Australia’s diverse climate means your gardening tasks will vary wildly depending on where you call home. From the tropical heat of the north to the frosty chills of the south, timing is everything. We reckon a well-planned garden is a thriving garden, so let’s break down what you should be doing, season by season, across our sunburnt country.
Northern Territory & Tropical North Queensland: Wet & Dry
This region experiences two distinct seasons: the wet and the dry. Forget the traditional four seasons; here, it’s all about adapting to the monsoonal climate.
- The Wet Season (November – April)
- This is when the heavens open, and humidity skyrockets. Focus on planting water-loving crops like okra, snake beans, and sweet potatoes.
- Maintain excellent drainage to prevent root rot. Consider raised garden beds.
- Pest and disease pressure is high, so keep a close eye on your plants. Regular inspections and preventative measures are key.
- Mulch heavily to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- This is the perfect time to plant tropical fruit trees like mangoes, bananas, and pawpaws.
- The Dry Season (May – October)
- Lower humidity and less rainfall make this ideal for planting leafy greens, tomatoes, and herbs.
- Water deeply and regularly, especially during the hottest parts of the day.
- Consider installing irrigation systems to conserve water.
- This is the best time to prune and shape your plants.
- Plant your dry season flowering plants, like bougainvillea.
Queensland (Excluding Tropical North): Subtropical & Temperate Zones
Queensland offers a mix of subtropical and temperate climates, meaning you’ll need to adjust your gardening practices accordingly.
- Spring (September – November)
- A fantastic time to plant summer vegetables like tomatoes, capsicums, and cucumbers.
- Sow seeds for flowering annuals like petunias and marigolds.
- Fertilise your established plants to encourage vigorous growth.
- Prepare your garden beds for the warmer months ahead.
- Summer (December – February)
- Focus on maintaining consistent watering and keeping weeds at bay.
- Mulch heavily to protect your plants from the heat.
- Harvest your summer crops regularly.
- Watch out for pests and diseases that thrive in the heat and humidity.
- Autumn (March – May)
- Plant cool-season vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage.
- Sow seeds for winter flowering plants like pansies and violas.
- Prepare your garden beds for winter by adding compost and manure.
- Start to clean up spent summer plants.
- Winter (June – August)
- Focus on maintaining soil health and protecting your plants from frost.
- Prune deciduous trees and shrubs.
- Plant bare-rooted fruit trees and roses.
- Plant your winter flowering plants, like snapdragons.
New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia & Tasmania: Temperate & Cool Temperate Zones
These regions experience a more traditional four-season climate, with distinct changes in temperature and rainfall.
- Spring (September – November)
- A busy time in the garden! Plant summer vegetables, flowering annuals, and herbs.
- Divide and transplant perennials.
- Fertilise your established plants and prepare your garden beds.
- Watch for slugs and snails.
- Summer (December – February)
- Maintain consistent watering and keep weeds under control.
- Harvest your summer crops regularly.
- Protect your plants from extreme heat with shade cloth.
- Water in the early morning or late evening to reduce evaporation.
- Autumn (March – May)
- Plant cool-season vegetables like leafy greens, root vegetables, and brassicas.
- Sow seeds for winter flowering plants.
- Prepare your garden beds for winter by adding compost and manure.
- Rake up fallen leaves and add them to your compost pile.
- Winter (June – August)
- Focus on maintaining soil health and protecting your plants from frost.
- Prune deciduous trees and shrubs.
- Plant bare-rooted fruit trees and roses.
- Apply a winter mulch to protect plants from frost.
Western Australia: Mediterranean & Arid Zones
Western Australia’s climate varies significantly, from the Mediterranean climate in the south-west to the arid zones in the interior.
- South-West (Mediterranean Climate)
- Similar to the eastern states, with distinct wet winters and dry summers.
- Focus on planting cool-season crops in autumn and winter, and warm-season crops in spring and summer.
- Water conservation is crucial during the dry summer months.
- Arid Zones
- Hot and dry conditions prevail.
- Focus on planting drought-tolerant plants and using water-wise gardening techniques.
- Consider creating shade structures and using mulch to retain moisture.
General Tips for All Regions
- Always check your local weather forecasts before planting.
- Use quality potting mix and compost to improve soil health.
- Water deeply and regularly, especially during hot and dry periods.
- Mulch your garden beds to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Monitor your plants for pests and diseases, and take action promptly.
- Rotate your crops to prevent soil borne diseases.
Garden Nursery Products is Your Gold Coast Gardening Companion!
No matter where you are on the Gold Coast, Garden Nursery Products is here to help you achieve your gardening goals. We stock a wide range of fertilisers, pesticides, fungicides, and landscaping supplies. Our friendly staff are always on hand to provide expert advice and answer your gardening questions. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, we’ve got everything you need to create a thriving garden. Come visit us today and let us help you grow!
