August marks an exciting transition in Australia’s gardening calendar as spring draws closer. Vegetable gardens burst into life, flowers bloom with vibrance, and herbs flourish under the warming sun. This post dives deep into what Australians can plant in August across different zones of the continent, focusing on vegetables, flowers, herbs, and landscape plants.
Australia’s diverse climate means that planting recommendations vary significantly from one region to another. Below, we explore what to plant in August for various regions, providing vital information on temperature tolerance and ideal planting times.
Vegetables To Plant
August is a fantastic time to plant a variety of vegetables that thrive as the weather warms up. Below are key vegetables that can be planted in different regions.
Beans (Common and Climbing Types)
Beans are an excellent choice for an August planting, especially as they favor warmer weather. In northern regions like Queensland, you can plant varieties such as bush beans or climbing beans.
Temperature Tolerance: Beans thrive in temperatures between 20°C to 30°C.
Planting Dates: In northern Australia, August is prime time for sowing seeds. In colder regions like Tasmania, it’s advisable to start beans indoors or wait until September for outdoor planting due to lower soil temperatures.
Broccoli
Broccoli is a hardy vegetable that can be planted in the cool of August. This vegetable prefers sunny locations and rich, well-drained soil.
Temperature Tolerance: Best planted when daytime temperatures reach 15°C to 25°C.
Planting Dates: In southern regions, especially Tasmania and Victoria, plant seeds for seedlings in August to transplant them next month. In Northern Australia, ensure seeds are sown directly into the ground by mid-August.
Carrots
Carrots are relatively easy to grow and can be sown directly into the soil during August.
Temperature Tolerance: They prefer cooler temperatures, around 10°C to 20°C.
Planting Dates: Suitable for planting across all regions, particularly southern zones in August, as this allows for a harvest before the extreme summer heat arrives.
Lettuce
A versatile crop that can be harvested multiple times, lettuce can thrive in a range of conditions.
Temperature Tolerance: Lettuce prefers temperatures between 12°C and 20°C.
Planting Dates: In southern parts of Australia, August is perfect for sowing. In the warmer northern areas, it’s ideal to plant in early August to take advantage of the cool weather.
Spinach
Spinach is a fast-growing leafy green that does well in cooler temperatures.
Temperature Tolerance: It grows best in temperatures of 10°C to 20°C.
Planting Dates: Southern states can start their seeds indoors in August, while northern states can sow directly in the garden to enjoy fresh spinach before the summer heats up.
Peas
August marks an ideal time to sow peas, as these plants thrive in cooler weather.
Temperature Tolerance: They grow best when daytime temperatures are between 10°C and 20°C.
Planting Dates: Southern and central regions can plant pea seeds in August, while in warmer northern climates, mid to late August is ideal for sowing.
Radishes
Radishes grow exceptionally fast and are perfect for beginner gardeners.
Temperature Tolerance: They prefer milder temperatures of around 15°C to 20°C.
Planting Dates: August is perfect for sowing radishes in all Australian regions, ideal for quick harvesting.
Onions
Onions are a versatile vegetable that grow best when planted in winter to early spring.
Temperature Tolerance: Onions thrive in cool to mild temperatures, specifically between 15°C to 25°C.
Planting Dates: August is suitable for planting onions in southern Australia. In warmer regions, it’s best to start them indoors to later transplant them to the garden.
Swiss Chard
Rich in nutrients and colorful, Swiss chard is an excellent leafy green that can be planted in August.
Temperature Tolerance: Tolerates warmer temperatures well, around 15°C to 24°C.
Planting Dates: This versatile plant can be sown in August in all regions of Australia, making it accessible for all gardeners.
Zucchini
As the weather starts to warm, zucchini is a wonderful vegetable that can be planted in August.
Temperature Tolerance: Optimal temperatures for growth are between 20°C to 30°C.
Planting Dates: Begin planting zucchini seeds in late August in southern regions to allow enough time for a fall harvest while waiting for spring in northern states.
Flowers To Plant
Flowers not only add beauty to gardens but also attract beneficial pollinators. Here are ten flowers that thrive when planted in August.
Marigolds
Marigolds are a hardy flower perfect for early spring planting. Their bright blooms add vibrance to any garden.
Temperature Tolerance: Marigolds prefer temperatures above 15°C.
Planting Dates: August is suitable for all regions in Australia, but ensure the last frost date has passed before sowing.
Petunias
These delightful flowers come in numerous colors and can adapt well to various conditions.
Temperature Tolerance: Thrives in temperatures between 10°C and 25°C.
Planting Dates: In southern regions, start planting seedlings in August. In the north, sow seeds indoors for transplantation later.
Pansies
Pansies prefer cooler weather and provide delightful spring colors.
Temperature Tolerance: Ideal growing temperatures are from 10°C to 20°C.
Planting Dates: Go ahead and plant pansies in August in southern zones, while northern gardeners might want to wait until early September for best results.
Sweet Peas
These fragrant flowers are not only lovely to look at, but also have a delightful scent.
Temperature Tolerance: Sweet peas prefer cooler temperatures, around 10°C to 20°C.
Planting Dates: Southern regions can start sowing seeds in August, while northern gardeners should hold off until late August to ensure viable conditions.
Cosmos
A hardy annual flower, Cosmos can bloom throughout spring to summer when planted in early spring.
Temperature Tolerance: Grows best in warm temperatures above 15°C.
Planting Dates: August is favorable for sowing seeds in all parts of Australia.
Snapdragons
These elegant flowers are popular for their unique shape and vibrant colors.
Temperature Tolerance: Snapdragons thrive in cooler conditions, ideally around 10°C to 20°C.
Planting Dates: Best sown in southern regions in August and can be started early indoors in the north.
Calendula
Calendula flowers are not only beautiful, but their petals are also edible and often used in cooking.
Temperature Tolerance: Prefers cooler temperatures, around 10°C to 20°C.
Planting Dates: August is appropriate for sowing in all regions, making them accessible for every gardener.
Sunflowers
These tall, cheerful flowers bring life to any landscape.
Temperature Tolerance: They flourish in warmer conditions, ideally above 20°C.
Planting Dates: In southern zones, plant towards the end of August. In northern regions, early August is great to get them started.
Geraniums
Known for their resilience and vibrant blooms, geraniums are excellent for long-term planting.
Temperature Tolerance: They thrive in warm temperatures, between 15°C and 25°C.
Planting Dates: August is perfect for starting geraniums, particularly in warmer regions, while southern areas can wait until the temperatures rise.
Nigella (Love-in-a-Mist)
These charming annuals feature intricate flowers and distinctive seed pods.
Temperature Tolerance: Nigella prefers cooler temperatures, around 15°C.
Planting Dates: Suitable for sowing in August across various regions, making them a diverse choice for floral enthusiasts.
Herbs To Plant
Herbs provide wonderful additions to culinary dishes alongside thriving in gardens. Here are ten herbs that gardeners can successfully sow in August.
Basil
A summer favorite, basil is perfect for planting in August as the aroma and flavor transform dishes.
Temperature Tolerance: Optimal growth occurs when the temperature is above 12°C.
Planting Dates: Warm-season regions can sow seeds from early August onwards, while cooler areas might want to start them indoors.
Parsley
Parsley is a versatile herb that is invaluable in many dishes, featuring a vibrant green appearance.
Temperature Tolerance: It thrives best in temperatures of 15°C to 25°C.
Planting Dates: Plant parsley seeds in August throughout most regions for a flavorful addition to your summer meals.
Coriander
Coriander is a popular culinary herb used widely across various cuisines.
Temperature Tolerance: Ideally suited to cooler temperatures between 15°C and 25°C.
Planting Dates: Plant coriander seeds in August in southern Australia, while northern states can sow seeds early in the month.
Chives
Chives are a perennial favorite, easy to grow and harvest from as they grow quickly.
Temperature Tolerance: Prefers mild temperatures of around 15°C to 20°C.
Planting Dates: August is great for sowing seeds and dividing existing chive plants for growth across all regions.
Thyme
This culinary herb is hardy and drought-tolerant, making it easy to maintain.
Temperature Tolerance: Grows best in temperatures above 15°C.
Planting Dates: Start planting in August in warmer regions and set out seedlings in the south by mid-August.
Dill
Dill is not only tasty in cooking but also attracts beneficial insects.
Temperature Tolerance: Grows best in cooler conditions, ideally between 10°C and 20°C.
Planting Dates: Aim to plant dill seeds in August across southern and central regions while northern states may need to hold off slightly.
Oregano
This perennial herb is used widely in Mediterranean dishes and grows robustly.
Temperature Tolerance: Thrives in warm conditions, ideally above 15°C.
Planting Dates: Opening up in August is suitable for sowing in warmer regions, while in the south, waiting until later in the month might better suit growing conditions.
Mint
Mint is a vigorous perennial that can take over if not contained but adds fresh flavor to beverages and dishes.
Temperature Tolerance: Prefers milder growth conditions around 15°C to 25°C.
Planting Dates: August is a perfect month to start mint in most regions.
Fennel
Fennel adds flavor and a unique taste profile to various dishes, making it a worthy addition to any garden.
Temperature Tolerance: Suited to temperatures of 15°C to 25°C.
Planting Dates: In southern states, planting fennel in August is excellent for spring harvesting, while northern zones may begin at the end of the month.
Sage
Sage is a hardy culinary herb that’s easy to grow and great for flavoring various dishes.
Temperature Tolerance: Thrives in temperatures above 15°C.
Planting Dates: Great for cultivation in August across all regions.
Landscape Plants To Plant
Landscaping can transform the aesthetics of your garden, and August offers the perfect time to implement various plants.
Lavender
Renowned for its fragrance and hardiness, lavender is a perfect addition to any landscape.
Temperature Tolerance: Ideal growing conditions are between 15°C and 25°C.
Planting Dates: Suitable for spring planting in all zones, it can be sown directly in the ground in August.
Native Grasses
Incorporating native grasses into your landscape promotes biodiversity and reduces the need for watering.
Temperature Tolerance: Varies by species but typically tolerates a range of 10°C to 30°C.
Planting Dates: August is the perfect time to plant many native grass seeds across the Australian landscape.
Kangaroo Paw
This iconic Australian plant features striking flowers that attract native wildlife.
Temperature Tolerance: Thrives in well-drained soils in temperatures ranging from 10°C to 30°C.
Planting Dates: Good for planting in warmer regions in August, they can tolerate some frost but prefer the milder conditions of spring.
Bottlebrush
Recognizable with its unique blooms, the bottlebrush is a beautiful addition to any garden.
Temperature Tolerance: These can tolerate a range of temperatures but thrive in conditions above 15°C.
Planting Dates: Planting in August allows this resilient plant to establish well before the harsher summer months.
Agapanthus
These hardy plants add a spectacular touch with their round clusters of blue or white flowers.
Temperature Tolerance: Thrives in warm conditions, optimal above 15°C.
Planting Dates: August is ideal for planting these plants in southern and eastern Australia.
Flax Lily
Flax Lily is a native plant that flourishes beautifully, enhancing any landscape.
Temperature Tolerance: Tolerates varied temperatures well, thriving at 15°C to 25°C.
Planting Dates: An excellent choice for planting in August, it works well in diverse conditions.
Callistemon (Bottlebrush)
These evergreen shrubs are popular for their colorful flowers and ability to attract birds.
Temperature Tolerance: They thrive in temperatures ranging from 10°C to 30°C.
Planting Dates: Ideal for planting in August in most regions, they help maintain biodiversity and aesthetics.
Liriope
A great ground cover plant, Liriope is ideal for shaded areas and can add gorgeous greenery.
Temperature Tolerance: Tolerant of warm temperatures, ideally suited above 15°C.
Planting Dates: Perfect for planting in all areas during August, as it flourishes with favorable care.
Hakea
Hakea creates a stunning visual impact with its unique leaves and flowers and is excellent for conserving water.
Temperature Tolerance: Can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but prefers conditions above 15°C.
Planting Dates: Ideal to sow seeds in August in temperate regions, ensuring they thrive all spring.
