Plant and harvest your way through this gardener’s guide to the best vegetables to grow in Australia in winter!
Although the days seem short and chilly, now has never been a better time to plant some truly unique crops in your garden. And, because Australia’s winter is mild and most regions aren’t ice- or snow-covered, there’s a surprising variety of winter-friendly plants to grow.
Whether you’re an experienced green thumb or a novice looking to try your hand at gardening, here’s our guide to the best plants to grow in Australia during winter. Happy gardening!
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1. Kale
Kale thrives in the cooler months and is a powerhouse of nutrients. It’s incredibly hardy, tolerating frosts and low temperatures with ease. Plant kale in a sunny spot with well-draining soil, and you’ll be rewarded with lush, leafy greens perfect for salads, smoothies, and stir-fries.
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2. Broccoli
Broccoli is another winter champion. This vegetable prefers the cooler temperatures and will produce tight, flavourful heads if planted in well-drained, fertile soil. Ensure your broccoli plants get plenty of sunlight and protect them from pests with natural deterrents like neem oil. One of the best vegetables to grow in winter!
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3. Spinach
Spinach loves the cold and can withstand frost, making it an ideal winter crop. It is fast-growing and can be harvested multiple times throughout the season. Spinach prefers a sunny or partially shaded location and benefits from regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist.
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4. Peas
Winter is a great time to plant peas. They grow quickly and can be harvested before the onset of warmer weather. Peas are nitrogen-fixing plants, meaning they enrich the soil, making them a great companion plant for future crops. Plant them in a sunny spot and provide support for climbing varieties.
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5. Garlic
Garlic is best planted in winter and harvested in summer. It requires a sunny position and well-draining soil. Plant individual cloves with the pointed end facing up, spaced about 15cm apart. Garlic is relatively low maintenance and will reward you with a robust flavour – the perfect addition to your culinary creations.
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6. Carrots
Carrots can be planted in winter for a sweet, crunchy harvest in the following months. They prefer loose, sandy soil to grow straight and long. Plant seeds directly into the garden bed and thin them out as they grow to avoid overcrowding.
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7. Cauliflower
Cauliflower thrives in cool weather and produces large, dense heads if given the right conditions. Plant them in a spot that receives full sun and ensure the soil is rich and well-draining. Regular watering is essential to prevent the heads from becoming bitter. Grow to then make this delicious Fried Cauliflower Recipe!
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8. Onions
Onions are another winter-friendly crop. They need a sunny location and well-draining soil. Onions can be planted from seeds or sets, with sets being the quicker option. They require minimal maintenance but benefit from regular watering, especially during dry spells.
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9. Leeks
Leeks are hardy and grow well in cooler temperatures. They prefer a sunny position with rich, well-drained soil. Plant leeks in trenches and gradually fill in the soil as they grow to blanch the stems and improve flavour.
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10. Herbs
Many herbs such as parsley, coriander, and mint, flourish in winter. These herbs can be grown in pots or garden beds, making them versatile additions to any garden. Ensure they receive plenty of sunlight and regular watering to keep them healthy and vibrant.
Low maintenance and easy to care for, here’s the 10 Best and Easiest Indoor Plants to Grow. And, if you’re a beginner, be sure to put this Australian, Subscription, Plant Seed Delivery Service on your radar.
