Going to the supermarket for fresh produce is always a good idea, but wouldn't it be so much more convenient to grow veggies in your own backyard? If you have the space, the means, and the green thumb, the team at Moon Valley Nurseries often recommends getting started on a vegetable garden. However, we understand that cultivating a garden in the American Southwest is a significant challenge. Fortunately, our team has a wealth of knowledge about the ins and outs of gardening in intense heat. We have locations across the South in the states of California, Nevada, Texas, Arizona, and Florida. Our team will help you choose vegetables that grow in full sun and provide tips on how to make the most of planting season. Find out which veggies may be best to grow in your home garden.
Why Choose Heat-Tolerant Plants?
When you're going to be gardening in sweltering temperatures, it's crucial to choose plants that will stand up to extreme heat and drought-like conditions. Opting for veggies that can tolerate heat comes with a slew of benefits, including:
- Abundant Harvests: You want an abundant harvest to show for all your hard work during gardening season. Choosing vegetables native to your area can make a big difference in how much you can grow.
- Reduced Maintenance: Heat-tolerant plants and vegetables often need less maintenance than plant life that isn't native to hot climates.
- Environmental Friendliness: Plants that can't withstand heat need excessive water to grow and thrive. This can put a strain on the South's finite water supply. When you select heat-tolerant veggies, you can feel good about reducing your water usage and overall carbon footprint.
Which Vegetables Grow in Hot Weather?
We've talked about the benefits of choosing veggies that grow well in the heat, but which ones are we referring to? Luckily, you'll have no shortage of options when it comes to vegetables to plant in the summer. Below, you'll find some of our top picks for heat-friendly veggies. Keep in mind that this is not an extensive list, and just because you don't see your favorite here doesn't mean it can't grow in your area.
- Peppers: It only makes sense that hot peppers would thrive in hot climates! Bell peppers may not be your best bet, but jalapenos and chilis grow well at the height of summer.
- Corn: Sweet corn has been grown in the American Southwest for centuries. This crop can handle try climates and should be planted in 4x4 squares to promote cross-pollination.
- Cucumbers: Despite cucumbers being cool and refreshing, they love to grow in full sun. Armenian cucumbers in particular make an excellent addition to your Southwestern Garden.
- Green Beans: Green beans are perfect for the heat, even if you have limited space in your garden. This veggie grows quickly, and soon, you'll have a garden full of ingredients for tonight's dinner.
- Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes are easy to grow in warm weather. However, it's crucial to keep in mind that sweet potatoes require a long growing season and need plenty of space for their long vines. Many people choose to use these lengthy vines as ground covers.
- Eggplant: Eggplant is yet another popular vegetable for dry climates. This veggie tends to be even more productive when the temperature rises, as long as it gets plenty of sun and water.
- Zucchini: Zucchini and some varieties of summer squash grow abundantly in the sweltering summer. You'll only need to plant a few seeds, and you'll have plenty of zucchini to go around.
- Tomatillos: Tomatillos love the sun. While they're not as popular as the related tomato, tomatillos are perfect for hot, dry weather and will keep producing after your tomato plant stops yielding fruit.
- Okra: If you enjoy a helping of okra, don't hesitate to add it to your Southwestern garden. You can plant okra up until the final days of July and still expect a good harvest.
- Swiss Chard: Swiss chard and an array of other greens can grow well in the summer. However, some gardeners report leafy greens that grow with summer heat don't taste as good as those grown in the later months.
Check Out Our Selection of Trees, Shrubs, and More
At Moon Valley Nurseries, you'll find a vast array of vegetable plants, as well as native trees, shrubs, and more. No matter what you'd like to add to your garden, we're happy to help you find the perfect fit. Simply peruse any of our locations to get a taste of what we have to offer. If you're looking to grow some fruit in addition to your veggies, ask us about the following trees:
Ask Us About Landscape Design for Your Veggie Garden
Beyond seeds and plants, we can also help with overall landscape design. Our professionals are well-versed in furnishing a traditional Southwestern garden, but we can also help you step out of the box. Our team will show you to the most beautiful flowering trees in our selection, as well as a plethora of shrubs native to desert climates. When you want to extend your landscape beyond just a thriving veggie garden, Moon Valley Nurseries is here to help you take your property to the next level.
Contact Our Seasoned Team Today
If you're on the hunt for vegetables that grow in tropical climates, you've come to the right place. Moon Valley Nurseries is the American South's go-to for information concerning native plants and vegetables. Our nursery is full of all the most popular plants, as well as some unique blooms. Whether you're looking to start a vegetable garden or create a lovely landscape, our team is happy to help. We welcome residents of California, Texas, Arizona, Nevada, and Florida to stop into the nearest location and have a look around. We'd love to point you in the right direction. Contact us today.
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