As winter settles in, many Australian gardeners mistakenly think it’s time to take a break. But June is full of potential when it comes to growing cool-season crops, especially when using a Vegepod! Our raised, self-watering garden beds make it easy to keep your veggie patch productive, even through the colder months.
In this month’s planting guide, we break down the best vegetables and herbs to grow in June across Australia’s climate zones, provide tips for making the most of winter conditions in your Vegepod, and share delicious seasonal recipes using your homegrown produce.
Understanding winter planting zones in Australia
Australia's diverse climates mean that what grows well in one area may not suit another. Thankfully, Vegepod makes it easier to garden in every zone by creating a protected, temperate microclimate inside your bed. Here’s how to tailor your June planting by region:
What to grow in June in your region
Sydney / Perth / Adelaide: kale, turnip, and parsnip
These southern cities enjoy relatively mild winters, making them ideal for hearty root vegetables and leafy greens.
● Kale thrives in cool weather and becomes sweeter after a frost.
● Turnips are fast-growing and love a well-drained bed.
● Parsnips take a little longer but reward patient gardeners with a sweet, nutty flavour.
Winter recipe idea: Roasted winter veggie medley
Dice kale, turnips, and parsnips. Toss with olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and salt. Roast at 200°C for 35–40 minutes. Serve as a warming side dish or toss through cooked quinoa.
Melbourne / Canberra / Hobart: cabbage, garlic, and onions
These cooler regions are perfect for long-maturing crops like garlic and onions, and frost-tolerant cabbage.
● Cabbage prefers full sun and cool air and grows best with consistent watering.
● Garlic benefits from a long, cold growing period – plant individual cloves pointed side up.
● Onions need space to bulb and do well in loose, well-aerated soil.
Winter recipe idea: Garlic and onion soup with shredded cabbage
Sauté sliced onions and garlic in butter. Add veggie stock and shredded cabbage. Simmer for 30 minutes. Serve with crusty bread for a soothing winter meal.
Alice Springs / Dubbo: carrots, spinach, and broccoli
Inland and arid regions still experience chilly nights, but winter days are ideal for growth in your Vegepod.
● Carrots love loose soil – thin them early to allow room for straight roots.
● Spinach grows quickly and tolerates light frosts.
● Broccoli needs space and consistent watering to avoid bolting.
Winter recipe idea: Warm carrot, spinach, and broccoli salad
Steam broccoli and carrots until just tender. Toss with wilted spinach, a balsamic vinaigrette and crumbled feta. Perfect as a light lunch or side dish.
Brisbane / Cairns / Darwin: Asian greens, capsicum, and basil
Northern regions stay warmer in June, allowing for more summer-style crops.
● Asian greens like Bok choy and tatsoi thrive in mild winters and grow rapidly.
● Capsicums can still be productive in warmer zones when grown in protected Vegepods.
● Basil prefers warmth but can survive in northern winters with good sun exposure.
Winter recipe idea: Stir-fried Asian greens with capsicum and basil
Quickly fry sliced capsicum in sesame oil. Add chopped Asian greens and fresh basil. Stir-fry with soy sauce, garlic and a dash of chilli for a fast and flavourful dinner.
Tips for maximising winter growth in your Vegepod
Even in winter, your Vegepod can be a powerhouse of production if you set it up for seasonal success. Here’s how:
● Use the Hothouse Cover: This PVC winter cover traps warmth and humidity, protecting your crops from frost and cold winds. Perfect for southern zones or inland chill.
● Adjust watering: Your self-watering Vegepod doesn’t need frequent top-ups in winter. Check the reservoir weekly, but avoid overwatering.
● Sunlight matters: Place your Vegepod in a sunny, north-facing spot where it can soak up the limited winter light – ideally 4–6 hours per day.
● Fertilise sparingly: Winter growth is slower, so use a low-nitrogen fertiliser once a month to keep plants nourished without overloading them.
● Mulch: Add a layer of sugarcane or pea straw to help regulate temperature and retain soil moisture.
Why Vegepod makes winter gardening easy
Traditional gardens can be tricky in winter. Cold soil, frost, pests, and poor drainage often lead to stunted growth. Vegepod solves these problems with:
● Self-watering wicking reservoirs, keeping your plants hydrated without waterlogging.
● Protective canopies that shield crops from wind, rain, and pests.
● Raised beds that stay warmer and make harvesting and maintenance easier on your back.
Whether you're a new gardener or a seasoned grow-your-own enthusiast, Vegepod takes the guesswork out of winter gardening.
Want to get growing? Explore Vegepod’s full range of raised garden beds and accessories to start growing your winter crops the easy, sustainable way.
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