Monthly Planting Guide: What to Grow in January in Australia

Summer is in full swing, and your garden can be too! January is one of the best months to grow vegetables in Australia, with the warmer weather offering optimal conditions for a variety of crops. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, now is the perfect time to fill your garden with delicious, fresh produce.

In this guide, we’ll explore what to plant in different Australian regions this January. From temperate zones to tropical climates, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make your summer garden thrive. You’ll also find essential tips for soil preparation, watering and troubleshooting common gardening challenges.

Ready to grow your summer garden? Shop our Spring/Summer seed packs to get started!

Understanding Australia’s climate zones

Know your garden’s conditions

Australia’s diverse climate zones mean that what you grow will depend largely on where you live. Here’s a quick overview of the key zones:

• Temperate (e.g., Sydney, Perth, Adelaide): Warm summers and mild winters create ideal growing conditions for many crops.
• Cool/Alpine (e.g., Melbourne, Canberra, Hobart): Cooler temperatures and shorter growing seasons make hardy crops a great choice.
• Arid (e.g., Alice Springs, Dubbo): High heat and low rainfall demand heat-tolerant, drought-resistant plants.
• Tropical/Subtropical (e.g., Brisbane, Cairns, Darwin): Warm and humid conditions year-round support fast-growing, heat-loving crops.

When planning your garden, consider not only your region but also local microclimates, such as shaded areas, windy spots, or sunny corners. Adjust your planting strategy accordingly to optimize growth.

What to grow in January by region

Your regional planting guide

 Sydney, Perth, Adelaide (Temperate)

• Recommended crops:
  • Beetroot: Perfect for sunny spots, beetroot grows quickly and provides vibrant, nutritious roots.
  • Eggplant: Loves full sun and well-drained soil. Add mulch to retain moisture and prevent weeds.
  • Mint: Ideal for containers, mint thrives in temperate climates and is great for summer drinks and dishes.
• Tips: Water consistently via our self-watering system to keep the soil moist.

Melbourne, Canberra, Hobart (Cool/Alpine)

• Recommended crops:
  • Silverbeet: This hardy green is perfect for cooler climates and provides a continuous harvest.
  • Spring onion: Quick-growing and versatile, spring onions are a staple in any kitchen garden.
  • Zucchini: Thrives in rich soil and sunny spots; plant zucchinis with plenty of room to spread out.
• Tips: Protect young plants from unexpected cold snaps via our VegeCover.

Alice Springs, Dubbo (Arid)

• Recommended crops:
  • Basil: Requires regular watering in arid heat but rewards with fragrant, flavourful leaves.
  • Chilli: Thrives in the heat with deep watering and well-drained soil.
  • Leek: Needs fertile soil and consistent moisture to grow successfully.
• Tips: Use shade cloth during extreme heat to protect delicate seedlings and retain soil moisture.

Brisbane, Cairns, Darwin (Tropical/Subtropical)

• Recommended crops:
  • Capsicum: A heat-tolerant crop that grows well in the humidity of tropical zones.
  • Asian Greens: Fast-growing and perfect for stir-fries, Asian greens thrive in warm, moist conditions.
  • Radish: A quick-growing crop that’s easy to harvest in just a few weeks.
• Tips: Water plants early in the morning to avoid fungal diseases caused by prolonged dampness.

Essential summer gardening tips

Set your garden up for success

To ensure a productive garden this summer, follow these foundational tips:

Soil preparation

• Add organic compost to enrich the soil.
• Test the soil’s pH and adjust if necessary; most vegetables thrive in slightly acidic to neutral soil.
• Remove any weeds and debris before planting to give your crops a clean start.

Watering tips

• Water deeply and consistently, aiming for early morning irrigation to minimise evaporation.
• In especially hot climates, take advantage of our self-watering system for consistent watering. Read about more ways to save water and achieve efficient gardening here.

Sunlight

• Most vegetables need at least 6–8 hours of sunlight daily.
• In areas with intense summer heat, provide shade for tender plants using shade cloth or strategically placed taller plants.

Troubleshooting common summer gardening issues

Overcoming challenges in your garden

Pests

• Watch for common pests like aphids, caterpillars and snails.
• Use natural deterrents like neem oil or companion planting (e.g., marigolds to deter aphids).
• Regularly inspect plants for damage and remove pests by hand if needed.

Slow growth

• Ensure your plants are getting adequate sunlight and nutrients.
• Avoid over-watering, as it can lead to root rot.
• Use a liquid fertiliser such as our VegeBooster

Heat stress

• Protect plants during heat waves with shade cloth.
• Water more frequently during extreme heat, focusing on the root zone.

January is an exciting month for gardeners across Australia. By tailoring your planting choices to your region and following these tips for soil preparation, watering and pest management, you can set your summer garden up for success. Whether you’re growing beetroot in Sydney, zucchini in Melbourne or capsicum in Brisbane, there’s something for every gardener this season.

Kickstart your summer gardening journey today – shop our Spring/Summer seed packs and grow your best garden yet!