Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Tempe, AZ, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 9b.
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Tempe, AZ Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Tempe, AZ
The average last frost date in spring for Tempe is February 5th. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until February 19th 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 Tempe, AZ
The average first frost date in fall for Tempe is December 15th. 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 Tempe, AZ
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Tempe is approximately 313 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.
Tempe, AZ Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Tempe, AZ Monthly Planting Recommendations
January
In January, recommended activities include starting Cantaloupe seeds indoors (from January 8th to January 22nd), direct sowing Flax (from January 8th to January 22nd), and direct sowing Swiss Chard (from January 22nd to February 5th).
February
In February, recommended activities include direct sowing Mung Bean (from February 19th to March 5th), direct sowing Okra (from February 19th to March 5th), and direct sowing Melon (from February 19th to March 5th).
November
In November, recommended activities include starting Onion seeds indoors (from November 27th to December 11th), starting Begonia seeds indoors (from November 27th to December 11th), and starting Snapdragon seeds indoors (from November 27th to December 11th).
December
In December, recommended activities include starting Coleus seeds indoors (from December 11th to December 25th), starting Aubergine seeds indoors (from December 11th to December 25th), and starting Broccoli seeds indoors (from December 11th to December 25th).