January Sowing Guide
January in the Western Cape is peak summer, bringing long, hot days and warm soil — perfect conditions for sowing a variety of vegetables, herbs, and flowers. With a little planning and mindful watering, you can keep your garden productive well into autumn.
Below is a helpful guide on what you can sow this month.
Herbs to Sow in January
These herbs thrive in warm conditions and are ideal for summer planting:
- Basil
- Dill
- Parsley
- Sage
- Borage
- Oregano
- Spring onion
Partial shade recommended:
- Coriander
- Rocket
Tip: Herbs benefit from morning sun and protection from harsh afternoon heat.
Leafy Greens
Even in summer, leafy greens can do well with some shade and consistent moisture:
- Swiss chard
- Lettuce
- Radicchio
- Kale
- Spinach
Mulching will help keep roots cool and retain moisture.
Root Vegetables
Fast-growing and reliable choices for January sowing:
- Radishes
- Carrots
- Beetroot
- Turnips
Ensure soil is loose and well-prepared for best root development.
Vegetables
You can still sow a variety of vegetables now, especially with good watering habits:
- Eggplant
- Bush beans
- Broccoli
- Cabbage
- Brussels sprouts
- Cauliflower
- Leeks
Final sowing for summer crops:
- Zucchini
- Patty pans
Flowers
Brighten your garden and attract beneficial insects with these summer sowing options:
- Cosmos
- Zinnias
- Sunflowers
- Alyssum
- Celosia
- Marigolds
- Cornflowers
- Snapdragons
- Nasturtiums
- Calendula
- Delphiniums
- Viola
Flowers are not only beautiful — many help with pest control and pollination.
January Gardening Tips
- Water early in the morning or late afternoon
- Provide shade cloth where necessary
- Mulch generously to reduce moisture loss
- Keep seedlings protected from extreme heat
Happy sowing! 🌻
Browse our full seed range and garden essentials at here.