As summer transitions into autumn, New Zealand’s gardens welcome cooler temperatures and perfect planting conditions. Autumn is one of the best seasons for growing, as the soil remains warm while milder conditions reduce stress on young plants. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting with a Vegepod, now is the ideal time to prepare for a thriving veggie garden.
Why Autumn is the Perfect Planting Season
- Less watering required – Cooler temperatures and increased rainfall reduce the need for frequent watering.
- Extended growing season – Many vegetables and herbs planted in autumn will continue to grow into winter.
- Fewer pests – Summer pests decline, reducing the need for intensive pest control.
- Improved soil conditions – Soil holds moisture better, supporting strong plant growth.
Best Vegetables and Herbs to Grow by Climate Zone
Auckland / Northland / Bay of Plenty
- Vegetables: Broccoli, cauliflower, kale, carrots, beetroot, spinach.
- Herbs: Coriander, chives, parsley, oregano, thyme.
Wellington / Taranaki / Hawke’s Bay
- Vegetables: Brussels sprouts, cabbage, turnips, silverbeet, onions.
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Herbs: Rosemary, mint, sage, parsley, chervil.
Christchurch / Dunedin / South Island
- Vegetables: Sweet potatoes, capsicum, eggplant, radishes, zucchini.
- Herbs: Lemongrass, basil, dill, marjoram, garlic chives.
Soil Preparation and Mulching Tips for Autumn
- Clear out summer crops – Remove old plants and weeds to prevent pests and disease.
- Improve soil quality – Add compost or aged manure to replenish nutrients.
- Check soil pH – Most vegetables prefer a pH of 6.0–7.0.
- Apply mulch – Use straw, bark chips, or sugar cane mulch to retain moisture and prevent weeds.
- Boost drainage – Aerate soil to avoid waterlogging during autumn rains.
Troubleshooting Weather Shifts and Temperature Drops
- Cold snaps: Use Vegepod’s Vegecover or Hothouse Cover to shield plants from frost.
- Heavy rainfall: Adjust Vegepod’s self-watering system to prevent root rot.
- Strong winds: Stake taller plants like beans and tomatoes for stability.
- Dry spells: Use Vegepod’s self-watering system to maintain hydration.
Get Your Autumn Veggie Garden Started
Vegepod’s starter packs make autumn planting easy, including everything you need to grow fresh produce at home.
Choosing the Right Vegepod Size for Your Home
- Small (0.5m x 1m): Ideal for patios and balconies, perfect for herbs.
- Medium (1m x 1m): Great for growing a mix of veggies and herbs.
- Large (2m x 1m): Best for those wanting to grow a variety of produce.
With Vegepod’s self-watering raised beds, growing fresh vegetables and herbs has never been easier. Ready to get started? Shop Vegepod starter packs today!