Scattering seeds evenly over a prepared soil surface rather than planting in rows. Used for lawn grass, green manures, and dense plantings of small-seeded crops like carrots.
Broadcast sowing is a traditional and efficient method for establishing ground covers, wildflower meadows, and vegetable crops across larger areas of your Australian garden. Rather than creating individual planting holes or furrows, you simply scatter seeds evenly across prepared soil, then lightly rake them in or press them into contact with the soil. This method suits Australian native plants, annual flowers, and some vegetables like lettuce or turnips.
The best time for broadcast sowing in Australia depends on your climate zone. In tropical zones (far north), sow during the dry season (May-September), whilst temperate regions (southern areas) suit spring (September-November) or autumn (March-May) sowing. Avoid summer sowing in hot zones as seedlings may struggle. Prepare your seedbed well by removing weeds and raking soil to a fine tilth. You'll find broadcast sowing supplies at Bunnings, including seed spreaders and garden rakes.
For even coverage, divide seeds in half and sow north-south, then east-west. This crosshatch pattern prevents bare patches. Small seeds like wildflowers work best; larger seeds may need wider spacing or direct pointing instead. After sowing, keep soil consistently moist until germination. Thin seedlings once established if needed. Broadcast sowing works particularly well for establishing native wildflower patches and is economical for large-scale planting projects in Australian gardens.