Perth Garden Maintenance Tips — Month by Month Guide

Perth's Mediterranean climate follows a fairly predictable seasonal rhythm — and so should your garden maintenance routine. Here's a practical month-by-month guide for keeping your Perth garden in great shape throughout the year.

Summer (December–February)

Perth summers are brutal. Focus on watering efficiently (early morning, on your permitted days), mulching garden beds to retain moisture, and avoiding fertilising during heat waves. Mow lawns high (3–4cm) and less frequently. Watch for lawn grubs, which peak in summer — yellow or brown patches that pull away easily are a sign. Control with lawn grub insecticide promptly.

Autumn (March–May)

Autumn is an excellent time for major garden work in Perth. Plant new trees, shrubs, and lawn. Apply slow-release fertiliser to lawns and established plants. Divide and transplant perennials. Aerate compacted lawns. Check and service your reticulation before switching it off for winter. This is the best time to establish plants before winter rains set in.

Winter (June–August)

Perth winters are mild but wet. Reduce watering as rainfall takes over. Control winter weeds (bindii, oxalis, winter grass) before they set seed. Plant annual vegetables and winter flowers. Prune deciduous trees and shrubs. Lawn growth slows significantly — mow less frequently and raise the mower height.

Spring (September–November)

Spring in Perth is short but spectacular. Apply lawn fertiliser as growth resumes. Check reticulation is working correctly before summer. Plant warm-season annuals and vegetables. Prune spring-flowering shrubs immediately after flowering. This is the final window to establish plants before the summer heat arrives.