What to Plant in November in Arizona: Desert-Friendly Picks That Thrive

November in Arizona brings perfect planting conditions you won’t want to miss. Cooler temps and fewer pests make it prime time to get your garden growing.

I’ve found that late fall is when Lettuce 🥬 and other cool-season crops truly shine in zone 9b. Whether you’re new to gardening or a seasoned pro, this window offers unique opportunities.

Let me show you exactly what thrives when planted now, so you can enjoy a bountiful harvest come winter. These picks are desert-tested and ready to impress.

Best Vegetables to Plant in Arizona in November

November in Arizona’s zone 9b is prime time for cool-season vegetables. The soil stays warm while air temps cool, creating ideal conditions for leafy greens and root crops to establish before winter.

I’ve had great success with Lettuce varieties like Romaine and Buttercrunch, which grow quickly in this window. These thrive with 4-6 hours of sun and consistent moisture.

Brassicas like Broccoli and Cauliflower also excel when planted now. Start them from transplants for a head start, as Arizona’s short fall season demands quick establishment.

For root vegetables, Radishes and Beets are excellent choices. They mature in 30-60 days, perfect for quick harvests before any potential frost.

Don’t forget Alliums like Onions and Garlic. Plant sets or seeds now for a spring harvest. These need well-draining soil to prevent rot in our occasional winter rains.

I always amend my soil with compost before planting. Arizona’s native soil often lacks organic matter, and this boost gives your plants the nutrients they need to thrive.

Watering is crucial but don’t overdo it. Aim for 1 inch per week, adjusting for rain. Morning watering prevents evaporation and fungal issues.

Pest pressure drops significantly in November, but keep an eye out for aphids on young plants. A strong spray of water or neem oil can handle most issues.

For the best results, use row covers if night temperatures dip below 40°F. This protects tender plants while still allowing sunlight and airflow.

With these November plantings, you’ll have a productive winter garden that keeps giving through spring 🌱

November Flower Planting Guide for Arizona Gardens

November is a fantastic time to add color and pollinators to your Arizona garden. The mild temperatures and reduced heat stress make it ideal for establishing fall-blooming flowers that will thrive through winter.

I love planting native desert flowers like Desert Marigold and Penstemon. These are drought-tolerant and attract hummingbirds and bees to your garden.

For annual flowers, Petunias and Violas are excellent choices. They handle Arizona’s temperature swings and provide continuous color throughout the cooler months.

Perennial options like Salvia and Lantana can be planted now to establish strong root systems before winter. These will return year after year with minimal care.

When planting, ensure your soil is well-draining to prevent root rot during occasional winter rains. I recommend mixing in compost and sand for optimal conditions.

Watering should be deep but infrequent—about 1 inch per week. Morning watering helps prevent fungal diseases and allows plants to dry before cooler evenings.

Add a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around your flowers to retain moisture and protect roots from temperature fluctuations. This simple step makes a huge difference in plant health 🌼