Home / This month
Your Arizona yard this month: November 2026
November is one of the best months of the year for Arizona yards: the heat is gone, the soil is still warm, and frost is still weeks away in the low desert. Here is a short, practical list. We update this page every month.
Low desert (Phoenix, Tucson, Yuma and the Valley)
Water
- Cut back your irrigation timer. Plants use much less water in cool weather. Water deeply but less often than in summer, and turn the timer down again as nights get colder. See how to water desert trees, shrubs and cacti.
- Check drip lines after monsoon season. Look for clogged emitters, chewed lines and leaks before winter. Find irrigation contractors.
- Skip watering after a good rain and turn the controller back on once the soil dries.
Frost prep
- Have frost cloth ready now. Cover tender plants such as young citrus, bougainvillea and lantana on nights forecast near freezing, and take the cover off in the morning.
- Don't prune frost-tender plants yet. Leave damaged growth until after the last frost in late winter; it helps protect the plant.
Plant
- Fall is planting season. Desert trees, shrubs and perennials planted now have months to root before summer heat. See desert plants that thrive in Arizona.
- Sow wildflower seed in late fall for spring color.
- Thinking about removing grass? Many cities pay rebates. Check grass removal rebates by city before you start.
Projects
- Cooler weather is a good time for pavers and hardscape, artificial turf and xeriscape projects. Get 2–3 written quotes and confirm the ROC license.
- Budgeting? See what Arizona homeowners paid, and share your own cost if you had work done.
Pool
- As the water cools, ask your pool service about reducing pump run time and chemical use for winter. Find pool companies by city.
High country (Flagstaff, Prescott, Sedona)
- Protect pipes and irrigation from hard freezes. Drain or insulate exposed lines and backflow devices, and shut off irrigation you won't need over winter.
- Mulch around plants to protect roots from cold.
- Rake and clear debris from gutters and drainage paths before winter storms.
Quick links
Timing varies by elevation and microclimate. For detailed local advice, check your city water provider and the University of Arizona Cooperative Extension.