Planting calendar
July Planting Guide for Phoenix, AZ: Raised Beds, Containers, and In-Ground Gardens
In July, Phoenix gardeners should focus on heat-tolerant and warm-season crops suitable for raised beds, containers, and in-ground planting. Prioritize plants that thrive in extreme heat and prepare for fall planting by starting some seeds indoors. Avoid frost-sensitive crops as temperatures remain high.
Plant now (quick list)
Okra, Sweet potatoes, Eggplant, Peppers, Melons, Cowpeas, Malabar spinach, Southern peas
Plant now
- Okra
- Sweet potatoes
- Eggplant
- Peppers
- Melons
- Cowpeas
- Malabar spinach
- Southern peas
Start indoors
- Broccoli
- Cabbage
- Cauliflower
- Brussels sprouts
- Kale
- Collard greens
- Lettuce (heat-tolerant varieties)
- Swiss chard
Avoid
- Cool-season leafy greens (e.g., spinach, arugula)
- Peas
- Radishes
- Carrots
- Beets
- Potatoes
- Broccoli (direct sow outdoors)
- Cauliflower (direct sow outdoors)
Next 2 weeks
- Monitor soil moisture closely; irrigate deeply in raised beds and containers
- Mulch to retain soil moisture and reduce heat stress
- Shade young seedlings during peak afternoon sun
- Check for pests like aphids and spider mites
- Fertilize heat-loving crops with balanced fertilizer
- Start hardening off indoor seedlings for fall transplant
- Prepare soil for fall planting by adding compost
- Avoid planting cool-season crops outdoors until late August
FAQs
Can I plant tomatoes in July in Phoenix?
July is very hot for tomatoes in Phoenix; it's better to start seeds indoors now and transplant in late August or September when temperatures cool.
How often should I water raised beds and containers in July?
Water daily or every other day, ensuring the soil stays consistently moist but not waterlogged, as heat causes rapid drying.
What vegetables grow best in containers during Phoenix summers?
Heat-tolerant crops like peppers, eggplants, okra, and malabar spinach perform well in containers during hot months.
Is it necessary to provide shade for plants in July?
Yes, providing afternoon shade helps protect young seedlings and sensitive plants from extreme heat stress.
When should I start preparing for fall planting in Phoenix?
Begin starting cool-season crops indoors in July and prepare soil for transplanting outdoors by late August as temperatures begin to moderate.
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