As the temperatures cool down, many gardeners pack away their tools, thinking the growing season is over. But if you’re growing hydroponically, cooler weather is one of the best times of the year to cultivate fresh, homegrown produce! The Salad Table makes it easy to grow a thriving, soil-free garden all year round, and autumn and winter offer the perfect conditions for leafy greens, herbs, and certain vegetables to flourish.
Why Cooler Weather is Ideal for Hydroponic Growing
Hydroponic gardening eliminates many of the challenges that traditional soil gardening faces in the cooler months. With no soil, there’s no risk of frost-damaged roots, and the controlled nutrient delivery ensures your plants get exactly what they need to thrive. Lower temperatures also reduce the risk of pests and diseases, making it easier to grow healthy, nutrient-rich plants.
Best Crops to Grow Hydroponically in Cooler Weather
The types of produce that grow best during cooler months depend on your region. Here’s a breakdown of the best hydroponic crops for different climates across Australia. This is purely a guide and we always say, experiment - you will probably surprise yourself as to what you can actually grow...
Southern Australia (VIC, TAS, SA, Southern WA, ACT)
With cool winters and frequent frosts, the best hydroponic crops for southern Australia include:
-
Lettuce – Crisp and fast-growing, perfect for fresh salads.
-
Spinach – Thrives in cooler temperatures and is packed with nutrients.
-
Kale – Hardy and resilient, great for smoothies and soups.
-
Rocket – A peppery addition to salads and sandwiches.
-
Coriander – Prefers cool temperatures and flourishes in hydroponic systems.
-
Parsley – Grows well in hydroponics and is a fantastic garnish or ingredient for hearty winter dishes.
Eastern Australia (NSW, SE QLD)
Mild winters make this region ideal for a variety of cool-season crops:
-
Bok Choy & Asian Greens – Grow quickly and add great flavour to stir-fries.
-
Chard (Silverbeet) – A colourful and nutrient-dense leafy green.
-
Beet Greens – A great alternative to spinach, perfect for salads and cooking.
-
Thyme & Oregano – Hardy herbs that flourish in hydroponic systems.
Northern Australia (Tropical QLD, NT, Northern WA)
With warm conditions year-round, cooler months bring relief from extreme heat and humidity, making it an excellent time to grow:
-
Lettuce & Leafy Greens – Cooler temperatures prevent bolting and bitterness.
-
Basil – Thrives in hydroponic setups without the stress of extreme heat.
-
Mint – Grows exceptionally well in hydroponics and is perfect for teas and cooking.
-
Spring Onions – Quick-growing and great for flavourful meals.
-
Cucumbers – Prefer the mild season in the tropics for optimal growth.
Maximise Your Hydroponic Success with The Salad Table
Whether you’re growing indoors or outdoors, The Salad Table’s easy-to-use hydroponic garden kits are designed to help you grow fresh food all year round. Our systems are perfect for balconies, patios, or backyards, making them ideal for homes of any size. Hydroponic gardening saves water, eliminates weeds, and provides faster-growing, healthier plants—so you can enjoy homegrown produce, even more-so in the cooler months!
Start growing today with The Salad Table and enjoy fresh, homegrown food no matter the season.
