When to plant winter veggies in Brisbane?

[StephenBrookes]

Morning,

When is a good time to plant cabbages, cauliflowers, etc., and other cooler climate veggies in Brisbane?

Thank you,

Stephen

[MitchellMc]

Hi @StephenBrookes,

Brisbane’s mild winters mean you can start planting cool-season veggies like cabbages, cauliflowers, broccoli, and kale from late summer to early autumn, around March to April. This gives them enough time to establish before the cooler months set in. You can also plant root vegetables like carrots, beetroot, and onions around the same time.

If you’re growing from seed, starting them in punnets before transplanting can give them a strong start. Just keep an eye out for caterpillars and aphids, which tend to be active even in the cooler months. 

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell

[StephenBrookes]

Thanks Mitchell. When do you think Bunnings will start stocking cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli and kale seedlings? I seem to have less success propagating seed! What seedling compose/soil do you suggest using. What is best way to control aphids? Also, can you recommend something for tomatoes too. I have a nice crop but small black spots ... something is getting in and the area internally is dark. Sorry, about all the questions Mitchell. Cheers. Stephen 

[MitchellMc]

No problem at all, @StephenBrookes. We typically start stocking winter veggie seedlings like cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, and kale in late summer to early autumn, around the beginning of March, depending on local supply. If you’re having trouble with seeds, using a quality seedling mix like Osmocote Seed & Cutting Mix can help give them a strong start.

For aphid control, regularly checking the undersides of leaves and spraying with Yates Nature’s Way Vegie & Herb Spray or a homemade solution of diluted dish soap can be effective.

Regarding your tomatoes, small black spots with dark internal areas could be a sign of fungal or bacterial infections like bacterial speck or anthracnose. It’s best to remove any affected fruit and apply a copper-based fungicide, such as Yates Liquid Copper, to help manage the issue. Ensuring good airflow around the plants and avoiding overhead watering can also reduce the spread of disease.

Mitchell

[StephenBrookes]

Mitchell, I appreciate your in-depth knowledge and great ideas and suggestions. Over and above expectations. Ta. Stephen