What to Plant Now in Melbourne

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Published On:

February 14, 2024

G’day, fellow Melbournian green thumbs! In this guide, we’ll go through what to plant right now in Melbourne, our beautiful city noted for its four seasons in a day.

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting, this guide will help you through Melbourne’s planting seasons.

Key takeaways

If you’re lazy like me, this comprehensive table is your go-to guide for determining the best times to plant various vegetables in Melbourne’s unique climate. It offers a month-by-month overview, ensuring you know exactly when to sow each type of vegetable for optimal growth and yield.

Vegetables

January

February

March

April

May

June

July

August

September

October

November

December

Asparagus

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Basil

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Beans

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Beetroot

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Broad beans

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Broccoli

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Brussels sprouts

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Cabbage

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Capsicum

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Carrot

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Cauliflower

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Celery

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Chickpea

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Chilli

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Chives

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Coriander

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Cucumber

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Eggplant

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Fennel

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Garlic

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Globe artichoke

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Gourd

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Jerusalem artichoke

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Kale

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Leeks

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Lettuce

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Mizuna

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Mustard greens

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Okra

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Onion

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Pak choy

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Parsley

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Parsnip

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Peanut

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Peas

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Potato

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Pumpkin

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Radish

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Rhubarb

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Rocket

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Rockmelon

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Shallot

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Silverbeet

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Spinach

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Spring onions

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Sweet potato

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Sweet corn

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Tomato

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Watermelon

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Zucchini

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Seasonal overview of Melbourne

Melbourne, Australia, has a temperate maritime climate, which means it experiences mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. The city’s location in the southern hemisphere means its seasons are opposite to those in the northern hemisphere. Here’s a general guide to growing plants in Melbourne throughout the year:

Spring (September to November)
- Temperature: Mildly increasing temperatures.
- Planting: This is a great time to plant summer veggies like tomatoes, zucchinis, and beans. Spring flowers can also be planted now.
- Maintenance: Fertilize your garden to give plants a nutrient boost for the growing season. Watch out for pests like aphids.
Summer (December to February)
- Temperature: Warm to hot.
- Planting: You can plant heat-tolerant veggies like capsicums and eggplants. It’s also a good time for herbs like basil.
- Maintenance: Regular watering is crucial, preferably in the early morning or late evening to reduce evaporation. Mulch can help retain soil moisture.
Autumn (March to May)
- Temperature: Mildly decreasing temperatures.
- Planting: Start planting winter veggies like broccoli, cauliflower, and spinach. Autumn is also a good time to plant bulbs for spring flowering.
- Maintenance: Begin to reduce watering as the weather cools. Collect and compost fallen leaves.
Winter (June to August)
- Temperature: Cold, with occasional frost.
- Planting: You can plant winter veggies like peas, onions, and garlic. Many leafy greens can also thrive in Melbourne’s winter.
- Maintenance: Protect sensitive plants from frost using covers or by moving them indoors. It’s a good time to prune deciduous trees and shrubs.

What can I plant this time of year in Melbourne?

If you can’t be bothered to read our full article, just use our planting calculator below! Plug in your desired planting month, and we’ll provide you with some recommendations on what you can plant during this time.

Melbourne Planting Calculator

What to plant in Spring: September to November

Spring veggies in box

Spring is a period of regeneration and tremendous development in Melbourne. The earth begins to warm, and the days lengthen, creating ideal circumstances for various plants. This is an excellent time to plant assorted vegetables, herbs, fruits, and floral plants. However, before you begin planting, you must first prepare your soil.

During Spring, try to improve soil fertility by adding compost or well-rotted manure. Consider adding gypsum to your thick clay soil to strengthen its structure. A soil test can also be used to evaluate the pH and nutrient content of the soil.

Flowering plants

In our experience, sun-loving annuals are best planted in Spring. Among our favourites, these are the top 5 flowering plants to grow in Spring:

Marigold: These are particularly hardy plants that can tolerate Melbourne’s unpredictable Spring weather. We recommend planting these around early Spring, that way they’ll flower in late Spring and continue through Summer.
Pansy: Pansies thrive in the cooler temperatures of Melbourne’s spring. Additionally, they come in a variety of colours and can brighten up any garden. Similar to the Marigold, plant these in early Spring for a full bloom going into Summer.
Snapdragon: These flowering plants can also survive the colder Melbourne weather while also adding height and a variety of colours to the garden! We recommend planting these around early to mid Spring.
Sweet alyssum: This low-growing plant produces clusters of tiny flowers with a sweet fragrance. It’s great for borders and can handle the varying temperatures of Melbourne’s spring.
Cornflower: Cornflowers are drought-tolerant and can handle the drier periods of Melbourne’s spring, we find as well that their bright blue flowers are a standout in any garden. For this specific plant, we find that planting in Mid-Spring offers the best results.

Ultimate, all these plants flourish in the warmer spring soil and longer days, adding a splash of colour to your landscape!

Vegetables and herbs

Spring in Melbourne is also a prime time for planting a variety of vegetables and herbs. Here are our top 5 recommendations for veggies and herbs:

Tomatoes: A staple in many gardens, tomatoes thrive in Melbourne’s mild Spring. We suggest planting them in early to mid-Spring. By the time Summer rolls around, you’ll be rewarded with juicy, ripe fruits.
Zucchinis: These versatile veggies love the Spring sun. Plant them in early Spring, and you’ll find them sprouting in no time, ready for a Summer harvest.
Basil: A fragrant herb that pairs perfectly with your Spring-planted tomatoes. Basil enjoys the warmer days of late Spring. Plant them mid-Spring, and they’ll flourish alongside your veggies.
Beans: Climbing or bush, beans are a must-have. Beans are hardy and can handle Melbourne’s unpredictable Spring weather. We recommend sowing them in early Spring for a continuous harvest through Summer. If you need more sowing tips, check out our guide on growing beans in Melbourne.
Potatoes: A staple in many gardens, potatoes thrive in Melbourne’s temperate Spring climate. Plant them from late August to November, after the risk of heavy frosts has passed. With the soil temperature hovering around the ideal 10°C, you’ll have a bountiful harvest come summer to early autumn.

If you like, you can get a head start on the growing season by starting seeds indoors. You can put the seedlings into the garden once they have acquired their first set of genuine leaves.

Fruits

Spring in Melbourne has always been a delightful season for fruit planting, here are our top 5 fruit recommendations:

Strawberries: These sweet berries love the Spring warmth. Planting them in early Spring ensures a bounty of juicy fruits come Summer. They’re a treat straight from the garden.
Blueberries: A delightful addition to any garden, blueberries thrive in Melbourne’s mild Spring. We suggest getting them in the ground in early to mid-Spring for a fruitful Summer harvest.
Raspberries: These tangy berries are a Spring favourite. Plant them in early Spring, and by the time Summer is in full swing, you’ll have a garden filled with delicious, ruby-red fruits.
Currants: Both red and black varieties flourish in the Spring sun. We recommend planting them in mid-Spring. By Summer, you’ll be enjoying their unique, sweet-tart flavour.
Figs: While they’re a longer-term commitment, fig trees start well in Spring. Plant them early in the season, and in a few years, you’ll be rewarded with succulent fruits.

All in all, these fruits favour colder spring temperatures and will yield a wonderful harvest in the summer. we say goodbye to Spring and hello to the heat of summer, let’s look at the best plants for the warmer months.

What to plant in Summer: December to February

Summer planting in garden bed

Summers in Melbourne might be hot and dry, but don’t let that prevent you! Fortunately, there are numerous heat-loving plants that will flourish in your garden.

Summer is a season of rapid development and plentiful crops, so it’s a good time to ensure your garden is well-watered and shaded by the sun’s rays.

Ornamental plants

In our horticultural adventures, Summer in Melbourne presents a vibrant canvas for ornamental plants. Here are our top 5 ornamental plant suggestions for a lively summer garden:

Lavender: This fragrant beauty thrives in Melbourne’s warm Summer days. Planting them at the start of the season ensures a garden filled with calming scents and a sea of purple by mid-Summer.
Agapanthus: Known for their striking blue and white flowers, Agapanthus stands tall in the Summer heat. We recommend planting them in early Summer, and by its peak, they’ll be in full bloom, adding elegance to your garden.
Bougainvillea: This vibrant climber loves the sun. Introduce them to your garden in early Summer, and they’ll reward you with a cascade of colourful bracts throughout the season.
Canna Lilies: With their tropical flair, Canna Lilies bring both colour and structure to the Summer garden. Plant them in early to mid-Summer, and watch them rise and shine with their bold flowers.
Ornamental grasses: Such as Fountain Grass or Feather Reed Grass, these add movement and texture to the garden. Plant them at the start of Summer, and they’ll sway gracefully, capturing the essence of warm breezy days.

Remember that even though these plants are drought-tolerant, they still require some water. To foster the growth of deep root systems, water thorough yet rarely.

Herbs and vegetables

Melbourne’s Summer has proven itself to be a season of abundance for herbs and vegetables. Here are our top 5 picks to cultivate during the sunniest months:

Capsicums: These sun-loving veggies are a Summer staple. Plant them at the onset of the season, and by late Summer, you’ll be harvesting vibrant, crunchy fruits perfect for salads and grilling.
Eggplants (Aubergines): With their glossy skins and meaty texture, eggplants thrive in the Melbourne heat. Introduce them to your garden in early Summer, and they’ll produce generously as the season progresses.
Chillies: For those who like a bit of spice, chillies are a must. Plant them in early Summer, and by its peak, you’ll have a fiery addition to your dishes.
Basil: While mentioned before, it’s worth noting that there are various types, like Thai basil or purple basil, that can be introduced in Summer. They adore the warmth and will provide aromatic leaves throughout the season.
Cucumbers: These refreshing veggies are quintessentially Summer. Plant them in early to mid-Summer, and you’ll have a crunchy addition for your salads in no time.

Mulching is essential for growing these plants. Mulch helps to keep soil hydrated, weeds at bay, and the root zone cool. Watering regularly is also crucial, but remember to water thoroughly and infrequently to encourage deep root growth.

Perennial fruits

Summer is an excellent time to plant perennial fruits such as peaches and apricots. They will require frequent watering but will give a magnificent summer yield in the coming years.

Some of our favourite fruits to plant during Summer include:

Apple trees: While they take a few years to bear fruit, once established, apple trees can provide a bountiful harvest year after year. Summer is a good time to plant young trees, ensuring they get a strong start before the cooler months.
Pear trees: Similar to apple trees, pears are a long-term investment that pays off with delicious fruits. Planting in summer gives them a chance to establish their root system.
Grapes: Grapevines not only produce delicious fruits but also add a touch of Mediterranean charm to your garden. Plant them in early summer, and with proper care, they’ll thrive in Melbourne’s climate.
Kiwi fruit: While they require a bit more care and a male and female plant for pollination, kiwi vines can be a rewarding addition to the garden. Summer planting ensures they have a good growth period before winter.
Rhubarb: While technically a vegetable, rhubarb is often used as a fruit in culinary contexts. Plant crowns in summer, and you’ll have stalks ready for pies and compotes in the following seasons.

When planting these fruits, seek a sunny spot with well-draining soil. Pruning trees on a regular basis can help keep them healthy and productive.

As the summer heat passes and the chilly breezes of fall arrive, preparing your garden for the cooler months is time.

What to plant in Autumn: March to May

Autumn veggies on white background

Autumn in Melbourne is characterised by vivid colours and milder temperatures. Additionally, it is an excellent time to plant for winter harvest and spring blossoms.

Autumn is also a good time to start thinking about winterising your garden. Mulching, composting, and trimming are examples of such activities.

Bulbs and perennials

Melbourne’s Autumn has consistently been a season of promise for bulbs and perennials. Here are our top 5 picks to cultivate during the mellow months of Autumn:

Tulips: A classic choice, tulips bring a burst of colour in Spring. Planting them in Autumn ensures they have the cold dormancy they need. By the time Spring arrives, they’ll be ready to showcase their vibrant blooms.
Daffodils: These cheerful flowers are a harbinger of Spring. Introduce them to your garden in early Autumn, and they’ll reward you with sunny yellow or white blooms after winter’s retreat.
Hyacinths: With their intoxicating fragrance and dense flower spikes, hyacinths are a garden favourite. Plant them in mid-Autumn, and come Spring, your garden will be filled with their heady scent.
Bluebells: These delicate blooms create a carpet of blue in Spring. Get them in the ground in early to mid-Autumn, and they’ll weave their magic when winter wanes.
Japanese anemones: A perennial that shines in late Summer to Autumn, their elegant, nodding blooms in pinks or whites are a sight to behold. Plant them in early Autumn, and they’ll establish themselves, ready to bloom in the following seasons.

When planting bulbs, make sure they are placed at the proper depth and in an area that receives enough sunlight. Mulching can help protect bulbs from freezing temperatures in the winter.

Cool-season vegetables

Here are our top 5 recommendations to sow during the crisp days of Autumn:

Broccoli: This nutrient-packed green thrives in the cooler temperatures of Autumn. Plant them in early Autumn, and by winter, you’ll have a garden filled with healthy, green florets ready for the kitchen.
Cauliflower: A close relative to broccoli, cauliflowers are a delight in the cool-season garden. Introduce them in early Autumn, and they’ll reward you with their creamy heads in the colder months.
Brussels Sprouts: These mini cabbages are a treat when grown in the cool climate of Autumn. Plant them early in the season, and they’ll mature just in time for winter feasts.
Kale: This superfood loves the chill of Autumn. Sow them in mid-Autumn, and you’ll have a continuous supply of curly or flat leaves, perfect for salads and smoothies.
Carrots: These root veggies appreciate the mellow temperatures of Autumn. Plant them in early to mid-Autumn, and by winter, you’ll be pulling out crunchy, sweet carrots from the soil.

When planting these vegetables, ensure they are properly spaced for the best growth. Watering and mulching regularly can help keep plants healthy.

Deciduous fruits

In our fruit-growing endeavours, Melbourne’s Autumn has consistently proven to be an opportune time for planting deciduous fruits. Here are our top recommendations for fruits that will thrive when planted during the amber hues of Autumn:

Plum Trees: These stone fruits are a garden gem. Planting them in early Autumn ensures they establish well, ready to burst into bloom come Spring and bear juicy fruits in Summer.
Cherry Trees: Known for their delightful blossoms and succulent fruits, cherries are a must-have. Introduce them to your garden in mid-Autumn, and they’ll be set to showcase their floral splendour in Spring.
Peach and Nectarine Trees: These sun-loving trees promise delectable summer fruits. Plant them in early Autumn, and they’ll have ample time to set their roots, preparing for a bountiful harvest in the warmer months.
Apricot Trees: With their golden fruits and fragrant blossoms, apricots are a treat for both the eyes and the palate. Get them in the ground in mid-Autumn, and they’ll be ready to flower and fruit in the subsequent seasons.
Persimmon Trees: A slightly more exotic choice, persimmons offer vibrant orange fruits in late Autumn. Plant them early in the season, and they’ll establish themselves, bearing their unique fruits year after year.

For these fruits, we recommend choosing a spot that receives full sun when planting these plants. Moreover, ensure that the soil drains effectively, and the trees should be watered regularly.

What to plant in Winter: June to August

Winter salad growing in garden bed

Melbourne’s winters are cold and frequently rainy, but many gardening options remain. This is an excellent time to grow hardy greens and plants that bloom in the winter. It’s also a good time to take care of your garden, getting it ready for the spring growth spurt.

Winter-flowering plants

Melbourne’s Winter, with its crisp air and shorter days, has revealed itself as a season with hidden gems for the garden. Here are our top recommendations for flowering plants that will bring colour and life to the colder months:

Camellias: These evergreen shrubs are winter wonders. Plant them in early winter, and they’ll reward you with vibrant blooms in shades of pink, red, and white, contrasting beautifully against their glossy green leaves.
Hellebores (Winter Roses): These are true winter champions. Introduce them to your garden in mid-winter, and they’ll showcase their delicate, nodding flowers in shades from deep purples to soft creams. If you love roses, check out our comprehensive guide on pruning roses in Melbourne!
Cyclamen: With their heart-shaped leaves and unique flowers, cyclamen are a delightful addition. Plant them in early winter, and they’ll brighten up the garden with their pink, white, or purple blooms.
Snowdrops (Galanthus): As their name suggests, these delicate flowers are a sign of hope in the cold. Get them in the ground in early winter, and they’ll push through the soil, presenting their dainty white flowers.
Daphne: Known for its intoxicating fragrance, Daphne is a winter must-have. Plant it in early to mid-winter, and its clustered pink and white flowers will fill the air with a sweet scent, even on the coldest days.

Remember, while Melbourne’s Winter might seem like a quiet time for the garden, these flowering plants prove that beauty thrives even in the chill.

Leafy Greens

If you’re reading this in the dead of winter, it’s time to start planting leafy greens that are frost-resistant. Of our favourites, we love planting the following winter veggies in Melbourne:

Spinach: A versatile green, spinach is undeterred by the cold. Plant it in early winter, and you’ll have tender leaves ready for salads, soups, and more throughout the season.
Kale: This hardy superfood relishes the winter chill. Introduce it to your garden in early winter, and it’ll provide a steady supply of curly or flat leaves, perfect for both raw and cooked dishes.
Silverbeet (Swiss Chard): With its vibrant stems and broad leaves, silverbeet is both ornamental and edible. Plant it in mid-winter, and it’ll grow steadily, offering a colourful and tasty addition to your winter meals.
Mustard Greens: Bringing a peppery kick to the table, mustard greens are a winter delight. Sow them in early to mid-winter, and they’ll sprout, ready to spice up your salads and stir-fries.
Pak Choi (Bok Choy): This Asian green is quick to mature and loves the cooler temperatures. Plant it in mid to late winter, and you’ll have crisp stems and tender leaves in no time, ideal for a range of dishes.

Make sure these greens get enough sunlight when growing them. While they are frost-hardy, a protective cover can help keep them safe from the elements.

Bare-rooted fruits

Planting bare-rooted trees in the winter gives them an early start, allowing them to build root systems before the growing season begins. Although dormant right now, the following will awaken during Spring:

Apple Trees: A garden classic, apple trees, when planted as bare-rooted specimens in early winter, get a head start. They’ll establish their roots during the cold, preparing for a burst of growth come Spring.
Pear Trees: Another timeless choice, pears, when introduced to your garden in mid-winter as bare-rooted plants, promise to set deep roots, ensuring bountiful harvests in the years to come.
Stone Fruits (Peaches, Nectarines, and Plums): These summer delights benefit from a winter planting. Get them in the ground in early to mid-winter, and they’ll be ready to blossom and bear in the warmer months.
Berries (Raspberries, Blackberries, and Currants): These fruiting canes, when planted bare-rooted in late winter, establish quickly. They’ll shoot up with the first signs of Spring, promising juicy berries in the seasons ahead.
Grapes: While often associated with warmer climates, grapevines, when planted as bare-rooted cuttings in mid-winter, take well to Melbourne’s climate. They’ll stretch and climb, ready to produce bunches of grapes in subsequent summers.

When planting these trees, ensure the hole is large enough to accommodate the root system. The trees should be planted at the same depth as they were at the nursery.

Companion planting in Melbourne

Companion planting serves many purposes, from deterring pests naturally and improving pollination to maximising space and enhancing plant growth.

In Melbourne, where the weather can range from scorching summer days to chilly winter nights, selecting the right plant combinations can mean the difference between a thriving and struggling garden. This approach not only aligns with sustainable gardening practices but also introduces an element of biodiversity crucial for maintaining healthy ecosystems in our backyards.

Useful combinations to consider

Companion Type	Plant 1	Plant 2	Benefits
Vegetables and Herbs	Tomatoes	Basil	Basil repels flies and mosquitoes, may enhance tomato flavour and growth.
	Carrots	Spring Onions	Spring onions repel carrot flies by masking carrot scent.
	Lettuce	Chives	Chives deter aphids, which can plague lettuce.
	Peppers	Parsley	Parsley can enhance the growth of peppers and attract beneficial insects.
Flowers and Vegetables	Marigolds	Any vegetable	Marigolds deter nematodes; beneficial for root crops.
	Nasturtiums	Cucumbers	Nasturtiums attract aphids away from cucumbers and attract pollinators.
	Sunflowers	Corn	Sunflowers can provide shade and support for corn, attract pollinators.
	Lavender	Various vegetables	Lavender attracts pollinators and repels pests like moths and mice.
Native Plants and Food Crops	Banksias	Berry Crops	Banksias attract pollinators, potentially increasing berry yield.
	Wattle (Acacia)	Leafy Greens	Wattles provide shade, wind protection, and fix nitrogen in the soil for leafy greens.
	Tea Tree (Melaleuca)	Various vegetables	Tea Tree attracts pollinators and has natural anti-fungal properties, benefiting nearby vegetables.
	Kangaroo Paw	Fruit Trees	Kangaroo Paw attracts birds and insects that can aid in pollination of fruit trees.

Additionally, here’s some actionable tips to work off when implementing companion planting in your Melbourne garden:

Start small: If you’re new to companion planting, use one or two combinations to observe how they work in your garden’s specific conditions.
Consider spacing: Ensure enough space between your plant pairings to prevent competition for water and nutrients while allowing them to benefit each other.
Timing matters: Pay attention to the growing cycles of your chosen companions. Some plants may need a head start before their companions are introduced.
Observe and adapt: Keep an eye on how your plants respond to each other. Companion planting can require trial and error, so be prepared to adjust your approach as you learn what works best in your garden.

We can create more resilient, productive, and vibrant gardens by integrating these companion planting strategies. Whether working with sprawling vegetable beds or compact balcony planters, these principles can guide us in making the most of our gardening efforts, fostering a space that thrives in harmony with Melbourne’s natural environment.

Conclusion

There’s always something to plant in Melbourne, no matter the season. You may construct a successful garden that delivers beauty and bounty year-round by recognising our city’s particular environment and seasonal fluctuations. Keep in mind that gardening is a journey, not a destination. So, let us embrace the seasons, get our hands dirty, and reap the benefits of our labour.

For more detailed information on planting in Melbourne, check out the Victorian Government’s Guide to Gardening and the Australian Plant Society’s resources. They’re fantastic references for local gardeners. Alternatively, if you’re not from the Victorian region, check out our veggie growing guides for Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth, Tasmania and Sydney.

What to Plant Now in Melbourne

Key takeaways

Seasonal overview of Melbourne

What can I plant this time of year in Melbourne?

Melbourne Planting Calculator