Pods & fruit
Lentil
Cool-season pulse forming small seed-filled pods.
Sowing & planting windows in Australia
Planting timing varies by broad Australian gardening zone. Local weather, unusual seasons and your garden’s microclimate can shift timing.
Cool
Sow direct · Apr–Jun
Core months: April, May, June
Temperate
Sow direct · Apr–Jun
Core months: April, May, June
Subtropical
Sow direct · May–Jun
Core months: May, June
Tropical
Sow direct · Not generally recommended
Arid
Sow direct · Apr–Jun
Core months: April, May, June
Getting started
Direct sow where plants will grow; seedlings dislike unnecessary disturbance.
The right conditions
Open sun, firm well-drained soil and a cool growing season with a dry finish.
As it grows
Avoid excess nitrogen and prolonged waterlogging; support may help in lush growth.
Ready to harvest
Harvest when most pods are dry, before extensive shattering.
Important cautions
Dry seed must be cleaned and cooked before eating.
Plant guidance: Desk-reviewed under the approved horticultural-synthesis method; not field-tested. Planting windows are a guide rather than a rule.