Ah, fall. The changing colors in the trees, the chilly nights, the warm cups of tea. Oh wait—this is Arizona we are talking about. So, it’s more like blooming cacti, warm nights, and glasses of iced tea. While most of the state doesn’t enjoy a traditional autumn season, that actually comes with its benefits—including a blooming fall garden, if you plan properly. So, take advantage of that and plant some of these vegetables in your own garden this season. 

Potatoes

Potatoes are great in any form; mashed, “french fried,” baked—you name it. Enjoy some delicious homegrown potato recipes this winter by planting some in your garden this month. Decide on which type of potato to plant (in warmer states like Arizona, it is best to plant short-season potatoes), and make sure you use a grow bag or a proper container to grow them in. This will help guarantee success in your garden. 

Spinach

While this veggie isn’t as universally loved as potatoes, spinach are a great addition to your fall garden. Nutritious and delicious, this vitamin-packed vegetable grows best in Arizona’s autumn season. 

Plus, you don’t have to limit yourself to just one type, as there are many different varieties of spinach. Just make sure you prepare the soil adequately and provide plenty of water to the plant as it grows. Who knows? You might even prefer a homegrown spinach salad to mashed potatoes. 

Kale

Kale has become rather popular in the last few years. And it’s no wonder why, for this superfood provides more benefits than I could list. I mean, I obviously could, but it’s a really long list. So, give kale a chance and plant it in your garden this fall.

Just make sure you plant them in an area with enough sunlight to satisfy the plant’s needs. And don’t forget to harvest at the right time (about 2 months after planting). We are sure that with your homegrown kale, you’ll be making the best salads this holiday season! 

Peas

The list wouldn’t be complete without America’s favorite side dish! Peas have been a staple of American dinners and holidays since before we started seeing them being promoted on television. Who knew? Buy some seeds and plant them in your garden during this autumn season. 

Be sure to remember that there are three types of peas, so make sure you purchase your favorite ones. These plants do not require a lot of space and are relatively easy to grow. Just make sure you water them properly and harvest them at the right time. In no time—or actually about two months—you will be eating the sweetest peas you have ever tasted. 

Summer Squash 

I know, I know—you were probably hoping pumpkin would be on this list. Honestly, me too. But, it is too late to plant pumpkins in your garden this year (the cut date was sometime in August). We can’t create nature’s rules, only follow them. But cheer up—everyone loves summer squash, especially in the fall. So, drive to your nearest garden supplier and purchase some fine seeds to plant in your garden. However, make sure you do it soon, for the cut-off date is approaching. 

A great thing about summer squash is that it prefers warm soil, and we have a lot of that here. But be sure to constantly check it for bugs or pesticides, for it is a susceptible plant. If all goes well, you will have some delicious squash to cook before the fall season is over. And who knows, maybe a summer squash latte is just as good as a pumpkin one. Or not.

Now go put on your overalls, and get to gardening.

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