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🌵 Why February Is One of the Best Months to Plant in Arizona

  • VerdeValleyNursery
  • 9 hours ago
  • 2 min read

Bright pink flower bougainvillea in the foreground with a tall water fountain in fountain hills Arizona in the background against a clear blue sky, creating a vibrant scene.


Most people think spring is the best time to plant.


In Arizona? February might be even better.


If you live in Fountain Hills, Scottsdale, Rio Verde, or North Phoenix, this is one of the smartest times of year to add new plants to your yard.


Here’s why.


🌡️ 1. Cooler Temperatures Reduce Transplant Shock


When temperatures are mild, plants experience less stress after being installed.


Instead of battling 100° heat, they can focus on root development.


That means:


  • Less wilting

  • Less water demand

  • Better long-term growth


Desert garden with various tall cacti and agave plants in front of an adobe-style house. Blue sky and warm lighting enhance the arid setting.


🌱 2. Roots Establish Before Summer Heat


Arizona summers are intense. Plants that go into the ground in May or June struggle to catch up.


Planting in February gives roots several months to establish before extreme heat arrives.

Stronger roots = stronger plants by summer.


Young tree in a black sack ready to be planted in a dug hole. Nearby, a yellow wheelbarrow is filled with dirt. The scene is sunny.

💧 3. More Efficient Water Use


Cooler soil temperatures mean slower evaporation and more efficient irrigation.


Your plants retain moisture better, which:


  • Reduces water stress

  • Improves survival rates

  • Helps them adapt to desert conditions


🌵 What Should You Plant in February?


This is a great time for:


  • Agaves

  • Aloes

  • Desert shrubs

  • Citrus trees

  • Low-water perennials

  • Decorative grasses


Choosing plants suited to Arizona soil and sun exposure is key. Not every plant thrives here — and proper placement matters.


Desert garden with agave, cacti, and trees. Colorful sun and moon decor on beige wall. Sunlit patio with potted plants and clay pots.

🌞 Pro Tip: Plant Smart, Not Just Early


Successful desert landscapes aren’t just about timing. They’re about:


  • Proper soil prep

  • Correct irrigation setup

  • Sun exposure awareness

  • Plant spacing for airflow


That’s where expert guidance makes a difference.


Illustration of a tree planting guide showing root ball in a hole. Labeled layers: native backfill, mulch, chimney, and soil. Text: "Preparation."
Tree planting preparation diagram illustrating the ideal setup: create a hole twice as wide as the root ball, incorporate a mulch layer, and maintain native backfill and soil surface. Ensure proper drainage by filling the hole with water; if undrained in 24 hours, add a chimney for drainage.

Visit Verde Valley Nursery This February


If you’re planning a landscape refresh, February is your window to get ahead of spring.


Our team at Verde Valley Nursery in Fountain Hills can help you select desert-friendly plants that thrive locally — whether you’re upgrading a backyard, refreshing curb appeal, or starting from scratch.


Avoid costly plant loss this summer.


Work with our professional landscaping team to design and install a desert-smart yard that’s built to last.



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