When the Sky Breaks Open: Protecting Your Landscape During Arizona’s Monsoon Season

Prepare your landcaping for Arizona's monsoon season. Ensure your plants withstand the storms by pruning properly, staking young trees, checking drainage, and protecting delicate plants.

Last July, just after a scorching week of 110+ degree days, Katherine was in a panic. A sudden microburst had ripped through her neighborhood, and her prized mesquite tree—15 years old and the centerpiece of her front yard—was split down the middle. Pots had toppled, new plants were scorched from windburn, and gravel had washed away into the street. It was a familiar scene. Every monsoon season in Arizona, we see the same story unfold again and again: gorgeous landscapes undone in a matter of minutes by powerful storms.

At Sonoran Oasis Landscaping, we’ve learned that preparation is everything. The Arizona monsoon season, officially running from June 15 to September 30, delivers life-giving moisture—but also destructive winds, lightning, and flash flooding. According to the National Weather Service, Tucson recorded 5.80 inches of rain during the 2024 season, while Phoenix saw just 0.74 inches, showing how unpredictable the monsoon can be across regions.

Here’s how to keep your plants and trees protected and thriving all season long.

1. Prune Early and Often

High winds are notorious for breaking limbs and uprooting weak trees. Hire a certified arborist to inspect and prune trees before storm season hits. Thinning canopies reduces wind drag and lowers the risk of storm damage. The University of Arizona stresses that early intervention is key to storm resilience.

2. Stake Young Trees the Right Way

Newly planted or young trees lack the root system to brace against monsoon gusts. Stake them securely—but not too tightly—to allow some movement, which encourages natural strengthening. Check ties monthly and adjust as needed to avoid girdling.

3. Improve Drainage and Mulching

Pooling water and eroded soil are common after heavy rains. Evaluate your yard’s grading, add mulch to protect roots, and install swales or French drains if necessary. The University of Arizona's Climate Science Center notes that monsoon rains can deliver more than half of a year’s precipitation in a few weeks—making proper drainage non-negotiable.

4. Use Monsoon-Hardy, Native Plants

Delicate ornamentals often can't withstand the wind and moisture of a desert storm. Instead, plant native species that are naturally adapted to Arizona’s monsoon rhythm, such as desert willow, agave, or salvia. For more, see Harlow Gardens' Expert Advice

5. Secure Loose Yard Items

Windborne damage from patio furniture, garden tools, and décor is easily preventable. Store or anchor anything lightweight before the forecast turns stormy—your neighbors (and your insurance) will thank you.

Monsoon-Ready? We Can Help.

With over 20 years of hands-on desert landscape experience, Sonoran Oasis Landscaping is your go-to expert for monsoon preparation and plant protection. Our team offers inspections, custom drainage solutions, and desert-friendly plant design tailored for Tucson’s extreme climate.

Call now at (520) 546-2994 or visit our website to schedule your pre-monsoon check-up before the next storm rolls in.

Author

Deborah Munoz-Chacon

ISA Certified Arborist Lic # WE-6083A

Sonoran Oasis Landscaping