With summer officially starting next week, it’s time to make the most of the growing season in your kitchen garden. For those in frost-prone regions like the Southern Highlands of NSW, where frosts only ended four-five weeks ago, careful planning is key to ensuring a thriving garden. Let’s explore what you should be planting now and what should already be well underway.
Understanding Your Frost-Prone Garden
In areas where frosts persist late into spring, the soil may still be warming up. Delicate seedlings might have struggled earlier, but with frost-free nights, now is the ideal time to plant summer favourites while ensuring they have a strong start.
What to Plant Now
Here’s a guide to planting for early summer in your region:
- Heat-Loving Vegetables
- Tomatoes: If you haven’t already planted them, transplant sturdy seedlings now. Stake them early for support.
- Capsicums and Chillies: These thrive in the warmth; plant in a sunny, sheltered spot.
- Cucumbers and Zucchini: Sow seeds directly now, or plant advanced seedlings. Ensure good airflow to prevent mildew.
- Corn: Perfect for summer barbecues, plant in blocks for better pollination.
- Beans
- Climbing or bush beans can still be sown for a continuous harvest. Beans grow quickly and thrive in summer heat.
- Root Vegetables
- Carrots and beetroot can be direct sown. Their roots will develop beautifully as the soil warms.
- Herbs
- Basil is a summer essential—perfect for pairing with homegrown tomatoes.
- Dill, coriander, and parsley will bolt in high heat, so plant in partial shade for slower growth.
What Should Already Be Growing
If you started planting four weeks ago when frosts ended, your garden might already feature:
- Leafy greens: Spinach, rocket, and lettuces should still be thriving. Regular harvesting will encourage fresh growth.
- Snow peas and broad beans: These cooler-weather crops should be finishing up soon, making space for summer plants.
Tips for Success
- Mulch for Moisture
Mulching is crucial in summer to retain soil moisture and regulate temperatures. Straw, sugarcane mulch, or lucerne work well. - Water Wisely
Water deeply in the morning to encourage root growth. Avoid watering in the evening to reduce the risk of fungal diseases. - Feed Your Plants
Use a balanced organic fertiliser to promote healthy growth, especially for heavy feeders like tomatoes and zucchinis. - Protect from Pests
With the warmer weather, pests like aphids and whiteflies become more active. Use companion planting (e.g., marigolds with tomatoes) and natural deterrents to keep them at bay.
A Final Note
As summer begins, your kitchen garden will be a source of fresh, delicious produce for months to come. Whether you’re planting your first seeds or nurturing established plants, embrace the season and enjoy the rewards of your hard work.
Happy gardening, and here’s to a fruitful summer harvest!