As summer continues in New Zealand, February is an excellent time to plan and plant your garden for the season ahead. Whether you're growing in a backyard, balcony, or raised garden bed like a Vegepod, choosing the right vegetables and herbs for your region will ensure a thriving, productive garden.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best vegetables and herbs to grow in different New Zealand climates, provide expert tips on soil, watering and sunlight and share recipe ideas to make the most of your fresh harvest.
February’s Top Vegetables by Region
Different climates across New Zealand mean different planting needs. Below is a breakdown of what to plant this month based on your region:
Northland / Auckland / Bay of Plenty
- Capsicum – Thrives in the warm, humid conditions of the upper North Island.
- Tomatoes – A summer staple that continues to flourish in February.
- Basil – Loves warmth and pairs beautifully with fresh tomatoes.
Wellington / Taranaki / Hawke’s Bay
- Lettuce – A quick-growing staple for refreshing summer salads.
- Spring onions – Hardy and great for adding flavour to dishes.
- Coriander – Best sown now for early autumn harvesting.
Christchurch / Dunedin
- Beetroot – A versatile root vegetable that grows well in cooler conditions.
- Cabbage – Hardy and perfect for early autumn harvests.
- Thyme – A fragrant herb that thrives in slightly cooler summer nights.
Central Otago / Queenstown / Invercargill
Carrots – Ideal for late summer planting in well-drained soil.
- Kale – Grows well in cooler temperatures and provides year-round greens.
- Parsley – A nutritious and easy-to-grow herb for southern climates.
Best Practices for Soil, Watering, and Sunlight
To ensure success, consider these best practices for growing healthy crops:
- Soil preparation: Use nutrient-rich, well-draining soil. Adding compost or organic matter enhances growth and fertility.
- Watering: In warmer regions, water deeply in the morning to prevent evaporation. Vegepod’s self-watering system makes it easy to maintain hydration.
- Sunlight: Most vegetables need at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. Adjust your Vegepod’s position to maximize exposure.
Managing February Weather Impacts on Growth
New Zealand’s February weather can be unpredictable, with heatwaves, dry spells, and occasional strong winds affecting growth. Here’s how to manage these conditions:
- Heatwaves: Provide shade for delicate plants using a Vegepod Shade Cover.
- Dry conditions: Mulch around plants to retain moisture.
- Strong winds: Secure climbing plants and ensure proper drainage in your Vegepod to prevent waterlogging.
When to Expect Harvests & Tips for Successful Yields
Most vegetables take several weeks to mature, but here’s a rough timeline for February plantings:
- Carrots – 10-12 weeks
- Beetroot – 8-10 weeks
- Capsicum – 10-12 weeks
- Tomatoes – 8-12 weeks
Tips for a Successful Harvest:
- Pick vegetables at their peak ripeness for the best taste.
- Regularly prune herbs to encourage fresh growth.
- Rotate crops each season to prevent soil depletion and pest issues.
Recipe Ideas for Each Region
Now that your garden is thriving, here are some delicious ways to use your fresh produce:
- Northland / Auckland / Bay of Plenty: Fresh tomato & basil bruschetta
- Wellington / Taranaki / Hawke’s Bay: Coriander & spring onion dumplings
- Christchurch / Dunedin: Roasted beet & cabbage salad with thyme dressing
- Central Otago / Queenstown / Invercargill: Carrot & kale stir-fry with garlic butter
February is the perfect time to plant a thriving summer garden. By choosing vegetables suited to your region, following best practices for soil and watering, and protecting your plants from the weather, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest in the coming months.