Gardening in winter can seem like a hassle, but it’ll be worth it when you’ve grown vegetables that taste so much better than store-bought versions.
Express.co.uk caught up with two gardening experts to gain insight into which vegetables gardeners can plant now.
According to Chris Bonnett, founder of GardeningExpress.co.uk, to make the experience of growing vegetables “as easy as possible”, he recommends planting items such as root vegetables like carrots and parsnips.
When planting them, he said: “Make sure the soil is well-drained before planting so they’ll thrive and grow healthily.”
Carrots and parsnip seeds can be sown from February right through to late August and can be harvested almost all year round.
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Chris also recommends planting leafy greens like spinach as they will also “give you little hassle” and are “often considered some of the easiest vegetables to grow”.
For those planning on planting spinach, he suggests that pick a space in the garden which is partially in the shade but also gets enough sunlight for the greens to receive its nutrients. Chris instructed: “Plant the seeds directly into the ground and water regularly.
“Regularly monitor their condition as the vegetables may need extra mulch for protection if the weather takes a dramatic turn for the worst.
“They may need protection under glass such as a cloche or mini greenhouse if the weather is forecasting low temperatures.”
Tim Marshall, head gardener at Raby Castle agreed with planting spinach this month as it is a “cool-season vegetable” that can ”thrive” now.
It can be sown directly in the ground or started indoors and then transplanted. To plant spinach, prepare the soil by loosening it and removing any weeds. Sow the seeds in rows according to the packet instructions and keep the soil consistently moist until the seeds germinate. Thin out the seedlings to allow proper spacing for mature plants.
Tim also recommends lettuce as a popular choice which should be planted in the same way as spinach.
Radishes are “fast-growing, easy and perfect” for planting now, claimed the expert. Time explained: “They can be sown directly in the ground, and the seeds should be planted about half an inch deep.
“Thin the seedlings as they grow to prevent overcrowding. Radishes prefer well-drained soil and consistent moisture.”
When planting these vegetables listed, Tim noted that it is important to “assess the soil conditions” of your garden. Ensure that the soil is loose, fertile and well-drained.
Next, decide whether you want to sow the seeds directly in the ground or start them indoors. Starting the seeds indoors can give you a head start and better control over the germination process. However, direct sowing is also a viable option.
When planting the seeds, follow the instructions on the seed packet regarding seed depth and spacing. Some seeds may require soaking or scarification before planting, so be sure to familiarise yourself with the specific needs of each vegetable.
After planting, water the seeds gently but thoroughly, ensuring that the soil remains moist throughout the germination and growing process. Regularly monitor the plants for pests or diseases and address any issues promptly.
Tim added: “By selecting these easy-to-grow vegetables and following the proper planting techniques, gardeners can enjoy a bountiful harvest. Remember to adjust planting dates based on your specific region and climate, as they may vary.”
