September Planting & Garden Guide

Vegetables to Plant

1. Tomatoes
   

   September is an ideal time for starting tomatoes as they thrive in the warming soil of early spring. Make sure to plant in full sun with well-draining soil. Stake them early to support growth. Water at the base to avoid leaf disease and feed with a potassium-rich fertiliser as flowers appear.

2. Capsicum
   

   Capsicum are sun-lovers and need the longer daylight hours of spring to flourish. Choose a sunny, sheltered spot to plant. Mulch them in to keep the roots warm and pick regularly to encourage continuous fruiting.

3. Beans (bush & Climbing)
   

   Beans are quick to mature and love spring warmth. Sow directly in the soil and provide a trellis or stake for climbers. Avoid overwatering. 

4. Zucchini
   

   They germinate quickly in warming soil and provide a good yield. You will need to give them space to sprawl in a full sun area. Water deeply but avoid wetting leaves to prevent mildew.

5. Lettuce
   

   A cooler-season leafy green that will still thrive in early spring. Provide some shade during hotter afternoons and keep the soil moist. Make sure to harvest leaves frequently to encourage new growth.

Fruits to Plant

1. Strawberries

   September is generally the end of the planting season, but you can still establish runners for late spring fruiting. Plant them in full sun and enrich the soil with compost. Remove runners to encourage fruit production. You may also have to protect them from birds with netting.

2. Rockmelon & Watermelon
   

   These fruit need warm soil and long growing time. Sow seeds directly and ensure plenty of space, as they have sprawling vines as they grow. Water consistently and feed every two weeks with liquid fertiliser.

3. Passionfruit
   

   Planting passionfruit now gives vines time the establish before summer growth. You will need to provide a sturdy trellis or fence for climbing. Water regularly and mulch well to keep the roots cool. You can also apply liquid seaweed for strong vine health.

Herbs to Plant

1. Parsley
   A hardy herb that thrives in autumn. Water consistently and grow in a partly shaded area if the weather is still warm.
2. Coriander
   Best grown in autumn to avoid bolting in the heat. Prefers a cooler, shaded position and consistent watering. It can grow quickly, so harvest often to encourage more leafy growth.

3. Basil
   

   Basil loves heat, so starting it in late winter gives a head start for summer pesto! Plant in full sun in fertile soil or pots. Pinch out tips regularly to encourage bushy growth and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. are sun-lovers and need