In the subtropics, the cool season for growing is remarkably brief. Unlike temperate regions that enjoy an extended spring season, we in the subtropics have a limited window to cultivate certain crops. However, this short cool season presents unique opportunities for gardeners who can adapt their planting strategies to maximise their yield.
Exploiting the Short Cool Season
The cool season in subtropical regions is a narrow window of opportunity for growing a variety of vegetables that thrive in cooler temperatures. This period is crucial for plants that prefer milder conditions, which would otherwise struggle in the intense heat of our extended summers. Gardeners in these regions must plan carefully to ensure they make the most of this brief season.
Growing Spring Crops in Winter
For areas within the subtropics that don't experience frost, the winter season offers a unique advantage. It allows gardeners to grow vegetables typically planted in spring. This frost-free period can effectively serve as an early start to the traditional growing season, enabling subtropical gardeners to produce crops ahead of other regions.
Favourite Winter Vegetables for Subtropical Gardens
Here is a detailed exploration of some of my favorite vegetables to grow during the winter in the subtropics. These choices reflect both personal preferences and practical considerations suited to our climate.
Snow Peas
One of the standout vegetables for the subtropical winter garden is the snow pea, particularly the Giant Yakumo variety. This variety is notable for its striking purple flowers, which not only add a touch of beauty to the garden but also produce some of the largest snow peas you will ever see. Snow peas thrive in the cooler temperatures of our winter, providing a delicious and crisp addition to salads and stir-fries.
Varieties we love:
- Giant Yakumo
- Oregon Sugar (recommended for smaller spaces)
Growing Tips for snow peas
- Planting Time: Early winter
- Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil: Well-drained, rich in organic matter
- Watering: Regular, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged
Broccoli
Broccoli is a staple in many households, including mine. This year, I planted 20 broccoli plants at the start of autumn, and the succession planting continues. You’ll want to opt for fast growing varieties at this time of year otherwise your heads won’t form when the heat hits in September. Although it's now too late to plant cauliflower, the broccoli harvest is still going strong. Broccoli's ability to withstand cooler temperatures makes it an ideal winter vegetable in the subtropics.
Varieties we love:
Growing Tips
- Planting Time: Late autumn to early winter
- Sunlight: Full sun
- Soil: Fertile, well-drained
- Watering: Regular, with deep watering to promote root growth
Sugar Snap Peas
Sugar snap peas are a favourite in my garden. Sugar snap peas are not only delicious and sweet but also highly productive, making them a valuable addition to the winter garden. They can sometimes be problematic to grow as they are prone to powdery mildew so stick to varieties that are more resilient.
Varieties we love:
Growing Tips
- Planting Time: Early winter
- Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil: Loose, well-drained, and rich in organic matter
- Watering: Consistent moisture, avoiding waterlogged conditions
Kohlrabi
Kohlrabi isn’t a typical veggie you see in Australian kitchens but it is a must for your veggie patch.This versatile vegetable is easy to grow and matures quickly, providing a crunchy and flavorful addition to salads, slaws, and roasted vegetable dishes. Great one to grow if you don't have the patience to grow a cabbage.
Varieties we love:
Growing Tips
- Planting Time: Late autumn to early winter
- Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil: Rich, well-drained
- Watering: Regular, ensuring the soil stays moist
Carrots
Carrots were initially a challenge due to my misconception about their growing time and space requirements. However, I discovered several quick-maturing varieties like Red Kuroda and the parris market, which have changed my approach. These varieties are perfect for the limited space and shorter growing season of the subtropics.
Varieties we love:
Growing Tips
- Planting Time: Early to mid-winter
- Sunlight: Full sun
- Soil: Loose, well-drained
- Watering: Regular, maintaining consistent soil moisture
Asian Greens
Asian greens are a staple over the cool season. We love Tatsoi, Pak Choi and Mustard greens. Tatsoi, also known as "spoon mustard," is a highly versatile and nutritious green that thrives in cooler temperatures. Its rosette of dark green leaves can be harvested at various stages, from baby greens to mature leaves, making it an excellent choice for continuous harvest throughout the winter. Pak Choi, or Bok Choy, is a popular Asian green that is well-suited to subtropical winter gardening. With its crisp, white stalks and tender green leaves, Pak Choi is perfect for stir-fries, soups, and salads. It grows quickly and can be harvested at various stages, from baby to full-sized plants.
Favourite Varieties:
Growing Tips
- Planting Time: Early winter
- Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil: Fertile, well-drained
- Watering: Regular, with deep watering to promote root growth
Winter gardening in the subtropics offers numerous opportunities to grow a variety of delicious and nutritious vegetables. By carefully selecting crops that thrive in cooler temperatures and making the most of our short cool season, gardeners can enjoy a bountiful harvest.
