1. Peas and beans
Peter Ivanov, gardening expert at Fantastic Services, said: “English, snap, and snow peas are resilient and can withstand most cold temperatures.
“Another excellent hardy option that can be planted in January is fava beans. You can easily plant peas and beans by making a hole that’s 2.5cm deep, adding the seed, and then properly covering it with soil.
“Water the seeds every three to four days to help them germinate. To encourage growth, continue to water your plants once every two to three days.”
Cover the seeds with a layer of mulch once they begin to sprout as well as a layer of fertiliser high in potassium and phosphorus.
2. Asparagus
Since early spring is asparagus’s prime growing season, planting in early January will “yield the best harvest”, according to the pro.
When planting the vegetable, cut a trench that is 20cm deep and 30cm. The expert added: “For growing seedlings or plants in containers, you need seed or potting compost.
“Commercially produced peat-free composts are widely available and are made from a combination of different ingredients, including sand, loam, composted bark, and coir, but you can also mix your own.
“Arrange the crowns so that the growing points or new shoots are at the top of the ridge, and space them 30cm to 45cm apart.”
3. Greens
Certain greens can be planted and grown all winter long, including lettuce, chard and rocket.
Full sun is essential and the best greens come from consistently moist, but not soggy soil, and are spaced around 15cm apart.
Some experts recommend sowing seeds every few weeks to guarantee an unlimited supply of veg throughout the season.
4. Potatoes
The gardening expert continued: “If you can work the soil in January, then you can plant potatoes. They require well-drained, loose soil and lots of sunlight and are a great crop for beginners.
“Potatoes have a habit of adapting to any condition or climate and can produce a successful crop without much worry.
“Only soils that naturally lean towards salinity or alkalinity could pose an issue for potatoes. The best kind of soil for growing potatoes is a high-quality loam that’s slightly acidic, rich in organic matter, and both.
“The ideal spacing for potatoes grown in rows is between 30cm and 38cm for smaller, earliest, and main crops, respectively. Additionally, make sure there are at least 60cm between rows.”
5. Root vegetables
Root vegetables like carrots, turnips, radishes and parsnips can be planted as early as now and harvested until early spring.
Loose, well-draining soil is necessary for these types of crops to grow and spread their roots, and the expert recommended using an elevated bed.
Make sure to water deeply several times a week when the weather warms up, promoting longer, larger roots.”
