Summer in Australia brings a celebration of juicy fruits, crisp veggies and sun-loving herbs. Whether you’re planning festive gatherings, Christmas lunches, lazy picnics, or just trying to eat lighter during hot days, eating with the seasons is the most flavourful – and sustainable – choice.
Find the best in-season produce at your local farmers markets, or grow your own with seeds from our range at Biome. We stock summer-growing seeds from The Little Veggie Patch Co, Select Organic and Eden Seeds – all non-GMO and untreated.
Summer seasonal eating
When fruit and vegetables are eaten in season, they:
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are picked at their peak ripeness,
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are more flavourful and nutrient-rich,
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travel shorter distances (lower carbon footprint),
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are often more affordable,
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and support local growers.
Because in-season produce hasn't been artificially ripened or stored long-term, it tastes better and is better for you. And when there’s a summer bounty, prices drop – so it’s the perfect time to stock up for salads, barbecues and fresh desserts.
Summer vegetables in season Australia
Australia's climate zones vary, but generally across the country you’ll find:
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Salad stars: cucumber, tomato, capsicum, lettuce, rocket, watercress, celery, radish, spring onion
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BBQ favourites: corn, eggplant, zucchini, mushrooms, squash
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Crunchy stir-fry veg: green beans, snow peas, bok choy, choy sum
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Staple greens: spinach, silverbeet, kale (in cooler regions)
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Tropicals: okra, chilli, sweet potato, pumpkin
Indigenous vegetables such as warrigal greens and bush tomatoes also love the heat. Consider growing or sourcing native bush tucker varieties for a uniquely Australian summer plate.
Summer fruits in season Australia
Summer is fruit heaven in Australia. Think juicy, hydrating and perfect for hot days:
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Stone fruits: mango, peach, nectarine, apricot, plum
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Berries: blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, strawberries
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Tropical fruits: lychee, pineapple, passionfruit, banana, pawpaw
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Melons: watermelon, rockmelon, honeydew
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Citrus: lime and lemon
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Others: grapes, cherries, figs, avocado
Fresh summer fruits are perfect to snack on chilled, blend into smoothies, add to salads, or make into ice blocks. Try a mango and lime salsa with grilled corn and black beans, or chilled watermelon and mint salad with a touch of lime juice.
For festive gatherings and Christmas feasts, these fruits make colourful, healthy dessert platters or additions to pavlova, trifles and tarts.
Why eating seasonally matters
Eating seasonally in summer:
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aligns with your body’s needs – lighter, more hydrating foods
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reduces the demand for long-haul transported food
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cuts the need for refrigeration and energy-heavy storage
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is the freshest and tastiest way to eat
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supports regenerative, local food systems
It’s also a great way to reduce food waste. When you know what’s in season, it’s easier to plan meals that use up what’s abundant and readily available.
Grow your own summer produce with our seeds
Biome stocks over 50 heirloom and organic seed varieties from The Little Veggie Patch Co, Select Organic and Eden Seeds from heat-hardy herbs to climbing beans and leafy greens.
Preserve food when in season
In season produce is not only more fresh and nutritious, but less costly too. So, it's a great opportunity to purchase some in bulk and get preserving! Learn more at our blog post 6 Ways to Preserve Food Naturally: A Beginner's Guide to Fermentation, Pickling, and More
Biome has a great range of jars, ingredients and books to help you with fermenting foods.
Related reads at Biome
Beginners Guide to Starting a Veggie Garden
What Veggies to Grow on a Tiny Balcony
What Fruits & Vegetables Are In Season in Autumn in Australia
