marks the approximate end of the growing season for tender plants. Gardeners should plan to harvest frost-sensitive vegetables or provide heavy protection (such as row covers) before this date to avoid crop loss.
Growing Season Length in Maricopa, AZ
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Maricopa is approximately 289 days. This duration determines which vegetable varieties have enough time to reach maturity before the winter cold sets in. Short-season varieties are recommended for crops that require a longer warm period.
Please note: These dates are climatological averages. Actual weather conditions vary by year. Always check the local 10-day forecast before planting.
Maricopa, AZ Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Maricopa, AZ Monthly Planting Recommendations
January
In January, recommended activities include direct sowing Poppy (from January 18th to February 1st), starting Sage seeds indoors (from January 4th to January 18th), and direct sowing Flax (from January 18th to February 1st).
February
In February, recommended activities include direct sowing Cilantro (from February 1st to March 1st), direct sowing Zucchini (from February 22nd to March 8th), and direct sowing Runner Bean (from February 22nd to March 8th).
March
In March, recommended activities include direct sowing Lima Bean (from March 1st to March 15th), direct sowing Watermelon (from March 1st to March 15th), and direct sowing Butterfly Pea (from March 1st to March 15th).
December
In December, recommended activities include starting Celery seeds indoors (from December 7th to December 21st), starting French Lavender seeds indoors (from December 7th to December 21st), and starting Coleus seeds indoors (from December 21st to January 4th).