How to Start a Raised-Bed Garden in Phoenix (For Total Beginners)

garden

Nov 19

Starting a garden in Phoenix can feel confusing — especially if you’ve tried following advice meant for people gardening in mild, rainy places. Our desert climate doesn’t play by the same rules. But the good news? Once you understand a few simple basics, Phoenix is one of the best places in the country to grow food.

You don’t need to know everything. You don’t need a huge yard. And you definitely don’t need perfection. You just need a few smart steps — and a little curiosity.

Here’s exactly how to start a raised-bed garden in Phoenix, even if you’re brand new.

Step 1: Choose Your Location (Sun, Water, Visibility)

Your garden will thrive when you choose a spot with:

• Plenty of sunlight

Raised-bed veggies need 6–8 hours of direct sun, especially in fall/winter. In summer, morning sun + afternoon shade is ideal, or a shade cloth over your garden from June-September will extend your garden by months.

• Easy access to water

You’ll water often in Phoenix. Keep beds close to a hose bib or where drip irrigation is possible.

• A visible spot

Place beds where you’ll see them daily — near the kitchen, favorite window, or walkway. Out of sight = out of mind = stressed plants.

Step 2: Pick a Bed Size That Sets You Up for Success

For beginners, keep it simple:

Best beginner size:

One 4x8 raised bed
or
Two 3x6 raised beds

Aim for around 25-30sq feet. These sizes offer plenty of growing space without becoming overwhelming. They’re easy to water, easy to tend, and easy for kids to help with too.

Bed height:

18–24 inches is ideal for Phoenix soils (less bending, better drainage).

Step 3: Soil — What to Buy + How Much

Great soil is everything in Phoenix. For most vegetables, our native dirt is too alkaline and hard-packed for raised beds, so you’ll create your own healthy foundation.

Best soil mix for beginners:

60% raised-bed garden soil
40% compost
This creates a fluffy, nutrient-rich mix that drains well in the heat.

How much soil do you need?

A standard 4x8 bed (18–24” tall) takes about 1.5–2 cubic yards of soil. Your local landscape supplier can deliver it in bulk (cheaper than bags).

Want to save money?
Use the soil lasagna method — layering sticks, leaves, compost, and soil to fill deeper beds for less.

Step 4: What to Plant First

Phoenix has two main planting seasons, which makes gardening here amazing. Here’s what to start with depending on the time of year.

Spring & Summer (Plant Feb–March)

Cherry tomatoes

Zucchini
Cucumbers
Okra
Peppers (jalapeño or bell)
Basil
Zinnias (pollinator magnets + heat tolerant)

Fall & Winter (Plant Oct–Nov)

Lettuce mixes
Radishes
Carrots
Broccoli
Sugar snap peas
Cilantro

Parsley
Marigolds (repel pests + add color)

Step 5: Create a Simple Watering Rhythm

Watering is where Phoenix gardening becomes different from anywhere else.

Keep it simple:

Spring/Fall:

Water every 2–3 days, deep and slow.

Summer:

Water daily, preferably early morning.

Winter:

Water once or twice a week depending on rain and temperatures.

If you can, set up drip irrigation — it’s a game-changer for consistency.

Starter Shopping List for Phoenix Gardeners

For a complete list of beginner garden tools, set up and pest prevention, visit my curated page:

👉 The Garden Shelf — Tools I Use & Love
(links to your favorite beginner tools and Amazon suggestions)

Starting a raised-bed garden in Phoenix is simpler than it seems, and every step you take now becomes the beginning of something beautiful. With the right spot, the right soil, and the right plants, you’re already halfway to a thriving garden.