October marks a transition in Arizona as the extreme heat of summer gives way to cooler temperatures, making it an ideal time for planting a variety of vegetables, flowers, herbs, and landscape plants.
Given the diversity of USDA hardiness zones across the state—ranging from Zone 5 in the northern parts to Zone 10 in the southern deserts—October can be a fruitful month for both amateur and experienced gardeners looking to take advantage of the milder weather. This guide will provide detailed information on what to plant this month.
Vegetables To Plant
When considering vegetables to plant in October in Arizona, it’s important to select varieties that can thrive in the gradually cooling temperatures. Here’s a rundown of ten vegetables ideal for planting this month.
Carrots
Carrots are excellent for planting in October as they thrive in cooler weather. They can be sown directly into the ground in USDA Zones 8-10. Plant them about ¼ to ½ inch deep, in well-draining soil. Carrots prefer temperatures between 60°F and 75°F, and they take about 70 to 80 days to mature, making late fall a perfect time for harvest.
Kale
Kale is a hardy leafy green that can tolerate frost and can be planted in Zones 7-10. Planting in October means you can enjoy fresh greens well into the winter months. It prefers rich, well-drained soil and ample sunlight, but can handle partial shade. Kale thrives in cooler temperatures, ideally between 45°F and 75°F.
Radishes
Radishes are one of the fastest-growing vegetables, often ready to harvest in just 25-30 days. They can handle light frost, making them well-suited for October planting in Zones 8-10. Sow your seeds about half an inch deep, and ensure they receive at least six hours of sunlight daily.
Spinach
Spinach is a cool-weather crop that does exceptionally well in Arizona’s October. It can be planted in Zones 8-10, with optimal temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F. This leafy green is rich in nutrients and grows best in well-fertilized, moist soil. Expect a harvest in about 40-50 days.
Beets
Beets are a versatile root vegetable that can be sown in October in Zones 8-10. They thrive in cooler temperatures and can be harvested in about 60 days. Sow seeds about an inch apart and thin them to give each beet ample space. They require nutrient-rich soil and should be kept consistently moist.
Broccoli
Broccoli is another crop that fares well in cooler weather and can be planted in October in Zones 8-10. It prefers a temperature range of 50°F to 70°F. Plant seedlings or seeds directly into the soil, about 1-2 inches deep. Harvest can take around 70 days, but you can begin picking side shoots earlier.
Lettuce
Lettuce is a quick-growing vegetable that can be planted in October across all regions in Arizona. It prefers cool temperatures and well-drained soil. Sow seeds just below the surface, keeping the soil moist, and expect to harvest in about 30 to 60 days. Consider varieties like romaine or butterhead for diversity.
Garlic
October is the ideal time to plant garlic in Arizona, particularly in Zones 8-10. The best time for planting is mid-October, as garlic needs a chilling period before sprouting. Plant cloves about 2 inches deep, spaced four inches apart. With proper care, garlic can be harvested by the following summer.
Onions
Onions can be planted in Arizona starting in October, specifically in Zones 8-10. Choose varieties suited for long-day conditions since they require longer light for bulbing. Plant sets or seeds about an inch deep, spaced apart. Depending on the variety, expect to harvest anywhere from 90 to 120 days after planting.
Peas
Peas can be sown in late October in the warmer zones of Arizona. These cool-season vegetables thrive in temperatures from 40°F to 75°F. Plant them about an inch deep and give them a trellis to climb for support. They are relatively quick to grow, taking about 60 days to mature.
Flowers To Plant
October is also the perfect time to plant a range of lovely flowers that will not only beautify your garden but also attract pollinators. Here are ten flowers suited for October planting in Arizona.
Pansies
Pansies are known for their vibrant colors and are perfect for fall planting in Zones 8-10. They can thrive with temperatures as low as 20°F and are incredibly hardy. Plant them in well-drained soil, about 8-12 inches apart, and they will bloom beautifully throughout the cooler months.
Snapdragons
Snapdragons are charming flowers that can be planted in late October in Arizona, particularly in Zones 8-10. They enjoy cooler weather and will bloom until spring. These biannuals prefer well-draining soil and full sun. Space them about 10-12 inches apart for optimal growth.
Dusty Miller
Known for its silvery foliage, Dusty Miller is a perennial that adds a contrasting texture to flower beds. It can be planted in Zones 8-10 and thrives in full sun with well-draining soil. It can handle temperatures as low as 20°F and provides visual interest throughout the winter.
Dianthus
Dianthus, also known as pinks or carnations, are perfect for planting in October across Arizona’s warmer zones. They can tolerate light frosts and prefer well-draining soil in full sun. Spacing them about 8-12 inches apart will allow for good air circulation and help prevent disease.
Desert Marigold
This native Arizona flower is perfect for xeriscaping and can be planted in October. Desert Marigold thrives in Zones 8-10 and requires only minimal watering once established. Its bright yellow blooms add a dash of color to your landscape and attract pollinators.
Blue Bell
Blue Bell is a lovely perennial that produces striking blue flowers. It thrives in Arizona’s climate and can be planted in October. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun, and once established, it requires minimal care. It’s a great choice for adding color in the cooler months.
California Poppy
The California Poppy is the state flower and can be planted in October in Arizona’s warmer zones. These bright, orange blooms thrive in full sun and require well-drained soil. They are drought-tolerant and can handle mild frosts, making them an excellent addition to any garden.
Salvia
Salvia varieties like ‘Victoria’ and ‘Mystic Spires’ can be planted in October. This perennial plant is known for its vibrant blues and purples and thrives in Zones 8-10. They are drought-tolerant once established and attract butterflies and hummingbirds, adding life to your garden.
Gazania
Gazania, also known as treasure flower, brings bright colors to your garden beds and can be planted in October. Preferring full sun and well-drained soil, they can withstand drought conditions once established. Their blooms are vibrant and shut at night, adding a unique touch to your garden.
Blanket Flower
This perennial is well-suited for Arizona’s climate, thriving in poor soil and drought conditions. Plant them in October across Zones 8-10. They bring bright, daisy-like flowers and are excellent for attracting bees and butterflies, enriching your garden’s biodiversity.
Herbs To Plant
Herbs can enhance your culinary experiences and also provide a fresh aroma to your garden. October is an excellent month to sow and transplant various herbs in Arizona.
Cilantro
Cilantro is a versatile herb that grows well in cooler temperatures, making October an ideal time to plant in Zones 8-10. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun. Sow the seeds about a quarter inch deep, and expect a harvest in about 3-4 weeks.
Parsley
Parsley is a hardy herb suited for planting in October in Zones 8-10. It prefers rich, moist soil and can tolerate light frost. Sow seeds about ¼ inch deep, and they will germinate in 2-3 weeks. Parsley is a biennial that can be harvested throughout the winter.
Chives
Chives are an easy-to-grow perennial herb that can be planted in late October in Arizona’s warmer zones. They thrive in well-drained soil and full sun, and you can start ‘lifting’ them for use a month or so after planting. They are frost-tolerant and can bring unique flavorings to your dishes.
Thyme
This hardy herb can be planted in October across all regions of Arizona. Thyme prefers well-draining soil and full sun, making it perfect for the dry climate. Expect to harvest leaves in as little as 3-6 weeks after planting. It also works well as a ground cover.
Oregano
Oregano is another herb that can be planted in late October in Arizona. It thrives in Zones 8-10 and enjoys well-draining soil. This perennial offers a robust flavor to various dishes and can be harvested for fresh use or dried for later. It is drought-tolerant once established.
Lavender
This aromatic herb loves the Arizona sun and can be planted in October. Lavender prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate drought well, making it suitable for xeriscaping. Harvesting can be done in late spring when the flowers are in full bloom, providing fragrance and beauty.
Rosemary
Rosemary is a perennial that thrives in warm climates and can be planted in October. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun. Once established, this hardy herb is drought-tolerant and can be harvested year-round for culinary uses.
Basil
While basil is more commonly grown in warmer months, certain varieties can be planted in October in the warmer regions (Zones 9-10) of Arizona, particularly if you’re using a greenhouse or container. It prefers warm temperatures and provides aromatic leaves for fresh and cooked dishes.
Sage
Sage is a perennial herb that can be planted in October. It thrives in slightly poorer soils and prefers dry conditions. Plant it where it will receive full sun, and it can be harvested throughout the year after a month or so of establishing its roots.
Mint
Mint is best planted in containers as it can become invasive. October presents an excellent planting opportunity in Zones 8-10. It grows quickly, preferring rich, moist soil, and can handle a bit of shade, which is perfect for capturing cooler fall sunlight.
Landscape Plants To Plant In October
Landscaping your garden in Arizona requires careful selection of plants that can withstand the local climate. October is a perfect month to plant a variety of landscape plants that will thrive in the cooler temperatures.
Desert Willow
The Desert Willow is an excellent choice for desert landscaping and can be planted in October across Zones 8-10. This tree needs full sun and can tolerate drought conditions once established. Its beautiful trumpet-shaped flowers attract pollinators and can create a stunning display in your garden.
Chuparosa
Chuparosa is a native plant that flourishes in Arizona’s desert conditions and can be planted in October. It’s drought-tolerant and attracts hummingbirds with its tubular flowers. Preferably planted in full sun with well-draining soil, it is low-maintenance and ideal for xeriscaping.
Mexican Bird of Paradise
This vibrant shrub adds a splash of color to any landscape and can be planted in late October. It thrives in hot, dry conditions and provides beautiful yellow and orange flowers. Mexican Bird of Paradise requires full sunlight and is perfect for attracting pollinators.
Red Yucca
Red Yucca can be planted in October in Zones 8-10. This drought-tolerant plant features tall spikes of tubular flowers that bloom in the summer and attract hummingbirds. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil, making it a great choice for low-maintenance gardens.
Agave
Agave is well-suited for Arizona’s climate and can be planted in October. Known for its architectural form, this succulent is drought-resistant and thrives in poor soils. Plant it in full sun, and enjoy the low-maintenance requirements that come with this striking landscape addition.
Lantana
Lantana is a resilient flowering shrub that thrives in dry environments. It can be planted in October and prefers well-drained soil and full sun. Lantana produces colorful clusters of flowers that attract butterflies and provide long-lasting color in your landscape.
Penstemon
This perennial flower is ideal for planting in October in Arizona. It is drought-tolerant once established and can thrive in full sun. Penstemon produces beautiful tubular flowers, attracting hummingbirds and bees, while adding vibrant color to your landscape.
Foothill Palo Verde
The Foothill Palo Verde is an exceptional tree for desert landscapes. It can be planted in October in Zones 8-10 and thrives in full sun and sandy soils. This tree is drought-tolerant and produces beautiful yellow flowers, offering shade and attractive foliage year-round.
Butterfly Bush
The Butterfly Bush is a hardy perennial well-suited for Arizona landscapes. Plant in October for stunning blooms that attract butterflies throughout the growing season. This plant thrives in well-draining soil and can tolerate drought after establishment.
Echinacea (Coneflower)
Echinacea is perfect for those looking to create a pollinator garden. It can be planted in October in Zones 8-10 and thrives in well-drained soil and full sun. Its bright coneflower heads attract bees, butterflies, and birds, contributing to the local ecosystem.
