Pinal County, AZ — Planting Guide
Pinal County is in USDA Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is February 23 and the first fall frost is November 27, giving you a growing season of approximately 278 days.
At an elevation of 3,959 ft, Pinal County receives approximately 15.8 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 98°F with winter lows around 50°F. The predominant soil type is Sandy Loam.
Based on 28 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 68 days year to year — ranging from January 15 in warm years to March 24 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 2.51 days per decade. Pinal County scores 26/100 (Challenging) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
9a (20°F to 25°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
February 23
🍂 First Frost
November 27
📅 Growing Season
278 days
⛰️ Elevation
3,959 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
15.8 in
Monthly Watering Calendar
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1 in | 3 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1 in | 2 days | 3.3 in | Critical |
| Mar | 0.8 in | 1 days | 3.5 in | Critical |
| Apr | 0.5 in | 0 days | 3.8 in | Critical |
| May | 0.3 in | 0 days | 4 in | Critical |
| Jun | 0.5 in | 1 days | 3.8 in | Critical |
| Jul | 3 in | 6 days | 1.3 in | Moderate |
| Aug | 3.5 in | 7 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| Sep | 1.9 in | 5 days | 2.4 in | High |
| Oct | 1.5 in | 3 days | 2.8 in | High |
| Nov | 0.8 in | 2 days | 3.5 in | Critical |
| Dec | 1 in | 2 days | — | None |
Annual total: 15.8 in. Water needs vary by crop — tomatoes need ~1.2"/week while herbs like rosemary need only 0.3"/week. Check individual plant pages for crop-specific water budgets that factor in your county's rainfall and soil drainage.
Pinal County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH
7-8.6
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 28 years of NOAA weather station data from 2 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | Mar 24 | Dec 14 | 265 days |
| Cautious | Mar 1 | Dec 8 | 282 days |
| Average year | Feb 23 | Nov 27 | 277 days |
| Optimistic | Feb 10 | Nov 22 | 285 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Jan 15 | Nov 9 | 298 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±68 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Yes — growing seasons are getting longer here (about 2.5 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Pinal County has challenging growing conditions. Season extension and careful variety selection are essential.
Local Gardening Help in Pinal County
Free expert help is closer than you think. Your county's cooperative extension office connects you with trained gardeners, soil testing labs, and local programs — all specific to Pinal County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Pinal County University of Arizona Cooperative Extension Extension Office
Phone: 520-621-7205
Visit Extension Office Website →
Extension offices are run by land-grant universities and funded by the USDA. Their advice is free, research-based, and tailored to your county's specific conditions.
Master Gardener Program
Free gardening help from trained volunteers
Master Gardeners are community volunteers who complete 40–60 hours of university horticultural training. They answer gardening questions, diagnose plant problems, and offer workshops — all free.
Many extension offices run a Master Gardener hotline where you can call or email with photos of plant problems for free diagnosis.
Soil Testing
Available through your extension office
Before amending your soil, get it tested. Your extension office offers soil testing (typically $10–$25) that tells you exact pH, nutrient levels, and amendment recommendations specific to what you want to grow.
Services Available in Pinal County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Pinal County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Pinal County's soil and climate that big-box stores can't. Plants from local growers are typically hardier because they're already acclimated to your zone.
How to Find Them
Search for "nurseries near Pinal County AZ" or "garden center Pinal County" on Google Maps. Also check with your extension office — they often maintain lists of reputable local nurseries and plant sales.
Community gardens & gardening groups
Community gardens are a great way to learn from experienced gardeners in your area, especially if you're limited on space. Search "community garden Pinal County AZ" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Pinal County Gardeners" or "Arizona Gardening" are also excellent for local advice and plant swaps.
What to Plant After Your Harvest
After your first crops finish, use the remaining frost-free days to grow a second round.
Show 6 more succession options
Sunlight & Day Length
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Longest Day
14.2 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.8 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
12.4 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: Day-neutral onion varieties like Candy, Cabernet, and Sierra Blanca perform best in your day-length range.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 10.1 hr | 7.3 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.8 hr | 8.2 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 9.6 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.8 hr | 10.2 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.7 hr | 11.5 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14.2 hr | 12.4 hr | Long day |
| July | 14 hr | 10.6 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.2 hr | 9.5 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 9.4 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.2 hr | 8.8 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.3 hr | 7.4 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.8 hr | 7 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting Calendar
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from May through Oct.
Best Month to Compost
May
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
8 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 41°F | 48°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Feb | 44°F | 47°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Mar | 49°F | 51°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 58°F | 57°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 66°F | 64°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 75°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 86°F | 78°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 87°F | 81°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 78°F | 79°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 71°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 55°F | 63°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 45°F | 52°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Pinal County
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Insect Pest Pressure
High — expect multiple pest generations. Preventative measures essential.
Disease Risk
Low disease risk — dry conditions reduce fungal problems.
Seasonal Risk
View 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | High | Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov |
| Whiteflies | High | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov |
| Spider mites | High | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Fire ants | Moderate | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov |
| Thrips | Moderate | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Leaf miners | Low | Mar, Apr, May, Jun |
Organic pest management tips
- Use row covers on susceptible crops during peak pest months
- Apply neem oil preventatively every 7-14 days during active pest season
- Interplant with strong-scented herbs (basil, marigold) to confuse pests
- Hand-pick larger pests (beetles, caterpillars) in early morning when they're sluggish
- Practice crop rotation — never plant the same family in the same spot within 3 years
Cover Crops for Pinal County
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with county-specific planting dates.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Mar 2 | Sep 25 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 5 | Sep 18 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 3 | Sep 25 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Jan 23 | Oct 2 | ✓ Yes | Living mulch, fixes nitrogen, permanent ground cover |
Summer Cover Crops (1 options) — Fill gaps and suppress weeds between plantings
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunflowers | Mar 9 | Oct 30 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (4 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Sep 25 | Feb 2 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 18 | Feb 2 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Oct 17 | Feb 2 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Sep 9 | Feb 2 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
Wind & Microclimate
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 13 mph Summer: 10 mph
Fall: 11 mph Winter: 11 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
6.9/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Moderate
Some terrain variation (692 ft range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.
Rainwater Harvesting Potential
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Annual Collection
7,874 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
8 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 2,250 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Nov
Dry months when you'll rely on stored water — size your storage for this gap.
Rainwater collection tips for your area
- Your county receives approximately 15.8 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 7,874 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- In your dry climate, every drop counts — consider a larger cistern system
- Position collection tanks in shade to reduce evaporation and algae growth
Soil & Growing Conditions in Pinal County
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH 7–8.6 · Excessively Drained drainage
Raised beds strongly recommended here — native soil drainage or texture limits in-ground options.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 9.5/10
Very high drought stress. Irrigation is critical for garden success. Focus on water-efficient techniques and drought-adapted crops.
Season Tips
278-day frost-free season
Your long season supports multiple successions and heat-demanding crops like melons, sweet potatoes, and peppers. Plant warm-season crops as soon as soil warms.
Free Garden Planner
Plan your entire garden season — organize planting dates, track what you're growing, and know exactly when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest.
Recommended for Your Garden
Reduce heat stress and sun scorch in hot climates with UV-stabilized shade cloth.
Retain moisture and nutrients in sandy soils with expanded vermiculite.
Test your soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels before planting.
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Pinal County
115 vegetables that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for Pinal County.
Show all 115 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Jan 26 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Jun 1 – Jul 20 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Mar 9 | Jul 13 – Sep 21 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 30 – Jun 1 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Mar 9 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Feb 2 | — | Mar 30 – Apr 27 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | May 4 – Jun 15 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 2 | — | Jun 1 – Jul 20 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Apr 6 – May 11 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Apr 27 – Jun 8 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Apr 6 – May 11 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | May 25 – Jul 20 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Jan 26 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Apr 27 – Jun 22 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | May 25 – Jul 20 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Mar 9 | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Feb 2 | — | Apr 6 – May 11 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Apr 20 – Jun 22 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | May 18 – Jul 13 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Apr 27 – Jun 8 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Apr 20 – Jun 8 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | May 18 – Jun 29 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Apr 27 – Jun 8 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Apr 20 – May 18 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Apr 20 – Jun 22 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Mar 2 | — | May 4 – Jun 29 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Mar 2 | — | May 4 – Jun 15 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 9 – Mar 30 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Jan 26 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Apr 20 – May 18 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Feb 2 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Jan 26 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Apr 27 – Jun 22 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Feb 2 | — | Mar 30 – Apr 27 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Jan 26 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 2 | — | May 18 – Jun 29 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | May 11 – Jul 13 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Apr 13 – May 18 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Apr 20 – May 18 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | May 11 – Jun 22 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | May 4 – Jun 15 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Nov 2 – Dec 28 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 2 | — | Apr 27 – Jun 22 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Mar 9 | Jul 13 – Sep 21 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | May 11 – Aug 17 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Jan 26 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Jan 26 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Jun 1 – Jun 29 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Apr 13 – May 11 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Apr 20 – Jun 15 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 2 | — | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Apr 13 – May 18 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 30 – May 4 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | May 25 – Aug 10 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | May 18 – Jun 29 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 30 – Jun 8 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 2 | — | May 4 – Jun 15 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Jun 1 – Aug 17 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Apr 6 – May 11 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Apr 27 – May 25 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Jan 26 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | May 11 – Jun 29 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 – Mar 30 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 16 | Apr 13 – Jun 8 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 30 – Apr 27 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 30 – Jun 1 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Apr 20 – May 25 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Apr 27 – May 25 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Apr 27 – Jun 22 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | May 25 – Jul 13 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Apr 6 – May 4 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Feb 2 | — | May 18 – Jun 29 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Jan 26 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Apr 20 – May 18 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Apr 20 – Jun 15 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | May 4 – Jul 13 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Apr 27 – Jun 22 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | May 11 – Jul 20 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Jan 26 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Jun 1 – Jul 20 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Apr 6 – May 11 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Apr 27 – Jun 1 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Feb 2 | — | Mar 2 – Mar 23 | 22–35 |
| Romanesco | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | May 11 – Jun 22 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Feb 2 | — | Apr 27 – Jun 1 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Feb 2 | — | May 18 – Jun 29 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | May 4 – Jun 29 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Apr 20 – May 18 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | May 4 – Jun 8 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | May 25 – Jul 13 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Jan 12 | Mar 2 | Mar 2 | Apr 27 – Jun 22 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Apr 27 – Jun 22 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Apr 20 – Jun 15 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 2 | — | May 25 – Jul 20 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Jan 26 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Jun 1 – Jun 29 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 30 – Jun 1 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Jan 26 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Apr 20 – Jun 22 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Jan 26 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | May 25 – Jul 20 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Mar 9 | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | May 11 – Jun 29 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 2 | — | May 4 – Jun 15 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Jun 1 – Jul 20 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Mar 30 – May 4 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | May 4 – Jul 13 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | May 4 – Jul 13 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Nov 2 – Dec 28 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Feb 2 | — | Mar 16 – Apr 20 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 23 | Apr 6 – May 11 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Jan 26 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | May 11 – Jun 29 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 2 | — | Apr 27 – Jun 22 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Jun 1 – Jul 20 | 90–120 |
| Yam | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Aug 31 – Dec 28 | 180–330 |
| Yard Long Beans | Jan 12 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Apr 27 – Jun 8 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Jan 26 | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Apr 20 – Jun 15 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Pinal County
24 fruits that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for Pinal County.
Show all 24 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Mar 9 | Jun 8 – Sep 21 | 90–180 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Mar 9 | — | 365–730 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Mar 9 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Mar 9 | May 18 – Jun 22 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Mar 9 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Dragon Fruit | — | — | Mar 9 | — | 365–730 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Mar 9 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Mar 9 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Mar 9 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Mar 9 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Mar 9 | May 18 – Jul 13 | 65–80 |
| Guava | — | — | Mar 9 | — | 365–730 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Mar 9 | Jun 1 – Jul 13 | 80–110 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Mar 9 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Mar 9 | — | 730–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Mar 9 | — | 730–1825 |
| Passion Fruit | — | — | Mar 9 | — | 365–545 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Mar 9 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Mar 9 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Mar 9 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Mar 9 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Mar 9 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Mar 9 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Mar 9 | Jun 8 – Jan 4 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Pinal County
40 herbs that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for Pinal County.
Show all 40 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anise | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 16 | May 18 – Aug 3 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Jan 12 | Mar 2 | Mar 2 | Apr 27 – Jun 29 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Mar 2 | Jun 1 – Aug 17 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 16 | Apr 13 – Jun 1 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 16 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 2 | May 4 – Jul 6 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 16 | Apr 20 – Jun 29 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 16 | Mar 30 – Jun 1 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 2 | May 4 – Jul 13 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 16 | Mar 30 – Jun 1 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 2 | May 4 – Jul 13 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 16 | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 16 | Mar 30 – Jun 1 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Mar 2 | Jul 6 – Oct 12 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Jan 12 | Mar 2 | Mar 2 | Apr 20 – Jun 15 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 16 | Apr 20 – Jun 29 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Mar 2 | Jun 1 – Aug 17 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 2 | May 4 – Jul 13 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 2 | May 18 – Jul 13 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Mar 2 | May 11 – Jul 13 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Mar 2 | Jun 1 – Nov 2 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Mar 2 | May 4 – Jun 22 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Mar 2 | May 11 – Jul 13 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Jan 12 | Mar 2 | Mar 2 | May 4 – Jul 13 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Jan 12 | Mar 2 | Mar 2 | May 18 – Aug 17 | 75–120 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Mar 2 | May 4 – Jul 13 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Mar 2 | May 4 – Jul 13 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Mar 2 | May 4 – Jul 13 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 16 | Apr 20 – Jun 22 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Mar 2 | May 25 – Oct 12 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Mar 2 | May 11 – Jul 13 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 2 | May 18 – Jul 13 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 2 | Apr 27 – Jun 22 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Jan 26 | Feb 2 | Feb 16 | Mar 30 – Jun 1 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Jan 12 | Mar 2 | Mar 2 | May 4 – Jul 13 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Mar 2 | May 4 – Jul 13 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 12 | Mar 2 | Mar 2 | Apr 27 – Jun 29 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Mar 2 | May 11 – Jul 13 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Mar 2 | Jul 6 – Oct 12 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Mar 2 | Jun 1 – Aug 17 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Pinal County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Pinal County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Pinal County, AZ?
Pinal County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9a. This zone classification determines which perennial plants survive winter and sets the baseline for frost timing across the county.
When is the last frost in Pinal County, AZ?
Based on 28 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Pinal County falls around February 23. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between January 15 and March 24 — a 68-day window of variability. Use March 24 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Pinal County, AZ?
The median first fall frost in Pinal County arrives around November 27. In cold years it can arrive as early as November 9; in mild years as late as December 14. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Pinal County?
Pinal County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 278 days. This long season supports multiple succession plantings and warm-season crops that need extended heat, like sweet potatoes and melons. Climate records show the growing season is trending longer by about 2.51 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Pinal County for gardening?
Pinal County has predominantly Sandy Loam soil with a pH range of 7–8.6 and Excessively Drained drainage. The native soil conditions make raised beds a particularly good investment here — they let you control drainage and fertility independent of the ground soil.
What is grown commercially in Pinal County?
Pinal County has commercial agriculture that includes Cattle, Hay, Cotton, Dairy. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Pinal County a good location for home gardening?
Pinal County scores 26/100 (Challenging) on our Microclimate Index, which combines frost reliability, drought pressure, soil challenge, elevation risk, and long-term climate trend. Gardening here benefits from close attention to frost timing and season extension due to the challenging microclimate factors.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Pinal County gardeners in Zone 9a organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
Get Your Free Garden Planner →Free download. Plan your entire garden season in minutes.
