When to Grow Capsicum in Australia

Capsicum is a warm-season crop that needs heat, sunshine, and fertile soil. In Australia, the right planting time depends on your climate zone.

Tropical regions (QLD north, NT): Capsicum grows almost year-round. Best planted in the cooler, dry season to avoid wet season stress.
Subtropical regions (SE QLD, Northern NSW): Plant from spring through summer. Can continue fruiting into autumn if conditions stay warm.
Temperate regions (NSW, VIC, SA): Sow in spring once the last frost has passed. Early summer planting also works well.
Cool & alpine regions (TAS, southern VIC): Start seeds indoors in late winter and transplant in spring. Use protection from frost.

The key is soil warmth. Capsicum seeds germinate best at 20–28°C, and seedlings need daytime temperatures above 18°C. Cold soil will stunt growth and reduce yields.

478403895_18120006829426188_5170125783123087335_n

469220851_18304639531205073_951323875471997910_n (1) (1)

Capsicum Growing Seasons in Australia

Spring: Main planting season nationwide. Start seeds or plant seedlings after frost risk has passed.
Summer: Peak growth and fruiting season. Plants need consistent watering and extra potassium for fruit set.
Autumn: In warmer states like QLD, WA, and NT, capsicums continue producing until night temperatures drop.
Winter: Only tropical and subtropical regions can support capsicum growth. In temperate and cool zones, plants stop producing and are usually replanted the following spring.

Fertiliser Timing in Australia

Spring: Balanced fertiliser (NPK) to support seedlings and root development.
Summer: Increase potassium and calcium to support heavy fruiting in hot conditions.
Autumn: Moderate feeding to extend the harvest while temperatures remain warm.
Winter: Pause feeding in cooler zones; only continue in northern regions where plants still fruit.

477564855_18120006838426188_53393461443924008_n

518815103_1249157127189980_7027322204969674759_n (1)

Capsicum Growing FAQ (Australia)

When is the best month to plant capsicum? In most of Australia, start in September–November. In tropical north, plant during the dry season.
Can capsicum grow in winter in Australia? Yes, but only in frost-free northern areas. In southern states, winter is too cold.
How long does capsicum take to grow in Australia? About 14–20 weeks from seed to harvest, depending on climate and variety.
Will capsicum grow all year in Queensland? In subtropical SE QLD, capsicum grows spring to autumn. In tropical far north QLD, they grow almost year-round.
Why are my capsicums not fruiting in summer? Excess nitrogen, extreme heat, or low potassium are common reasons.

CompleteGrow Recommendation: For Australian conditions, use CompleteGrow All Purpose Plant Liquid Fertiliser NPK 20-20-20 & Micro Nutrients. This balanced formula supports growth in spring, ensures strong flowering in summer, and extends fruiting into autumn. Perfect for capsicum crops across all climate zones.