Zone 8? Where in zone 8?

That's what it stated when I entered my zip code - I live in Gilbert, AZ

Well as you stated some like seeds, some like transplants. I use both in my rasised beds. Depends on how long you are willing to wait. Most seeds, in really good conditions take about 60 to 90 days to harvest. However transplants take 1/2 the time. Some of the items you mentioned will have to wait until spring. I am sorry but you are a little too late this year. Spinch and lettus s/b planted Now and you can do seed. Carrots and garlic Too. If you check a couple of the the other blogs the "question of what to plant in your area" is answered. Hope this helps

Gilbert? Sorry, but that was a bad pop-up; you are in Zone 9, perhaps - given our rising summer temperatures - Zone 10. However, remember that USDA's map is intended to to advise about the cold hardiness of plants, not heat tolerance.

Here is a link that might be useful: USDA AZ zones

I agree with CampV -especially if this is your first time, using both gives you a much higher chance of success until you get seed starting and maintaining experience.

There is nothing quite as satisfying as raising plants from seeds, IMO, but there's nothing more frustrating than losing an entire season.

Did you glance at the other thread that has "calendars" in the title? There's some really good resources there.

campv gave you some good suggestions but don't forget broccoli, beets, bok choy (all seeds at this time of year). and pagancat is right, find yourself a planting calendar and Just Do It! [grin]

Mary, did I ever tell you about the gal I saw jogging down the street wearing a tee that stated "Just Did It" ?
>grin

Hah! That's funny. Love this cooler weather, turns me into a gardening maniac!! Those tomatoes are going in the beds this weekend. And I'll sow lettuce, cutting leaf celery, bok choy and radish seeds.

I'm going to start a "Garden Chat" thread and copy your post into it, ok?

Sure. Good idea.

BTW, someone at Valley Permaculture Alliance is hosting a Westside get-together Friday evening around 6:30. If anyone here is interested in joining please email me and I'll get you the detes.