Over my 16 years of landscaping in Perth, I’ve learned that timing is crucial for planting success. Our Mediterranean climate, with its wet winters and dry summers, creates a unique growing calendar that’s quite different from other Australian cities. Let me share what I’ve found works best throughout the year.
Understanding Perth’s Climate Pattern
Before diving into the monthly guide, it’s essential to understand our local weather patterns:
- Winter (June-August): Mild, wet conditions
- Spring (September-November): Warming temperatures, decreasing rainfall
- Summer (December-February): Hot, dry conditions
- Autumn (March-May): Cooling temperatures, increasing rainfall
Read more: Bureau of Meteorology – Perth-WA-Climate-Guide
January – Peak Summer
What to Plant
- Native ground covers
- Heat-tolerant succulents
- Container plants (in shaded areas)
Maintenance Tasks
- Deep watering in early morning
- Mulch replenishment
- Heat protection for sensitive plants
As our client Zoe Gibson noted:
“He supplied and installed top quality plants, lawn and artificial lawn. It’s been almost two years and my garden is thriving!”
February – Late Summer
What to Plant
- Hardy natives
- Drought-resistant shrubs
- Root-established plants only
Maintenance Focus
- Moisture monitoring
- Shade cloth installation where needed
- Pest monitoring (especially for spider mites)
March – Early Autumn
What to Plant
- Trees (while soil is still warm)
- Shrubs
- Perennials
- Native grasses
Garden Preparation
- Soil improvement
- Mulching
- Irrigation system checks
April – Mid Autumn
What to Plant
- Australian natives
- Mediterranean plants
- Roses
- Deciduous trees
Key Tasks
- Soil preparation for winter
- Reducing irrigation
- Feed established plants
One of our satisfied clients, Phil, mentioned:
“The level of professionalism Perth Landscapes offers is next to none. Considerably flexible to all my specific requirements. Most importantly offering further suggestions to add value, improve sustainability.”
May – Late Autumn
What to Plant
- Broad range of natives
- Winter flowering plants
- Bulbs
- Fruit trees
Important Activities
- Major pruning
- Soil conditioning
- Weed management
June – Early Winter
What to Plant
- Most plant types
- Winter colour plants
- Hedging plants
- Ground covers
Essential Tasks
- Drainage checks
- Winter protection setup
- Disease prevention
July – Mid Winter
Ideal for Planting
- Large trees
- Screening plants
- Native species
- Rose varieties
Focus Areas
- Storm protection
- Pruning deciduous plants
- Root development support
Read more: Kings Park – Native Plant Growing Guide
August – Late Winter
Perfect Time for
- Spring flowering plants
- Vegetable gardens
- Lawn installation
- Mass plantings
Priority Tasks
- Pre-spring preparation
- Fertilising
- Pest control
As our client Peter Harrison shared:
“Alex recently designed/landscaped my front and rear yards, including retaining walls, fence, paving, reticulation and native trees/plants… Alex cares about what he does and his clients needs, which shows in his work ethic and attention to detail.”
September – Early Spring
Optimal for Planting
- Flowering perennials
- Colour plants
- Climbers
- Fast-growing screens
Key Activities
- Irrigation system updates
- Fertilising schedule setup
- Growth monitoring
October – Mid Spring
Great Time for
- Water-wise plants
- Native flowering species
- Garden bed establishment
- Lawn repairs
Critical Tasks
- Water management planning
- Summer preparation
- Growth training
November – Late Spring
Focus on Planting
- Heat-tolerant species
- Strategic shade plants
- Late-flowering perennials
Important Work
- Summer protection setup
- Irrigation efficiency checks
- Mulch application
December – Early Summer
Limited Planting
- Established potted plants
- Shade-loving species
- Hardy natives
Priority Focus
- Water conservation
- Heat protection
- Pest prevention
Year-Round Planning Tips
Soil Preparation
- Always test soil before planting
- Add organic matter appropriate to season
- Consider moisture retention needs
Plant Selection Factors
- Local climate zone
- Soil type
- Sun exposure
- Wind protection
Irrigation Considerations
- Seasonal adjustments
- Water restrictions
- Plant establishment needs
Professional Tips for Success
- Plant Establishment
- Deep watering for root development
- Proper spacing for growth
- Season-appropriate fertilising
- Timing Considerations
- Early morning planting
- Avoid heat of day
- Consider weather forecasts
- Maintenance Planning
- Seasonal pruning schedule
- Fertilising timeline
- Pest management calendar
Marie Edwards, one of our happy clients, commented:
“Alex did a fantastic job! I am really happy with the way my garden looks! He was very professional, easy going, caring and efficient!”
Common Planting Mistakes to Avoid
- Seasonal Errors
- Planting at wrong time
- Incorrect establishment care
- Poor timing of maintenance
- Plant Selection Issues
- Wrong plant for climate
- Inappropriate positioning
- Poor grouping choices
- Care Mistakes
- Inadequate water
- Poor soil preparation
- Incorrect pruning timing
Making Your Planting Plan
When planning your garden, consider:
- Long-term Vision
- Mature plant sizes
- Growth rates
- Maintenance requirements
- Practical Considerations
- Water availability
- Maintenance time
- Budget constraints
- Professional Support
- Design assistance
- Installation expertise
- Maintenance guidance
Getting Expert Help
While this calendar provides a general guide, every garden is unique. At Perth Landscapes, we help you:
- Choose the right plants for your specific location
- Time your plantings for optimal success
- Create a sustainable, thriving garden
As Norminda Onikola noted:
“From the initial consultation to the final touches, Alex and his team demonstrated professionalism, expertise, and a genuine passion for their craft.”
Ready to start your garden transformation? Contact us for a free consultation. We’ll help you plan the perfect planting schedule for your Perth garden, ensuring year-round success and beauty in your outdoor space.
Whether you’re starting a new garden or rejuvenating an existing one, timing is everything. Let our experience guide you to make the most of Perth’s unique growing conditions and create a garden that thrives through all seasons.
