In Arizona, the state’s climate can vary significantly from one region to another, with USDA plant hardiness zones ranging from 4b in northern parts to 10b in the southern desert areas. As such, the selection of plants suitable for February will differ widely based on these varying conditions.

Below, we detail an array of vegetables, flowers, herbs, and landscape plants that can either be directly sown or transplanted in February across Arizona.

Vegetables To Plant In February

1. Beets (Beta vulgaris)

Beets are cool-season crops that thrive when planted in early February, particularly in USDA zones 5 through 10. They prefer temperatures between 50°F and 85°F. Although they can be sown in January in southern Arizona, northern regions should wait until the first few weeks of February when the soil begins to warm up. Beets are not only nutritious, providing vital vitamins and minerals, but they also add beautiful color to the garden.

2. Carrots (Daucus carota subsp. sativus)

Carrots can be directly sown into the ground from mid-February onwards in most of Arizona. They thrive in cooler temperatures, ideally between 60°F and 70°F. In the warmer regions, including the desert areas, this crop does best when sown early in February to avoid the heat of the summer months. Ensure that the soil is loose and free of stones to facilitate growth.

3. Lettuce (Lactuca sativa)

This popular leafy green can withstand cooler temperatures and can be direct-seeded or transplanted as seedlings in early February. Varieties such as romaine and butterhead thrive in the mild climate of Arizona, needing temperatures of 45°F to 65°F. In Phoenix and the surrounding desert areas, ensure regular watering as early February can be both warm and dry.

4. Onions (Allium cepa)

Onions are best planted in Arizona starting in the latter half of February to take advantage of spring growth. Sets and transplants can be used, particularly in the lower elevation areas of Zones 8 to 10. For northern regions, it’s advisable to wait until the soil has adequately warmed up. Onions prefer cooler temperatures in the 50°F to 75°F range.

5. Peas (Pisum sativum)

Peas can be seeded in February across all Arizona regions. As a cool-weather crop, they flourish in temperatures of 50°F to 70°F. Early planting in February allows for maximized growth before the summer heat. Ensure good support for climbing varieties by installing trellises at planting.

6. Spinach (Spinacia oleracea)

Spinach is another cool-weather champion that can be planted from early February onward. Fast-growing and nutrient-rich, it can handle temperatures down to 20°F. To get the most from your spinach, consider sowing successions every couple of weeks for a continuous harvest throughout spring.

7. Radishes (Raphanus sativus)

Radishes are among the quickest crops to mature, making them ideal for planting in February. They can be sown directly into the soil in most Arizona regions, thriving in temperatures between 50°F and 70°F. Harvest can often occur within 3 to 4 weeks, giving you a delicious, crunchy addition to salads.

8. Swiss Chard (Beta vulgaris subsp. cicla)

Swiss chard is a hardy green vegetable that can be planted starting in mid-February. It tolerates cooler temperatures and can even survive mild frosts. Its vibrant stems add visual interest and nutrition to any garden. Swiss Chard prefers temperatures between 50°F and 70°F.

9. Kale (Brassica oleracea var. sabellica)

Kale can be planted in February and thrives in cooler weather, making it suitable for all areas of Arizona. It can handle a light frost and prefers temperatures in the 40s to 60s. This nutrient powerhouse is a great choice for those looking to extend their green growing season.

10. Broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica)

Broccoli is best sown in February, especially in the cooler regions of Arizona. It requires temperatures around 60°F to 70°F for optimal germination and growth. Transplants can be set out in the warmer southern areas towards the end of the month, making this a good option as well.

Flowers To Plant In February

1. Marigolds (Tagetes spp.)

Marigolds are hardy annuals that can be direct-seeded in February, especially in the warmer southern regions. They thrive in full sun and tolerate the frosty weather typical of February nights. With vibrant colors like orange and yellow, they can brighten up any garden and deter pests.

2. Snapdragons (Antirrhinum majus)

In February, gardeners can start sowing snapdragons directly in the ground, particularly in zones 8 to 10. This charming flower flourishes in cooler climates, requiring temperatures between 50°F and 70°F. They provide a vertical element in gardens and bloom in diverse colors.

3. Pansies (Viola tricolor var. hortensis)

Pansies are one of the most beloved early bloomers, adaptable to cooler temperatures. Plant pansies in February across all Arizona regions for vibrant spring color. They perform well in temperatures of 35°F to 65°F and can even tolerate light frost.

4. Petunias (Petunia × atkinsiana)

For early color, petunias can be planted after the danger of hard frost has passed in southern Arizona. In February, it’s safe to begin sowing seeds or planting transplants to take advantage of cooler weather, leading into blooming season shortly after.

5. Zinnias (Zinnia elegans)

While zinnias are typically direct-seeded in warmer areas, they can also be started indoors in February and transplanted later. They prefer sunny spots and perform well in hot weather, thriving particularly in zones 9 and 10.

6. Sweet Peas (Lathyrus odoratus)

Sweet peas are not only fragrant but also add a lovely touch to any garden. They prefer being planted in mid- to late February, particularly in cooler climates. These climbing plants appreciate cool weather—ideally 55°F to 70°F—and produce blooms in a variety of stunning colors.

7. Gladiolus (Gladiolus spp.)

Gladiolus corms can be planted in late February, making them another excellent option. They require warm soil temperatures of about 60°F to 68°F and thrive in full sun, producing tall spikes of colorful flowers.

8. Coreopsis (Coreopsis spp.)

Coreopsis, also known as tickseed flowers, can be planted in February, particularly in southern regions. They thrive in sunny, dry environments and are excellent native wildflowers that attract pollinators. Aim for soil temperatures above 65°F for best results.

9. Sage (Salvia spp.)

While primarily known as an herb, many types of sage, particularly Salvia elegans (Pineapple Sage), bloom beautifully and can be planted in early February. Their colorful spikes attract hummingbirds and butterflies, favoring sunny areas.

10. Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea)

Known as coneflower, Echinacea can be started in nursery pots in February and later transplanted outdoors. It adapts excellently to Arizona’s dry conditions and attracts a variety of beneficial insects to the garden.

Herbs To Plant In February

1. Basil (Ocimum basilicum)

Basil is a warm-weather herb that’s typically sown indoors until temperatures stabilize in late February. Once evening temperatures begin to consistently stay above 50°F, it can be transplanted to the garden. Basil loves full sun and has a fantastic flavor in culinary dishes.

2. Cilantro (Coriandrum sativum)

Cilantro can be directly seeded into the garden starting in February. This herb enjoys cooler temperatures, ideally between 60°F and 75°F. In southern Arizona, it can even handle being sown in January. Regular harvesting encourages continuous growth.

3. Parsley (Petroselinum crispum)

Parsley seeds can be directly sown in February across Arizona. It tolerates cooler weather quite well, requiring soils between 50°F and 70°F for optimal growth. Parsley is a versatile herb that thrives in both garden beds and pots.

4. Chives (Allium schoenoprasum)

Chives can be planted in early to mid-February in most areas as it loves cooler weather and typically thrives well in USDA zones 3 to 9. They require well-drained soil and full sun to produce their distinct flavor promptly.

5. Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)

Thyme can be direct-seeded or planted as seedlings in February, particularly in warmer regions of Arizona. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate the hotter summers, thriving in well-drained, sunny areas.

6. Oregano (Origanum vulgare)

Oregano can also be planted in February, as it prefers moderately cool soils with temperatures between 60°F and 70°F. Its aromatic leaves are a culinary favorite and attract beneficial insects.

7. Mint (Mentha spp.)

Mint can be planted in February, but it’s essential to contain it if planting in the garden since it can become invasive. It thrives in cooler weather and does well in partial to full sun. Ensure ample moisture to sustain its robust flavor.

8. Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus)

This perennial herb thrives in southern Arizona and can be planted in late February when the frost has passed. Rosemary loves full sun and well-drained soil, holding up where temperatures can reach up to 70°F.

9. Sage (Salvia officinalis)

Sage can be sown in early February and appreciates cooler temperatures. This herb is out in full sun and multiplies quickly, making it easy for gardeners to keep fresh supply year-round.

10. Dill (Anethum graveolens)

Dill can be direct-seeded in the garden starting in February across warm areas. Like cilantro, it enjoys the cooler temperatures of spring. It will flourish especially well with good sun and consistent moisture.

Landscape Plants To Plant In February

1. Desert Marigold (Baileya multiradiata)

Desert Marigold is a resilient perennial known for its beautiful yellow flowers that thrive in Arizona’s arid conditions. February is a good time to plant this native wildflower, as it flourishes in well-drained soils and requires full sun exposure.

2. Agave (Agave spp.)

Agaves, with their impressive rosettes and architectural presence, can be planted throughout Arizona in February. They thrive in poor soil and hot, arid conditions. Agaves require little water and attention once established, showcasing an impressive drought-tolerance.

3. Palm Trees (Various species)

February is a prime time for planting palm trees in southern Arizona, where temperatures start to rise. Species like the California Fan Palm or Mexican Fan Palm can establish themselves before the heat of summer arrives, thriving best in sunny areas.

4. Lantana (Lantana camara)

Lantana is another vibrant flowering plant ideal for Arizona gardens. It can be planted in February, especially in the lower desert regions. This drought-tolerant plant thrives in full sun and attracts pollinators with its colorful clusters of flowers.

5. Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia)

Ideal for xeriscaping, Russian Sage can be planted in February. It settles well into various soil types and flourishes in sunny, dry areas. The silver foliage and purple flowers add visual interest and require very little water.

6. Brittlebush (Encelia farinosa)

Brittlebush is a native desert plant that needs to be planted in February for optimal growth. As a hardy perennial, it thrives on poor soils and tolerates extreme aridity while providing striking yellow flowers in the spring.

7. Red Yucca (Hesperaloe parviflora)

Red Yucca should be planted in February to ensure it establishes well before the peak of summer. This drought-tolerant succulent produces striking red flower spikes that attract hummingbirds, making it a valuable addition to desert gardens.

8. Texas Sage (Leucophyllum frutescens)

Known for its vibrant purple flowers and aromatic leaves, Texas Sage can be added to gardens in February. It thrives in well-draining soil and showcases drought resistance, making it ideal for heat-stricken landscapes.

9. Fountain Grass (Pennisetum setaceum)

Fountain Grass can be planted in February for adding texture to gardens. It flourishes in well-draining soil and is well-suited for Arizona’s climate, providing beautiful plumes that sway gracefully in the wind.

10. Saguaro Cactus (Carnegiea gigantea)

February is an excellent time to transplant young Saguaros or sow seeds. This iconic cactus prefers the warmer temperatures that arrive later in the month, and its resilience makes it a symbol of the Southwestern landscape.

Conclusion

February is a vibrant month for planting across Arizona, particularly as spring nears and temperatures begin to warm up. By understanding the best planting strategies and selecting suitable plants for each region, gardeners can create flourishing landscapes that thrive with vitality. From hardy vegetables and cheerful flowers to aromatic herbs and resilient landscape plants, the opportunities are abundant for cultivating a beautiful and sustainable garden in Arizona.