My top April garden tip…… Plant now for a bountiful summer harvest! In Phoenix, the sun, soil, and water all play a crucial role in keeping your garden thriving through the heat. But the key to summer success starts now—so get planting!
What I plant in my April garden and why
In our arid desert climate, the typical gardening rules of thumb go out the window. While vegetables usually require between 1 and 1.5 inches of water per week, this just doesn’t cut it when we are at 110°. During the summer months from June through August, these plants need approximately 2 inches of water per week. Given the challenge of measuring effectively in such conditions, here are some guidelines for our top 5 summer plants to start in your April garden.
- Tomatoes – A garden favorite, tomatoes need consistent moisture to prevent blossom end rot and to support their robust growth. Water deeply and allow to dry out slightly between waterings. A layer of mulch can help retain moisture.
- Peppers – Like their tomato cousins, peppers enjoy a deep drink, but they don’t like wet feet. Use well-draining soil to keep their roots happy and healthy. Adding some perlite and sand to your soil mix helps too!
- Eggplants – These purple wonders are quite drought-tolerant once established, but for the best yield, keep the soil consistently moist. If leaves droop or the fruits seem stunted, this tells you they don’t have enough water.
- Okra – Okra is as tough as they come, but in extreme heat, you might need to give them a little extra attention. Visit you garden daily and water when the soil feels dry a couple of inches down.
- Sweet Potatoes – These underground treasures thrive on regular, even moisture. About an inch of water per week should do, but don’t let them dry out completely. Too much water, though, and you’ll have all vine and no tuber, so find that sweet spot.
PKG April Garden Guide
April is a wonderful time to exercise your gardening green thumb! Here are the plants that will make great additions to your Phoenix kitchen garden this month.
A Garden Watering Reminder
Rember, my fellow gardeners, in the realm of watering, there’s no one-size-fits-all. The key is to connect with your garden – feel the earth, observe your plants, and let them guide you. Ready to start? Let’s grab that watering can, and bring our garden dreams to life!
Happy April!
P.S. For more low desert garden to table tips, don’t forget to follow Phoenix Kitchen Gardens on Instagram and Facebook!
