What to Plant Now in Perth

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Published On:

February 8, 2024

Perth, Western Australia’s capital city, is known for its scorching, dry summers and moderate, wet winters. This creates a one-of-a-kind environment for a wide variety of veggies and other plants that flourish in such settings.

Understanding the planting seasons is essential for every gardener, whether a seasoned horticulturist or a novice. You may ensure a good harvest and healthy growing plants by aligning your planting timetable with Perth’s environment.

Table of Contents

Four seasons in Perth explained

Perth’s unique Mediterranean climate has numerous seasonal changes, each providing unique conditions for various varieties of vegetables.

Below, we’ll take you through each season so you can better understand what growing conditions you’re up against.

Spring (September to November)

Spring in Perth is warm and moderate, with temperatures ranging from 11.7°C to 23.6°C on average. As the ground warms up from the winter, soil conditions are suitable for spring planting, particularly ginger. Plant growth is also aided by longer daylight hours.

Accordingly, we recommend maintaining sufficient irrigation because the spring months can be very dry.

Summer (December to February)

Perth’s summers are hot and dry, with average temperatures frequently topping 30°C. The soil might quickly dry out during this season, necessitating more frequent watering to ensure plant health. It is preferable to cultivate heat-tolerant veggies during this season.

Autumn (March to May)

Autumn brings cooler temperatures ranging from 13.7°C to 25.4°C and more rain. The soil remains warm, allowing many vegetables to flourish. Autumn is frequently a good time for planting because the conditions are less harsh than during the peak summer months.

Winter (June to August)

Perth’s winters are comparatively moderate, with average temperatures ranging from 8°C to 18°C. While there is more rain at this time, the cooler temperatures and wetter circumstances can make certain plants difficult to grow. Some cool-season veggies, on the other hand, flourish in these conditions.

What vegetables to plant now Perth

Year-round vegetables to grow in Perth

Because of the regular sunlight, occasional rainfall, and suitable soil conditions, Perth’s climate is particularly favourable for a range of vegetables that may grow year-round.

Before getting into season-specific veggies, we’ll look at several vegetables that can grow year-round.

Year-round vegetables to plant in Perth

Cabbage

Cabbage is a robust vegetable that can withstand Perth’s fluctuating temperatures. It enjoys full sun but may tolerate partial shade during the hottest months.

Plant in well-drained, fertile soil that has been treated with compost or organic debris. Harvesting occurs when the heads grow hard and reach the desired size, which might take 50-180 days, depending on the variety.

Celery

Celery, a high-water-demanding vegetable, thrives in Perth’s winter and spring when rainfall is heavier.

Maintain soil moisture, especially during the hot summer months. It is better to have full sun than partial shade. Harvesting is possible when the stalks are about 20 centimetres long, about 16 weeks after planting.

Parsnips

Root vegetables like parsnips flourish in full sun and well-drained soil. They require little upkeep and can withstand both colder winters and hotter summers.

Harvesting can begin when the roots reach the desired size, usually 120-180 days following planting.

Radish

Radish is a fast-growing crop that can withstand seasonal fluctuations in Perth. They prefer full light and soil that is loose and well-drained.

Consider watering regularly, especially during the hot summer months. Radishes can be harvested when they reach a size of 20-70 days following sowing.

Silver beet

Silver beet, or Swiss chard, thrives all year but prefers lower temperatures. We recommend planting in a sunny spot with well-drained soil.

Remember to water it regularly, especially during dry periods. When the leaves reach the correct size, usually 50-60 days after planting, they can be picked.

Sugar and snow peas

Snow and sugar peas are cool-weather crops that can withstand mild heat, making them ideal for year-round farming.

Plant them in a sunny, well-drained location. Harvest pods while they are young and fragile, which is usually 60-70 days after sowing.

What to plant in Spring

Spring in Perth offers milder temperatures and sporadic rainfall, which are great circumstances for many veggies to thrive. As the soil begins to warm, now is the time to plant various vegetables.

Here are a few of my favourite veggies for spring planting:

What vegetables to plant now in Perth for Spring

Sweet potato

Sweet potato plants thrive in hot weather and are ideal for Perth’s warm spring. Plant the cuttings in a sunny spot with well-drained soil and plenty of room to spread.

Although drought-tolerant, sweet potatoes will benefit from regular watering during dry spells. Harvest when the leaves begin to yellow and die back approximately 4-6 months after planting.

Capsicums and chillies

Capsicums and chillies are warm-weather crops, so planting them in the spring is ideal. They prefer full sun and rich, well-drained soil. Capsicums and chillies can be cold-sensitive, so put them in raised garden beds or containers for improved temperature control. Harvesting can commence when the fruits are firm and brightly coloured, normally 70-90 days following planting.

Eggplant

Eggplants thrive in warm weather, so planting in the spring is ideal. Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil that is rich in organic materials. Watering eggplants regularly is necessary, but excessive watering might cause root rot. Harvest eggplants when they have reached full size, and the skin has turned shiny, usually 100-150 days after planting.

Other Spring plants to grow

Here are five plants that complement the spring vegetables recommended earlier and add beauty and balance to your garden:

Marigolds: These vibrant flowers are not just a feast for the eyes but also fantastic companions for many vegetable plants, including tomatoes and peppers. Marigolds repel nematodes and other pests thanks to their strong scent. Planting them around your garden can help protect your spring veggies and add a splash of colour.
Sweet Alyssum: Sweet alyssum can be planted alongside leafy vegetables like lettuce and spinach, forming a living mulch that helps retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
Basil: Known for its aromatic leaves, basil is a great companion for tomatoes and provides mutual support by repelling flies and mosquitoes. It’s believed that planting basil near tomatoes can help improve their flavour. Basil also attracts pollinators, ensuring your garden is buzzing with life.
Nasturtiums: These easy-to-grow flowers offer edible leaves and blossoms, adding a peppery taste to salads. As companions to vegetable plants like cucumbers and radishes, nasturtiums are a trap crop for aphids, drawing them away from your veggies. Their bright blooms also attract pollinators and beneficial insects.
Chives: Planting chives near carrots can help repel the carrot fly. At the same time, their oniony scent can deter aphids and improve the flavour of tomatoes. Chives are useful for their pest-repelling properties and produce pretty purple flowers that can add a mild, onion-like flavour to dishes.

Incorporating these plants into your spring garden enhances its aesthetic appeal and promotes a healthier, more productive vegetable garden. Choosing companions that offer mutual benefits creates a vibrant ecosystem where plants support each other’s growth and vitality.

What to plant in Summer

Perth’s summers are typically warm and dry, with extended daylight hours that promote rapid growth. Summer gardening success is dependent on selecting heat-tolerant vegetables and providing appropriate water.

Here are some vegetables to consider planting in winter:

What vegetables to plant now in Winter for Perth

Brussels sprouts

Despite being a cool-weather crop, Brussels sprouts can be planted in early summer for a harvest in late autumn or early winter in Perth.

Brussels sprouts prefer well-drained soil, full sun to light shade, and consistent water delivery. It is critical to watch for pests such as aphids and caterpillars. They are ready to harvest when Brussels sprouts are firm and about 2-5 centimetres in diameter.

Cucumber

Cucumbers are a classic summer vegetable that thrives in heat and sunlight. Choose a location in your garden with full light and well-drained soil. To prevent mildew, keep the soil moist but avoid soaking the leaves. Cucumbers can usually be picked 50-70 days after planting when they reach the optimum size.

Turnips

While turnips are often planted as a cool-weather crop, they may withstand Perth’s summer heat if well-watered. They prefer a sunny location and well-drained soil.

The key is to pick them when they are still young and fragile, which is normally approximately 2 months after planting.

Other Summer plants to grow

Companion planting is vital in maintaining a healthy garden ecosystem, especially during the warmer months. Here are five plants that not only withstand the summer heat but also complement and protect the vegetables recommended for this season:

Zinnias: These colourful and vibrant flowers are perfect for adding colour to your summer garden. Zinnias attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and butterflies, which help control pest populations. They’re great companions for cucumber plants, offering a natural defence against cucumber beetles.
Sunflowers: Towering sunflowers do more than just make a statement; they also provide shade and support for lower-growing plants. Planting sunflowers near beans can help protect the beans from wind while attracting pollinators to the garden. Their large heads can also offer shade to more sensitive plants, providing relief from the intense summer sun.
Lavender: Known for its soothing fragrance and beautiful purple blooms, lavender is a fantastic companion for various vegetables, including those that thrive in summer, like peppers. Lavender repels fleas and moths while attracting pollinators. Its strong scent can help mask the smell of your vegetables, keeping them hidden from pests.
Oregano: This hardy herb adds flavour to your dishes and is a powerful companion plant. Oregano deters many pests that bother summer vegetables and can improve the overall health of your garden. Plant oregano near your peppers and eggplants for natural pest control.
Mint: While mint should be planted cautiously due to its invasive nature, it’s an excellent companion for brassicas (like Brussels sprouts) and tomatoes, repelling pests like ants and aphids. Planting mint in containers can help keep it under control while benefiting from its pest-repellent properties and refreshing aroma.

Incorporating these plants into your summer garden helps manage pests naturally and adds beauty and diversity. Each plant brings its own benefits, from attracting beneficial insects to providing shade and improving the flavour of your vegetables. With careful planning, your summer garden can be a vibrant ecosystem full of life and bounty.

What to plant in Autumn

Autumn in Perth brings colder but still mild weather and more consistent rainfall, making it ideal for planting various vegetables.

The earth retains summer heat during this season while receiving more moisture, promoting healthy development.

Here are some vegetables suitable for autumn planting:

Perth vegetables to plant in Autumn

Kale

Kale thrives in lower temperatures, making fall an ideal season to plant. Plant seeds in well-drained, nutrient-rich soil in a site with full sun to moderate shade. Kale prefers a pH range of slightly acidic to neutral.

Maintain wet soil and keep an eye out for pests such as aphids. Harvesting can begin when the leaves are around the size of your hand, which normally occurs after 50-65 days.

Leek

Leeks are a cool-season crop that can be planted in early October for a winter harvest. They prefer bright sunlight and healthy, well-drained soil. Leeks require regular watering and benefit from a light mulch to keep their roots cool and moist.

When the stems are approximately 2.5 centimetres in diameter, they are normally ready to harvest in around 100 days.

Artichoke globe

Globe artichokes are a one-of-a-kind and satisfying vegetable to cultivate—plant in early autumn in a sunny, well-drained site. Plants can spread up to 1.5 metres in diameter, requiring frequent hydration and room to flourish.

Harvest the buds before they bloom the following year, usually in late spring or early summer.

Other Autumn plants to grow

Autumn in Perth offers a cooler, more forgiving climate for gardening, presenting an opportunity to introduce a variety of plants that can complement and enhance your autumn vegetable garden. Here are five plants that are perfect for growing alongside your autumn veggies and offer additional benefits such as pest control, pollination, and aesthetic appeal:

Calendula: Often known as pot marigold, calendula is a versatile companion plant that can benefit a wide range of autumn-planted vegetables like kale and leek. Its bright orange or yellow flowers attract beneficial insects, including pollinators and predators of common pests. Calendula also has medicinal properties and can be used to soothe skin irritations.
Borage: With its striking blue flowers, borage is beautiful and a fantastic companion for autumn vegetables such as brassicas (cabbage, kale) and root vegetables. Borage deters cabbage worms and can improve the growth and flavour of the plants around them. Additionally, its edible flowers can add a cucumber-like flavour to salads.
Dill: An herb with feathery foliage, dill is a great companion for brassicas by helping to repel pests like aphids and cabbage loopers. Dill attracts beneficial insects such as wasps and hover flies, which are natural predators of many garden pests. Plant dill near your autumn veggies to create a more resilient garden ecosystem.
Coriander (Cilantro): Coriander can be grown in the cooler autumn months and is beneficial when planted near spinach and lettuce. It attracts beneficial insects, including tachinid flies and parasitoid wasps, which help control pest populations. The herb is versatile in the kitchen and used in various culinary dishes.
Parsley: This culinary herb not only thrives in cooler weather but also serves as a companion to many autumn vegetables, including tomatoes and asparagus. Parsley attracts beneficial insects, such as predatory wasps and butterflies. At the same time, its dense foliage can provide a microclimate to shelter beneficial ground beetles. Its vibrant green leaves can also brighten up the autumn garden.

Incorporating these plants into your autumn garden not only enriches the biodiversity of your space but also supports the health and productivity of your vegetable crops. By choosing companions that offer mutual benefits, you create a garden that is productive, beautiful, and beneficial for the environment.

What to plant in Winter

Cooler temperatures and heavier rainfall mark Perth’s winter. Although it may appear paradoxical, this season provides a fantastic opportunity for gardeners to grow various crops.

Here are some winter-friendly vegetables that we enjoy:

What vegetables to plant in Perth for Winter

Beetroot

Beetroots are cold-tolerant and ideal for a Perth winter veggie garden. They prefer full light and soil with a neutral pH. Beetroot seeds can be put directly into the garden, making sure to space them evenly.

Watering regularly promotes healthy growth, while excessive watering might result in leafy tops and weak roots. Harvest beetroots when they are the size of a golf ball, which takes about 50-70 days.

Rhubarb

Rhubarb is a winter vegetable that thrives in chilly temperatures. Rhubarb should be planted in a sunny spot with well-drained, healthy soil.

Make sure each plant has enough space to grow. Water thoroughly and mulch around the base during dry spells to conserve moisture. In its second year, rhubarb will be ready for harvest.

Spinach

Spinach is a cold-weather crop that can be sown in the winter for a spring harvest. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained, organic-rich soil.

Watering should be done regularly, but avoid soaking the soil. When the outer leaves are large enough to eat, which normally takes 37-45 days, harvest them.

Other Winter plants to grow

While the cooler temperatures may limit some options, plenty of plants can still complement your winter vegetable garden, providing benefits such as pest control, pollination, and visual interest. Here are five plants ideal for growing during the winter months alongside your recommended winter veggies:

Violas and Pansies: These hardy flowers can bring colour to your winter garden, thriving in cooler temperatures. Planting violas and pansies near leafy greens like spinach and Swiss chard can help attract pollinators, ensuring your vegetables receive the attention they need for successful growth. Their edible flowers can also add a splash of colour to winter salads.
Alyssum: Alyssum is a low-growing, fragrant flower that can act as a living mulch, helping to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Its tiny, honey-scented flowers attract beneficial insects, such as predatory wasps and hover flies, which can help control aphid populations on nearby winter crops like kale and broccoli.
Cyclamen: Offering a pop of colour during winter, cyclamen are excellent for brightening the garden and can be planted around the edges of your vegetable plot or in containers. While not directly beneficial to vegetables regarding pest control, their vibrant flowers can help attract pollinators and keep the garden lively during the cooler months.
Garlic: Planting garlic around winter crops like beetroot and spinach can help deter pests, including aphids and rabbits, thanks to its strong scent. Garlic takes several months to mature, making winter an ideal time to plant for a late spring or early summer harvest. It also requires minimal space, making it suitable for interplanting among larger winter vegetables.
Thyme: This hardy herb can withstand cold temperatures and is beneficial when planted near brassicas, such as cabbage and broccoli, repelling cabbage worms and other pests. Thyme’s small, fragrant leaves can be harvested throughout the winter, providing fresh flavour for your dishes. Its flowers also attract pollinators, supporting the overall health of your garden.

Incorporating these plants into your winter garden not only maximises the use of your space during the cooler months but also supports a healthy, vibrant, and productive garden ecosystem. By choosing companions that offer mutual benefits, you ensure that your garden remains a thriving haven for plants and beneficial wildlife throughout the winter.

Best practices when gardening in Perth

With Perth’s unique Mediterranean climate, gardening can be both a rewarding challenge and a delightful hobby. We’re here to guide you through the best practices that ensure your garden survives and thrives, offering lush, bountiful harvests and stunning floral displays year-round.

Let’s dive into the essential techniques and tips that every Perth gardener should have up their sleeve.

Water conservation techniques

In Perth’s dry climate, where water is as precious as gold, conserving this vital resource is not just a practice but a necessity for gardeners. By adopting efficient water conservation techniques, we ensure our gardens remain vibrant and sustainable despite scorching summers and limited rainfall.

Here’s how we can make every drop count in our gardening endeavours:

Rainwater harvesting: Capturing rainwater is a game-changer for Perth gardens. By installing rain barrels or a more sophisticated rainwater harvesting system, we can collect water during rainy periods for use during drier months. This reduces reliance on mains water and provides plants with chemical-free hydration, mimicking their natural watering conditions.
Drip irrigation and soaker hoses: Ditching traditional sprinklers for drip irrigation or soaker hoses can significantly reduce water wastage. These systems deliver water directly to the base of plants, minimising evaporation and ensuring that water goes where it’s needed most. This targeted watering approach encourages deeper root growth and healthier plants.
Mulching: Applying a generous layer of mulch around plants is like giving them a protective hug. Mulch retains soil moisture, keeps roots cool, and reduces the need for frequent watering. Organic mulches, such as straw, bark, or compost, enrich the soil as they break down. Apply mulch in late spring or early summer for best results to prepare your garden for the hotter months ahead.
Watering schedule: Timing is everything when it comes to watering. Early morning or late evening water reduces evaporation, allowing more water to penetrate the soil and reach plant roots. Adjusting the watering frequency according to the season—less in cooler months and more in summer—ensures plants receive the hydration they need without wastage.
Choosing drought-resistant plants: Embracing plants that thrive in Perth’s climate can drastically reduce your garden’s water needs. Native plants and drought-resistant varieties are well-adapted to thrive with minimal watering. Species such as kangaroo paw, banksia, and grevillea conserve water, add stunning visual appeal, and support local wildlife.

By incorporating these water conservation techniques, we nurture our gardens and contribute to the sustainability of our beautiful Perth environment. Let’s lead by example, showing that lush, thriving gardens can flourish while respecting our precious water resources.

Soil health and preparation

Healthy soil is the backbone of any successful garden, acting as the foundation upon which all plants rely for nutrients, water, and support. Understanding and nurturing our soil in Perth’s diverse landscapes can make the difference between a flourishing garden and a struggling one.

Let’s explore how to ensure our soil is in prime condition for gardening success:

Soil testing: We must know what we’re working with before planting. Testing soil for its pH level and nutrient content is a simple yet effective way to gauge its health. Soil test kits are readily available at garden centres, or for a more detailed analysis, consider sending a sample to a local extension service. Interpreting the results helps us understand if our soil is acidic, neutral, or alkaline and what nutrients may be lacking, guiding our next steps in soil improvement.
Improving soil quality: If test results indicate poor soil, fear not—improving its quality is well within our reach. Incorporating organic matter like compost, well-rotted manure, or leaf mould can dramatically enhance soil structure and nutrient content. For sandy soils prevalent in Perth, organic matter increases water retention, while in clay soils, it improves drainage. Natural fertilisers, such as worm castings or fish emulsions, also boost soil fertility without the harsh effects of chemicals.
Soil aeration and drainage: Aeration allows air to circulate through the soil, providing oxygen to plant roots and encouraging healthy microbial activity. Simple tools like a garden fork can gently loosen the soil without disturbing plant roots. Good drainage is equally important, ensuring water doesn’t pool around roots, which can lead to rot. Consider raising garden beds or incorporating sand and organic matter to improve drainage for areas with heavy clay soil.
Crop rotation: Rotating crops annually is a time-tested method to prevent soil depletion and disrupt cycles of pests and diseases. By changing what’s planted in each area of your garden each year, we can naturally replenish soil nutrients and reduce the buildup of soil-borne pathogens. For example, follow nitrogen-hungry leafy greens with legumes, which fix nitrogen back into the soil, maintaining a balance that keeps the garden healthy.

Embracing these practices for soil health and preparation prepares us for gardening success. It fosters a more sustainable and environmentally friendly approach to cultivating our little piece of Perth. Our gardens can become a thriving ecosystem full of life and beauty with healthy soil.

Seasonal pests and diseases

Gardens in Perth, as vibrant and diverse as they are, can sometimes host various pests and diseases. Early identification and management are key to ensuring these unwelcome visitors don’t compromise the health and beauty of our gardens. Let’s delve into effective strategies for keeping pests and diseases at bay, focusing on environmentally friendly approaches.

Integrated Pest Management (IPM): IPM is a holistic approach combining different management strategies to control pests and diseases with minimal environmental impact. This method prioritises natural and preventative measures, using chemical controls as a last resort. Implementing IPM involves understanding the life cycles of pests and their interaction with the environment to manage them effectively and sustainably.
Monitoring and maintenance: Regular garden inspections are crucial for detecting pest and disease problems early. Make it a routine to check your plants for signs of distress, such as unusual leaf spots, wilting, or insect damage. Early detection means easier management and often prevents the need for more drastic measures.
Professional resources: While many pest and disease issues can be managed with the above strategies, some situations may require professional advice. Local extension services and gardening experts are invaluable resources for identifying problems and recommending solutions. Don’t hesitate to contact them, especially for severe or persistent issues that defy your best efforts.

Natural remedies

For gardeners seeking eco-friendly solutions, numerous natural remedies can help manage pests and diseases:

Neem oil: Extracted from the neem tree, this oil is effective against a wide range of pests and is safe for beneficial insects.
Garlic spray: A homemade garlic spray can deter various pests. Simply blend garlic cloves with water and a drop of dish soap, then spray on affected plants.
Companion planting: Planting certain plants together can naturally repel pests. For example, marigolds deter nematodes and other garden pests, while basil can help repel flies and mosquitoes.

By embracing these strategies, we can protect our Perth gardens from pests and diseases in a way that’s effective and kind to our planet. Remember, the goal is not to eliminate all pests but to maintain a healthy balance that allows our gardens to thrive.

Small space solutions tips for Perth inner city spaces

For our green-thumbed friends in Perth’s inner city, limited space doesn’t mean you have to limit your gardening dreams. Even the smallest balcony, patio, or windowsill can become a lush, productive oasis with a bit of creativity and the right approach.

Container gardening

Container gardening is a versatile and accessible way to grow plants in limited spaces. The beauty of containers is their flexibility; you can use pots, planters, and even recycled materials to create a vibrant garden. When selecting plants, consider their size and root system to match them with suitable containers. Regular maintenance, including watering, feeding, and pruning, will keep your container garden thriving. Herbs, leafy greens, and even dwarf fruit trees adapt well to container life.

Vertical gardening

Vertical gardening takes your plants to new heights, literally. You can grow various plants without sacrificing floor space by utilising vertical space with wall planters, trellises, hanging baskets, or an Airgarden. This method is perfect for decorative plants, herbs, and small vegetables. Climbing plants like beans and cucumbers or trailing varieties such as petunias and ferns are excellent choices for vertical gardens.

Window boxes and balcony gardening

Window boxes and balcony spaces offer a fantastic opportunity to bring colour and life to your urban environment. These areas can be ideal for growing various plants, from flowers to herbs and vegetables.

Consider your balcony or window’s light and wind exposure and choose plants that will thrive in those conditions. Regular watering and care are essential, as container plants can dry out quickly.

Choosing the right plants

The key to successful small-space gardening is selecting the right plants. Compact, dwarf, or climbing varieties are perfect for tight spaces. Look for plants labelled as suitable for container or small-space gardening. Edible plants like cherry tomatoes, radishes, and strawberries can be both beautiful and bountiful in small gardens.

Light maximisation

Ensuring your plants receive adequate sunlight is crucial, especially in urban settings where buildings may block natural light. Position plants in the brightest areas and rotate them regularly to ensure even growth. Reflective surfaces, such as mirrors or white walls, can help bounce light onto your plants, enhancing their exposure to sunlight.

Community gardening

For those with very limited space, community gardens offer a wonderful way to get your hands in the soil. These shared spaces provide a plot where you can grow your own plants alongside the added benefits of community support and shared knowledge. Check local councils or gardening groups in Perth for information on how to join a community garden near you.

Check out this resource for community gardens around Perth that you could potentially join!

Conclusion

Planting vegetables in their best season ensures a good and bountiful yield. With its distinct seasonal fluctuations, Perth’s unusual environment gives gardeners a wide range of opportunities to experiment with various vegetables.

From the bright sweet potatoes and chillies of spring to the substantial leeks of autumn, each season has its own set of veggies to plant. Even in the dead of winter, Perth’s environment allows for cultivating hardy vegetables such as beetroot and spinach.

Understanding the seasons will be your most valuable ally in this gratifying adventure, whether you’re a seasoned green thumb or a beginner ready to get your hands dirty. Embrace nature’s rhythms, follow the advice in this book, and you’ll soon have a flourishing vegetable garden that reflects Perth’s changing seasons.

Not from Perth? Check out our Adelaide, Tasmania, Melbourne and Sydney planting guides!