With October’s arrival, the garden comes alive, beckoning us to embrace the colors, scents, and flavors of spring. This month is the perfect time to sow and plant a variety of vegetables and herbs, ensuring a bountiful harvest in the months to come. From the vibrant greens of Asian vegetables to the juicy allure of tomatoes which can be planted after showday, here’s a comprehensive guide on what to plant in your edible garden this October.For those eager to grow passionfruit, keep an eye out for its arrival towards the end of the month!

Now is the perfect time to transplant crops such as beetroot, brassicas (broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower), lettuce, capsicum, chili, herbs, eggplant, and spring onions. Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil and add compost for a strong start. If you’re sowing directly, go for carrot, beetroot, parsnip, silverbeet, lettuce, spring onions, leeks, late peas, zucchini, pumpkin, squash, and sweetcorn.(For crops like cucumber, eggplant, capsicum, and tomato, start them under glass or in containers to protect them)

Ensure cucurbit crops are planted in mounds for better drainage and warmth, and support peas, beans, and tomatoes as they grow. Plant sweetcorn in blocks rather than rows for better pollination and mound soil around growing potato shoots. With the right care, you’ll be on your way to a flourishing garden!

Tomatoes: The Stars of Spring

Tomatoes are synonymous with the joys of gardening. Their lush foliage and plump, juicy fruits are a delight in any garden. With so many varieties available, you can find a tomato plant to suit every space, from sprawling garden beds to compact pots. Whether you prefer sweet cherry tomatoes or tangy heirlooms, planting in October gives them the best start. Growing tomatoes in pots offers flexibility without overwhelming your garden, making them a versatile choice for gardeners of all skill levels.

Top Jobs for October in the Garden ?

• • Feed your lawn – give it a spring boost with a quality lawn fertiliser to green it up after winter.

  • Set codling moth traps – now’s the time to hang them in apple and pear trees before the first moth flight.

  • Plant new season colour – petunias, impatiens and other summer annuals are arriving, perfect for pots, baskets and beds.

  • Plant citrus – lemons, limes and mandarins thrive when planted as the soil warms up.

  • Watch for aphids – keep an eye on roses, maples and veggies; treat early with eco-oil or soap sprays.

  • Get your tomatoes started – sow seeds indoors or plant seedlings into pots to get a head start before Show Day.

  • Check your potatoes – last chance to grab certified seed potatoes and get them into the ground.

  • Mulch garden beds – use pea straw or sugar cane mulch to lock in moisture, or give our WhoFlungDung a go – it’s amazing stuff!

A successful edible garden starts with healthy soil. Adding organic matter is crucial as it nurtures beneficial bacteria, creating a thriving ecosystem for your vegetables. Mulching is equally important—it acts as a natural shield, reducing moisture evaporation and maintaining consistent soil temperature. This extra layer of care keeps your garden lush and vibrant, ensuring your plants grow strong and healthy.

In Conclusion

October is a month of renewal and opportunity in the garden. By planting a diverse range of vegetables and herbs, including the likes of Asian greens, brassicas, tomatoes, pumpkins, and the ever-delightful peas, you set the stage for a season filled with fresh, healthy produce. So get out there, embrace the scents and flavors of spring, and let your garden flourish.

Happy Gardening!