Gardening in Sun City, Arizona

USDA Hardiness Zones

• Sun City lies in USDA Hardiness Zones 9a and 9b, where plants need to be able to withstand temperatures that reach between 20 to 30 degrees Fahrenheit in winter. The desert temperatures in the summer can reach up to 120 degrees Fahrenheit.

Drought-Tolerant Gardening

• Desert gardening requires planning and design. Plants that have similar water needs can be grouped together, so the water is not wasted. Drought-tolerant gardens in Sun City can thrive with proper irrigation, the use of mulch and the correct flowers, shrubs and trees.

Native Plants

• Plants that are native to Arizona will grow well in Sun City gardens. These plants thrive in the desert climate and the native soil without major adjustments. Consider plants such as cacti, mesquite and palo verde trees. Another option is the unusual ocotillo plant, which is a native succulent that grows in a funnel shape. It has green, spiny branches and brilliant red flowers that bloom in the spring.

Vegetable Gardening

• The most important consideration when planting a vegetable garden in Sun City is avoiding the hot summer temperatures. Cool-season, hardy vegetables such as lettuce, potatoes, broccoli, carrots, onions and spinach will grow well when planted in the winter. They'll be of better quality when they mature in the spring (rather than the summer), according to the Arizona Master Gardener website.