Best winter vegetables to grow

Broccoli
Broccoli thrives in the Riverland’s cool winters. It prefers well-drained soil and regular watering to develop full, tender heads. Sow seeds in late autumn or early winter for a steady harvest through the colder months. Broccoli is not only nutritious, but also relatively pest-resistant in winter.

Cauliflower
Closely related to broccoli, cauliflower also enjoys cool temperatures but is slightly more sensitive to fluctuations. Keep conditions consistent and avoid overwatering. Harvest the white curds before they open up too much, typically 10 to 12 weeks after sowing.

Cabbage
Cabbage is another winter classic. Green, red, and savoy varieties all do well in the Riverland’s winter climate. They can be sown directly or transplanted as seedlings, and with adequate spacing and a bit of patience, you’ll have hearty heads ready by mid-to-late winter.

Carrots
Carrots love loose, well-drained soil and cool temperatures. They take time to mature – usually 10 to 12 weeks – but the payoff is worth it. Cold temperatures enhance their natural sweetness.

Silverbeet
A close relative of beetroot, silverbeet is a hardy, leafy green that doesn’t mind the cold. It’s an excellent alternative to spinach and provides a longer harvest window. Its colourful stems add visual appeal, and nutritional value to any dish.

Spinach
Spinach is practically made for winter. It grows fast, can tolerate light frosts, and produces a continuous harvest if picked regularly. Baby spinach leaves can be harvested within a month of sowing, making it a quick and reliable green to have on hand.

Garlic
Plant garlic cloves in early winter for a harvest in late spring or early summer. It requires very little maintenance once planted, but does need good drainage and a sunny spot. The Riverland’s drier winters are particularly well suited to garlic, helping to prevent bulb rot.

Beetroot
Beetroot is another root vegetable that fares well in cooler temperatures. It grows best in full sun and loose soil, and can be harvested at various stages, from baby beets to full-sized roots. Bonus: the leaves are edible too and can be used like spinach.

Onions
Onions are a long-term crop, but if planted in winter, you can expect a robust harvest by the following summer. They require regular weeding and sunlight, but little else. Choose shorter-day varieties for best results in the southern Australian climate.

Fruits that can handle winter

Pomegranates
While pomegranates are typically harvested in autumn, winter is a great time to prune and care for these hardy trees. Their drought tolerance and adaptability to the Riverland’s conditions make them an excellent long-term fruiting investment.

Citrus
The Riverland is famous for its citrus, and many varieties ripen during winter. Mandarins often come into peak season from June, followed by lemons and navel oranges. Citrus trees thrive in full sun, and while they need protection from hard frost when young, mature trees are relatively resilient.

Figs
Fig trees go dormant in winter, making it an ideal time for pruning and shaping. While not productive during the cold season, winter is critical for setting the stage for a fruitful spring and summer.

Tips for a thriving winter garden

1. Use mulch to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
2. Cover young seedlings with frost cloth on especially cold nights.
3. Water in the morning to reduce the risk of fungal diseases.
4. Companion plant with herbs like parsley and coriander, which also thrive in winter and can deter pests.
5. Rotate crops to prevent soil-borne diseases and improve soil health.