Yuma County, AZ — Planting Guide
Yuma County is in USDA Zone 10a. The average last spring frost is February 10 and the first fall frost is December 1, giving you a growing season of approximately 295 days.
At an elevation of 4,781 ft, Yuma County receives approximately 9.4 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 92°F with winter lows around 52°F. The predominant soil type is Sandy Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 58 days year to year — ranging from January 11 in warm years to March 9 in cold years. The growing season is trending shorter by about 2 days per decade. Yuma County scores 23/100 (Challenging) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
10a (30°F to 35°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
February 10
🍂 First Frost
December 1
📅 Growing Season
295 days
⛰️ Elevation
4,781 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
9.4 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 | 0.6 in | 2 days | 3.7 in | Critical |
| Feb | 0.5 in | 2 days | 3.8 in | Critical |
| Mar | 0.5 in | 2 days | 3.8 in | Critical |
| Apr | 0.3 in | 1 days | 4 in | Critical |
| May | 0.2 in | 0 days | 4.1 in | Critical |
| Jun | 0.3 in | 1 days | 4 in | Critical |
| Jul | 1.8 in | 6 days | 2.5 in | High |
| Aug | 1.9 in | 7 days | 2.4 in | High |
| Sep | 1.4 in | 4 days | 2.9 in | High |
| Oct | 0.8 in | 2 days | 3.5 in | Critical |
| Nov | 0.5 in | 1 days | 3.8 in | Critical |
| Dec | 0.6 in | 3 days | 3.7 in | Critical |
Annual total: 9.4 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.
Yuma County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH
6.9-8.4
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 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 9 | Dec 18 | 284 days |
| Cautious | Feb 24 | Dec 9 | 288 days |
| Average year | Feb 10 | Dec 1 | 294 days |
| Optimistic | Feb 3 | Nov 26 | 296 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Jan 11 | Nov 14 | 307 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±58 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 shorter here (about 2 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Yuma County has challenging growing conditions. Season extension and careful variety selection are essential.
Local Gardening Help in Yuma 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 Yuma County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Yuma 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 Yuma County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Yuma County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Yuma 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 Yuma County AZ" or "garden center Yuma 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 Yuma County AZ" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Yuma 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
14.1 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.9 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
12.9 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 | 7.2 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.8 hr | 8 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 9 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.8 hr | 10.3 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.7 hr | 11.9 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14.1 hr | 12.9 hr | Long day |
| July | 14 hr | 10.8 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.2 hr | 9.7 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 9.3 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.2 hr | 8.9 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.3 hr | 7.9 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.9 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
9 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 44°F | 50°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Feb | 45°F | 50°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Mar | 52°F | 55°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 59°F | 59°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 66°F | 65°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 75°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 82°F | 75°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 82°F | 78°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 79°F | 76°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 70°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 58°F | 61°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 48°F | 56°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 Yuma 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 | Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec |
| Whiteflies | High | Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec |
| Spider mites | High | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov |
| Thrips | High | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Scale insects | Moderate | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Nematodes | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
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 Yuma 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 | Feb 17 | Sep 29 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Feb 12 | Sep 29 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Feb 20 | Sep 29 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Jan 11 | Sep 22 | ✓ 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 | Feb 24 | Nov 3 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (1 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Crimson clover | Sep 29 | Jan 27 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
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: 9 mph Winter: 12 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
5.2/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
High
Hilly terrain with 1,133 ft of elevation range — cold air pools in low spots. Avoid planting frost-sensitive crops in valleys.
Rainwater Harvesting Potential
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Annual Collection
4,684 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
Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Oct, Nov, Dec
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 9.4 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 4,684 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 Yuma County
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH 6.9–8.4 · Well 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
295-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 Yuma County
106 vegetables that grow well in Zone 10a with planting dates for Yuma County.
Show all 106 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Jan 13 | Feb 10 | Feb 17 | May 12 – Jun 16 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Dec 30 | Feb 10 | Feb 17 | May 19 – Jul 7 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Feb 24 | Jun 30 – Sep 8 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 10 | Mar 17 – May 19 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Feb 24 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Jan 20 | — | Mar 17 – Apr 14 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 10 | Jun 2 – Jul 28 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Dec 30 | Feb 10 | Feb 17 | Apr 21 – Jun 2 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Feb 17 | — | May 19 – Jul 7 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 10 | Mar 24 – Apr 28 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 10 | Apr 14 – May 26 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 10 | Mar 24 – Apr 28 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 10 | May 12 – Jul 7 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Jan 13 | Feb 10 | Feb 17 | May 19 – Jun 23 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 10 | Apr 14 – Jun 9 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Dec 30 | Feb 10 | Feb 17 | May 12 – Jul 7 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Feb 24 | Jun 30 – Aug 11 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Jan 20 | — | Mar 24 – Apr 28 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 10 | Apr 7 – Jun 9 | 55–100 |
| Celery | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 10 | May 5 – Jun 30 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 10 | Apr 14 – May 26 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 10 | Apr 7 – May 26 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Dec 30 | Feb 10 | Feb 17 | Jun 23 – Sep 1 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 10 | May 5 – Jun 16 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 10 | Apr 14 – May 26 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 10 | Apr 7 – May 5 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Dec 30 | Feb 10 | Feb 17 | May 12 – Jun 16 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 10 | Apr 7 – Jun 9 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Feb 17 | — | Apr 21 – Jun 16 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Feb 17 | — | Apr 21 – Jun 2 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 10 | Feb 24 – Mar 17 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Jan 13 | Feb 10 | Feb 17 | Apr 7 – May 5 | 45–60 |
| Cucumber | Jan 13 | Feb 10 | Feb 17 | Apr 14 – Jun 9 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Jan 20 | — | Mar 17 – Apr 14 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Jan 13 | Feb 10 | Feb 17 | May 12 – Jun 16 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Feb 17 | — | May 5 – Jun 16 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Dec 30 | Feb 10 | Feb 17 | Apr 28 – Jun 30 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 10 | Mar 31 – May 5 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 10 | Apr 7 – May 5 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 10 | Apr 28 – Jun 9 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Dec 30 | Feb 10 | Feb 17 | Apr 21 – Jun 2 | 60–90 |
| Ginger | Dec 30 | Feb 10 | Feb 17 | Oct 20 – Dec 29 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Feb 17 | — | Apr 14 – Jun 9 | 50–65 |
| Hot Peppers | Dec 30 | Feb 10 | Feb 17 | Apr 28 – Aug 4 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Jan 13 | Feb 10 | Feb 17 | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Dec 30 | Feb 10 | Feb 17 | Jun 23 – Sep 1 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Jan 13 | Feb 10 | Feb 17 | May 19 – Jun 16 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 10 | Mar 31 – Apr 28 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 10 | Apr 7 – Jun 2 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Feb 17 | — | May 19 – Jun 23 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 10 | Mar 31 – May 5 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 10 | Mar 17 – Apr 21 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 10 | May 12 – Jul 28 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 10 | May 5 – Jun 16 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 10 | Mar 17 – May 26 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Feb 17 | — | Apr 21 – Jun 2 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Dec 30 | Feb 10 | Feb 17 | Jun 2 – Aug 4 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Dec 30 | Feb 10 | Feb 17 | May 19 – Aug 4 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 10 | Mar 24 – Apr 28 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Dec 30 | Feb 10 | Feb 17 | Apr 14 – May 12 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Jan 13 | Feb 10 | Feb 17 | Apr 28 – Jun 16 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 10 | Feb 17 – Mar 17 | 7–21 |
| Mizuna | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 10 | Mar 17 – Apr 14 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 10 | Mar 17 – May 19 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 10 | Apr 7 – May 12 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Dec 30 | Feb 10 | Feb 17 | Apr 14 – May 12 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Dec 30 | Feb 10 | Feb 17 | Apr 14 – Jun 9 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 10 | May 12 – Jun 30 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 10 | Mar 24 – Apr 21 | 40–55 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Jan 13 | Feb 10 | Feb 17 | Apr 7 – May 5 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 10 | Apr 7 – Jun 2 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Dec 30 | Feb 10 | Feb 17 | Apr 21 – Jun 30 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Dec 30 | Feb 10 | Feb 17 | Apr 14 – Jun 9 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Dec 30 | Feb 10 | Feb 17 | Apr 28 – Jul 7 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Jan 13 | Feb 10 | Feb 17 | May 19 – Jul 7 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 10 | Mar 24 – Apr 28 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 10 | Apr 14 – May 19 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Jan 20 | — | Feb 17 – Mar 10 | 22–35 |
| Romanesco | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 10 | Apr 28 – Jun 9 | 75–100 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 10 | Apr 21 – Jun 16 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 10 | Apr 7 – May 5 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Dec 30 | Feb 10 | Feb 17 | Apr 21 – May 26 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 10 | May 12 – Jun 30 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Dec 30 | Feb 17 | Feb 17 | Apr 14 – Jun 9 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Dec 30 | Feb 10 | Feb 17 | Apr 14 – Jun 9 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 10 | Apr 7 – Jun 2 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Feb 17 | — | May 12 – Jul 7 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Jan 13 | Feb 10 | Feb 17 | May 19 – Jun 16 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 10 | Mar 17 – May 19 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Jan 13 | Feb 10 | Feb 17 | Apr 7 – Jun 9 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Jan 13 | Feb 10 | Feb 17 | May 12 – Jul 7 | 80–120 |
| Sunflower | Dec 30 | Feb 10 | Feb 17 | Apr 28 – Jun 16 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Feb 17 | — | Apr 21 – Jun 2 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Dec 30 | Feb 10 | Feb 17 | May 19 – Jul 7 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 10 | Mar 17 – Apr 21 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Dec 30 | Feb 10 | Feb 17 | Apr 21 – Jun 30 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Dec 30 | Feb 10 | Feb 17 | Apr 21 – Jun 30 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Dec 30 | Feb 10 | Feb 17 | Oct 20 – Dec 29 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Jan 20 | — | Mar 3 – Apr 7 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 10 | Mar 24 – Apr 28 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Jan 13 | Feb 10 | Feb 17 | Apr 28 – Jun 16 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Feb 17 | — | Apr 14 – Jun 9 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Dec 30 | Feb 10 | Feb 17 | May 19 – Jul 7 | 90–120 |
| Yam | Dec 30 | Feb 10 | Feb 17 | Aug 18 – Feb 2 | 180–330 |
| Yard Long Beans | Dec 30 | Feb 10 | Feb 17 | Apr 14 – May 26 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Jan 13 | Feb 10 | Feb 17 | Apr 7 – Jun 2 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Yuma County
16 fruits that grow well in Zone 10a with planting dates for Yuma County.
Show all 16 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Feb 24 | May 26 – Sep 8 | 90–180 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Feb 24 | — | 365–730 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Feb 24 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Feb 24 | May 5 – Jun 9 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Feb 24 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Dragon Fruit | — | — | Feb 24 | — | 365–730 |
| Figs | — | — | Feb 24 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Feb 24 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Feb 24 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Feb 24 | May 5 – Jun 30 | 65–80 |
| Guava | — | — | Feb 24 | — | 365–730 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Feb 24 | May 19 – Jun 30 | 80–110 |
| Loquat | — | — | Feb 24 | — | 730–1825 |
| Passion Fruit | — | — | Feb 24 | — | 365–545 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Feb 24 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Feb 24 | May 26 – Feb 23 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Yuma County
23 herbs that grow well in Zone 10a with planting dates for Yuma County.
Show all 23 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anise | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 3 | May 5 – Jul 21 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Dec 30 | Feb 17 | Feb 17 | Apr 14 – Jun 16 | 50–75 |
| Borage | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 3 | Mar 31 – May 19 | 50–60 |
| Chervil | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 3 | Mar 17 – May 19 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Feb 17 | Apr 21 – Jun 30 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 3 | Mar 17 – May 19 | 40–60 |
| Cumin | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 3 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 3 | Mar 17 – May 19 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Dec 30 | Feb 17 | Feb 17 | Apr 7 – Jun 2 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 3 | Apr 7 – Jun 16 | 60–90 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Feb 17 | Apr 21 – Jun 30 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Feb 17 | May 5 – Jun 30 | 75–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Dec 30 | Feb 17 | Feb 17 | Apr 21 – Jun 30 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Dec 30 | Feb 17 | Feb 17 | May 5 – Aug 4 | 75–120 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Feb 17 | Apr 21 – Jun 30 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Feb 17 | Apr 21 – Jun 30 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Feb 17 | Apr 21 – Jun 30 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Jan 13 | Jan 20 | Feb 3 | Apr 7 – Jun 9 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Feb 17 | May 12 – Sep 29 | 80–180 |
| Sage | — | — | Feb 17 | May 5 – Jun 30 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Feb 17 | Apr 14 – Jun 9 | 50–70 |
| Stevia | Dec 30 | Feb 17 | Feb 17 | Apr 21 – Jun 30 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Dec 30 | Feb 17 | Feb 17 | Apr 14 – Jun 16 | 50–75 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Yuma County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Yuma County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Yuma County, AZ?
Yuma County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 10a. 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 Yuma County, AZ?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Yuma County falls around February 10. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between January 11 and March 9 — a 58-day window of variability. Use March 9 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Yuma County, AZ?
The median first fall frost in Yuma County arrives around December 1. In cold years it can arrive as early as November 14; in mild years as late as December 18. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Yuma County?
Yuma County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 295 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 shorter by about 2 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Yuma County for gardening?
Yuma County has predominantly Sandy Loam soil with a pH range of 6.9–8.4 and Well 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 Yuma County?
Yuma 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 Yuma County a good location for home gardening?
Yuma County scores 23/100 (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 Yuma County gardeners in Zone 10a 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.
