September in Arizona doesn’t mean the end of planting season – it’s actually prime time for certain fruits that thrive in our unique desert climate.
As temperatures begin to moderate from summer extremes, the soil remains warm enough to encourage germination while cooler evenings reduce stress on young seedlings. For many Arizona gardeners, September offers the perfect opportunity to establish fruit-bearing plants before winter arrives.
1. Pomegranate: Desert’s Jewel
Seeds from store-bought pomegranates germinate readily in Arizona’s alkaline soil. The young plants establish strong roots during fall’s moderate temperatures.
Water deeply but infrequently to encourage drought tolerance from the beginning. These Mediterranean natives adapt wonderfully to our desert conditions with minimal fuss.
Young pomegranate seedlings benefit from afternoon shade during their first year, but will eventually thrive in full Arizona sun. Expect fruit in about 3-5 years.
2. Fig: Ancient Desert Friend
Surprisingly easy to grow from cuttings rather than seeds, though seed-grown plants develop stronger root systems. Select fresh seeds from ripe figs and plant in well-draining containers.
Keep soil consistently moist until germination, which takes 1-2 weeks in September’s warm soil. Young seedlings appreciate filtered light until established.
Figs love Arizona’s hot climate and produce twice yearly once mature. Plant in locations protected from afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch during next summer’s heat.
3. Guava: Tropical Treasure
Scoop seeds from ripe guavas, rinse away pulp, and let dry overnight before planting. The sweet-smelling fruits grow surprisingly well in Arizona’s climate when given proper care.
Sow seeds in rich, well-draining soil and keep consistently moist. Germination typically occurs within 2-4 weeks during September’s favorable conditions.
Young plants need protection from both frost and intense sun. Consider portable containers for the first year so you can move them as seasons change.
4. Papaya: Quick-Growing Wonder
Rinse fresh papaya seeds and plant immediately for best results. The black peppercorn-like seeds sprout quickly in September’s warm soil temperatures.
Sow multiple seeds in each planting hole as germination can be unpredictable. Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy to prevent fungal issues common in Arizona gardens.
Papayas grow rapidly, sometimes reaching 6-8 feet in their first year. Plan your planting location carefully, considering both winter protection and summer shade patterns.
5. Passionfruit: Spectacular Climber
Fresh passionfruit seeds germinate readily when temperatures hover around 70-85°F, making September ideal in Arizona. Soak seeds overnight before planting to improve germination rates.
Provide a sturdy trellis or fence for this vigorous climber from the beginning. Young vines establish quickly during fall’s moderate temperatures.
Water deeply twice weekly during establishment. The dramatic flowers attract pollinators to your garden, while the vines provide welcome shade for heat-sensitive plants beneath them.
6. Loquat: Unexpected Evergreen
Extract seeds from fresh loquats and plant immediately – they lose viability quickly when dried. September planting gives seedlings time to establish before summer heat returns.
Plant in partial shade locations where the glossy evergreen foliage can be appreciated year-round. Loquats serve as excellent privacy screens in Arizona landscapes.
Water deeply but infrequently once established. The aromatic spring blossoms fill Arizona gardens with sweet fragrance, while the golden fruits ripen when little else is producing.
7. Mulberry: Fast-Growing Shade
Collect seeds from ripe berries, rinse thoroughly, and plant immediately in September’s warm soil. Germination happens quickly, often within 10 days.
Mulberries grow astonishingly fast in Arizona, sometimes adding 10-15 feet in height during their first three years. Consider their ultimate size when selecting a planting location.
Provide regular water during establishment, then reduce frequency. These adaptable trees thrive with minimal care once established, providing welcome shade and abundant berries.
8. Citrus: Arizona’s Pride
Save seeds from favorite citrus fruits, but remember they won’t produce identical fruit to the parent. September planting gives roots time to develop before summer stress.
Soak seeds overnight, then plant 1/2 inch deep in well-draining potting mix. Keep consistently moist in a bright, warm location until germination occurs.
Young citrus seedlings benefit from afternoon shade during their first two summers. Expect 5-7 years before fruiting begins, making these truly patience-rewarding garden projects.
9. Avocado: Patience-Testing Beauty
Clean avocado pits thoroughly, then plant immediately while fresh. Unlike the toothpick-and-water method, direct soil planting produces stronger root systems.
Plant with the pointed end up, leaving the top third exposed above soil level. Germination can take 2-6 weeks in September’s warm soil.
Protect young trees from both frost and intense afternoon sun. While avocados rarely fruit in Arizona’s climate, they make stunning ornamental trees with their glossy, evergreen foliage.
10. Mango: Tropical Challenge
Extract the large seed from a ripe mango, clean off all flesh, and carefully open the woody husk to reveal the actual seed inside. Plant immediately while fresh.
September planting allows roots to establish before winter arrives. Keep soil consistently moist but never soggy to prevent rot issues.
Young mango trees need frost protection in most Arizona locations. Consider large containers that can be moved to protected areas during winter cold snaps.
11. Date Palm: Desert Royalty
Fresh date seeds from locally grown fruits have the best chance of success in Arizona gardens. Soak seeds for 48 hours before planting to soften the hard seed coat.
Plant seeds horizontally about 1 inch deep in sandy, well-draining soil. Germination can take several weeks to months, even in September’s warm soil.
Date palms grow slowly at first but accelerate after establishing deep roots. These majestic trees eventually reach 50+ feet tall, providing dramatic vertical elements in Arizona landscapes.
12. Sapote: Custard-Like Delicacy
Clean seeds thoroughly from ripe white sapote fruits and plant immediately. Fresh seeds germinate readily in September’s warm soil temperatures.
Provide deep, infrequent watering to encourage strong root development. Young sapote trees benefit from temporary shade during their first two summers in Arizona.
The creamy, custard-like fruits ripen during summer months once trees mature. Sapotes thrive in Arizona’s alkaline soil with minimal amendments, making them low-maintenance additions to desert landscapes.