• My Account
  • Shopping Cart 0
  • My Account
  • 0 Cart
  • Vegetables
    • Vegetables to Sow Now
    • View All
    • Amaranth
    • Artichoke
    • Asian Vegetables
    • Asparagus
    • Bean
    • Beetroot
    • Bitter Melon
    • Broad Bean
    • Broccoli
    • Brussels Sprouts
    • Cabbage
    • Capsicum
    • Carrot
    • Cauliflower
    • Celery
    • Chicory (Radicchio)
    • Chilli
    • Chinese Cabbage
    • Collards
    • Corn Salad
    • Corn
    • Cress
    • Cucumber
    • Eggplant
    • Endive
    • Fennel
    • Garland
    • Garlic
    • Gourd
    • Kale
    • Kohlrabi
    • Leek
    • Lettuce
    • Luffa
    • Mangel Wurzel
    • Mizuna
    • Mustard
    • Okra
    • Onion
    • Parsnip
    • Passionfruit
    • Pea
    • Potato
    • Pumpkin & Winter Squash
    • Radish
    • Rhubarb
    • Rocket
    • Rockmelon
    • Rosella
    • Salad Greens
    • Silverbeet
    • Spinach
    • Strawberry
    • Summer Squash
    • Swede
    • Tomatillo
    • Tomato
    • Turnip
    • Watermelon
    • Zucchini
    • ~Other Vegetable
    • ~Tubers, bulbs etc
  • Herbs
    • Herbs to Sow Now
    • View All
    • Basil
    • Bergamot
    • Borage
    • Catmint & Catnip
    • Chamomile
    • Chervil
    • Chives
    • Comfrey
    • Coriander
    • Cress
    • Dill
    • Echinacea
    • Fennel
    • Hyssop
    • Lavender
    • Lemon Balm
    • Lovage
    • Mint
    • Mustard
    • Oregano
    • Parsley
    • Perilla
    • Purslane
    • Rosemary
    • Sage
    • Savory
    • Sorrel
    • Tarragon
    • Thyme
    • ~Other Herb
  • Flowers
    • Flowers to Sow Now
    • View All
    • Ageratum
    • Aloe
    • Alyssum
    • Amaranth
    • Aquilegia
    • Aster
    • Australian Native
    • Balloon Flower
    • Brachyscome
    • Calendula
    • Californian Poppy
    • Campanula
    • Candytuft
    • Canterbury Bells
    • Carnation
    • Celosia
    • Chrysanthemum
    • Cornflower
    • Cosmos
    • Daffodil & Jonquil
    • Dahlia
    • Delphinium
    • Dianthus
    • Everlasting Daisy
    • Forget Me Not
    • Four 'O' Clocks
    • Foxglove
    • Gladiolus
    • Globe Amaranth
    • Godetia
    • Gypsophila
    • Hollyhock
    • Honesty
    • Hyacinth
    • Impatiens
    • Iris
    • Larkspur
    • Lavender
    • Lily
    • Linaria
    • Livingstone Daisy
    • Lobelia
    • Lupin
    • Marigold
    • Nasturtium
    • Nigella
    • Pansy
    • Paper Daisy
    • Penstemon
    • Peony
    • Petunia
    • Phlox
    • Pincushion Flower
    • Poppy
    • Ranunculus
    • Rose
    • Salvia
    • Schizanthus
    • Snapdragon
    • Statice
    • Stock
    • Sunflower
    • Sweet William
    • Sweetpea
    • Tulip
    • Verbena
    • Vinca
    • Viola
    • Wallflower
    • Yarrow
    • Zinnia
    • ~Bulbs, Tubers, Corms, etc
    • ~Other Flower
  • More Seeds
    • View All
    • Microgreens
    • Sprouts
    • Green Manure
    • ~Other seeds
    • Baby Leaf
    • Gift Packs
  • Supplies
    • View All
    • Fertiliser and Soil
    • Garden Accessories
    • Garden Tools
    • Gardening Gloves
    • Pest Control
    • Pots, Tubes, Trays
    • Seed Raising
    • Tags, Ties, Twine, etc.
    • Testing & Measuring
    • Watering
  • Subscriptions
  • Seasonal
    • Seeds to Sow Now
    • Seed Subscriptions
    • All Flower Bulbs
    • Anemone
    • Astilbe
    • Asparagus Crowns
    • Bearded Iris
    • Garlic
    • Gladiolus
    • Horseradish Roots
    • Jerusalem Artichoke Tubers
    • Peony
    • Phlox Bare-Rooted
    • Rhubarb Crowns
    • Raspberry Canes
    • Roses
    • Seed Potatos
    • Shallot Bulbs
    • Strawberry Runners
    • Other Berry Canes
  • Custom Seeds
    • Custom Seed Packets
    • Custom Pot Packs
    • Seed Packets in Bulk
    • Special Orders
  • Learn
    • Grow Guides
    • Sowing Chart
    • Seed Saving Chart Chart
    • Podcast
    • Articles:
    • Beneficial Insects
    • Companion Planting
    • Composting
    • Craft
    • Fertiliser & Soil
    • Flowers
    • Fruit
    • Herbs
    • How To
    • Informational
    • Methods
    • Newsletter
    • Pests & Diseases
    • Preserving
    • Propagation
    • Recipes
    • Sprouts & Microgreens
    • Vegetables
    • Watering
  • Learn
    • Grow Guides
    • Sowing Chart
    • Seed Saving Chart
    • Podcast
    • Articles:
    • Beneficial Insects
    • Companion Planting
    • Composting
    • Craft
    • Fertiliser & Soil
    • Flowers
    • Fruit
    • Herbs
    • How To
    • Informational
    • Methods
    • Newsletter
    • Pests & Diseases
    • Preserving
    • Propagation
    • Recipes
    • Sprouts & Microgreens
    • Vegetables
    • Watering
  • Your Climate:
    Cool Temperate Sub-Tropical Tropical Arid

Climate Zones for Australian Gardeners

Knowing your climate zone will help you decide the best time to sow the vegetables, herbs and flowers you want to grow, and which varieties should perform well in your garden. Growing plants that are suited to your climate zone will usually give you the best results in your garden.

How to Use Climate Zones

First, find your climate zone using the map or descriptions below. Next, refer to our sowing chart, which provides approximate sowing times for our most popular seeds for each climate zone. 

While knowing your climate zone is helpful when planning your garden, there are many other factors that may affect how your plants grow, including unseasonal weather conditions, the specific microclimate of your garden and how you care for your plants. You know your garden better than us, so if a different climate zone seems to ‘fit’ your garden better, go ahead and use it as a guide.

Our climate zones cover huge areas of Australia, so we recommend gardeners also consider their local conditions when planning what and when to plant. For example, gardeners in alpine areas have shorter growing seasons than gardeners in cool coastal areas, even though both alpine and coastal areas are included in our ‘Cool Temperate’ climate zone. We recommend gardeners in cool regions look at the ‘days to maturity’ information provided for each variety and choose those that will mature in a short (6-12 week) growing season. 

climate map

Tropical

  • Includes: Darwin, Cairns, Townsville, Exmouth
  • High humidity summers with most rainfall in summer and dry, warm winters. Includes northern Australia from Exmouth (WA) across to south of Townsville (Qld).
  • Set as my climate  My climate

Arid

  • Includes: Alice Springs, Mildura, Albury-Wodonga, Shepparton, Wagga Wagga, Dubbo
  • Hot dry summers, winters can be warm or cool depending on the region. Includes a large area of central Australia from the WA coast to Charleville (Qld), Tamworth (NSW) and Albury-Wodonga (NSW/Vic).
  • Set as my climate  My climate

Subtropical

  • Includes: Brisbane, Bundaberg, Coffs Harbour, Gold Coast, Hervey Bay, Mackay, Rockhampton, Sunshine Coast
  • Warm humid summers with high summer rainfall and mild winters. Includes coastal Queensland and northern NSW from north of Mackay to just south of Coffs Harbour.
  • Set as my climate  My climate

Temperate

  • Includes: Sydney, Perth, Adelaide, Newcastle, Toowoomba, Central Coast NSW, Wollongong, Bunbury
  • Moderate humidity and reliable rainfall, with four distinct seasons. Includes coastal areas from north of Port Macquarie to south of Woollongong in NSW, coastal SA and the southeastern coast of WA.
  • Set as my climate  My climate

Cool Temperate

  • Includes: Melbourne, Canberra, Hobart, Launceston, Ballarat, Bendigo, Geelong, Mt Gambier 
  • Low humidity with most rainfall in winter; hot dry summers and cold winters. Some regions will experience frosts and snow. Includes coastal areas of south-eastern Australia and alpine areas of Victoria, NSW and Tasmania.
  • Set as my climate  My climate

Climate Zones FAQ

What if I can’t find my climate zone?
If you can’t locate your zone from looking at the map or the descriptions on this page, we suggest that you think of an area that has a climate that’s similar to yours and use the zone for that area as a guide. 

What if I live on the border of two zones?
If you live near the border between two zones we suggest you read the descriptions for both zones and decide which best describes the climate where you live. Depending on the microclimate in your garden, you may be able to grow a wider range of plants over a longer season than others in your zone. Lucky you!

What is a microclimate?
A microclimate is a small area where the temperature or humidity differs to the climate of the surrounding area. For example, if you live in a climate zone where frosts are common but your garden is protected by buildings or large trees, your garden may be frost-free. Similarly, if you live in a warm temperate zone but your garden is at a high altitude your microclimate may have more in common with the cool temperate zone, so use this as a guide when deciding which zone is relevant to you.

Can I grow varieties not listed for my climate zone?
While our climate zones and sowing chart will help you decide what is suitable to plant in your garden, they provide general guidance only. We recommend you start by sowing seed that’s recommended for your climate zone; once you get a few successes under your belt you can experiment with varieties in neighbouring zones and see how you go – gardening is all about experimenting after all!

  • Home
  • News, Articles & Plant Advice
  • Informational

Informational

Cool Colours - Combinations That Work
Cool Colours - Combinations That Work
Gardens can often be all about colour, and whether you like a flamboyant cheerful garden full of bright colour or a quiet restful garden, it comes down to personal preference. Luckily, it's easy to use flowers to create a particular feel in your garden. Read article.
Scatter Sowing Seeds: A Convenient and Time-Saving Approach
Scatter Sowing Seeds: A Convenient and Time-Saving Approach
Sowing seeds in the traditional manner is often the preferred approach because it helps each seed achieve its fullest potential and minimises wastage, however it’s not the only way you can sow seeds. Scatter sowing seeds is an easier alternative. Read article.
Turning a Sloped Block into a Productive Vegetable Garden
Turning a Sloped Block into a Productive Vegetable Garden
A sloping block of land can be turned into a productive vegetable garden by following these tips on how to plan your garden. Find out how to implement landscaping techniques and plan your planting to maximise your success and harvest. Read article.
Why Are Moss and Algae Growing in My Seed Trays - and What Can I Do About It?!
Why Are Moss and Algae Growing in My Seed Trays - and What Can I Do About It?!
Find out what moss and algae are and why they can sometimes flourish in your seed trays. Learn how to remove them without disturbing your seedlings, and what you can do to prevent them from colonising your seed trays in future. Read article.
Transplant Shock: Causes, Prevention, and Recovery
Transplant Shock: Causes, Prevention, and Recovery
Have you ever transplanted a thriving plant only to watch it struggle shortly after the move? This is often caused by a problem called transplant shock -- a common issue that can frustrate even the most seasoned gardeners. Read article.
About Our Paper Seed Packets
About Our Paper Seed Packets
Introducing The Seed Collection's paper-based seed packets. The packets include a basic sowing chart, planting guide and a QR code linking to detailed information. They can be torn open easily, folded over to store unsown seeds, and best of all, recycled. Read article.
Why You Should 'Leave the Leaves'
Why You Should 'Leave the Leaves'
The 'leave the leaves' approach is a great way to benefit your garden's soil and wildlife, while also taking one chore off your to-do list. Here's what the practice means, how it works, and how to get the most out of it. Read article.
Dogscaping: Designing a Dog-Friendly Garden
Dogscaping: Designing a Dog-Friendly Garden
If your dog is wreaking havoc on your lawn or digging up your precious plants, it’s time to review the design of your garden. Learn practical tips for fencing, landscaping, garden beds and plant choices to keep both you and your canine companion happy. Read article.
Nourish Your Soul: The Benefits of Gardening for Mind, Body and Spirit
Nourish Your Soul: The Benefits of Gardening for Mind, Body and Spirit
From improving physical fitness with a full-body workout to finding tranquility through meditative care of plants, gardening offers a holistic approach to enhancing your mental and physical health. Read on to discover the benefits of gardening. Read article.
Five Gardening Trends to Look Out For in 2024
Five Gardening Trends to Look Out For in 2024
From creating lush mini forests to embracing slow gardening, explore trends that will be inspiring gardeners and transforming green spaces this year. Whether ecologically grounded or wildly experimental, will you put these trends to use in your garden? Read article.
Simple Ways to Achieve Greater Self-Sufficiency
Simple Ways to Achieve Greater Self-Sufficiency
Becoming more self-sufficient is admirable, but you don't need to dive in at the deep end. Increasing your self-sufficiency in small but important ways can be highly rewarding, as this article explains. Read article.
How to Create a Garden That’s a Haven for Birds
How to Create a Garden That’s a Haven for Birds
Transform your garden into a thriving habitat for birds by planting nectar-rich flowers and providing shelter and water. Read our tips to create a garden that welcomes feathered friends large and small. Read article.
Showing 13 to 24 of 69 Results
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5

PO Box 7400, Upper Ferntree Gully, VIC 3156, Australia.

Quick links

  • Browse our Products
  • Seeds to Sow Now
  • Sowing Chart
  • Sowing Info
  • Gift Vouchers
  • New Products
  • Climates

Customer Service

  • Contact
  • Postage & Payment
  • FAQ
  • Quarantine
  • Terms of Use
  • Terms of Sale
  • Privacy Policy

Information

  • About Us
  • About Our Seeds
  • Germination Rates
  • Seed Growers Wanted
  • Wholesale
© 2025 The Seed Collection Pty Ltd . All Rights Reserved.

Terms & Conditions

Welcome to our website. If you continue to browse and use this website, you are agreeing to comply with and be bound by the following terms and conditions of use, which together with our privacy policy govern The Seed Collection Pty Ltd’s relationship with you in relation to this website. If you disagree with any part of these terms and conditions, please do not use our website.

The term ‘The Seed Collection Pty Ltd’ or ‘us’ or ‘we’ refers to the owner of the website whose registered office is . Our ABN is 61614299697. The term ‘you’ refers to the user or viewer of our website.

The use of this website is subject to the following terms of use:

  • The content of the pages of this website is for your general information and use only. It is subject to change without notice.
  • Neither we nor any third parties provide any warranty or guarantee as to the accuracy, timeliness, performance, completeness or suitability of the information and materials found or offered on this website for any particular purpose. You acknowledge that such information and materials may contain inaccuracies or errors and we expressly exclude liability for any such inaccuracies or errors to the fullest extent permitted by law.
  • Your use of any information or materials on this website is entirely at your own risk, for which we shall not be liable. It shall be your own responsibility to ensure that any products, services or information available through this website meet your specific requirements.
  • This website contains material which is owned by or licensed to us. This material includes, but is not limited to, the design, layout, look, appearance and graphics. Reproduction is prohibited other than in accordance with the copyright notice, which forms part of these terms and conditions.
  • All trademarks reproduced in this website, which are not the property of, or licensed to the operator, are acknowledged on the website.
  • Unauthorised use of this website may give rise to a claim for damages and/or be a criminal offence.
  • From time to time, this website may also include links to other websites. These links are provided for your convenience to provide further information. They do not signify that we endorse the website(s). We have no responsibility for the content of the linked website(s).
  • Your use of this website and any dispute arising out of such use of the website is subject to the laws of Australia.

Full terms and conditions here:

  • Terms and conditons of sale
  • Website terms of use
  • Privacy Policy

Privacy Policy

This privacy policy sets out how we use and protect any information that you give us when you use this website.

We are committed to ensuring that your privacy is protected. Should we ask you to provide certain information by which you can be identified when using this website, then you can be assured that it will only be used in accordance with this privacy statement.

We may change this policy from time to time by updating this page. You should check this page from time to time to ensure that you are happy with any changes.

What we collect

We may collect the following information:

  • name and job title
  • contact information including email address
  • demographic information such as postcode, preferences and interests
  • other information relevant to customer surveys and/or offers

What we do with the information we gather

We require this information to understand your needs and provide you with a better service, and in particular for the following reasons:

  • Internal record keeping.
  • We may use the information to improve our products and services.
  • We may periodically send promotional emails about new products, special offers or other information which we think you may find interesting using the email address which you have provided.  You will have the option to opt-out of all non-essential email.

Any personal information which you supply will not be divulged to a third party unless that third party is integral to the purpose for which you gave us your information or where required by law. 

Security

We are committed to ensuring that your information is secure. In order to prevent unauthorised access or disclosure, we have put in place suitable physical, electronic and managerial procedures to safeguard and secure the information we collect online.

How we use cookies

A cookie is a small file which asks permission to be placed on your computer's hard drive. Once you agree, the file is added and the cookie helps analyse web traffic or lets you know when you visit a particular site. Cookies allow web applications to respond to you as an individual. The web application can tailor its operations to your needs, likes and dislikes by gathering and remembering information about your preferences.

We use traffic log cookies to identify which pages are being used. This helps us analyse data about webpage traffic and improve our website in order to tailor it to customer needs. We only use this information for statistical analysis purposes and then the data is removed from the system.
Overall, cookies help us provide you with a better website by enabling us to monitor which pages you find useful and which you do not. A cookie in no way gives us access to your computer or any information about you, other than the data you choose to share with us.
You can choose to accept or decline cookies. Most web browsers automatically accept cookies, but you can usually modify your browser setting to decline cookies if you prefer. This may prevent you from taking full advantage of the website.

Links to other websites

Our website may contain links to other websites of interest. However, once you have used these links to leave our site, you should note that we do not have any control over that other website. Therefore, we cannot be responsible for the protection and privacy of any information which you provide whilst visiting such sites and such sites are not governed by this privacy statement. You should exercise caution and look at the privacy statement applicable to the website in question.

Controlling your personal information

You may choose to restrict the collection or use of your personal information in the following ways:

  • If you have previously agreed to us using your personal information for direct marketing purposes, you may change your mind at any time by writing to or emailing us.

If you believe that any information we are holding on you is incorrect or incomplete, please write to or email us as soon as possible and we will promptly correct any information found to be incorrect.

Notify me when back in stock