Knowing what to do when makes a huge difference to your garden's health and appearance. This guide is tailored for Melbourne’s outer east—Mooroolbark, Lilydale, Croydon, Kilsyth, Montrose and surrounding areas—where we get cool, frosty winters and hot, dry summers typical of Victoria’s temperate climate.
Australian seasons (Southern Hemisphere): Summer in December, winter in June. In Mooroolbark and the Dandenong Ranges foothills, frosts can occur from late autumn into early spring, so tender planting is best from mid-September onwards.
Spring (September–November)
Weeding, mulching, pruning, and planting. In Mooroolbark and the outer east, soil warms a bit later than inner Melbourne—hold off tender veg and frost-sensitive plants until frost risk drops (usually from mid–late September). Divide perennials, fertilise lawns and beds, and tackle blackberry and weeds before they run away. Spring is ideal for design and build: conditions suit establishing plants before our summer heat and any water restrictions.
Summer (December–February)
Watering, deadheading, and harvesting. Melbourne summers are hot and dry; in the outer east, mulching and efficient irrigation (drip, early-morning watering) make a big difference. We offer smart watering setup and seasonal maintenance to keep borders tidy and productive. Watch for fire risk in long dry spells and avoid heavy pruning that stresses plants in heat.
Autumn (March–May)
Leaf clearing, bulb planting, and dividing perennials. Melbourne’s autumn is often mild with good soil moisture—ideal for planting, lawn repair, and hard landscaping. Plant spring bulbs (tulips, daffodils, freesias) from March–April for colour in September–October. Our local clay soils benefit from compost and aeration; we can help with mulching and bed prep for winter.
Winter (June–August)
Pruning deciduous trees and shrubs, planning, and structural work. Mooroolbark and surrounding areas get regular frosts; dormant plants and bare branches make it the best time for major pruning and for design and build work. Use winter to plan spring projects, order plants, and improve drainage on heavy clay so your garden is ready when growth kicks off in September.