September · Early spring
What to sow in September in Christchurch
13 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
September averages2°–16°C
Vegetables
6 in season
Broad Beans
Direct sow · pinch growing tips once pods set to deter aphids
Gai Lan (Chinese Broccoli)
Direct sow · harvest stems before the flower buds fully open
Ginger
Start indoors · start indoors in late winter; it needs a long season
Horseradish
Plant root cuttings · dig roots after fall frost for the best flavor
Luffa
Start indoors · give it a sturdy trellis; vines get heavy fast
Herbs
7 in season
Basil
Start indoors · loves heat, don't rush it outside before frost
Chives
Start indoors · perennial clumps, snip leaves for repeat harvests
Lemongrass
Start indoors · pot it up in fall and bring indoors before frost
Oregano
Start indoors · slow from seed, keep soil warm to germinate
Parsley
Start indoors · slow to sprout, soak seeds overnight first
Fruit · nothing to sow this month