Summer Gardening Tips for Arizona's Unique Climate
As temperatures continue to rise in Arizona, gardening enthusiasts face a unique set of challenges when it comes to tending to their plants during the hot summer months. However, with some planning and expert advice, you can keep your garden lush and vibrant even in the desert heat.
Raised garden beds are an excellent choice for Arizona gardeners as they allow for better soil drainage and aeration, and can help retain moisture in the soil.
In this blog post, we’ll cover some essential summer gardening advice specific to Arizona’s environment, covering everything from picking the right plants to using the proper watering methods. Read on to discover how to maximize your summer garden in Arizona, regardless of your level of gardening experience.
5 summer gardening tips to keep your garden healthy in the Arizona heat
Arizona’s hot and dry climate presents unique challenges for gardeners. However, with the proper techniques, you can still enjoy a beautiful and thriving garden during the summer months.
Here are some helpful summer gardening tips to help you beat the heat and keep your garden healthy.
Choose the Right Plants
Opt for plants that can tolerate hot and dry conditions, such as cacti, succulents, and other desert-adapted plants. These plants are well-suited to Arizona’s climate and require less water than other plants requiring moisture and wet environments.
Water Wisely
Water your plants deeply and less frequently to encourage profound root growth. Early morning or late evening is the best time to water your garden as it reduces water loss through evaporation.
Use Mulch
Applying a layer of mulch around your plants can help retain moisture in the soil and reduce water evaporation, which is particularly important in Arizona’s hot climate.
Provide Shade
Shade can help protect your plants from the intense Arizona sun. Consider planting trees or using shade cloth to provide some relief for your garden.
Maintenance is Key
Regularly remove dead foliage, spent blooms, and other debris to keep your garden neat and prevent pests and diseases.
Everything you need and more is available in our lawn and garden department from equipment and irrigation supplies to grass care, gardening, and outdoor living products!
Tools you will need to get your summer garden started
Starting a summer garden in Arizona requires the right tools to make the job easier and more efficient. Shoppers Supply has everything you need to create the perfect garden, from rakes, shovels, trimmers, and more. Some of our brands include DeWALT, STIHL, FIMCO Industries, RazorBack, and more.
Here are some essential tools you will need:
Grab a pair of gloves
A good pair of gardening gloves will protect your hands from thorns, sharp edges, and insects.
Hand trowel
A hand trowel is a small digging tool perfect for planting and transplanting small plants, flowers, and vegetables.
Pruning shears for shaping plants
Pruning shears are essential for trimming and shaping plants, removing dead or diseased branches, and harvesting fruits and vegetables.
A rake for leveling your garden
A rake helps level the soil, remove debris, and spread mulch.
Watering can or hose
Arizona’s hot and dry climate means that plants require regular watering. A watering can or hose is necessary to keep plants hydrated.
Wheelbarrow to transfer soil
A wheelbarrow helps transport soil, compost, and other materials around your garden.
Sun hat and sunscreen
Since gardening requires spending time outdoors, protecting your skin and eyes from the sun is vital. Wear a sun hat and apply sunscreen with a high SPF.
By selecting the right plants for your Arizona garden, you can create a beautiful, low-maintenance space
If you want to start a garden, choosing plants that can thrive in the hot and dry climate is essential. Here are some of the best plants to consider for your Arizona garden:
- Cacti are some of the most iconic plants in the Southwest and can add a unique touch to your garden. They require minimal water and come in various shapes and sizes.
- Like cacti, succulents are low-maintenance and adapted to arid climates. They come in various colors and shapes and are perfect for adding interest to your garden.
- Shrubs like the desert willow, creosote bush, and ocotillo are great for adding height and structure to your garden. They are well-adapted to Arizona’s hot and dry climate and require minimal water.
- Many herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, and sage, can thrive in Arizona’s climate. They are helpful in the kitchen and add fragrance and color to your garden.
- Although not all flowers are suited to Arizona’s climate, some varieties, like desert marigolds, blanket flowers, and penstemons, can add a pop of color to your garden without requiring too much maintenance.
Look no further than Shoppers Supply for your summer gardening needs
At Shopper Supply, we understand the unique challenges of gardening in Arizona’s hot and arid climate. That’s why our staff members are passionate about gardening and well-versed in the best practices for successful gardening in this environment. They have the knowledge and experience to offer personalized advice and tips, from selecting the right plants for your garden to proper watering and fertilization techniques.
You’ll find various gardening supplies and equipment when you visit our stores, including soil, fertilizers, and more. Our staff can help you select the best products for your specific needs, whether starting a new garden or looking to maintain an existing one. We’re committed to providing you with the tools and resources you need to achieve a healthy and thriving garden, no matter the challenges of the desert climate.
We understand that gardening can be a hobby for some, but can also be time-consuming and physically demanding, so we strive to make it as easy and enjoyable as possible for our customers. With our help, you can create a beautiful, productive, thriving garden. Stop into one of our three stores in Gilbert, Chandler, and Apache Junction for all your summer gardening needs.