Seasonal Grow Guide - Tropical Climate

Australia has multiple climates which means some fruits and vegetables grow better in different seasons than others. 

For the Tropical climate, which encompasses the northernmost regions of Australia, such as Queensland and the Torres Strait Islands, the weather is characterised by high temperatures and humidity throughout the year. This makes it an ideal environment for a wide variety of fruits and vegetables to thrive.

When it comes to the tropical climate in Australia, there are a few towns that stand out as being included in this zone. One of these towns is Cairns, located in far north Queensland, Darwin, the capital city of the Northern Territory. Other towns in the tropical zone of Australia include Port Douglas, Townsville, and Broome. 

Take a look at whats good to grow throughout the seasons whether it be Summer, Autumn, Winter or Spring:

Summer

In this region, summer brings forth an abundance of delicious tropical fruits, with their sweet and refreshing flavours providing a much-needed respite from the scorching heat. 

Below we look at what fruit and vegetables to grow in the tropical part of Australia:

Summer Vegetable, fruits and herbs to grow:

Amaranth, Artichoke (Globe), Asparagus, Asparagus Pea, Basil, Beans (Climbing and bush), Beetroot, Burdock, Cabbage (loose headed), Cabbage (tight-headed), Capsicum, Carrots, Celeriac, Celery, Chilli, Chives, Choko, Cucumber, Eggplant, Endive, Ginger, Leeks, Lettuce, Luffa, Malabar Greens, Okra, Potatoes, Pumpkin, Radish, Rockmelon, Rosella, Salsify, Silverbeet, Squash, Sunflower, Sweet Corn, Tomatoes, Watermelon 

Photos in order of month to grow: DECEMBER/ JANUARY/ FEBRUARY

What to grow in Autumn (tropical zone)

As the days gradually become shorter and the temperatures start to cool down, autumn arrives, bringing with it a delightful array of fruits such as passion fruits, guavas, and custard apples. These fruits not only offer a tantalising taste but also provide a rich source of essential vitamins and minerals.

As autumn arrives in the tropical climate of Australia, the scorching heat starts to subside, making way for pleasant and temperate weather. 

Autumn Vegetable, fruits and herbs to grow:

Amaranth, Artichoke (Globe), Asparagus, Asparagus Pea, Basil, Beans (Climbing and bush), Beetroot, Burdock, Cabbage (loose headed), Cabbage (tight-headed), Capsicum, Carrots, Celeriac, Celery, Chicory, Chilli, Chives, Choko, Coriander, Cucumber, Dill, Eggplant, Endive, Florence Fennel, Garlic, Ginger, Kohlrabi, Lettuce, Long Yam, Luffa, Malabar Greens, Mustard Greens, Okra, Parsley, Parsnip, Peas/Snow Peas, Potatoes, Pumpkin, Quinoa, Radish, Rocket, Rockmelon, Rosella, Salsify, Silverbeet, Squash, Sunflower, Sweet Corn, Sweet Potato, Taro/Coco yam, Turnip, Warrigal Greens, NZ Spinach, Water Chestnut, Watermelon

Photos in order of month to grow: MARCH/ APRIL/  MAY

Winter

Finally, as winter sets in, the tropical climate experiences milder temperatures, allowing for the cultivation of vegetables such as carrots, broccoli, and cauliflower. These hearty and nutritious vegetables provide a comforting and nourishing addition to winter meals, helping to keep the body warm and healthy during the cooler months.

Winter Vegetable, fruits and herbs to grow:

Amaranth, Artichoke (Globe), Asparagus, Asparagus Pea, Basil, Beans (Climbing and bush), Beetroot, Bok Choy, , Broccoli, Brussels Sprouts, Burdock, Cabbage (loose headed), Cabbage (tight-headed), Capsicum, Carrots, Celeriac, Celery, Chicory, Chilli, Chives, Coriander, Cucumber, Dill, Eggplant, Endive, Florence Fennel, Garlic, Jerusalem Artichoke, Kale, , Kohlrabi, Leeks, Lettuce, Luffa, Malabar Greens, Mustard Greens, Okra, Onion, Oregano, Pak Choy, , Parsley, Parsnip, Peas/Snow Peas, Potatoes, Pumpkin, Radish, Rocket, Rockmelon, Salsify, Shallots, Silverbeet, Squash, Sunflower, Sweet Corn, Sweet Potato, Tomatoes, Turnip, Turnips / Swedes, Warrigal Greens, NZ Spinach, Watermelon, Zuchini / Squash

Photos in order of month to grow: JUNE/ JULY/ AUGUST

What to grow in Spring (tropical zone)

With the arrival of spring, the tropical climate of Australia bursts into bloom, showcasing an array of vibrant vegetables that are as visually appealing as they are nutritious. From crunchy cucumbers and vibrant bell peppers to leafy greens like spinach and kale, the spring season offers a cornucopia of fresh produce that can be enjoyed in salads, stir-fries, and other culinary creations.

So whether it's the juicy sweetness of tropical fruits in summer, the vibrant colours of spring vegetables, or the hearty warmth of winter produce, the tropical climate of Australia offers a diverse and bountiful range of fruits and vegetables throughout the year. Embracing the unique flavours and nutritional benefits of these seasonal offerings can truly enhance any culinary experience in this region.

The weather is cooler, and the gardens have been well and truly watered, and unattended. Easter Weekend will be the perfect cool temp to get all those outside gardens fresh. Now is your time to push gardening and make sure you have enough stock to keep your gardeners happy!

Spring Vegetable, fruits and herbs to grow:

Amaranth, Artichoke (Globe), Asparagus, Asparagus Pea, Basil, Beans (Climbing and bush), Beetroot, Burdock, Cabbage (loose headed), Cabbage (tight-headed), Capsicum, Carrots, Celeriac, Celery, Chicory, Chilli, Chives, Choko, Coriander, Cucumber, Dill, Eggplant, Endive, Florence Fennel, Garlic, Ginger, Kohlrabi, Lettuce, Long Yam, Luffa, Malabar Greens, Mustard Greens, Okra, Parsley, Parsnip, Peas/Snow Peas, Potatoes, Pumpkin, Quinoa, Radish, Rocket, Rockmelon, Rosella, Salsify, Silverbeet, Squash, Sunflower, Sweet Corn, Sweet Potato, Taro/Coco yam, Turnip, Warrigal Greens, NZ Spinach, Water Chestnut, Watermelon

Photos in order of month to grow: SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER/ NOVEMBER