Donna DiFrancesco is a horticulturist and Conservation Coordinator with the City of Mesa, AZ, one of 22 Water– Use It Wisely partners to offer water-saving advice and programs. One of her favorite desert plants is the Palo Blanco tree!
The Fall Planting Season is Here!
The fall planting season has arrived (really!), and cooler temps make it the perfect time to get your landscape back in shape. Maybe you lost a few plants during the record-hot summer, or maybe you’re ready to swap out high-water-use plants for water-thrifty ones. Either way, fall is the season to dig in!
Water – Plant It Wisely: Our Ultimate Fall Planting Resource
Grab your gloves and shovel—it’s planting time! Our Water – Plant It Wisely microsite is your one-stop resource for desert-friendly landscaping ideas, plant guides, and planting tips.
What you plant affects more than just your yard… it contributes to a sustainable future and helps conserve our water supply for generations to come.
👉 Explore more at WaterPlantItWisely.com
Why Plant in the Fall?
Fall is prime time for planting trees, shrubs, and wildflowers in our low deserts in Arizona. We’re talking from late September through early December. Here’s why:
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Warm soil + cool air = perfect root growth conditions.
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Less stress on plants – cooler temps mean fewer water demands.
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Time to establish – plants get strong before next summer’s heat.
💧 Pro tip: From fall through spring, water new plants once every 3–4 days, then gradually increase the time between waterings as roots establish.
Wondering how to plant? How deep to dig the hole? How to use mulch? We’ve got the answers! Be sure to visit our Water – Plant It Wisely site where you’ll also find plant selection tips and great design ideas.
Plan Before You Plant
A successful desert landscape doesn’t just happen—it takes a little planning:
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Choose plants based on mature size and yard function.
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Add 2–3 inches of compost or mulch before covering with granite or rock.
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Shop local nurseries and fall plant sales for the best selections.
We’ve included a listing of fall plant sale dates and locations on the microsite.
Need a little extra help? We’ve got you covered! Water – Use It Wisely Arizona partners have put together great workshops available throughout the valley. Explore the events calendar to find out about the fall landscape programs we have going on this season!
Why Choose Low-Water-Use Plants?
Swapping out thirsty plants for desert-adapted ones comes with big rewards:
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Use 60–75% less water than grass landscapes.
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Save up to 550 gallons per plant per year.
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Enjoy shade, seasonal color, and wildlife-friendly yards.
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Spend less time on maintenance, fertilizer, and pesticides.
Your yard will look great, your water bill will shrink, and you’ll have bragging rights for being water-wise!
Don’t Forget to Plant Seeds
Think Twice About Winter Grass
Overseeding with ryegrass may look lush and green, but it takes a lot of extra water. With ongoing drought and Colorado River shortages, every drop matters.
Not convinced? Check out our Top Ten Reasons Not to Overseed. If you do overseed, limit it to small areas and follow efficient watering practices.
Plant Wildflowers Now for a Spring Show
Want a carpet of golden poppies or vibrant lupines? Fall is the time to sow seeds for spring blooms. Plant just before October or November rains for the best results. We’ve got all the steps on how to do so on our Planting Wildflowers page.
Look for locally collected seeds such as Mexican Gold Poppies, Arizona Lupines, and Desert Bluebells. (Avoid “wildflower mixes” from outside the region.) For example, African Daisies are… well, from Africa.
The Native Seed Company out of Tucson provides high-quality, locally collected native seeds. Seeds are not available for online ordering but can be found at most local nurseries or specialty plant sales. However, you can also order them through Native Seeds/SEARCH online.
Ready to Plant It Wisely?
Explore workshops, guides, and more fall planting resources at WaterPlantItWisely.com. A water-smart yard saves resources, supports our desert ecosystem, and makes your home more beautiful—all season long.