February marks a significant turning point in Arizona’s diverse climate, shifting focus from winter maintenance to spring preparation. Successful gardening depends heavily on understanding localized microclimates and planning the transition between cool-season and warm-season crops. This month is about setting the stage for productive yields, not immediate harvest.
February Planting in Arizona’s Low Desert Region
Gardeners in the Low Desert should prioritize planting the last round of cool-season vegetables in February before the intense summer heat arrives. Root vegetables such as carrots and beets should be direct-sown now, allowing them time to mature before soil temperatures exceed their ideal range. Leafy greens, including spinach, Swiss chard, and various lettuce types, can also be seeded directly into the garden beds. Planting these now maximizes the use of the remaining mild weather and protects them from premature bolting later in the spring.
Cole crops like broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower should be transplanted early in the month if seedlings are available, ensuring they form heads before the May heat stresses the plants. Peas, both shelling and snap varieties, benefit from the cooler evenings and should be direct-sown now to allow for climbing and pod production over the next two months.
February is the ideal window for starting warm-season favorites indoors, providing the necessary head start for crops that require a long growing season. Tomatoes, particularly long-maturing varieties, should be sown under grow lights to develop strong root systems before outdoor transplanting. Peppers, including bell and chili varieties, also benefit from an indoor start this month due to their slow germination and initial growth rates.
These young seedlings will need protection and consistent warmth, often requiring heat mats to encourage germination. The goal is to produce robust, six-to-eight-week-old plants ready to be moved outdoors after the last typical frost has passed, usually around late March or early April. Waiting until March to start these seeds may delay fruit production until the most extreme summer temperatures arrive, reducing overall yield.
Ornamental gardening also ramps up in February. Petunias and calendula establish quickly in the warming soil, providing color and attracting beneficial insects before the harsh summer sun limits their bloom cycle.
A number of herbs also flourish when planted this month. Cilantro and dill, which are prone to bolting in high heat, should be direct-sown now to ensure a harvest before they prematurely flower. Starting basil seeds indoors now will yield transplants ready for the garden in April when night temperatures consistently remain above 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
February Planting in Arizona’s High Country
The High Country regions of Arizona face vastly different conditions, with snow cover and freezing temperatures often persisting through February. Direct sowing is largely restricted, making indoor seed starting a primary focus to prepare for the short summer growing season. Long-maturing, cool-season vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts require an 8 to 10 week head start before they can be safely transplanted outdoors.
Hardy, perennial herbs like chives and oregano can also be started indoors now, allowing them time to establish before being moved to the garden after the soil thaws. Supplemental lighting and temperature control are necessary to prevent seedlings from becoming weak or leggy. This preparation maximizes the limited frost-free days at higher elevations.
If the ground is temporarily workable, a few extremely hardy items can be planted directly in February. Onion sets, which are small, immature bulbs, can be placed in the soil now to begin their rooting process as soon as conditions allow. Similarly, bare-root roses can be planted toward the end of the month, provided the soil is not saturated or frozen, allowing them time to develop roots before spring growth begins. Gardeners must monitor local forecasts, as the last average frost date often falls in late May or early June. Any outdoor planting of tender crops must wait until this danger has definitively passed.
Essential Gardening Preparation Tasks for February
February is the optimal time for preparing the soil in garden beds. Conducting a soil test allows gardeners to determine current nutrient levels and pH, guiding necessary adjustments before new plants are introduced. Incorporating aged compost or other organic matter improves soil structure, enhances water retention, and provides a slow-release source of nutrients. This enrichment process is important in arid climates where soils often lack sufficient organic material. Turning the top six to eight inches of soil and amending it now allows the materials to begin breaking down before root systems rely on them.
Pruning of dormant deciduous plants is a time-sensitive task that must be completed before the new buds begin to swell. Fruit trees such as peaches, apples, and plums should be selectively pruned to maintain proper structure, encourage air circulation, and maximize fruit production. Roses should also be pruned back severely this month, removing dead or crossing canes to promote vigorous new growth and abundant blooms in the spring.
Before the irrigation system is fully engaged, a comprehensive inspection is necessary to identify and repair any leaks or blockages. Checking drip emitters, sprinkler heads, and connecting lines ensures efficient water delivery. Repairing issues now prevents water waste and safeguards the health of newly planted seedlings and established plants.
Active management of winter weeds during February can significantly reduce the weed burden throughout the subsequent spring and summer. Many annual weeds germinate and establish themselves during the cooler months, setting seed before the temperatures rise significantly. Removing these weeds by hand or with shallow cultivation before they flower prevents millions of seeds from entering the soil seed bank. This proactive approach saves labor and reduces competition for water and nutrients.