Southern Arizona can have the perfect fall climate for growing a multitude of vegetables, such as broccoli, spinach, and peas. Many of these plants require well-fertilized soil and attention to produce the best and tastiest harvest. Read on to learn more about edible plants to grow this fall.
Broccoli
Broccoli is an exceptional vegetable that is full of vitamins and nutrients. It does well in Arizona’s mild winters and should be planted about three months before the winter frost begins. Plant seeds or transplants at least one to two feet apart to allow ample room to grow.
Carrots
Carrots can grow well in Southern Arizona, because they thrive in full sunlight and moderate shade. Carrots must be grown in well-tilled, loose soil to prevent stunted or forked growth.
Spinach
Spinach is a fast-growing vegetable that produces a lot of leaves throughout its growth cycle. It flourishes best in the milder temperatures that occur in Southern Arizona’s spring and fall. Well-established spinach plants can also tolerate the colder temperatures of Arizona’s winters. Ensure the soil is well-fertilized with a pH balance of 6.5 to 7. Give each plant about a foot of space to allow for maximum growth, and harvest once the leaves are big enough to eat.
Beets
Beets are one of the best plants to grow during Arizona’s fall and winter, because they do best in low-temperature soil. Plant beets in loose, sandy soil to allow the roots ample room to grow. Harvesting can occur about two months after the first planting.
Peas
Pea plants do best in cooler, dry temperatures. They do not require a lot of watering and typically prefer loose, well-drained soil. If planting during early fall, when temperatures may still fluctuate, then ensure there is plenty of shade and care to keep peas growing until the temperature drops.
Learn about all the best plants to plant year-round from the experts at Complete Landscaping. Please call us at (520) 323-8918 to speak with one of our Tucson landscapers.