October · Mid-spring
What to sow in October in Christchurch
52 crops are in their window this month in Christchurch — timed to your local frost dates.
Last frost≈ 9 Nov
First frost≈ 10 Apr
Frost-free daysFrom 9 Nov
October averages4°–19°C
Vegetables
38 in season
Artichoke
Start indoors · seedlings need a cold snap to set buds in year one
Arugula
Direct sow · sow every 2-3 weeks for a steady peppery harvest
Beets
Direct sow · soak seed clusters overnight to speed germination
Bok Choy
Direct sow · fall crops resist bolting better than spring ones
Broad Beans
Direct sow · pinch growing tips once pods set to deter aphids
Herbs
12 in season
Basil
Start indoors · loves heat, don't rush it outside before frost
Chervil
Direct sow · prefers cool shade, bolts quickly once hot
Chives
Start indoors · perennial clumps, snip leaves for repeat harvests
Cilantro
Direct sow · bolts fast in heat, sow small batches often
Dill
Direct sow · taproot resents transplanting, sow direct
Fruit
2 in season
Blueberries
Plant bushes · needs acidic soil and a second variety to pollinate
Strawberries
Plant runners · pinch off first-year flowers for stronger plants