So You Wanna Be a January Gardener in Melbourne? You're Braver Than You Think
January in Melbourne. The sun's out, the kookaburras are cackling, and everyone's sporting that fetching shade of lobster red they only manage this time of year. It's a scorcher! But while you might be tempted to grab a sprinkler and a deckchair and call it a day in the garden department, there's actually a surprising amount you can achieve with a little know-how (and maybe a giant hat).
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| What Can I Plant In January In Melbourne |
Planting in the Land Down Under the Hot Sun: Not Quite Mad Max, But Keep Calm and Carry On
Let's be honest, Melbourne in January isn't exactly prime real estate for delicate seedlings. Most things would rather be chilling on a beach with a cocktail umbrella than braving the Aussie summer sun. But fear not, green thumb wannabes! There are still some champions that can thrive in the heat:
- The Heat Lovers: Think eggplant, zucchini, capsicum (get ready for some homegrown fajita nights!), and even some tomato varieties. Just be sure to plant these towards the end of January when the worst of the heat might (hopefully) have subsided a touch.
- Salad Superstars: While it's generally not ideal for seed sowing, you can still enjoy a taste of freshness with some lettuce, rocket, and other salad greens. Plant these seedlings (young plants, not seeds) and keep them well-watered and shaded during the hottest part of the day.
- The Underdog Root Vegetables: If you have a wicking bed (a raised garden bed that uses a reservoir system to keep the soil consistently moist), then you might be able to try some root vegetables like beetroot.
But remember: When it comes to summer planting in Melbourne, water is your best friend. Make sure everything you plant gets a good soaking regularly, especially during heatwaves.
QuickTip: Pay close attention to transitions.
The Great Indoors: Because Let's Face It, It's Hot Out There
While the outdoors might be a bit of a gamble in January, you don't have to abandon your gardening dreams entirely. Here's your chance to become a master of the indoor herb garden. Basil, coriander, and even some chilli varieties can flourish on a sunny windowsill, adding a touch of freshness to your summer kitchen.
Top tip: Repurpose pretty mugs or teacups with drainage holes as quirky herb planters.
Tip: Absorb, don’t just glance.
FAQ: Conquering the Summer Garden in Melbourne
How to keep my seedlings alive in the heat?
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- Plant them towards the end of the month and give them a shady spot during the hottest part of the day.
- Use a mister to keep them consistently moist.
How much water do my summer plants need?
QuickTip: Let each idea sink in before moving on.
- Plenty! Aim to water them deeply every day, or even twice a day during heatwaves.
What if I don't have a wicking bed? Can I still grow root vegetables in January?
- Not really. The heat and dry conditions make it difficult for them to thrive without the consistent moisture a wicking bed provides.
Is it too late to plant anything in January?
QuickTip: A quick skim can reveal the main idea fast.
- It depends! You might be pushing your luck with some things, but there are still some heat-loving options and salad greens you can try.
Should I just give up and wait for autumn?
- Absolutely not! Embrace the challenge, and if all else fails, at least you'll have a good story to tell come autumn planting season.
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