As the days grow longer and the chill of Winter fades, Spring arrives in Australia with a burst of sunshine and the promise of new growth. It’s the perfect time to roll up your sleeves and get planting.
Whether you're an experienced gardener or a curious beginner, Spring is an ideal season to fill your garden with colour, fragrance and edible bounty. Australia’s diverse climate zones - from temperate to tropical - mean there’s something to grow in every region.
Here’s what to plant for a thriving Spring garden across the country:
Flowers for a Colourful Bloom
Spring is synonymous with flowers and there’s no shortage of vibrant options to bring your garden to life. In most regions, now is the time to plant marigolds, zinnias, petunias, snapdragons, cosmos and sunflowers.
These bright, cheerful blooms are hardy and flourish under the Spring sun. Geraniums and salvias are also excellent for their low-maintenance charm and long flowering seasons.
In cooler temperate areas like Melbourne, Hobart and Canberra, Spring is the time to plant dahlias, delphiniums and lilies. For a burst of early Spring colour, consider pansies and violas, which continue from late Winter into early Summer.
For fragrance and pollinators, sow lavender, alyssum and sweet peas - not only do they smell divine, but they also attract bees, which are essential for pollination.
Vegetables for a Fresh Harvest
Spring is a powerhouse season for edible gardening. As the soil warms, it’s time to sow a wide range of vegetables that will thrive in the coming months.
In most regions, plant fast-growing staples like lettuce, spinach, rocket, and silverbeet. These leafy greens love the mild spring temperatures and can be harvested regularly for fresh salads.
Root crops such as carrots, beetroot, and radishes can also be sown now - ensure your soil is loose and well-drained for the best results. For homegrown staples, plant potatoes, onions, and spring onions.
Warm-season crops like tomatoes, capsicum, zucchini, eggplant, beans and cucumbers are perfect to start now, particularly in subtropical and temperate zones. In cooler areas, consider starting these indoors or under cover and transplanting them when the risk of frost has passed.
Herbs for Every Kitchen
A Spring herb garden is a rewarding project, offering fresh flavour and fragrance all season long. Plant basil, parsley, coriander, dill, chives and mint now. These herbs thrive in full sun and moist, well-drained soil. Thyme, oregano and rosemary also do well in Spring, especially in pots where you can control their spread.
Herbs are perfect for even the smallest garden or balcony and can be grown in containers, hanging baskets, or raised beds.
Fruits and Berries
If you’re dreaming of juicy rewards in the coming months, Spring is a fantastic time to plant strawberries, blueberries and rhubarb. These perennials enjoy a sunny spot and well-composted soil.
If you have space, consider planting citrus trees like lemon, lime, or mandarin - they love the warming weather and are excellent long-term investments for your backyard.
Passionfruit vines can also go in now, ready to climb a trellis and deliver sweet fruit come Summer.
Tips for Success
- Prepare your soil: Add compost, aged manure, or organic matter to enrich the soil before planting.
- Mulch well: This helps retain moisture and keep weeds at bay.
- Water regularly: Especially in the early stages of growth. Mornings are best.
- Feed your plants: Use a balanced fertiliser to encourage strong, healthy growth.
Spring in Australia is a season of opportunity and abundance. With thoughtful planting and a little care, your garden can be filled with colour scent, and delicious harvests. So, head outside, soak in the sunshine and watch your patch of earth transform into a celebration of Spring.
