What vegetables to plant in winter 

Want to know what vegetables to plant in winter in your New Zealand garden? Brassicas – also known as the cabbage family or cole crops – are cold‑tolerant and flavour‑boosted by frost, staples like broccoli, cauliflower, kale, Brussels sprouts and kohlrabi grow in rich, well‑drained soil through the cooler months. We take a look at some of the favourites in the brassica family and why they’re some of the best winter vegetables to grow.

Growing brassicas in winter

These cold-tolerant crops are among the easiest winter vegetables to grow and manage in cooler conditions:

• Broccoli and cauliflower (including broccolini and Romanesco)
• Cabbages and leafy types, such as kale and Brussels sprouts
• Kohlrabi and collards
• Asian brassicas like bok choy/pak choy and Chinese cabbage (wong bok)
• Root brassicas such as turnips and radishes (plus mustards and rocket)

Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.  

Can you plant broccoli in winter time?

Yes, broccoli is one of the most dependable winter vegetables to grow. The best time to plant broccoli is during the New Zealand winter time. While this nutrient-dense vegetable grows throughout the winter months, plant it in early autumn in cooler areas to help it establish a healthy root system. Space seedlings 50cm apart in well-draining soil, with a side dressing of nitrogen-rich fertiliser. As with all brassicas, protect seedlings from white butterflies (which are still prevalent in autumn) with a mesh cover. Harvest in 10-16 weeks.

Where is the best place to plant kohlrabi?

A sunny location with well-drained soil is the best place to plant this winter loving plant. Don’t be fooled by its alien-like looks – this brassica comes in peace and is easy to grow! What looks like a root or a bulb on top is an engorged stem that can be peeled and roasted, boiled, steamed or eaten raw. Plant seedlings in soil rich in organic matter, 10-15cm apart, in rows 30-40cm apart. Apply a thick layer of mulch to protect its shallow root system.

Kohlrabi is a must-grow when planning what to plant in a winter vegetable garden, as it matures quickly and tolerates cool conditions, and is ready to harvest in just 8-10 weeks.

When is the best time to plant Brussels sprouts in New Zealand?

The best time to plant Brussels sprouts in New Zealand is during the cooler, winter months. Notoriously picky, this vegetable thrives in cooler zones and is not well-suited to subtropical areas. It can take as long as 120 days to harvest, so plant at the beginning of autumn in soil rich in organic matter, leaving 60-75cm between plants. Protect the roots with pea straw mulch. When the sprouts start to form, strip away the bottom leaves to allow them to take shape.

Growing kale in New Zealand winter time

This leaf-style cabbage is tolerant of cold and heat but it tastes sweeter when exposed to frost. Plant seedlings in soil rich in well-rotted compost, spacing plants 50cm apart. Choose from a wide range of varieties, including ‘Cavolo Nero’ and scarlet-veined ‘Red Russian’, whose tender leaves are great in salads. Kale is another reliable choice when deciding what vegetables to plant in winter, particularly in cooler climates like New Zealand.

Keep in mind...

• Planting seasons vary according to region – check with your local store.
• After applying fertiliser around edible plants, delay harvesting for a few days and rinse well before cooking and eating.

After more seasonal gardening tips?

Check out our autumn garden planner.

Photo credit: Adobe Stock.