Arizona’s December nights stay cool enough for vegetables that need a chill to develop proper flavor. If you are looking for the best vegetables to plant in december in arizona, you have come to the right place. December in Arizona is not a dead zone for gardening. In fact, it is one of the best times to grow cool-season crops that thrive in mild winter temperatures. The low desert regions, like Phoenix and Tucson, offer perfect conditions for leafy greens and root vegetables. Higher elevations, such as Flagstaff, require a bit more planning, but still offer options. This guide covers exactly what to plant, when to plant it, and how to care for your winter garden.
Best Vegetables To Plant In December In Arizona
December planting in Arizona depends heavily on your specific zone. The low desert (zones 9-10) has mild days and cool nights. The high desert (zones 7-8) sees frost and occasional freezes. The key is choosing vegetables that can handle these conditions. Below is a breakdown of the top choices for December planting.
Leafy Greens For December Planting
Leafy greens are the stars of the Arizona winter garden. They grow quickly and tolerate cool weather well.
- Lettuce: Choose loose-leaf varieties like Black Seeded Simpson or Red Romaine. They mature in 45-60 days and handle light frost.
- Spinach: Bloomsdale Long Standing is a classic. It thrives in cool soil and resists bolting.
- Kale: Lacinato or Dinosaur kale is hardy. It actually tastes sweeter after a frost.
- Swiss Chard: Bright Lights adds color and is very forgiving. It grows well in both sun and partial shade.
- Arugula: This peppery green grows fast. You can harvest baby leaves in just 30 days.
Plant these from seed or transplants. In the low desert, you can direct sow seeds through December. In higher zones, use transplants or wait until the soil warms slightly.
Root Vegetables For December
Root vegetables need loose, well-draining soil. Arizona’s sandy or rocky soil can be a challenge, but it is manageable.
- Carrots: Danvers or Nantes varieties work best. Sow seeds directly and keep soil moist until germination.
- Beets: Detroit Dark Red is reliable. Both the root and greens are edible.
- Radishes: Cherry Belle matures in just 25 days. They are perfect for quick harvests.
- Turnips: Purple Top White Globe is a good choice. They tolerate light frost.
- Parsnips: These need a long season (120 days). Plant now for a spring harvest.
Root vegetables do not transplant well. Always sow seeds directly into the garden bed. Thin seedlings to avoid crowding.
Brassicas For December
Brassicas, or cabbage family crops, love cool weather. They are some of the most productive winter vegetables.
- Broccoli: Calabrese or Green Goliath are good options. Harvest the main head before flowers open.
- Cauliflower: Snow Crown is a fast-maturing variety. Blanch the head by tying leaves over it.
- Cabbage: Early Jersey Wakefield is compact and quick. It forms heads in 60-70 days.
- Brussels Sprouts: These need a long season (90-100 days). Plant now for a late winter harvest.
- Kohlrabi: This odd-looking vegetable is easy to grow. Harvest when the bulb is 2-3 inches wide.
Brassicas benefit from rich soil and consistent watering. Use row covers to protect against aphids and cabbage worms.
Alliums For December
Onions, garlic, and leeks are perfect for December planting. They need cool weather to develop bulbs.
- Garlic: Plant individual cloves in well-drained soil. Softneck varieties like California Early do well in low desert.
- Onions: Use sets or transplants. Short-day varieties like Texas Super Sweet are ideal.
- Leeks: They are slow but rewarding. Plant in deep holes and hill soil around the stems.
- Shallots: These are easy to grow and store well. Plant bulbs 6 inches apart.
Alliums need full sun and regular water. Mulch around them to keep soil cool and moist.
Peas And Beans For December
Peas are a classic winter crop. Beans are more risky but possible in warm microclimates.
- Snow Peas: Oregon Sugar Pod II is a reliable variety. Harvest pods when flat.
- Snap Peas: Sugar Ann is a compact bush type. It does not need a trellis.
- Shelling Peas: Lincoln or Green Arrow are good choices. They need support.
- Fava Beans: These are actually a legume, not a true bean. They tolerate frost well.
Peas germinate best in cool soil. Soak seeds overnight before planting to speed up germination.
How To Prepare Your Arizona Garden For December Planting
Preparation is key for a successful winter garden. Arizona soil can be compacted or alkaline. Here is how to get it ready.
Test Your Soil
Get a soil test kit from a garden center. Check pH and nutrient levels. Most vegetables prefer a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. If your soil is too alkaline, add sulfur or peat moss.
Amend The Soil
Mix in 2-3 inches of compost or well-rotted manure. This improves drainage and adds nutrients. For clay soil, add coarse sand or perlite. For sandy soil, add more organic matter to hold moisture.
Choose The Right Location
Most vegetables need 6-8 hours of direct sun daily. In the low desert, afternoon shade can help prevent heat stress. In higher zones, choose a south-facing slope for warmth.
Water Wisely
December is cooler, so evaporation is slower. Water deeply but less frequently. Check soil moisture 2 inches down. If it is dry, water. Use drip irrigation to avoid wetting leaves, which can cause disease.
Use Mulch
Apply a 2-3 inch layer of straw, wood chips, or shredded leaves. Mulch keeps soil temperature stable, reduces weeds, and retains moisture. In higher zones, it also protects roots from frost.
Step-By-Step Guide To Planting In December
Follow these steps for the best results.
- Clear the bed: Remove old plants and weeds. Rake the soil smooth.
- Add compost: Spread a 2-inch layer and mix it into the top 6 inches of soil.
- Level the bed: Use a rake to create a flat surface. This helps water soak in evenly.
- Sow seeds: Follow packet instructions for depth and spacing. For small seeds, mix with sand to spread evenly.
- Water gently: Use a fine spray to avoid washing seeds away. Keep soil moist until seedlings appear.
- Thin seedlings: Once they have 2-3 true leaves, remove extra plants. Follow spacing guidelines.
- Fertilize lightly: Use a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-3 weeks. Do not overdo it.
- Monitor pests: Check for aphids, snails, and caterpillars. Hand-pick or use insecticidal soap.
Common Challenges For December Gardening In Arizona
Even with the best planning, issues can arise. Here is what to watch for.
Frost Damage
In higher zones, frost can kill tender plants. Cover them with frost cloth or old sheets at night. Remove covers in the morning. Watering the soil before a frost can also help, as wet soil holds heat.
Poor Germination
If seeds do not sprout, the soil may be too cold or too dry. Use a soil thermometer. Most seeds need soil temps above 40°F. Keep soil consistently moist.
Bolting
Some plants, like lettuce and spinach, bolt when stressed. This means they flower and go to seed. To prevent it, keep plants well-watered and harvest regularly.
Pests
Winter pests include aphids, whiteflies, and snails. Use row covers to block insects. Diatomaceous earth works for snails. Neem oil is effective for aphids.
Best Vegetables For Specific Arizona Regions
Arizona is not one-size-fits-all. Here is a regional breakdown.
Low Desert (Phoenix, Tucson, Yuma)
December is prime time. Temperatures range from 40°F at night to 70°F during the day. Plant everything listed above. Focus on fast-growing greens and root vegetables. Avoid heat-sensitive crops like tomatoes.
High Desert (Flagstaff, Prescott, Payson)
December brings hard freezes. Use cold frames or greenhouses. Plant hardy greens like kale and spinach. Garlic and onions are good choices. Protect plants with heavy mulch and row covers.
Intermediate Zones (Sedona, Cottonwood)
These areas have mild days but cold nights. Use frost protection for tender crops. Plant brassicas and root vegetables. Peas can be planted if you use a cold frame.
Harvesting Tips For December-Planted Vegetables
Knowing when to harvest is crucial. Here are guidelines for each group.
- Leafy greens: Harvest outer leaves when they are 4-6 inches long. Leave the inner leaves to grow.
- Root vegetables: Pull carrots when they are 1/2 to 1 inch thick. Beets are ready when 1-2 inches in diameter. Radishes are best when small and crisp.
- Brassicas: Cut broccoli heads when they are tight and dark green. Harvest cauliflower when the head is white and compact. Cabbage is ready when the head feels firm.
- Alliums: Garlic is ready when the lower leaves turn brown. Onions are ready when the tops fall over. Leeks can be harvested at any size.
- Peas: Pick snow peas when the pods are flat. Snap peas when the pods are plump. Shelling peas when the pods are full.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I plant tomatoes in December in Arizona?
No. Tomatoes are warm-season crops. They need soil temperatures above 60°F to thrive. December is too cold. Wait until March or April for the low desert.
What vegetables grow fastest in December?
Radishes are the fastest, maturing in 25-30 days. Arugula and baby lettuce also grow quickly. You can harvest them in 30-40 days.
Do I need to water less in December?
Yes. Cooler weather means less evaporation. Water every 3-5 days instead of daily. Check soil moisture before watering.
Can I grow vegetables in pots in December?
Absolutely. Containers are great for small spaces. Use pots at least 12 inches deep. Move them to sunny spots. In cold zones, bring pots indoors at night.
What is the easiest vegetable for beginners to plant in December?
Lettuce is the easiest. It germinates quickly and does not need much care. Choose a loose-leaf variety and harvest leaves as needed.
Final Tips For A Successful December Garden
Start small if you are new. A 4×4 foot bed can feed a family of four with greens and roots. Keep a garden journal to track what works. Rotate crops each year to prevent soil diseases. And remember, December gardening in Arizona is about working with the season, not against it. The cool nights and mild days create ideal conditions for a winter harvest. With the right vegetables and a little care, you will enjoy fresh produce all winter long.
If you run into problems, ask local gardeners or extension offices. They have specific advice for your area. The most important thing is to get started. Even a small patch of kale or a pot of lettuce can make a difference. So grab your seeds, prepare your soil, and plant the best vegetables to plant in december in arizona today.