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!

PRIZES WORTH OVER 3,100 RAISED


N
I
W BEDS, GARDEN VOUCHERS, TOOLS & MORE!
May 2015 4.99 growfruitandveg.co.uk

Grow
yourown
GARDENING ADVICE YOU CAN TRUST

The UKs best-selling kitchen garden magazine

HOW TO GROW

Quick and easy

START

GROWING

NOW!

Tomatoes Kale
Savoy cabbage
Winter squash
Fennel Chicory
Kohlrabi Lettuce

Harvest your

BEST EVER
BERRIES
this year
SEE PAGE 79

BUMPER
CROPS!
From plot to plate in 22 days

Step-by-step
RUNNER BEANS
FOR BEGINNERS
Mark
Diaconos
guide to
outside
sowing

Rob
Smiths
favourite
heritage
varieties

Anne
Swithinbanks
top seed
mixes to try
today

Sarah
Ravens
tips on
starting
basil

Plus HOW TO BEAT PESTS SLUGS, SNAILS, CARROT FLY & APHIDS

GYO May 15 ROPs_Layout 1 19/03/2015 11:41 Page 2

Leader Qx_GYO new size 20/03/2015 15:12 Page 1

Welcome

Grow
yourown
GARDENING ADVICE YOU CAN TRUST

The UKs best-selling kitchen garden magazine

EDITORIAL
Editor
Claire Holmes 01206 505 984
claire.holmes@aceville.co.uk
Deputy Editor
Laura Hillier 01206 505 991
laura.hillier@aceville.co.uk
Group Editor Naomi Abeykoon

DESIGN
Art Director James Philp
Designers
Debbie Pratt, Leo Bond & James Tuthill

PHOTOGRAPHY
CliQQ www.cliqq.co.uk

ADVERTISING
Advertising Manager
Teresa Tudge 01206 505 950
teresa.tudge@aceville.co.uk
Advertising Executive
Rachael Clark 01206 505 996
rachael.clark@aceville.co.uk
Group Advertising Manager Martin Lack
01206 505 940, martin.lack@aceville.co.uk
Promotions Manager
Liz Tuthill 01206 505 927
liz.tuthill@aceville.co.uk
Subscriptions Manager

Andrea Dickson
Subscriptions Helpline

0844 815 0030


Accounts
Anne-Marie Hartley 01206 505 902
Reprographics and Typesetting
Ace Pre-Press, 19 Phoenix Court, Hawkins
Road, Colchester, Essex CO2 8JY
Newstrade Sales
Marketforce Tel: 0203 148 3300
Printed in the UK

GET IN TOUCH
Post: Grow Your Own, 25 Phoenix Court,
Hawkins Road, Colchester, Essex CO2 8JY
Email: gyo@growfruitandveg.co.uk
Back issues: 0844 815 0030
Forum: growfruitandveg.co.uk/grapevine
MANAGING DIRECTOR MATTHEW TUDOR
PUBLISHING DIRECTOR HELEN TUDOR

ACEVILLE PUBLICATIONS Ltd

Happy growing!
Theres plenty to get
cracking with in May

PRIZES WO
N!
H OV
O ER 3,100
WI BEDS, GARDEN VORT
RA
AIS
ISE
I ED
D
UCHERS,
TOOLS & MO
RE!

G
r
w
youro
own
May 2015 4.9
.999

growfruitandveg
GARDENING
.co
.co.
co.u
uk
k
ADVIC
V E YOU CA
N TRU
RUST

T UK
The
Ks
s best-selling
kitcche
h n garden ma
hen
gaz
azin
inee

STAR

GROWINT
G

NOW!

O Tomatoe
t s O Kale
O Savo
oy
y cabbage
O Winte
err squash
O Fennel
O Chicory
O Kohlr
rab
abi O
OLettuce

Harvest your

BEST EVER
BERRIES

ay is a fantastically
Quick and easy
busy month for
this year
SEE PAGE 79
growers not only
are seedlings springing up
From plot to pl
ate in 22 days
everywhere and young
plants demanding to be
Step-by-step
transplanted, but theres
RUNNER BE
FOR BEGINNANS
also still so much to sow
ERS
for later in the year. The
growing season is certainly cranking up a gear.
All our contributors are clearly feeling
Plus HOW TO
BEAT PESTS
SLUGS, SNAIL
ILS
S,, CARROT FL
inspired by the lengthening days and the
LY
Y & APHIDS
rising temperatures, and the subjects theyre covering this month
highlight this. Anne Swithinbank is starting fennel and growing kale, while
Simon Akeroyd is plaiting a pair of bay trees and Naomi Schillinger is sowing
lettuce and starting pea shoots. Beginner gardeners still getting to grips with growing
terms should turn to page 26 where Mark Diacono shares a simple guide to outside
sowing techniques such as station sowing and drill sowing. More experimental growers
may also be interested in trying the crops he recommends, or other exotic veg featured
elsewhere in the mag such as cardoons.
As well as all the great advice packed within these pages, this month were giving
away a free book called The Essential Allotment Guide by John Harrison (digital issues
excluded) we hope you enjoy it.
Id also like to take this opportunity to announce some changes at Grow Your Own.
Regular readers may have noticed that former editor Lucy Chamberlain left the
magazine a few months ago and Im delighted to say that Im now going to be
stepping into this role, with Laura Hillier joining me as deputy editor. Were really keen
to build on all the good work that has been done before us and I want to make sure
were delivering the content you want. Thats why this month were running a reader
survey to gain your feedback. Please do take the time to fill in the form or visit
growfruitandveg.co.uk/readersurvey and share your thoughts. All those
who do take part will be entered into a prize draw to be in with a
chance of winning one of five Spear and Jackson tool sets each
SUBSCRIBE
worth over 50.
HOW TO GROW

BUMP
CROPSE!R
Ma
Mar
ark
k
Diac
acon
o os
ono
s
guid
uidee to
outs
utsiide
de
sow
win
iing
g

Claire Holmes
Acting Editor Claire Holmes

If youd like
to keep up to
speed with the
latest GYO
news and
developments
as they occur, why not
follow us on Twitter or
Facebook? You can
find us at @GYOmag
and facebook.com/
growyourownmag.
You can also join our
thriving forum at
growfruitandveg.co.uk

Rob
Smi
S ths
favo
fav urite
heri
he tage
vari
va eties

Anne
Swithinbanks
top seed
mixes to try
today

Sarah
Ravens
tips on
starting
basil

TODAY...

And receive 24
Seed Pantry
Plug Plants wor
th 22.45!
Turn to page 56
for more details
,
or visit growfru
itand
veg.co.uk/subs
cribe

GYO is proud to support the organisations


shown below. Their members write
regularly for this magazine, ensuring that
you receive the very latest top-notch
advice from industry experts its crucial to us that everything you read
on these pages can be trusted implicitly. Were also keen to protect the
environment and act responsibly in the garden, so will only list man-made
garden chemicals where organic remedies are not deemed suitable. Once
youve read this magazine, why not donate it to your local doctors or
dentists surgery? Failing that, magazines can be put out with your
recycling for collection.

growfruitandveg.co.uk

CONTENTS _GYO new size 20/03/2015 12:53 Page 1

72

90

95

70

29

Get online!

follow us on twitter @GYOmag or


join our forum at growfruitandveg.co.uk

Contents
Vegetable advice this month:

GYOs advice will help you spring into gear on the plot this May
6 This Month
Catch up with the latest
gardening news and events

10 Jobs on the Plot


Some great tips to make your
growing season more productive

12 Celebrate May
The best way to thin out
seedlings for the growing
season ahead, explained
by David Logan

14 The Vegetable Gardener C


Interested in growing samphire
and Savoy cabbage? Anne
Swithinbank explains how
to get started

18, 83 Win!
Enter our competitions for your
chance to get your hands on
some fantastic prizes
4

growfruitandveg.co.uk

20 Plot Essentials
Sally Nex covers how to avoid
spindly asparagus and reveals
how to build a carrot fly barrier

23 Grow like a Pro: kohlrabi

Introduce this tasty root to


your plot and you wont regret
it. Learn the basics with the help
of Michael Michaud from Sea
Spring Seeds

24 First Steps: winter squash


A detailed look through the
growing process of this
productive veg perfect
for beginner growers

26 Sowing Success C

Mark Diacono explains the


difference between outdoor
sowing methods and shares
some handy hints

14 78

29 Beat pests and diseases


An in-depth look at some of the
most common problems for
growers, including aphids, slugs,
rabbits and tomato blight

32 Time-saving Tips for


the Busy Gardener C
Great advice for a productive
season without a lengthy
commitment to the plot

34 Year Round Potager C

A step-by-step guide on how to


sow and plant out runner beans,
plus a handy guide on how to
make a runner bean house

36 Its Our Weekend Plot


Meet the women who have been
able to start growing thanks to a
kind land-owner

40 Edible exotics: cardoons


Mandy Barber from Incredible
Vegetables shares her tips on
cultivating this unusual crop

41 Ask the Experts


Our panel of experts answer
your questions on slugs, crop
protection, seedlings and more

53 Reader Survey

Answer these questions to provide


your feedback on the magazine

58 The Urban Gardener

Naomi Schillinger discusses


growing pea shoots and lettuce

61 Garden chat with


Sarah Raven C

This month Sarah gives her expert


advice on sowing zinnias and basil

62 The Practical Gardener

Simon Akeroyd demonstrates


the best way to shape a bay tree

65 Herb growing for


beginners: Oregano

Try including this Mediterranean


herb on your plot

66 Tried and Tested

Dave Finkle looks at sowing


and drilling products

69 People and their Plots


Phil McCann talks to an allotment
charity worker

70 Allotment Noticeboard

A range of on-the-plot news,


including how to protect your
crops and tools

CONTENTS _GYO new size 20/03/2015 12:53 Page 2

WE HOPE YOU ENJOY


YOUR FREE* BOOK!
John Harrisons guide will
answer your allotment
questions (*excludes digital issues)

GIVEAWAY OF GREAT
GARDEN GOODIES!

Raised beds from Quickcrop


and other great prizes!
(p. 18, 83 and 98)

48

20

41

34 58
72 Hanging Baskets
These containers save space
and produce tasty veg

75 Pick of the crop

Lorraine Coverley explores the best


breeds for meat and for eggs

A selection of the best vertical


planters that will make your crops
look even more impressive

98 Wish List

76 Growing Help

Accommodate radishes into more


dishes with these innovative recipes

Jane Perrone runs through some


valuable books and websites

78 The Fruit Gardener C

Find out about unusual berry


varieties with Lucy Chamberlain

84 Garden Organic
Masterclass
Anton Rosenfeld looks at
new pests and diseases

87 Buying a Polytunnel
The first of a new three-part series
from expert Lia Leendertz

90 Under Cover

!
PRIZES
ZES WORTH OVER
O
3,100 RAISED
RA
AISED
IN
DEN VOUCHERS,
VOUCHE
ERS, TOOLS & MORE!
ORE!
MO
W BEDS, GARDEN
May 2015 4.9
4.99
99 growfruitandveg.c
growfruitandveg.co.uk
co.uk

Competitions and discounts for you

Grow
G
ro
ow
o
w
yourown
yyo
ouro
u o
ow
wn
GARDENING ADV
ADVICE
VICE YOU CAN TRUST
TR
RUST

100 Seasonal Chef


106 Behind the Scenes
with... Rob Smith C

T UKss best-selling kitch


The
kitchen
hen garden magaz
magazine
zine

The Big Allotment Challenge winner


Rob Smith talks about heritage veg

SMART
GARDENING
46 Smart Gardening News

HOW TO GROW

Quick and easy


P32

Learn about the must have


gadgets and crops for your plot
Gardening expert Emma Hardy
explains how to make a beefriendly herb garden

93 Beekeeping:
Buying a new swarm

50 Your Complete Guide


To... Unpredictable weather
Come rain or shine, your crops
can survive with this advice

START
ST
TART

GROWING
GRO
OWING

NOW!
NO
OW!

O Toma
Tomatoes
atoes O Kale
O Savoy
y cabbage
O Winte
Winter
er squash
O Fenne
Fennel
el O Chicory
O Kohlr
OLettuce
Kohlrabi
rabi O

Harvest your

BEST EVER
BERRIES

P79

this year

BUMPER
CROPS!
From plot to plate in 22 days

SEE PAGE 79

Step-by-step

48 Step-by-Step

Sally Nex dicusses how to control


greenhouse temperatures

BBKA's Gill Maclean gives her


advice for bee enthusiasts

Subscribe today & save s!


Call 0844 815 0030 now!

95 Keeping chickens: Hens


raised as pets vs livestock

P34

RUNNER BEANS
FOR BEGINNERS

P26
P106

Mark
Ma
ark
Diaconos
Diaco
onos
guid
guide
de to
outside
outsside
sowing
sow
wing

Rob
S
Smiths
fa
avourite
favourite
h
heritage
v
varieties

Anne
Swithinbanks
top seed
mixes to try
today

Sarah
Ravens
tips on
starting
basil

P14
P61

Plus HOW TO
T BEAT PESTS
S SLUGS, SNAILS,
SNAIILS, CARROT FLY
FL
LY & APHIDS

C On the cover
growfruitandveg.co.uk

This month...

Keep up to date with the latest news and events


from the growing community

EU seed regulation
is withdrawn
Good news! The EU has
withdrawn the seed regulations
proposed earlier in the year,
which would have seen
growers prevented from
exchanging seed varieties that
are not registered. This would,
of course, have had a large
impact on heritage seeds and
biodiversity in Europe. The
move has been welcomed by
organisations such as Garden
Organic, which has been
campaigning hard throughout
the course of the regulation
discussions and continues to
do so to ensure that these age
old crops can thrive through
its Heritage Seed Library.
Follow the campaign on
social media by searching
#saveourseeds and for more
information on HSL, turn to
page 106 to hear what Big
Allotment Challenge winner
Rob has to say about being
a seed guardian.

Pest patrol

Suttons Seeds has launched a brand new range


of seeds in conjunction with James Wongs
Grow for Flavour book, which is out now
Have you tried these new seeds? Let us know by tweeting @GYOmag
or commenting on Facebook facebook.com/growyourownmag
growfruitandveg.co.uk

Homebase Garden
Academy has teamed up
with horticultural charity
Greenfingers, which is
dedicated to providing
support for children who
spend time in hospices
across the country.
Academy students will
have the chance to attend
workshops put on by
Greenfingers, helping
them to learn what the
charity does and how
it benefits these young
people with its specially
designed gardens.

Gardeners, get your beer traps and copper tape ready


research suggests that 2015 is set to be a mammoth
year for slugs and snails in fact, the worst on
record. A new report from Wyvale states that winter
temperatures have provided ideal conditions for slugs
to thrive. Offering a particular threat over this season
is the Spanish slug, which grows up to 15cm in length
and is immune to a lot of control methods thanks to
an extra layer of slime yuck! However, dont panic!
There is plenty of great advice at hand in this issue
from Kews Philip Turvil turn to page 41 for his
prevention tips.

NEWS
in brief

Seed Pantry has


launched a brilliant new
app to help you keep
track of your crops this
year. When you sow,
you set a crop clock that
serves as a timer, guiding
you through the process,
from sowing to eating
your veg. You can even
choose to receive alerts to
remind you of key dates
for transplanting, growing
techniques and more. The
app also has illustrated
information, allows you to
access seeds, plants and
equipment, and is an easy
way to use the companys
handy Q&A service.
Find out more at
seedpantry.co.uk/app

Over
to you
We asked our
facebook followers
what types of
chillies they are
growing and
there are a lot of
hot pepper fans!

Diary
dates

Readers letters
Preventing carrot fly

May 4-5, 2015


Meet the edible garden
team at The Royal
Botanic Gardens,
Edinburgh. rbge.org.uk

Thinning carrots emits a strong scent


that attracts carrot root fly. I dont pull the
unwanted seedlings, instead I simply snip
the leaves off with scissors. The roots wither
away quietly leaving the plants I need and
the flies never know about them.
Sandra Lawrence, via email

May 7-10
Malvern Spring Festival.
threecounties.co.uk
May 9, 2015
Home to Roost poultry
course, Tatton Park.
tattonpark.org.uk
May 11, 2015
Beekeeping at River
Cottage, Devon.
rivercottage.net

Punam Farmah
Quite a few
Serrano, Hungarian
Hot Wax, Pettie Belle,
Pumpkin, Apricot,
Bellaforma, Aji
Limon, Raindrop,
Cayenne, as well
as orange and
chocolate habanero.

May 13, 2015


Creative containers at
RHS Hyde Hall, Essex.
rhs.org.uk

New lease of life

Jennifer Lynn
Bowring
Nosferatu,
Serrano, Joes Long,
Pinochios Nose, Hot
Cayenne and Hot
Chilli Pepper.
Carolyn Adamson
Anaheim, Purple
Jalapeo and
Demon Red.
Follow us on facebook
at facebook.com/
growyourownmag and
join in with plenty
of discussions on all
different elements of
growing fruit and veg.

When the handle broke


on these garden carriers
(pictured) I didnt want
to throw them away
because they still were
very useful for weeding,
sieving, washing out
pots or mixing potting
compost. So my husband

Write to us

Share your GYO stories, pictures, community projects and tips


with us for a chance to win a voucher from seed company
Thompson & Morgan. Each readers letter we print will win a 10 voucher and
our star letter will win a 40 voucher! Please note these will be sent out by
the end of the coverdated month. Email laura.hillier@aceville.co.uk or write to GYO, 25
Phoenix Court, Hawkins Road, Colchester, Essex, CO2 8JY.

Training your trees


Any fruit trees in your
growing space which are
trained as a fan should
now be given a little tidy
up. Simply remove any
shoots that are crossing
over or developing at
strange angles to keep
the shape neat and easy
to manage throughout
the season.

May 16 June 7,
2015
Chelsea Fringe, countrywide. chelseafringe.com
May 17, 2015
Plant fair, Doddington
Hall. doddingtonhall.com
May 17, 2015
Farmers market,
Hatfield House.
hatfield-house.co.uk
May 23, 2015
Smallholding
for beginners.
humblebynature.com

Top event
this month

May is great for...


Sowing your beans
It is the perfect time to
get your beans in the
ground where they are
to crop. If you live in an
area prone to late frosts,
remember to keep some
horticultural fleece handy
to help protect young
plants against chilly snaps,
or offer cloche cover to
seedlings already in place.

drilled a couple of holes in


them and threaded nylon
rope replacement handles
through. Sometimes the
simplest of ideas work
so well no wonder our
young grandson think he
can fix anything!
Gaye Carter, via email

May 14, 2015


Garden Organic AGM
and members day,
Sheepdrove Organic
Farm, Berkshire.
gardenorganic.org.uk

The next stage in


tomato care
Sideshoots on your
tomatoes are likely to be
sprouting with abandon
coming into May pinch
these out to encourage
the plant to put energy
into growing strong and
healthy, and producing a
good yield of fruit later
in the year.

Chelsea
Flower Show
Taking place between May
19 and 23, this show is one
of the key events in the
gardeners calendar. Back
again with a wide array of different show gardens,
stalls and experts, this really is a day not to be
missed. For more information and to plan your
trip, visit rhs.org.uk
growfruitandveg.co.uk

five ways to stay

IN TOUCH
Keep up with thee latest ne
news,, tips
p and growing
advicee wherever you go

GYO ON FACEBOOK!
Give us a like to join in with our
discussions on a number of gardening
subjects, find out what other growers
have achieved on their plot and get inspired

Digital
issues
only
2.99!

ON TWITTER
Our Twitter page is one of the best ways to connect
with gardeners worldwide with over 19,000 followers.
Let us know what youre growing and well provide
great tips and the latest news stories

DIGITAL ISSUES
If youre a grower on the go, then our GYO app is the
perfect way to access the digital copy of the magazine
for only 2.99. Its available on a range of devices (see
below) and can also be read on a PC simply search
for Grow Your Own at pocketmags.com

IN STORE

GYO WEBSITE
If you want instant access to competitions, or to take
part in our forum that has over 59,000 members,
head to growfruitandveg.co.uk. We provide growing
guides, fresh news and interesting topics for you to
tell us about your experiences on the plot.

Get in touch...

GYO magazine
is available to
buy in major
supermarkets,
including Tesco,
Sainsburys and
Waitrose, as well
as WHSmith,
Wilko and other
independent
newsagents.

the edit team can be


contacted as follows:
Editor Claire Holmes
01206 505 984 claire.holmes@
aceville.co.uk
Deputy Editor
Laura Hillier
01206 505 991
laura.hillier@aceville.co.uk

AVAILABLE ON YOUR DEVICE NOW!


Download from
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Veg intro page Qx_GYO new size 20/03/2015 16:08 Page 2

PRACTICAL ADVICE

Packed full of great growing tips!

A great selection of growing advice

An array of useful gardening information that will inspire you this month
Radishes

Cardoons

Kohlrabi

Page 32

Page 40

Page 23

Try growing this peppery root for a crop


thats ready to harvest in no time

An introduction to this unusual veg


from Incredible Vegetables

Michael Michaud from Sea Spring Seeds


gives his expert tips on this annual root

Runner beans

Savoy cabbage

Winter squash

Page 34

Page 14

Page 24

Easy to grow and rewarding, learn about


this tasty crop in the year-round potager

A detailed approach to cultivating this


brassica from Anne Swithinbank

Growers can find all they need to


know about this rewarding crop

growfruitandveg.co.uk

YOUR COMPLETE VEG GUIDE MAY

GYO VEG
THIS MAY

JOBS ON THE PLOT _GYO new size 20/03/2015 11:49 Page 1

THIS MONTHS Essential checklist

MAY

JOBS
ON THE
PLOT

The garden is bursting into


life at the moment and the
sound of birds singing and
bees buzzing will provide a
wonderful backdrop to all of
your jobs on the plot this
month. Seeds will be slowly
unfurling, young plants
stretching into growth and
fruit flowers blooming. What
a great time of year to be
outside! When the risk of
frost has fully passed (which
is usually around mid-May
but will depend largely on
your location) theres plenty
of planting out to do, and
some lucky growers may
even be enjoying the first
asparagus spears or lettuce
leaves of the season.

THE FRUIT GARDEN

OF THE M
M
youre
EgrowingIf these
delicious

TH:
ON

PROB
L

10

LE

PA
R

AG U S B E

growfruitandveg.co.uk

Be prepared to deal with any late frosts and


have fleece ready to cover outdoor blossoms.
Use canes to hold the material away from the
flowers and prevent damage.

If you have a lot of blossoms under cover


remember that bees and other insects will
need access to ensure pollination and fruit
set. Remove the cover as and when you can.

Keep young trees and bushes well watered


this is important to remember as conditions
which are too dry can cause checks to
growth and hinder yields.

Keep your eyes peeled for pests and diseases


aphid populations in particular can increase
rapidly if youre not careful.

AS

green spears, the last thing


you want to see is asparagus
beetle. This pest feeds on your
crops and damages them beyond
repair. If you spot the beetles,
pick them off your veg by hand
and dispose of accordingly.
Burn your stems at the end of
the season to reduce the
likelihood of a
comeback.

Birds will be eagerly eyeing any emerging fruit


at this time of year, so make sure you cover
your crops with netting to thwart these
hungry thieves. Put protection in place
carefully, being sure to pull it taut to reduce
the likelihood of creatures getting tangled up.

CROPS TO...

SOW

Beetroot
n Broad beans
n Brussels
sprouts
n Cabbages
n Calabrese
n Carrots
n Cauliflower
n Chicory
n Courgettes
n French beans
n Kale
n Kohlrabi
n Leeks
n Lettuces
n Parsnips
n Peas
n Pumpkins
n Radishes
n Runner beans
n Salad leaves
n Spinach
n Sprouting
broccoli
n Sweetcorn
n Swiss chard
n Turnips
n

HARVEST

Asparagus
Beetroot
n Broad beans
n Citrus
n Lettuces
n Peas
n Radishes
n Rhubarb
n Spinach
n Spring
cabbage
n Spring
cauliflower
n Swiss chard
n
n

JOBS ON THE PLOT _GYO new size 20/03/2015 11:49 Page 2

The vegetable garden:


n Earth up potatoes by drawing

up soil around crops to cover


the new, emerging shoots.

has passed. This crop is windpollinated so make sure you


position your seeds in blocks.

n Make sure you have supports in

n Other seeds which can be sown

place for broad beans and peas


so that your plants can continue
with steady growth.
n Keep a keen eye out for slugs

make regular trips around your


garden in the evening to pick
them off your plants by hand.
n Along with your edible crops,

weeds will be springing up


everywhere this month. Try to
get rid of them as soon as they
appear to reduce competition
for your plants.
n Harvest asparagus spears before

they reach 18cm tall and enjoy


their sought-after flavour in plenty
of dishes.
n You can sow sweetcorn directly

outside when the risk of frosts

directly outside now include


French beans, runner beans,
squash, pumpkins, kohlrabi and
cauliflowers. These sowings
should germinate fairly quickly,
so ensure the ground is kept
moist and weed-free.

Take softwood cuttings of herbs such as


thyme and oregano and place in a heated
propagator. Pinch out once rooted.

Keep potted herbs such as basil well


watered to enable strong growth this month
and prevent any wilting.

Take harvests from your leafy herbs now and


use this soft new growth in your cooking for a
burst of flavour.

n Look out for emerging seedlings

becoming overcrowded and thin


out as and when necessary.
n Start hardening off and planting

out established seedlings when


the weather provides more
suitable conditions.
n Examine your developing brassicas

regularly and remove any


yellowing leaves this will help
prevent the spread of diseases
such as grey mould.

ER:
V
O
C
R
UNDE
ects can access
Make sure bees and ins
crops.
g
rin
we
any flo

Add greenhouse
shading throug
h the use
of blinds or shad
e paint in prep
aration.

Open vents and doors to boost air


flow on warm days.

THE CONTAINER
GARDEN
4 Keep on top of watering this
month. Very dry spells can have
long-lasting effects on your crops.
4 If youre growing spinach or
lettuce in pots, thin out your seedlings
as they get larger to prevent
competition. Dont just throw away
these young shoots though they
make a tasty addition to salads.

YOUR COMPLETE VEG GUIDE MAY

The HERB GARDEN:

4 Indoor tomatoes in pots will be


romping away now. Keep well fed
and remove sideshoots of cordon
plants regularly.
4 Protect pot-grown crops from
pests and diseases such as slugs and
carrot fly. Netting and copper tape
could be useful tools to deal with
these annoyances.

Take a look at greenhouse gutters and


ensure they are clear of any debris.

Boost humidity levels


by damping
down floors with water
.

Warm up growbags and full watering


cans to prevent a cold shock for seedlings.

Give plants en
ough space on
greenhouse stag
to give them th
ing
e best possible
start.

they
tomatoes as
s.
Transplant
er
in
ta
n
co
eir
outg row th

May focus on: Hardening off


You can now start to think about transplanting indoorraised seedlings to your beds outside. These plants will
be so used to the warmth and protection of your kitchen
windowsill, however, they will need to be gradually
accustomed to the conditions outdoors to prevent all your
hard work from being in vain. To harden off your plants,
place them outside in a sheltered spot for a few hours a
day to start with, bringing them back in at night and when
temperatures plummet. Slowly increase the time they are
outside over a period of 10 to 14 days, until they are ready
to be left out all day and all night.

growfruitandveg.co.uk

11

Celebrate left_GYO new size 20/03/2015 15:11 Page 1

YOUR COMPLETE VEG GUIDE MAY


12

Seedling Masterclass

EXPERT INTERVIEW

SEASONAL ADVICE

PICK
OF VEG
CELEBRATE
GYO
THE CROP

THIS MONTH
MAY

Learn how to successfully thin out seedlings


with this expert advice from David Logan

EXPERT
David Logan
is the head gardener
at Doddington Hall,
near Lincoln
So, youve sown your seeds,
watched excitedly as the little
green heads appear and necks
strain up towards the light and
now youve got a pot full of baby
seedlings. But what next? The
young plants are competing with
each other for light, water and
nutrients, and if they get too big
they will become very difficult
to separate. Now is the time to
prick them out.
I prepare my pots first, a tray
at a time filled with a loose mix of
compost with added perlite for
drainage. The tiny roots of
seedlings can be easily
waterlogged, so a loose mix is
ideal for this job. Vermiculite or
perlite are great, but a well-rotted
leaf mould worked through your
compost is another good option.
The next step is to tilt the pot
onto its side and carefully
encourage the mass of seedlings
out with a flat plant label.
Carefully separate a few of these
at a time, trying to handle the
roots as little as possible. Grab
them gently by their leaves and lift
them clear of the mass, dib a hole
in the middle of your pre-prepared
pot (you can use a pen, pencil,
finger or of course, a bought
dibber) and lower the roots down,
gently firming around them. Then
onto the next
Dont forget to give them all a
gentle water when youre done.

growfruitandveg.co.uk

GYO May 15 ROPs_Layout 1 19/03/2015 11:46 Page 13

Veg gardener anne MAY 15_GYO new size 19/03/2015 15:41 Page 1

EXPERT ADVICE Anne Swithinbank

THE VEGETABLE
GARDENER
This month, Anne is sowing runner
beans, growing kale and starting
Florence fennel

Anne Swithinbank
GYOs favourite contributor reports
from her Devonshire veg garden

This months crops


Runner beans
Savoy cabbage Kale
Florence fennel
Samphire Parsnips
May is a beautiful but potentially frantic
month because there is so much that
could be done. Theres still time to sow
all the roots, temperatures are warm
enough for tender veg such as tomatoes,
beans, squashes and sweetcorn, plus you
can start winter brassicas. On top of this,
earlier sowings need to be planted
or thinned out and weeds are growing
with gusto, requiring much hoeing and
hand weeding. Yet coinciding with all
this action, there is often a hungry gap
in the kitchen because May can be lean
when it comes to harvesting. Overwintered crops will have gone up to
flower and those from earlier sowings
and plantings will barely have had time
to develop. This is where unheated
greenhouses and polytunnels come into
their own for leafy greens mainly sown
the previous July and August.

14

growfruitandveg.co.uk

Sow runner beans


In an average year, the first or second week of
May is a good time to get an initial batch of
runners underway, especially in milder regions.
I like to sow in containers under glass, setting
seeds 5cm apart in a wide pot or container,
10cm deep. Once grown, harden them off and
theyll be ready for planting towards the end of
May or beginning of June. Runners need good,
deep, rich soil where their roots will find plenty
of water and nourishment and as the majority
of varieties are climbers, supports are essential.
The classic arrangement is to set bamboo canes
or hazel or ash poles in a double row 50cm
apart, with the canes 30cm apart. Each pair is
pulled together over the middle and tied and
then a long pole fixed horizontally over the tops
for added sturdiness. Bean plants are set on the
inside of each cane and I find it helps to pull soil
towards the cane bases.

VARIETIES TO TRY
Firestorm: This red-flowered runner and
French bean cross grows and tastes like a
runner but is self-pollinating and crops more
reliably when weather conditions are bad. Ive
found it productive and good. Marshalls
0844 557 6700, marshalls-seeds.co.uk
Celebration: This plants attractive
salmon pink and white flowers are a delight
on the veg plot but this bean is also high
yielding with straight, smooth pods. Kings
Seeds 01376 570 000, kingsseeds.com
White Lady: My dad sets great store by
this white-flowered bean, as he maintains it
sets and delivers better than others during hot
summer spells. The abundant pods deliver
crops over a long period. D.T. Brown 0845
371 0532, dtbrownseeds.co.uk

Veg gardener anne MAY 15_GYO new size 19/03/2015 15:41 Page 2

Crunchy, aniseed flavoured bulbs (which


are really swollen leaf bases) are in great
demand for salads, braises and bakes.
Early sowings are apt to run up to seed
(triggered by cold or dry spells) so I rarely
sow until May. You can start this crop in
modules but I find fennel grows well from
direct sowings. Plant or thin
to 30cm each way for full
development. Sow again
in mid June for a later
crop with less chance
of bolting. Thin to
30cm each way
and if they show
signs of
flowering,
harvest and
use them
immediately.

GYO STEP-BY-STEP Grow Savoy cabbage


VARIETIES TO TRY
Fennel Romanesco: This is a well
known mid-early variety for sowing from
March to May. Produces a good, large bulb.
Nickys Nursery 01843 600 972,
nickys-nursery.co.uk
Alpine fennel Montebianco or
Mantblanc: Vigorous plants produce large
rounded bulbs and are ideal for later sowings.
Seeds of Italy 020 8427 5020,
seedsofitaly.com

With their large, dense hearts of crinkled leaves, Savoys are beautiful and tasty
cabbages for autumn and winter. You may have sown some already in March for
an autumn crop, but for a winter harvest early May is a good time to start them.
The old-fashioned method is to sow into drills in a seed bed and when plants
have two or three true leaves, they are transplanted 8cm apart to grow on, to
be set at final spacings of 60cm apart in June or July. These days, many
gardeners prefer to sow in modules and pot them up.

YOUR COMPLETE VEG GUIDE MAY

Start Florence fennel

Sirio: Ideal for a May or June sowing.


Compact plants will produce large, sweet
bulbs. Seeds by Post 01827 251 511,
seedsbypost.co.uk

t in May
Crops to sow & plan
I generally sow

w sweetcorn
So
glass and then
into modules under

cm apart
plant in blocks 30-45
ty.
rie
va
to
ing
accord
sowing direct
Sow squashes Worth
a cut off plastic
as long as you pop
er seeds and
bottle mini cloche ov
watch out for slugs.
ers Ridge
Sow outdoor cucumb
d
an have a
cucumbers are easy
lovely flavour.
ult crop to
Sow swedes A diffic
23cm apart in
grow well. Thin to
.
rows 38cm apart

Step 1

Step 2

Fill modules with compost, then make a


small dent in the top of each cell and
sow two or three seeds. Brush compost
back over the seeds to cover and press
lightly. Water in and stand on staging.

After germination, thin the seedlings


to one per cell before the first true
leaves have grown and before the
seedlings twine their roots together.
Use spare seedlings to fill any gaps.

Step 3

Step 4

Well before the seedlings become root


bound, dig them out of their cells and
pot them firmly into 9cm pots. It does
no harm to bury the stem deeper to
stabilise the plant.

Stand the plants outdoors to feel the


wind and rain before planting them
into good but firm soil. Cover to
exclude cabbage white butterflies
and take steps to deter slugs.

ppers and
Plant aubergines, pe
Look out for
ss
tomatoes under gla
in nurseries
healthy young plants
growing bags.
and pot or plant in

growfruitandveg.co.uk

15

Veg gardener anne MAY 15_GYO new size 19/03/2015 15:41 Page 3

EXPERT ADVICE Anne Swithinbank


KALE IN
CONTAINERS
In smaller gardens kale
will grow happily with
one to three plants in
a large pot of good
compost. You might
not have enough leaf
for a whole portion of
veg or for smoothies
but small quantities
are great sliced
into soups or
fried as a crispy
seaweed garnish.

Grow samphire

Grow kale

Kale is one of those leafy


vegetables that was once taken for
granted but has now become super
trendy. Ive seen an exciting range
of colourful kales on trial,
suggesting they have an even
brighter future to deliver decorative
foliage and good eating. Generally, I

Kale growing
chart

Jan

SOW

HARVEST

SOW

16

HARVEST

growfruitandveg.co.uk

Feb

would sow any kale now. Certainly


Pentland Brig, which comes into
its own in spring, delivering many
succulent leaves and flowering
shoots resembling tenderstem
broccoli. Tall, curly-leave kinds also
need time to grow large for winter.
Yet sow the faster growing varieties
too, including Nero di Toscana and
Red Russian, for autumn pickings.
Another sowing made in June or
July will yield plants mainly to stand
over winter for more leaves in
spring. Ive also experimented by
starting kale in January under glass
to see what theyll manage to do
before (presumably) running up
to seed in midsummer. Also try
growing them at closer spacings
for cut-and-come-again leaves.
Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Every year, it is good to grow something


different and Im focusing my attention on
samphire. This salty, textural and tasty veg will
likely prove challenging, not least because the
name samphire is loosely attributed to three
different plants from completely different plant
families. The one we find in restaurants is usually
the succulent Salicornia europaea, an estuary
plant from the beet tribe also known as marsh
samphire, sea asparagus, sea pickle or glasswort.
You can buy plants or seeds of this annual to
sow in late spring or autumn and harvest during
July and August. Im not expecting an easy time,
as it needs a sheltered position, sun and welldrained soil. Crucially, one has to water it with a
saline solution of a teaspoon of sea salt in a pint
of water. An easier alternative could be saltwort,
or what the Italians call Agretti (Salsola soda).
This Mediterranean annual from the amaranth
tribe produces long, succulent and flavoursome
but more grass-like leaves. Seed is sown in
autumn and watering with salty water is not
essential. Finally, we have rock samphire
(Crithmum maritimum), a perennial European
native in the carrot family. Apparently this is
tricky to germinate and does best from an
autumn sowing under unheated glass. I would
grow it in a container of well-drained compost.

VARIETIES TO TRY
Marsh samphire (Salicornia
europaea) is available as plants from
Victoriana Nursery (01233 740 529,
victoriananursery.co.uk), and seed
from Suttons (0844 922 0606,
suttons.co.uk)
Agretti (Salsola soda) seeds are not
always in stock but try The Real Seed
Catalogue (01239 821 107,
realseeds.co.uk)
Rock samphire (Crithmum
maritimum) can be bought from
Chiltern Seeds (01491 824 675
chilternseeds.co.uk)

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Veg gardener anne MAY 15_GYO new size 19/03/2015 15:42 Page 4

When perusing catalogues, seed


mixtures often catch my eye. While this
is a fun way of enjoying variety for the
price of one packet, there is a pitfall to
point out. Everybody usually sows more
than they need and when transplanting
seedlings, we tend to look for the
largest, healthiest seedlings with the
deepest colour. This has to go out of the
window with mixtures, otherwise you
could end up accidentally selecting just
one type. Instead, you have to
transplant every seedling in one area
until you have as many as you need,
including tiny ones and pale ones, then
youll have captured the essence of the
mix. If you see an exciting, odd-looking
seedling lurking in a corner, grab that
too! The same goes when thinning rows
of direct sown seedlings, or those sown
at stations. Dont leave just the
healthiest but go for a mixture.

SEED MIXTURES
TO SOW NOW
Tomato artisan bumble bee mix: A
cherry tomato mix of purple, pink and
striped kinds promising heavy crops of
tasty fruits that sit well on the vine in
good order. Grow indoors or (if blight
is no problem) outdoors. Suttons
0844 922 0606, suttons.co.uk
D.T.Browns salad mix: A lovely
sounding loose-leaf mix of Red Salad
Bowl, Green Salad Bowl, Lollo
Rossa, Black Seeded Simpson and
Grand Rapids. D.T. Brown
0845 371 0532, dtbrownseeds.co.uk
Carrot rainbow: You never know
what will come out of the ground
with this exciting mixture of orange,
white, yellow and purple roots.
Suttons 0844 922 0606,
www.suttons.co.uk
Misticanza di Radicchio: This mixed
cutting of radicchios and chicories
consists of 12 varieties for cut-andcome-again treatment but you could
give them more generous spacings for
hearts in autumn. Broadcast sow now
and thin to 13cm apart for summer
pickings or sow in July in rows for
autumn/winter. Seeds of Italy
020 8427 5020, seedsofitaly.com

Crops to harvest in May

YOUR COMPLETE VEG GUIDE MAY

Have fun with


seed mixes

Spring cabbage This would


bee
have
n

ITS NOT TOO


LATE FOR
PARSNIPS
Although we are often instructed
to sow parsnips as early as
February because they benefit
from a long growing season, this
is rarely possible on heavier soils
and happens in my garden only
once in a blue moon. In most
years, our soil remains cold and
waterlogged by regular rainfall in
the early months of the year.
Some folk do well by sowing seed
into modules under glass for
planting out later but parsnips
prefer to send their roots straight
down, in situ. I find the best bet
is simply to wait for conditions to
settle, bearing in mind that early
May tends to be the cut off time
for decent sized roots (if you like
mini parsnips, sow in June).
Take out an even drill, soak the
base if necessary and sow three
or four seeds per station at 1315cm intervals in rows 30cm apart.
Thin to one per station later.

sown in August and planted


during autumn or winter in
greenhouse beds.

Calabrese Again, harvest Aug


ustsown calabrese which was
planted into beds during aut
umn.
Leafy salads Sowings of a wid
e
range of leaves made under
glass
in February will yield cutting
s in
May when there is little else
.
Cauliflower Spring-headed typ
es
sown the previous spring are
a
real bonus as they produce
their
massive, tasty heads now.

Summer spinach Started under


glass in January or February
and
planted out under cloches or
frames, this will be ready now
.

Lettuce Fast-growing small

lettuce like Tom Thumb sow


n
early under cover, can be enjo
yed
this month.

growfruitandveg.co.uk

17

Quick crop Qx_GYO new size 20/03/2015 12:53 Page 1

WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN

UP FOR

GRABS!

PRIZ S
WORTEH

1,000!

Make the most of out limited garden


space with a raised bed from Quickcrop
Whilst a large vegetable plot or allotment
may be ideal for growing a variety of crops,
many of us are restricted by the size of our
garden, especially in urban areas. Make the
most out of your location with a raised bed from
Quickcrop the companys attractive products
can be arranged to suit a wide variety of sites.
In this competition were giving away two corner
kits which consist of two Premier split level
beds that measure 300cm x 120cm x 52.5cm,
along with a 120cm x 120cm x 50cm and a
90cm x 90cm x 50cm bed as well as three
runner up prizes. The fully assembled product
takes up a space of only 300cm and looks
fantastic when planted up.
The Quickcrop website offers a range of
features including the free raised bed design
service, as well as supplying all the seeds, plants
and tools you need to grow a variety of crops.

The company also provides an online video


library for advice you may need along the way.
GYO has worked together with Quickcrop
to provide two winners with a set of raised
beds each corner kit is worth 406, and
three runners up will each receive a 120cm x
120cm x 35cm raised bed worth 69. For
more information on Quickcrops broad range,
visit quickcrop.co.uk/raised-beds

HOW TO WIN
To be in with a chance of winning a
raised bed, follow the instructions
on page 104, or visit
growfruitandveg.co.uk/competitions

WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN
18

growfruitandveg.co.uk

GYO May 15 ROPs_Layout 1 19/03/2015 11:47 Page 19

PLOT ESS MARCH15_GYO new size 19/03/2015 14:23 Page 1

SPRING ADVICE Allotment jobs


GROWING TECHNIQUE:

The Gardeners Monthly Reminder Calendar by Michael Littlewood,


11.95 from The Organic Gardening Catalogue, organiccatalogue.com

Making a lazy bed

Everyone likes a short cut. Whether its not bothering to


thin your leeks or growing dwarf peas so you dont
have to construct supports, anything which saves you
time and effort has to be a good thing.
So imagine if you could clear an overgrown plot
with the bare minimum of spadework you dont even
have to weed. Yet you end up with raised veg beds
thats as rich as those made using traditional methods.
Mow the whole area short, then lay a deep strip of manure or
compost, about 50cm wide, straight onto the ground. Place seed potatoes along
this strip 30 to 45cm apart, cover with more compost, then cut through the turf
on each side about 45cm away from this strip. Slice underneath so it folds up and
over your spuds, then just leave to grow!
Cover the upside-down turf with soil dug from the side strips to plant other
veg in the top instead. Youll find the soil youve exposed on both sides drains
away excess water, a lifesaver on heavy soils. Next year, top with more compost
and carry on growing and make another one next door!
Two-li
tr
drink e plastic
bottle
s
make
fa
individ ntastic
u
to slo al cloches
t over
justplante
d
courg baby
et
sweet tes and
corn,
keepin
g
toasty them
warm
.

If youre sowing
in dry weather,
water the bottom
of the drill first
and sow your
seeds. Cover
lightly with dry
soil and dont rewater for a
natural mulch.

When harvesting
rhubarb, pull it
carefully away
with your hands
rather than cuttin
g
it with a knife
that way it parts
company with the
crown cleanly,
leaving no stumps.

Plot Essentials May


THIS MONTHS JOBS ON THE VEGETABLE PATCH AND PATIO
Words by Sally Nex

PROJECT: Puddling in leeks


There are as many ways to grow leeks as there are types of
leek to grow, but if you want to make sure yours are more
long, tender white shank than dark green leaf, try the old
growing trick of puddling them in.
Start by sowing direct into a seed bed a small area set
apart from the rest of the veg patch where you can start
slow-growing crops to transplant later. Once theyre pencil
thickness move them to
their final growing
positions, but instead of
planting them at the
same depth, make a
hole about 15cm deep
with a dibber. Drop a
seedling in and just fill
the hole with water
dont bother to back-fill.
The stem grows up in
darkness inside the hole,
effectively forcing it so
it becomes long, white
and deliciously tender.

20

growfruitandveg.co.uk

DONT FORGET:
SET BEER TRAPS FOR SLUGS

The molluscs every gardener loves to hate are on


the march now, so put up your defences before
they get to work on your newly-germinated
seedlings. A beer trap is among the most effective.
You can buy slug pubs off the shelf
(originalorganics.co.uk) or just make your own.
Sink an empty yoghurt pot into the soil, leaving
the rim about 2cm above the soils surface so
beneficial insects like ground beetles dont fall in,
then half fill it with beer. Slugs find this so
irresistible they fall in and meet a drunken end.

PLOT ESS MARCH15_GYO new size 19/03/2015 14:23 Page 2

In association with

MUST-DO JOBS

Arm yourself with horticultural fleece so that


you can protect vulnerable plants suffering
unexpected late frosts
n Sow frost-tender crops like sweetcorn,
courgettes and pumpkins on a warm, sunny
windowsill for a great start
n Thin carrots and beetroot, pinching out the
smallest to leave the strongest growing on
n Snip soft young growth from rosemary and
thyme as cuttings to make new plants
n Shear off comfrey leaves and soak for six
weeks for nutritious plant tea
n

HOW TO AVOID...
SPINDLY ASPARAGUS

You wait two seasons while your


asparagus grows, then on day one of
your third season you find nothing but
a straggle of spindly, stick-like spears to
cut. Its disappointing, to put it mildly.
Thin asparagus spears are often just
female ones, prune them out before
they flower and produce seed. Make
sure crowns are at least 15cm beneath
the soil surface to avoid thin stems.
Dont over-pick
asparagus,
especially
when theyre
young and
youll avoid
disastrous crops.

NEW VARIETY:
Courgette Royal Flush
(Johnsons)

Try this newly-arrived beauty, bred


specially for gardeners with small
plots. Its compact root system and
restrained growth habits mean its
more comfortable in the restricted
environment of a pot than most
courgettes, fruiting as prolifically as
many traditional garden-grown
varieties with dozens of tender,
sweet green fruits.
(johnsons-seeds.co.uk)

HERITAGE VARIETY:
HUNGARIAN RICE BEAN

This is one of those vegetables thats been around for about 140
years, yet has inexplicably disappeared from wider circulation
despite being scrumptious, easy to grow and pretty, too.
Also known as Duchesse de Chambord, the Hungarian rice
bean is a type of haricot. It gets its common name from its
diminutive size smaller than dwarf French beans, and even better
for growing in containers. Eat its 10cm long pods like mangetout,
or wait and shell out the tiny beans inside to dry and store. They
have great flavour and dont need soaking like other shelling
beans just cook them for 20-25 minutes. (chilternseeds.co.uk)

The damage caused


by the tiny carrot fly
(or rather, by its
dirty grey maggots
tunnelling around
in your prized
roots) is
devastating and
goes largely
unseen until its
too late and you
pull your harvest
only to find it
riddled with halfrotten holes.
Fortunately
the nondescript
little flies which are
behind the trouble have one major weakness
they cant fly properly. At most, theyll stagger to a
heady 45cm above ground so all you need is a
barrier about 75cm high around your veg bed or
carrot row to protect your crop.
Sink a 1m cane at each corner, then at 1m
intervals along the edges. Then stretch a length of
polythene or insect-proof mesh to a 75cm height
around this frame, held on to the canes with clothes
pegs. Fleece works well too, but is more easily
damaged. Bury the bottom 5cm in the soil so the
flies cant crawl underneath, and leave in place
throughout the growing cycle to be sure of blemishfree roots for tea.

YOUR COMPLETE VEG GUIDE MAY

Build a carrot
fly barrier

Grow soya
beans
If youre looking for a
nutritious and easy new
crop, look no further.
Soya beans are proteinpacked and delicious,
especially eaten green as
edamame steamed
then sprinkled with salt,
sesame seeds and soy
sauce for a spicy,
crunchy snack. You can
also make soya milk by
blending the beans
with water and boiling. Add a
coagulant like gypsum (from home-brew shops) for
home-produced tofu.
Soya beans normally like their summers longer
and hotter than ours, but recently several cultivars
have emerged which do well in the UK including
Black Jet (jungleseeds.co.uk) and the white-seeded
Elena (mr-fothergills.co.uk).
Start the seeds off under cover, as you would for
French beans, and move outside as sturdy young
plants in late April or May, planting about 15cm apart
in double rows. They grow to 60cm and dont need
supporting. Pull up whole plants while the pods are
immature to eat fresh for edamame, or wait till the
leaves have fallen in autumn and pick as required
the pods keep quite well if left on the plant till you
need them.

growfruitandveg.co.uk

21

GYO May 15 ROPs_Layout 1 19/03/2015 14:13 Page 22

Grow like a pro right_GYO new size 19/03/2015 16:23 Page 2

EXPERT INTERVIEW VEG MASTERCLASSS

Prepare for the dinner table

GROW LIKE A PRO:

KOHLRABI

Kohlrabi stems can be cooked like


turnips, but I think they lose most of
their appeal when heat is employed in
their preparation. In my opinion they
are better eaten raw in mixed salads or
alone, thinly sliced and simply dressed
with a bit of lemon and salt. I like to
give the stems a quick peel with a knife
and eat them like an apple. They are
crunchy, sweet and delicious and remind
me of why I garden.

YOUR COMPLETE VEG GUIDE MAY

Growing
this crop is a
cinch just start with
well-drained, fertile
soil that has been
worked to a
fine tilth

Space the plants about 18 to 22cm apart


each way, and keep the soil moist to
prevent a check in growth.
Due to its family ties, kohlrabi is
plagued by the standard cabbage pests,
many of which can be controlled by
draping a fine mesh over the plants.
Slugs and snails are a constant threat,
though nightly ventures into the garden
to collect them should act as a deterrent.
Always practice good crop rotation by
growing kohlrabi and its relatives no
more than one year in four on the same
patch of ground.
To maintain quality, harvest your
kohlrabi before it gets too big and
develops tough, spiky fibres the
standard recommendation is when the
stems are about 4 to 8cm in diameter.
Modern varieties, however, may remain
in good condition for longer, and
allowing them to grow bigger probably
wont be a disaster.

Introduce this sweet, crunchy root to


your plot with the help of Michael Michaud
from Sea Spring Seeds

ohlrabi is a cold tolerant cabbage


relative producing an enlarged
stem that grows just above the
soil surface. Depending on the variety,
the skin surrounding the stems can be
either purple or pale green the flesh
inside is more or less white, with a
crunchy texture and mildly sweet taste.
It was once cultivated as a fodder
crop in this country, and given its
association with animals, it is not
surprising there has been a reticence
to adopt it as a garden vegetable.
Thats our loss, and now is the time
to let go of the past and give kohlrabi
the chance it deserves.
Of all the environmental factors
affecting the growth of this plant,
temperature plays a particularly

important role. Susceptible varieties may


bolt when exposed to temperatures
below 10C for just a week, so be
careful of this. Also, bear in mind that
purple varieties are traditionally believed
to be hardier and therefore better suited
for late season cropping.

Start sowing
Growing this crop is a cinch you just
need to start with well-drained, fertile
soil that has been worked to a fine tilth.
For an early harvest, germinate seeds in
February using modular trays placed in
a heated propagator. Once the roots fill
the cells, transplant the seedlings to an
unheated greenhouse or tunnel.
Outdoor crops can be sown directly into
the ground from March to August.

About the author

Michael Michaud and his wife run


Sea Spring Seeds, a Dorset-based
company specialising in the
production and sale of vegetable
seeds and chilli plants. They breed
crops and have developed several
new varieties, including the
Dorset Naga, one of the worlds
hottest chillies. For more details
visit seaspringseeds.co.uk

growfruitandveg.co.uk

23

First Steps Winter squash_GYO new size 19/03/2015 17:25 Page 1

VEG MADE EASY Winter Squash


AT A GLANCE
Sow indoors: April May
Plant out: May June
Sow outdoors: May June
Harvest: September October
(depending on variety)
Conditions: Sheltered, sunny,
fertile ground
Skill level: Easy

A beginners guide to:

Winter squash
With their fantastic keeping ability, tasty flesh and
huge array of shapes, sizes and colours, winter
squashes are a great addition to any veg plot
First of all, lets talk about the different
squash available to grow. Generally
speaking, there are two types winter squash
and summer squash. Summer squashes, such
as courgettes, pattypan and tromboncino, are
harvested when the fruits are immature, with
thin skins. They need to be eaten quickly and
do not store well. Winter squash, on the
other hand, have thicker skins which means
that their soft flesh can be stored for months.
They are harvested when mature around
October and can be eaten all through the
winter (hence the name).
Part of the reason why winter squash are
so popular is the incredible array of different
varieties to grow. As well as traditional
pumpkin and butternut varieties, there are
also quirky trumpet-shaped types, oblong
and rugby ball-sized squashes, and they
come in colours ranging from dark green
and red to cream and yellow.

24

growfruitandveg.co.uk

The basics

Winter squashes need a long season and rich,


fertile ground to thrive. Aim to sow seeds
indoors around April or May, or straight outside
where they are to crop, in May or June.
Because they are such greedy crops, its best to
prepare the ground a few months before you
plan to use your beds. Make planting pits or
pockets by digging a hole the size of a spades
width and depth and filling with organic matter
these will be ideal homes for your squash
when you come to transplant indoor-raised
seedlings or sow seeds directly outside.
Winter squashes are fairly easy to look after,
and will happily romp away providing they can
access the necessary nutrients and that you
water them well while theyre establishing.
After harvesting they can keep for many
months if cured properly. This involves
hardening off their outer skin to protect the
flesh inside and is usually done naturally by the

autumn sunshine. If it is particularly cool and


wet, bring them inside and cure them in a
greenhouse or conservatory. Once this has been
done, store in a cool place until you want to
eat them. Some of the longer-lasting varieties
will be fine until early April.

Potential problems
n Slugs:

These pesky creatures will happily


destroy your squash plants so dont forget
to put adequate controls in place.
n Powdery mildew: This disease is recognised
by white, powdery patches, which usually
appear on leaves and stems. Dry conditions
make squash more susceptible to the fungus,
so be sure to irrigate regularly and mulch to
help conserve water. If you see any infected
shoots, remove them immediately.
n Lack of fruit: If youre not seeing fruits
appear or any that do form are rotting when
small dont despair. This isnt usually caused
by something youve done, but by
environmental conditions such as a cool
early summer which can result in inadequate
pollination. As soon as the weather starts to
heat up, pollination should improve but if youd
rather not wait you could try hand pollinating
your flowers.

First Steps Winter squash_GYO new size 19/03/2015 17:25 Page 2

RHS Top

10

EXPERT

Ian Tocher, a
horticulturist at RHS
Wisley, shares his
top 10 winter squash to try

1 Heart of Gold AGM:


A great-tasting acorn squash with
green and white striped skin.
STEP 1

Sowing times vary with variety, but April or May


is generally a good time to start winter squash.
Fill pots with compost, firming down gently.

STEP 2

Using water that has been brought up to room


temperature, lightly irrigate your pots with a fine
rose watering can so the soil is just moist.

2 Sweet Lightning AGM:


An early-ripening, dumpling-type
squash with high sugar content.
The Organic Gardening Catalogue
01932 253 666,
organiccatalogue.com
3 Honey Bear AGM: The small,
acorn type fruits are sweet, with
outstanding storage qualities.
Nickys Nursery 01843 600 972,
nickys-nursery.co.uk
4 Sweet Dumpling AGM:
The green and white striped fruits
are highly ornamental with great
flavour. Mr Fothergills 0845 371
0518, mr-fothergills.co.uk

STEP 3

Make one hole per pot 1-2cm deep with a dibber


(check seed packets for the exact depth required,
as this will vary with each variety).

STEP 4

Gently push one winter squash seed into each


of the holes and carefully cover them back
over with the soil.

5 Crown Prince AGM: This


squash has a beautiful blue-grey
skin and orange flesh with a
delicious nutty flavour.
Jungle Seeds 01491 614 765,
jungleseeds.co.uk

YOUR COMPLETE VEG GUIDE MAY

STEP-BY-STEP: Sowing winter squash inside

6 Harlequin AGM: An acorn


squash with delicious smooth
flesh and a high sugar content.
Simply Seed 0115 727 0606,
simplyseed.co.uk
7 Sunshine AGM: A tasty,
kabocha squash with an onion
shape and reddish-orange skin.
Kings Seeds 01376 570 000,
kingsseeds.com

STEP 5

Water in well, using a fine rose can, and place


somewhere bright and warm. Seedlings usually
appear in seven to 10 days.

STEP 6

When plants are about a month old and the risk


of frosts has passed, harden them off to outside
by leaving them out for increasingly longer spells.

CARING FOR AND HARVESTING SQUASH

Once your plants are accustomed to the outside temperatures, plant into a sunny and sheltered
spot. You should have already prepared this area by digging in plenty of organic matter a few
months previous. Generally squashes should be planted around 1m apart although check specific
guides for your variety. Firm them into the ground and give them a light dusting of general
fertiliser. Keep the soil moist and the plants well watered until they are established.
Winter squashes are sprawling plants and you may find you lose sight of your fruit as they
develop. If the weather is wet, you may want to lift your squash off the ground, onto paving slabs
to keep them dry and prevent rotting. Fruits are usually ready to harvest around October. Harvested
squash can keep for an exceptionally long time the secret lies in making sure theyre fully cured
before storing. Eat up any that remain soft by November and keep the rest in a cool place.

8 Rouge vif dEtampes:


Known as the Cinderella
pumpkin, this has medium-sized,
flattened, red-orange fruits.
The Organic Gardening Catalogue
01932 253 666,
organiccatalogue.com
9 Marina Di Chioggia: This
variety has a unique blue-green
skin and orange flesh.
The Organic Gardening
Catalogue 01932 253 666,
organiccatalogue.com
10 Queensland Blue: An old
Australian variety with squarish,
deeply-ribbed metallic blue fruits.
Simply Seed 0115 727 0606,
simplyseed.co.uk

growfruitandveg.co.uk

25

Mark D_GYO new size 19/03/2015 16:20 Page 1

PRACTICAL ADVICE Seed sowing


BROADCAST SOWING
This style best suits cut-and-come-again
salad leaves that are happy to grow
cheek by jowl. They are harvested when
small so never need much space to
stretch out, and harvesting is simplest
where they grow close together in a
swathe of leaves.
n Draw the back of a rake across the
prepared soil to create a level surface
with no large lumps.
n Take a small handful of seeds and scatter
them across its width from side to side,
starting furthest away from you and
working backwards until you have
covered the entire area evenly.
n Use the rake to lightly tickle the very
surface soil so that most of the seeds
are slightly covered.
n Use a watering can with a fine rose to
lightly water the seed drill. Keeping the
stream of water light is vital too heavy
and the seeds will wash off. If in doubt,
water the soil a little before sowing.

BUY THE BOOK


Extracts adapted from
The New Kitchen Garden,
by Mark Diacono
(Saltyard Books, 25)
which is also available
as an e-book

Sowing

SUCCESS

Get the best from your early season crops with


this guide to outside sowing from Mark Diacono

owing seeds directly into the ground


where they are to go is fairly
straightforward, and is usually most
successful if you wait for the soil to warm
a little most seeds flourish when sown
from mid-spring onwards.
Whenever, wherever you sow, finetextured soil is best. Picture your emerging
seedlings delicate roots setting off down
into the earth hunting for stability and water
if they dont find it quickly theyll wither.
A fine tilth allows them to sink below the
26

growfruitandveg.co.uk

surface easily, with the air spaces allowing water


and dissolved nutrients to access the roots.
You may find, especially if your are going
to be creating a garden from scratch, that your
soil isnt in this ideal condition to start with.
Depending on whether you favour a no-dig
approach or not, this means either a little
digging and working over with a rake until
the surface is crumbly with few big lumps,
or adding compost. Lavish a little time on
getting the soil into welcoming shape itll
pay you back in spades.

DRILL SOWING
This suits little, tough, easy-to-grow plants
where each seedling produces a single
crop, such as carrots, turnips and celeriac.
n Use a string line to mark out your drill (see
top right). Draw the edge of a hoe or the
corner of a rake through the soil next to it
to create a v-shaped furrow.
n Pour a small amount of seed into one palm,
then use the thumb and forefinger of your
other hand to pinch out some seeds and
sprinkle them finely along the base of the
drill. Picture the eventual size of the carrot
or beetroot and attempt to sow at a spacing
that roughly equates to the room youd like
the plant to have.
n Chances are you wont sow finely enough,
and will have to come along and thin out
those seedlings a few weeks later when they
appear clumped together or just too close.
Be careful not to dislodge those left behind.

Mark D_GYO new size 19/03/2015 16:20 Page 2

Some seeds are big and tough enough that


you can just push them into the ground
and be reasonably confident that they will
come to something, broad beans and peas
among them. However, as a backup it often
pays to station sow, that is: you sow at the
eventual spacing you want the plant to
grow at with no expectation of thinning
out later but you plant two seeds at each
station. This acts as a little insurance should
one fail, and if both germinate you pull out
the smaller one as early as you spot it.

CREATING
A STRING LINE
If you are going to be sowing your crops in
rows, it is important to make sure they are
straight you'll fit more in and sacrifice
less space to bare soil, you'll find
it easier to tell what is weed and what is
not, and it just looks better and be easier
to maintain, too.
For this, a string line is a useful tool in
a vegetable garden, and you can create
one simply, with the use of string and two
short pieces of wood bamboo cane is
ideal. Cut a length of string a bit longer
than the row you want to create. Tie one
end of the string to one of the sticks and
the other end to the second stick. Push
one stick in the soil at one end of your
row and the other stick at the opposite
end, creating a line of string in between,
which marks out your row. Wind any
excess string around one of the sticks so
the line is taut. This then acts as a useful
but unobtrusive guide while you are
sowing your seeds.

TWO UNUSUAL CROPS TO SOW NOW

YOUR COMPLETE VEG GUIDE MAY

STATION SOWING

DONT FORGET TO
LABEL YOUR SEEDS!
As you sow beetroot seeds, you will believe that
there is no need to label the row. You have a
photographic memory. You have pored over
catalogues, carefully choosing this heritage seed
and then chosen the perfect spot for it. You are
sure you'll remember the name and location
perfectly. You wont. You will stare baffled at this
very same spot a couple of weeks down the
line, scratching you head at the mysteriously
emerging seedlings, or worse, as you run out
of space you will rake the whole area and sow
again. Label everything. Label when you first
sow. If you pot on from a seed tray into pots,
label again a fresh label for every single pot.

Whenever, wherever
you sow, fine-textured
soil is best

BUCKS HORN PLANTAIN


Plantago coronopus. Also known as:
minutina, plantago and erba stella.
Hardy perennial often grown as
an annual.
Starting off: The seed is tiny so sow
in trays under cover from February,
prick out into modules and plant out
when roots are showing. You can
also sow direct in early spring.
Position: Most soils with good
drainage. Sun or light shade.
Spacing: 20cm apart.
Productivity/efficiency: A small patch
can provide you with leaves for
salads or for steaming from April
to June (longer if you cut back
flower stems).
Growing: Cut back flower stems to
promote fresh leaf growth.

CHOP SUEY GREENS


Chrysanthemum coronarium. Also
known as: shungiku. Hardy annual.
Starting off: Broadcast or sow in
shallow drills from spring to
September. Sow every few weeks
for a good succession.
Position: Very happy in sun or
part-shade.
Spacing: Thin to at least 5cm apart.
Productivity/efficiency: Harvesting
is possible around six weeks after
sowing and several cuttings can be
had from each sowing.
Growing: Water in dry weather. It
is fairly untroubled by pests and
diseases, but can become bitter in
hot weather.
Harvest: Cut when around 10cm
high. The flowers are also edible.

growfruitandveg.co.uk

27

GYO May 15 ROPs_Layout 1 19/03/2015 14:14 Page 28

The Grazers Family

Effective against damage from major garden pests

RABBITS

PIGEONS

SLUGS

SNAILS

DEER

www.grazers.co.uk
info@grazers.co.uk

28

growfruitandveg.co.uk

GEESE

BUTTERFLIES CATERPILLARS

tel: 01768 800 555

Veg Pests & Diseases Qx 2_GYO new size 20/03/2015 10:09 Page 2

Get on top of the garden nasties and safeguard


your crops from harm we show you how

Aphids
It is likely that we've all encountered one type
of aphid or another over time. These little sap
suckers cause distorted growth which in turn
weakens the plant. They are usually quite easy
to spot, as the colonies all gather together on
stems and leaves. There are hundreds of aphid
species in the UK, but luckily, there are lots of
different control methods, so even if you do
have an infestation, you can take action!

EXPERT
Jonathan Tebb-Roger
is a director at Grazers

EXPERT
Mike Hedges is managing
director at The Organic
Gardening Catalogue

YOUR COMPLETE VEG GUIDE MAY

BEATING PESTS
and DISEASES

Rabbits
These veg patch menaces are a far cry from the cute, fluffy creatures in children's books
and will happily destroy your carefully tended beds. Damage is caused by the rabbits
stripping and eating foliage, stems and even bark as well as digging. They are active
year-round, with most damage being caused overnight.

Jonathan says: Fencing is great in large gardens as a control against


rabbits, but obviously this is by no means fool-proof, as they can dig under
or even chew through weaker barriers. There are other options such as mulches
and gels which serve a purpose in small plots or pots. The beauty of Grazers is its
an easy-to-use spray and is safe in an edible garden without posing any risk to
children, pets or other wildlife. Once youve applied the spray it will be absorbed
by the leaves and remains effective for up to six weeks. grazers.co.uk

Mike says: Aphids are difficult to


control, spreading rapidly, and are
even more challenging if you want to be
chemical-free. Fortunately, they have many
natural enemies we can encourage into
our gardens including ladybirds, hoverfly
larvae, and parasitic wasps. Some of these
are available as biological controls for use
in greenhouses, polytunnels and
conservatories. Try combatting greenhouse
aphids with APHIDIUS, whilst glasshouse
whitefly outbreaks can be controlled with
ENCARSIA, which is a small parasitic wasp
which lays its eggs in young whitefly.
organiccatalogue.com

Tomato blight
This disease affects both the leaves, stems
and fruits of plants from early summer
onwards, and is recognisable by large
brown patches. Blight spreads quickly, so
regularly check your plants and be sure to
remove and destroy any showing the
fungal disease as soon as it is noticed.

EXPERT
Jill Vaughan is a soil
scientist and together
with husband John Overvoorde runs
Delfland Nurseries

Jill says: Late blight


(Phytophthora infestans) affects
both tomatoes and potatoes. The
disease survives over winter on
volunteer potatoes (plants growing
from tubers left in the ground). Spores
can also blow in from nearby infected
crops. In warm, wet seasons the disease
spreads rapidly its less of a problem
in fine weather. Commercial potato
growers use Smith periods to predict
when their crops are at risk (two
successive days with temperatures
above 10C and relative humidity
above 90 per cent for more than 11
hours each day). The only materials

available to gardeners for the control


of blight contain copper and are
protectants which means they have
to be applied before the plants are
infected, with coverage of all surfaces.
Copper is toxic to aquatic organisms
and it accumulates in the soil so we
dont use it here. Last year, we had
new blight-resistant varieties to try and
Im pleased to say they did very well
in trials. The blight-tolerant
outdoor tomato collection
is available by calling
01354 740 553 or on
Delflands website
organicplants.co.uk

growfruitandveg.co.uk

29

Veg Pests & Diseases Qx 2_GYO new size 20/03/2015 10:08 Page 1

EXPERT ADVICE Pest control


Slugs and snails
The nemesis of many gardeners, slugs and
snails can be a force to be reckoned with.
Munching on leaves, these hungry pests
can cause a lot of damage in a small
amount of time particularly to seedlings
and young plants which can be totally
wiped out. Everyone has slightly different
ways of protecting crops usually
dependent on whether you are an organic
gardener or not.

EXPERT
Isobel Rae is director
at Ladybird Plant Care

A
Flea beetle
These insects are often found to be the culprits behind small holes in the foliage of brassicas and
other leafy greens. You may actually see the beetles on the plants, but they will tend to make a
dash for it once disturbed. Seedlings are particularly vulnerable to attack, so it can be a good
idea to grow plants on in a protected environment, then transplant them to their final growing
space once they are a little bit larger.

EXPERT
Dr Victoria Wright is
technical advisor at Agralan

Victoria says: These small black


beetles cause damage in spring and
autumn when small holes and pits are
eaten out of young leaves of lettuce,
rocket, radishes and the like. But by
acting early, flea beetle can be controlled.
A physical barrier is the best way to stop
the pest damaging the plant. Tendamesh

is a lightweight crop cover designed to


stop flea beetles and other small insects
from attacking your veg. It will also
protect against allium leaf miner, aphids,
thrips and white fly. Cover immediately
after sowing and this mesh can remain in
place over the plants for up to eight
weeks. agralan.co.uk

Carrot fly
Although they are tiny, these insects
are extremely destructive if given half
a chance to take hold in your carrot
bed. The larvae produced by the little
flies will feast on the roots of your
crop, making them unusable. Look out
for any apparent scarring on the carrot,
which will be brown and run into
tunnels which the maggots have made
to burrow to the centre. These tunnels
can go right through your crops and if
you slice the carrot down the centre,
you will be able to see their path. Once
they have been present in a bed, it is
best not to use it again for a couple
of seasons to prevent repeat attacks.

30

growfruitandveg.co.uk

EXPERT
Julie Brandreth is director
at Gardening Naturally

Julie says: These little flies will be


attracted to the strong smell of carrots,
so one of the best means of prevention is to
sow your seeds finely. This helps to reduce
the risk of female flies being attracted to
the smell of carrots during thinning out.
However, if you've been a little over
enthusiastic and have ended up with more
plants than you intended, carrot fence
netting is a great option. It is available on its
own or in sets and makes access difficult for
the bugs. gardening-naturally.com

Isobel says: In our glasshouses


we grow organic veg and get
slugs all year round attacking lettuce
and pak choi. We control them using
nematodes tiny worms which are
natural slug predators. Nematodes
come as a paste which you water onto
the affected area. They carry bacteria
which infects the slugs and kills them
they will multiply and spread providing
the soil is warm and wet. In your
garden you can treat slugs from March
to October, when the soil is warm
enough for the nematodes to work.
Its a good thing to treat them before
you plant out your precious seedlings
prevention is better than cure!
ladybirdplantcare.co.uk

GYO May 15 ROPs_Layout 1 19/03/2015 14:15 Page 31

Time strapped gardener Qx_GYO new size 20/03/2015 15:22 Page 1

PRACTICAL ADVICE Speedy gardening

Time-saving tips

FOR THE BUSY

GARDENER

Our pick of the best jobs and crops for


growers who cant spend long on the plot
Growing your own fruit and veg is an enjoyable hobby
but can be time-consuming. Those of us who work long hours
or have many other responsibilities may find it difficult to maintain
crops. These constraints often force keen gardeners to give up, but this
neednt be the case. If you carefully select the veg you grow, and use
clever tricks to reduce the amount of time spent tending to your plot,
its possible for anyone to grow a wide variety of delicious produce.

SPEND LESS
TIME Watering

Providing your plants


with moisture is vital to
maintaining their health
and vitality if youre
growing a number of
crops, this can quickly
become a lengthy task.
However, there are some
things you can consider
if you cant always water
your plants during the day.
MULCHING Not only
does this practice protect
your veg from weeds and
frost, but it also helps to
retain the moisture under
the surface of the soil. This
means that you will have
to water less frequently.
We recommend using
biodegradable material
such as leaf mould, garden
compost and wood
chippings as a layer of
mulch to your soil around
your crops. This will need
to be topped up as they

32

growfruitandveg.co.uk

decompose into the soil


they will also add
nutrients, giving your
plants an extra boost.
WIND PROTECTION
Keeping your plants away
from the exposure of
strong gusts can help to
stop them drying out. Try
to place your crops near a
sheltered wall if theyre in
pots or containers.
USE A HOSE Carrying a
heavy watering can is not
only tiring, but it slows you
down. If you want to give
your plants a drink in half
the time, buy a hose with
a fine rose head and give
them the supply they need.
WATER RETAINING
GRANULES This
product can be bought at
many garden centres and
is great for container
plants as they hold water
to stop the soil absorbing
it all at once.

Time strapped gardener Qx_GYO new size 20/03/2015 15:22 Page 2

QUICK CROPS

REDUCE WEEDS
If you only have a small amount of free
time, the last thing youll want to do is
spend it pulling dozens of weeds from
your plot. Whilst its unlikely youll
remove this problem completely,
following these simple tips could
dramatically reduce the number of
these undesirable plants.

There are many varieties of veg that can be


grown in a surprisingly small amount of
time. If you dont want to spend ages
tending to plants that are slow to
germinate and mature then take a look at
our recommended crops to try.

Lettuce

This form of protection smothers any


weeds that might be lurking, and can
be bought at garden centres for a
reasonable price.

Most suppliers
will tell you to
grow this salad
leaf until it
forms a firm
heart, but
making your
cuttings early
means that you can enjoy this crop as soon
as 21 days after youve sown the seeds.
Make sure the lettuces are close together
for a cut and come again harvest.

Dig as little as possible Not

VARIETIES TO TRY

Use biodegradable covers

only is this tip easy to follow when


youre short on time, but disturbing
the soil encourages unwanted plants
to grow when they would otherwise
remain dormant below the surface.

Grow your crops as close


together as possible You dont

want your plants to be so crowded


that they begin to compete with each
other for water and nutrients, but
keeping the space between crops
minimal will reduce the opportunity
for weeds to sprout.

Time-saving tools

Your gardening equ


ipment is important
for getting jobs on
the plot done quick
ly
and efficiently. Instea
d of investing in a
number of different
items, look out for
products that signif
icantly save time wit
h
a multitude of uses.
For example, a spake
combines the purpo
se of a spade and a
rake, whilst a swoe
has multiple edges
which make it more
practical than a
regular hoe. A water
irrigation system
can also be incredibly
valuable in the
summertime when
plants may need
watering regularly thr
oughout the day.

Little Gem Forms sweet, dark-green


foliage with a crunchy texture.
(seaspringseeds.co.uk)
Tom Thumb One of the smallest
varieties of lettuce that will produce soft
leaves with a minimal amount of effort.
(jungleseeds.co.uk)
Freckles A cut-and-come-again variety
that develops a bright green colouring with
splodges of burgundy. (sowseeds.co.uk )

Carrots

Growing this crop until they are finger-sized


takes only six weeks and at this stage they
are packed full of sweetness. Its best to
harvest them all together as the leaves
release a scent that attracts carrot fly once
they have been pulled.

VARIETIES TO TRY

Primo A tasty root thats great for early


sowings. (thompson-morgan.com)
Flyaway This veg has a particularly
good resistance to carrot fly, choose this for
a reliable harvest. (jungleseeds.co.uk)
Parmex An unusually short, round crop
thats quick to mature with a great flavour.
(marshalls-seeds.co.uk)

YOUR COMPLETE VEG GUIDE MAY

Use clever tricks to reduce the amount


of time spent tending your plot

Radishes

These peppery
little roots will
reach full
maturity
around 22
days after
youve sown
them. However, another option to explore
is growing them as a microgreen. It will
only take a few days for them to
germinate and the seedlings can be used
on salads for an intense, clean flavour.

VARIETIES TO TRY

Sparkler Medium-sized crops that are


reliable and easy to grow. (nickysnursery.co.uk)
Ping Pong Perfect uniform veg with a
mild flavour. (jungleseeds.co.uk)
Cherry Belle Produces beautiful roots
with a bright red skin and clean white
flesh. This variety is a particularly fastgrowing choice.
(plantsofdistinction.co.uk)

Cherry
tomatoes

They are renowned for incredibly fast


germination, and choosing the right variety
is crucial to reaping the rewards of the
harvest as early as possible. Its possible to
pick these fruits 65 days after you started
try watering plants from below to prevent
the development of blight.

VARIETIES TO TRY

Sub-Arctic Plenty One of the earliest


types to ripen. Choose this crop if youre
impatient. (mr-fothergills.co.uk)
Suncherry Premium Recommended by
the RHS as their top pick. They form a
slightly flattened shape and are very quick
to mature. (thompson-morgan.com)
Sweet Million Choose this one if
youre looking for reliability. They produce
fruits with a great balance of acidity and
sweetness. (suttons.co.uk)

growfruitandveg.co.uk

33

step by step potager apr 15 Qx_GYO new size 19/03/2015 12:02 Page 1

PRACTICAL ADVICE Runner Beans

Train the
stems of your
plants to climb up
their support by
gently coaxing
the twines around
the canes

THE YEAR-ROUND
POTAGER:

Runner
beans

Add these energetic


climbers to your
plot and enjoy tasty,
fresh beans on a
regular basis
throughout summer

Use root trainers filled with moist, good


quality compost when sowing your runner
bean seeds this crop likes to throw down
long roots and needs space to grow strongly.
Aim to sow one bean per module between
mid-April and late May, 4-5cm deep.

Place your seeds under cover in a


propagating case at a temperature of
about 18 to 20C. After germination, grow on
in cooler conditions and gradually acclimatise
them to outdoor conditions with a view to
plant out at the end of May or early June.

34

growfruitandveg.co.uk

Before planting out, prepare the ground


by adding plenty of organic matter. You
will also need to construct a support system
for your plants. While a simple wigwam
structure is sufficient, if you've got the space,
a runner bean 'house' looks really striking.

To make this, start with the roof. Secure


three canes together in a triangular shape
and repeat this process until you have a series
of triangles. Attach these together with one
long cane along the triangular tip, and another
two canes where the angles join at the base.

Photography by GAP Photos

unner beans are a common sight


on veg plots across the country and
with their pretty blooms and
beautifully shaped leaves, they make a
striking addition to any space. They are a
prolific and productive crop and will thrive
with minimal care, making them perfect for
beginner growers. As a climbing plant, they
require support to grow. This step-by-step
guide demonstrates what you can do if you
have space for a house-shaped construction,
but you can easily create a straightforward
wigwam if your plot is smaller. Simply stake
five or six straight canes into the ground in
a circular fashion (about 30cm apart) and
then tie them firmly together at the top
using strong twine.
A sheltered sunny spot is the best place
for your runner bean plants. Just remember
to water them regularly - especially when
the flowers start to appear.

step by step potager apr 15 Qx_GYO new size 19/03/2015 12:03 Page 2

Kings Seeds is giving you the chance


to save money on seeds
Runner beans are one of the most
popular vegetables to grow at home
save 1 per packet on the four selected
varieties below.

Now place a number of canes into your


ground in a rectangular shape which
coincides with the size of your A-frame roof,
leaving a gap on one of the sides to act as a
doorway. Secure canes horizontally near the
top of your rows of canes.

With help, attach your A-frame to the


sides of your base. The top should rest on
the horizontal canes of your frame allowing
you to secure it easily with ties. Make sure that
the structure is robust and sturdy, adding more
canes in a diagonal fashion if needed.

BENCHMASTER
This variety showcases deep red
flowers which produce tender pods
that reach up to 40cm. It's
recommended by the RHS
as a perfect
pollinator and
is high yielding.
Use code
430439 to buy
a pack of seeds
for just 1.25
(usually 2.25).
FIRESTORM
This is a truly self pollinating runner
bean and easy to grow. It boasts
attractive scarlet flowers which
produce stringless, sweet tender
beans and sets
well even in
poor weather.
Use code
430438 to buy a
pack of seeds
for just 1.25
(usually 2.25).

Make a small hole at the base of your


canes and carefully place the young plants
into these, firming the soil around them. Water
in well and apply a mulch to help preserve
moisture. You can also attach old CDs to your
structure this should help deter birds.

Train the stems of your plants to climb up


their support by gently coaxing the twines
around the canes. They should cling to your
wooden sticks and start to make their way
upward. Water your crops well as they develop
this will ensure high yields.

YOUR COMPLETE VEG GUIDE MAY

PROMOTIONAL OFFER

MOONLIGHT
This white flowering, self pollinating
and high yielding variety has
excellent flavoured pods which are
smooth and
fleshy.
Use code
430437 to buy a
pack of seeds
for just 1.50
(usually 2.50).
HESTIA
This produces beautiful red and
white flowers followed by 18-20cm
slim stringless runner beans on bushy
plants. Early to crop and ideal for
planting in pots
on the patio.
Use code
430431 to buy a
pack of seeds
for just 1.35
(usually 2.35).

Keep an eye out for pests such as slugs


and snails, and make sure you have
control methods in place. When the beans
reach the top of their support, pinch out the
growing points. This will direct your plant's
energy into forming sideshoots.

10

Your beans should be ready to harvest


from around June to October. Harvest
when they are about 15cm long and before the
beans inside start to swell. Pick regularly to
ensure a constant supply of beans throughout
the summer months.

HOW TO ORDER:

Go online at kingsseeds.com or call


01376 570 000, quoting the codes above.
This offer is valid until April 30, 2015.
growfruitandveg.co.uk

35

Woman on plot.e$S_GYO new size 19/03/2015 17:19 Page 1

INTERVIEW Real life stories

ITS BECOME OUR


WEEKEND PLOT

Catherine Larner meets two time- and space-strapped gardeners who have
found a way to indulge their growing passion with the help of a kind landowner

ts a sunny Sunday afternoon in a


picturesque riverside town in Suffolk. The
air is heavy with birdsong and bees, a gentle
snip-snipping of hedge trimmers and the
reassuring drone of lawnmowers as residents
potter in their borders and beds. But two
keen gardeners are shutting their front doors
behind them, taking their hats and gloves,
secateurs and twine, trugs and Thermos, and
strolling 10 minutes up the street to a
different plot entirely.
For the past seven years good friends
Dawn Avery and Hettie Hope have been
tending vegetables, flowers and fruit bushes
in someone elses garden. The 20m by 5m
strip is owned by a resident of the town and
is part of a deceptively large garden behind an
unassuming redbrick house.
Wed established that the waiting list
for the allotments in the area was a mile long
but then a friend saw an advert in the local
newsletter, says Dawn. It read: Grow your
own. Local resident would welcome a call
from anyone interested in utilising an
established plot for growing their own
vegetables. Responding to the advert,

36

growfruitandveg.co.uk

Dawn then accepted a simple document


detailing the terms of their arrangement
the tenants would have no rights to the land,
would keep it tidy and free of rubbish, would
not erect any buildings, and were responsible
for their own health and safety.
The houseowner didnt ask for any
rent, which was very generous, says Hettie,
adding that she and Dawn can visit the plot
at any time. Its nice for them that people
are using their land, but its lovely that
theyre not worried about us trooping
through their back garden.

A new venture

Hettie recalls how thrilled she was to join


Dawn in taking up the plot. I was a
complete townie, up from London, she
explains. Apart from growing a few things
in pots, I had never really done any gardening,
but for me it was all a part of moving to the
country and my family had always done it.
I remember planting carrots in my own
corner of the garden when I was a child.
So perhaps I wanted to recreate that.
My garden wasnt big enough to grow

vegetables, says Dawn. I have always had


an interest in plants. I dont know where its
come from but Ive always fancied doing it.
So, both novices, with demanding jobs and
busy social lives, they knew from the outset
that they had limited time to dedicate to their
new pursuit. But they vowed to give it a try,
helping each other along the way. Its been
trial and error, and our motto has always been
to just fit it in as we could. We were never
going to make hard work of it, says Dawn.
I think because we both work full time, it
became our weekend plot really, says Hettie.
If one of them cant put in the hours one
week, the other will endeavour to be there.
That is the beauty of sharing the plot. But it
is always more pleasurable if we are there
together because we get more done and
have a chat, she adds.
They started out by deciding what they
would like to grow and how they would fit
it in, drawing up a plan of the garden. I
remember I laminated that first plan. We
dont do that any more! says Hettie.
Plans change. You think youre going to do
one thing and it is always slightly different.

Woman on plot.e$S_GYO new size 19/03/2015 17:19 Page 2

YOUR COMPLETE VEG GUIDE MAY

HETTIE AND DAWNS


TIPS FOR GROWERS

Garlic and onions pretty much look


after themselves, and runner
beans and autumn raspberries have
proved successful for us.

Dont try to do too much weeding


little and often pays off, and
remember to pop up and water during
the week if theres a hot spell.

3
Friends and family are generous in giving
plants or seeds, but sometimes these arent
always what was expected. A friend gave
me some cabbage plants one year, says
Dawn. As they grew, we thought they
looked very funny cabbages. In fact it
turned out that they were Brussels sprouts!
Weve had some surprises.
While having fun and trying out new
things is something the pair advocate,
Dawn says it is wise to consider what you
are planning to grow and the size of your
final crops in relation to your space.

Learning and experimenting

When we first planted, we tried carrots in


a square instead of rows. You desperately
want to grow lots. With time you realise
that less is more because otherwise you
end up having to thin out and throw
away so much.
You have to decide whether you
want lots of one thing, like beans
for the whole summer, or to
try bits of lots of things,
says Hettie.
For Hettie and
Dawn having a variety
of crops in quantities
they can eat is

Give it a go growing with a friend


or partner is good for support.

important to them. Onions and garlic are


recommended by the pair because they
store well but when the women have been
inundated with produce such as rhubarb,
raspberries, beetroot, beans, and marrow
for example, they have been able to give to
friends, and to the plot owners.
The poor crops have been peas they
were much harder work than we thought,
says Hettie, adding: we have tended to
concentrate on things that will look after
themselves, like broad beans.
One year the potatoes didnt do well.
We have learned that water is not an
optional thing, says Hettie. Potatoes need
a lot of water. Weve visited the plot and
saw that plants were alive but not thriving.
Following advice from family, but mainly
being led by guidance in books, Dawn and
Hettie often like to try out new ideas
in the garden.
I happened to see something on
the internet about growing squash
on tripods, says Hettie. That was
quite successful. If you grow them
on the ground they can rot and
dont get so much air or light.
But sometimes they have
had to learn the hard way, and
by experience. We got a load

of muck one year, says Dawn. You feel


very virtuous digging it in but then realise it
is actually full of seeds from a farm
somewhere and so you have a selection
of weeds youve never seen before.
Having to make a visit to watch the
plot, rather than popping out of your back
door, does have some drawbacks, but
generally both Dawn and Hettie enjoy how
they are able to give gardening their
undivided attention when they are there.
Occasionally they will take a bottle of wine
with them, but usually there are treats of
biscuits and cake to enjoy with their flask
of tea during the weekend afternoons.
Spending extra time at the plot in the
summer is no hardship, says Hettie. Being
outside on a light evening is a great way to
unwind after being in an office all day, or at
the end of a hectic week at work.
Sometimes Ive been out watering the plot
and suddenly realised its really quite dark.
And then Ill be walking home with a couple
of squashes under my arm. Weve both had
enormous pleasure in just being there.
There is still nothing lovelier, says
Dawn, than digging something up, taking
it home, cooking and then eating it
completely fresh, knowing that youve
produced that yourself.

growfruitandveg.co.uk

37

Veg Advertorial Qx_GYO new size 20/03/2015 12:11 Page 1

PROMOTION

How to

IMPROVE YOUR
SOIL AND MAXIMISE
YOUR HARVEST
Dont let crops suffer in poor soil. Give them the
right feed and care and youll be rewarded with
high-yielding, healthy, strong plants

t the heart of a productive plot is good


soil. This might sound basic, but its
surprising how easy it is to forget.
Year after year we plant hungry crops which
suck nutrients out of the soil and unless we
replenish the stocks, it wont be long before
plants suffer and yields decrease.
Healthy, fertile ground contains a huge
array of nutrients, minerals, bacteria and fungi
which are all needed for strong plant growth.
Particularly important for fruit and vegetables
are nitrogen (needed for leafy growth),
phosphorous (which promotes root growth)
and potassium (which aids flower and fruit
growth), and there are also a range of other
elements such as magnesium, calcium, copper
and zinc which help. Organisms such as
bacteria, fungi and even worms break down
the organic matter in the ground to make
these nutrients accessible to plants.

What are fertilisers and feeds?


Fertilisers and feeds contain concentrated
sources of plant nutrients and growers use
them to ensure their crops have access to
what they need at different stages of their
growth. They are labelled with an NPK value
which explains the composition and content of
nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium.
38

growfruitandveg.co.uk

Fertilisers and feeds can be bought from shops,


or you can even have a go at making your
own comfrey and nettle tea are just a couple
of examples of inexpensive feeds which can
be made at home.
There are two main types of fertilisers
which can be bought organic ones or those
which are man-made (inorganic). Inorganic
fertilisers contain artificial plant nutrients or
mined minerals while organic options come
from plants or animals and include products
such as seaweed, fish blood and bone and
poultry manure pellets. They usually contain
molecules which micro-organisms feed on
and break down for the plants to access.
Fertilisers can be also be slow-release or
fast-acting. Each of these options have their
own benefits and are designed to be used in
different ways. Slow release fertilisers, for
example, can be compared to big, hearty meals
designed to keep marathon runners on their
feet for longer, while quick-release options are
akin to high-energy drinks for sprinters.

When and what to feed


Not all plants will necessarily need feeding
some may be able to access all the nutrients
they need from the ground in which they are
grown. For many though, a feed boost can

help increase yield and correct any problems


caused by nutrient deficiencies. Plants which
are known to respond well to feeding include
tomatoes, chillies and beans.
Crops grown in pots will nearly always
need more than those in the ground because
they only have what you give them once
they have exhausted the nutrients in the
compost around them, thats it. Most
fertilisers are used during the growing season
in spring or summer.

How to use shop-bought fertilisers


There are lots of different products available to
buy some come in liquid form, others as
granules and some are powders. Some
fertilisers are best used as a top dressing
(applied around the soil surface) while others
are designed to be a base dressing
(incorporated into the soil before sowing or
planting). There are also types that are
dissolved or diluted and then watered onto
plants roots or leaves. Always read the
instructions before using any fertilisers or feeds
and make sure you follow the guidelines given.
Each brand requires slightly different handling
methods so bear this in mind.

Veg Advertorial Qx_GYO new size 20/03/2015 16:10 Page 2

PLANT MAGIC

TRY THESE FEEDS FROM PLANT MAGIC!

Salad Magic

Vegetable Magic

Give your leafy crops a


boost with this feed,
which will encourage
root development and
allow for a faster
take-up of nutrients.
It will also create
better tasting salad
crops and increase
overall plant health.

For a good, all-purpose feed try this product it is designed


to produce an abundance of vegetables in both aerial and
root crops through its unique blend of vital nutrients.

Strawberry
Magic

Tomato
Magic
This concentrated
liquid feed is ideal
for tomatoes but
can also be used
with crops such as
aubergines, sweet peppers
and courgettes.
It encourages plants to
grow strongly, develop
robust root systems and
produce more fruit.

Plant Magic was set up in 2008 by


horticulturist Steve Webb, who
wanted to introduce a new range
of innovative products to the
plant feed market. Instead of
focusing on feeding plants using
synthetic fertilisers, Steve looked
at ways to feed the microganisms
working with growing media,
thus helping improve the quality
and fertility of the soil in which
the plants grow. Plant Magics
new organic Magic products
(pictured below) contain a mix of
ingredients which feed these
microbes, thereby increasing their
population and ability to break
down nutrients and giving your
plants even more minerals,
vitamins, nitrogen and amino
acids. Plant Magics strapline is
feed your microbes, feed your
yield and its products are now
stocked in more than 300 retail
outlets nationwide. For more
information visit
plantmagicplus.co.uk

YOUR COMPLETE VEG GUIDE MAY

About

Chilli Magic
Add a bit of fire to your plot with the use of this chilli and pepper feed.
Specially formulated for use with chillies and peppers grown in pots,
open ground or growbags, this product will deliver an increased amount
of fruit (as compared to plants which are unfed) and helps overall health.

This feed is just the thing


for soft fruits such as
strawberries which are
grown in pots, hanging
baskets, open ground,
growbags or planters. As
well as promoting strong
and healthy growth, the
feed also encourages an increased
strike rate for runners meaning more
plants next season!

growfruitandveg.co.uk

39

Edible exostics left_GYO new size 20/03/2015 10:07 Page 1

Growing cardoons
YOUR COMPLETE VEG GUIDE MAY

PRACTICAL ADVICE

Edible exotics:

CARDOONS
Mandy Barber from Incredible
Vegetables gives her experienced insight
into growing this unusual crop

ardoons are fantastic edible,


ornamental and bee friendly
perennial plants. I started growing
them six years ago after discovering they
were once the stars of the vegetable
garden in Britain. It seems these
architectural edimentals are well overdue
to make a re-appearance.
Cardoons are eaten widely in Italy and
France but rarely in this country. I love
growing some of the Italian varieties such
as Distell Gobbi Di Nizza and Bianco
Avorio which produce impressive and
tasty specimens and have the added bonus
of a long sowing window from March
right through to June. In appearance they
share many characteristics with their close
cousin the globe artichoke, having
attractive green leaves with a dusting of
silvery grey. Cardoons are grown for their
edible stems which have ridges like celery
stalks, rather than their flower buds. Their
leaves can reach 1m or more in length and
in summer they throw up a profusion of
vivid purple thistle flowers that tower
above head height.

40

growfruitandveg.co.uk

Im a massive fan of crops that keep on


giving and can feed you through the years
with just a small amount of attention.
Having some perennial vegetables mixed
in with your annual plantings gives you
harvests at different times and cardoons
are ready when there is not much to pick
on the plot.
In October through to mid November
you need to blanch the cardoons by
wrapping layers of cardboard or sacking
around the stems leaving the fronds of
leaves poking out of the top. This helps to
make the stems tender and removes the
bitterness before harvesting. Three to four
weeks of blanching is usually enough and
then you can cut individual stems for eating
from November to December. Or you can
slice the whole plant at its base like a
monster head of celery leaving the root to
re-sprout in the spring.
Perhaps cardoons fell out of favour
because they take a little bit of preparation
in the kitchen, but taste their delicious
smokey, earthiness on a cold winters night
and you will become an instant convert!
Almost all cardoon dishes start of with
removing the leaves from the stems,
peeling off any stringy bits from the ridged
outer layer and then placing in water with
a dash of vinegar or squeeze of lemon
juice. This stops the stems from turning
brown and helps to sweeten the flavour.
Cut into batons, simmer in a pan of water
until tender and they are then ready to
use in a variety of ways. One of my
favourite dishes is a bubbling cardoon
and Stilton gratin but they are also superb
fried with crispy coatings.

Getting Started
You can sow one cardoon seed to a single
pot indoors from as early as February or
sow direct outside from April to June once
the soil has warmed up. They need a final
spacing of about 75 to 90cm and need to
be kept well watered for the first few
months. Mediterranean in heritage, they
love a sunny site in well-drained soil, but
do consider their mature size when
planting and the shade they create. Being
perennials they seem to withstand all that
nature can throw at them and in my
experience suffer few pests. They are also
remarkably hardy and once established
return year after year without any problem.
To encourage good stems for eating
it is good practice to remove the flower
heads as they appear. I tend to grow
some plants for eating and plants for the
bees, allowing them to continue to bloom
well into the autumn this way you get
to see the beauty of cardoons in their full
glory as well as having some for
harvesting in winter.

About the author


Mandy Barber set up
Incredible Vegetables
with her partner Julien
Skinner. They grow
unusual, bizarre and
heritage varieties of
vegetables and herbs,
long forgotten perennials and edible flowers
from around the world in Devon. For more
details visit incrediblevegetables.co.uk

Expert advice

Ask the

SLUG
AND SNAIL

experts

masterclass

Profile

Our panel of garden gurus answer


your seasonal questions

EXPERT

Philip Turvil manages the Grow


Wild programme at the Royal
Botanic Gardens, Kew

Last year I suffered very bad damage on


my crops from slugs how can I avoid a
similar fate this year? I aim to be as organic
as possible. Claire, Glasgow
Philip says: That sounds like rotten luck. Youll need
an array of horticultural trickery to deter these pests,
as one method is never enough. Start by making your
plot uncomfortable for slugs to live in clear away
debris from around the most vulnerable crops that
can otherwise play host, and add copper tape around
containers. Dont overfeed plants and water in the
morning rather than evening. Also, try transplanting
crops rather than direct sowing, as larger specimens
are more resilient to the odd nibble. In fact, you can
even plant sacrificial rows of tempting seedlings as a
distraction. Finally, there is also the option of organic
slug pellets based on ferric-phosphate. Best of luck.

Can you possibly tell me a little more about


nematodes? Nathan, Reading

Philip says: Nematodes have a mixed reputation. Some


are serious pests, while others are bio-controls we use
to help us. All are microscopic organisms (1-2mm long)
and feed on living or dead plants. Together theyre
called ellworms, while individually they have the
most unpronounceable long names. On the serious
pest side, the golden potato cyst ellworm (Globodera
rostochiensis) will kill crops for many years. Here,
avoidance is best through crop rotation, or if you
inherit the problem you should use resistant varieties
in your space. On the bio-control side, Phasmarhabditis
hermaphrodita will kill small and young slugs living in
the soil when applied with a watering can.

There are many different species of slug that can


be found in the garden. The invasive Spanish slugs
are perhaps the most notorious, thanks to their rather
disgusting diet, which includes not only your crops,
but dead animals, faeces and even other slugs!
Snails are most likely to cause damage in spring and autumn,
so make sure your defences are up and ready for these key
times in the growing calendar.
Protection against slugs and snails is especially important
when dealing with young seedlings and tender plants that
may not be able to withstand the damage as well as more
established and hardy crops.

GYO
TIPS

I have heard that slugs can be beneficial to


the composting process is this true and
how do they help? Beth, Kent
Philip says: It is true. Slugs are useful. In fact,
so are their partners in crime, snails. Both help
the composting process by feeding on decaying
vegetation in your compost heap, bin or bag.
However, slugs and snails are just part of the
composting elite. First on my list are bacteria that
turn up readily. There are animals, too, including
the gardeners pin up brandling worms. Good
compost is alive compost.

growfruitandveg.co.uk

41

Profile
EXPERT

Dominica McKevitt is
the head gardener at
Ardgillan Castle and
Gardens in Ireland

EXPERT

Viv Hunt is the head


gardener at Godinton House
and Gardens, Ashford

Tidying fruit beds

My raspberry patch is a rather


chaotic place with shoots coming
up everywhere where do I start with
thinning them out? Im worried about
cutting the wrong parts. Hannah, Surrey

42

growfruitandveg.co.uk

What is the best way to protect


my young plants from birds? Im
concerned about using netting as am
afraid of our feathered friends and other
animals getting caught in it.
Dean, Essex
Dominica says: Nets are the best way of
protecting young plants from birds and
are safe if the correct gauge is used. A
plastic net with 10mm square holes is
perfect. It is most effective fixed tightly
to a frame with the sides and ends
attached at ground level, leaving the
edges on the inside. The frame must
be placed flat on the soil with no space
under it so animals or birds cant get
in. If a hole appears, the net must be
replaced. This gauge is also useful for
keeping out white butterflies. Fleece
can be used as an alternative if visual
aesthetics are not important.
Bird scare humming lines can also be
of some benefit. These are 5mm wide,
strong, light plastic lines which hum
when you tighten them over your crops,
which can help frighten birds away.

Profile

Viv says: If these are autumn fruiting


raspberries then now is the time to
prune them. It couldnt be more simple
just cut all old parts down to the ground.
Theyll fruit on stems grown entirely in
one season. If the plants are starting to
spread out too far, dig out the canes
which are getting wayward and in the
summer you may want to thin out very
vigorous plants by removing a few down
to ground level. They dont need to be
supported but can look a bit untidy!
If they are summer fruiting
raspberries, last years canes which bore
fruit should have been cut down to the
ground after cropping (but dont worry
its never too late). These plants will fruit
on canes which grew up in the previous
season. You should have a post and wire
support for them and they can be kept
tidy by removing any sections which are
straying too far from the support and
thinning each plant down to about half
a dozen canes which can be fanned out
along the wires. New stems growing up
during the spring and summer can be
bundled loosely to one side so that it is
easy to see which canes to cut back later.
Dont forget to give them a dose of
blood, fish and bone feed and a nice
thick mulch after youve tidied up your
patch. This will help to keep weeds
down, moisture in and enough fertility
to produce a good harvest.

Crop protection

Profile
EXPERT

Anna Greenland is a head


gardener at a new project
in Oxfordshire

Growing something
different

I would like to try some unusual


veg this year, but am unsure where
to start. I have quite a bit of space, but
my soil is very light and sandy. Is there
anything you would recommend?
Elizabeth, London
Anna says: There are various unusual
crops you could experiment with. Salsify
and scorzonera are both root crops that
prefer sandy soils. They are in demand
from chefs in the top restaurants, both
having distinctive, delicate flavours in
their own right. Theyre members of the
sunflower family and are deep-rooting,

making them rather a struggle to dig up


but dont be deterred! The flavour is worth
it if prepared correctly.
Another fun thing to try would be
an array of carrots. There are some great
coloured varieties available with good
flavour such as Yellowstone, White Satin,
Cosmic Purple and Rainbow as well as
circular ones like Paris Market.
If you want to grow unusual veg, Id
recommend joining up to the Heritage
Seed Library where you get access to an
fantastic selection of the more unusual
varieties I grew a great carrot last season
called Afghan Purple which was a real
treat when the purple skin was cut open to
reveal a bright orangey, yellow core.
Some of the Oriental vegetables will
grow fine on a light sandy soil. Try Chinese
artichokes with their delicate nutty tubers,
reminiscent of globe artichokes and water
chestnuts, or how about a beautiful
selection of amaranths which add a
striking palette of colour to the garden?

Expert advice

Profile
EXPERT

Guy Barter is head of the RHS


Horticultural Advisory Service

Ideal temperatures
for seedlings

The windowsill in my house that gets the


best sunshine and warmth throughout the
day does dip in temperature quite drastically at
night. How damaging is fluctuating temperature
for seedlings? Would I be better off placing my
trays in a room that isnt so warm, but where the
temperature doesnt dip as much? Brian, Bristol
Guy says: Windowsill seedlings are raised from
late winter and temperature fluctuations are
not nearly as severe as the season progresses.
In practice this is not a serious problem for
hardy plants such as onions or cabbages, but if
in doubt and if you have time by all means
move seedlings into the warmer room during
hours of darkness. Even if the risk of damage is
low growth rates will be improved.
Tender plants such as tomatoes and
peppers, however, can be badly checked or
even killed by temperatures below about 12C
and with the aid of a min-max thermometer
you should be able to arrange matters so that
they never encounter cold.

Profile
EXPERT

Lucy Chamberlain is a
fruit grower and gardener
from Essex

Improving
blackcurrant flavour

I have taken over a plot which has a


number of blackcurrant bushes. These
produced many fruits last year but they all
tasted metallic and not much flavour at all.
Is there a reason for this and if so, what is
the remedy?
Steve, via email

Lucy says: There are a variety of reasons


why your blackcurrants could have been
lacking in the flavour stakes. Lack of care
would be my first suggestion did you
take over a neglected plot? These bush
fruits demand a lot of feed (high potash is
best) and water to perform well. Another
possible cause could be lack of sunshine.
If, for example, you inherited plants that
were among a dense tangle of weeds, cut
this invading growth away completely so
that sunshine has a chance to reach the

ripening berries to help boost sugar levels.


Blackcurrants are fairly acidic anyway so
need all the help they can get. A less likely
cause is virus infection, which causes fruits
of inferior quality and quantity because
you had heavy yields I would suggest this
isnt the problem. Of course, you could
have just acquired poor genetic stock, in
which case no amount of mollycoddling will
help. Try pruning, feeding, watering and
mulching this year and if results are
still poor, ditch and replace them.

Problems to look out


for in May...
The key issues to look out for
this month
CARROT ROOT FLY protect your
young seedlings from this pest by
covering with a fine grade netting.
GREY MOULD reduce the risk of
spread by removing and disposing
infected leaves, as well as any yellowing
matter of your brassicas.
ASPARAGUS BEETLE these little
insects are likely to be making an
appearance at this time of year. If you
notice them on your shoots, pick them
off and dispose of them.

WRITE TO US AT
Ask the Experts, Grow Your Own, 25 Phoenix
Court, Hawkins Road, Colchester, Essex,
C02 8JY

EMAIL
experts@growfruitandveg.co.uk
OR GO ONLINE
Here at Grow Your Own we do our best to send a reply to all
your gardening questions. Unfortunately the huge numbers of
emails and letters we receive mean that a personal response
cannot always be guaranteed.

growfruitandveg.co.uk

43

DISEASE FOCUS:

WHITE
BLISTER
Keep this foliar disease at bay
with a few basic measures

If you have noticed that some of


your brassica crops are looking a
little worse for wear, and you can
see little white, pustule-like spots
on the leaves, then you may be
dealing with white blister. These
patches are often found on the
underside of leaves, but the stems
and heads can be attacked, too. This
will be variable depending on how
serious the infection is. The disease
can result in distorted growth of
your plants, a decreased vigour and,
in severe cases, even crop loss, so it
is important to stamp it out as
quickly as possible.
As with many of the fungal
diseases we commonly find on our
plots, damp weather and variations
in temperature can encourage the
spread of this problem. It is actually
closely related to issues such as
downy mildews, and the conditions
it is caused by are very similar.

Control methods
Once you have noticed the
infection, it is important to remove
all affected matter and dispose of
it to prevent spread. As with many
things, prevention is better than
cure so when planting your crops
earlier in the season, be sure to give
them adequate space to encourage
air flow, as being situated too close
together can create the perfect
environment for this mould to
thrive and spread.
There are now some varieties
available with a higher resistance
to this disease, so it can be worth
looking into these if you are
concerned about it.
There are currently no chemical
controls on the market
specifically targeting
white blister, so it
will be important
for you to stay
alert and deal
with plants
as soon as
any symptoms
appear.
RHS Image Library

44

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GYO May 15 ROPs_Layout 1 19/03/2015 14:15 Page 45

Smart gardening Qx.e$S_GYO new size 19/03/2015 14:19 Page 2

Scientific research Annoying pests Growing herbs

SMART
GARDENING
The only pages modern gardeners
need for brilliant growing

GYO spotlight

A poll compiled by the RHS has named


slugs and snails as the most troublesome
garden pests of 2014 a title these slimy
creatures have now held eight times out
of the past 10 years.
The list, which is released annually to
highlight the problems gardeners report
to the RHS, also includes nuisances such
as rosemary beetle, mice, voles and allium leaf miner.
Dr Andrew Salisbury from the RHS said: The RHS saw a 42 per
cent increase in the number of enquiries it received about pests in
2014 compared with the previous year. One of the possible reasons for
the increase could be the great gardening year we have enjoyed,
which meant that more people were spending quality time in their
gardens and noticing the effects of pests. It is interesting that pests
affecting food crops have been very prominent in the 2014 list.
Perhaps this reflects a trend for gardeners to set aside some space to
increase their food self-sufficiency and grow crops.

LET US INTRODUCE YOU TO


French-crossed strawberries

Showcasing the wonderful qualities of both


Gariguette and Mara des Bois strawberries,
Mariguette is sure to be popular among soft fruit
lovers. This new variety, available from mail order
fruit supplier D.T. Brown (dtbrownseeds.co.uk),
is an everbearing type with large, rather long
strawberries. It begins cropping in June and
continues yielding in flushes until October.
A pack of five runners costs 7.95, but two packs
may be ordered for just 6.95 per pack.

Carrots for all soil types

Do you normally struggle to grow carrots?


If so, Dobies may have the answer for you.
Carrot Match F1 has been bred by the
group behind Dobies to perform well on
all soil types. They have a short, dense core
and delicious favour and also demonstrate
excellent keeping qualities storing in good
condition until March/April. A packet
containing around 265 seeds is available
from Dobies (dobies.co.uk) for 1.89.

46

growfruitandveg.co.uk

SMART
STATISTIC:

Home-grown toms
contain more healthimproving nutrients
than massproduced ones.

Starting up...

a new herb collection


Herbs are the perfect crops for beginner growers or those who are limited
with space. Not only are many types fairly easy to grow inside, but they are
also a simple way to add a real punch of flavour to your dishes, lifting a
delicious meal to a truly divine one.
n Some of the best herbs to grow indoors on windowsills are chives, basil,
dill, mint, coriander and parsley. Make sure you keep your pots moist and
well-watered to allow them to thrive.
n Use your windowsill plants as cut-and-come-again crops to encourage
constant new growth this will give you bundles of fresh herbs to use in
your cooking. Its a good idea to try not to pick more than a third of your
plants leaves at any one time, as this allows it to
recover and continue to grow.
n Pot-grown supermarket herbs dont need to
be throw-away items. Give them the right
care and attention and you can use these
purchased plants to keep you in a
steady supply of flavoursome leaves
for many months. Divide and re-pot
the plant as soon as possible and
then leave the resulting plants to
establish before harvesting.

Smart gardening Qx.e$S_GYO new size 19/03/2015 14:19 Page 3

HOT NEWS
Home-grown
veg is best!

While home growers and allotmenteers need


no convincing that home-grown fruit and veg
tastes far better than supermarket-bought
varieties, a new study has now gone some way
to prove it. Research into the chemical profile
of tomatoes, which was carried out by experts
at Kew Gardens in conjunction with the BBC
show Kew on a Plate, has found that homegrown types are tastier and contain more
health-improving nutrients than those which
have been mass-produced. Professor Monique
Simmonds from Kew said that mass-market
toms are usually bred for a uniform
appearance and that this coupled with the
fact they are harvested early and artificially
ripened can damage the flavour and the
nutrient level. She added that the results would
be similar for other types of fruit and veg.
In recognition of the new TV series which
features leading French chef Raymond Blanc
and Kate Humble Kew will be running a
series of special events over the coming months.
Take a tour of the kitchen
garden and enjoy a Q&A
session with horticulturist
Joe Archer. Talks will
happen daily during the
transmission of the series
and weekly throughout
the summer. For details
visit kew.org

FIRST UK-CULTIVATED
TRUFFLE HARVESTED
A plant biologist has claimed that the first
truffle to ever be cultivated on UK soil has
been harvested in a field in Leicestershire.
Dr Paul Thomas, who appeared on the TV
programme Dragons Den to ask for help in
funding his project, planted the fungi on 20
different farms and estates six years ago.
And now, he says hes harvested his first 39g
specimen under a holly tree. Wild truffles
were once common in Britain, but are now
very rare, and the majority of those eaten in
the UK are imported
from abroad.
Dr Thomas
discovery has led
him to hope that
his other sites will
also start producing
truffles soon.

GYO must-haves
Solar powered
water butt pump
This new solar pump from
Draper Tools is a great
eco-friendly option for
gardeners. It can be used
to run a hose from
a water butt
or drain a
small pond without mains
power. For details about the pump, which has
an RRP of 148, visit drapertools.com or call
023 8049 4333. The products code is 38241.

Biodegradable
garden ties
Give your tomatoes and
runner beans the
support they need with
this strong and durable
biodegradable garden tie.
Made from elasticated
material it can be used for a
whole host of crops, plants and bushes.
The tie naturally drops off and rots in the
ground after 18-24 months. It is available
from most garden centres and more
information can be found at biostretch.com

Long handled Dutch hoe


This handy hoe from Moulton Mill will be
invaluable at this time of year as weeds start
springing up uncontrollably. The long handle
makes it easy to carefully chop off seedling
weeds growing in between rows of veg
without damaging crops. It has an RRP of
22.99 and the Moulton Mill tool range is
available from all leading garden centres.

Attractive obelisk

Buy the book!

Fancy getting away


from it all and
exploring the wilder
parts of Britain? A new
book called Wild
Garden Weekends will
be able to show you how. With stunning
photography and illustrated maps, this
guidebook recommends nearly 400 of the best
secret gardens, wild flower meadows, kitchen
garden cafes and the most enchanting places
to stay. Published by Wild Things Publishing
and priced at 16.99, it will be available from
all good bookshops and through
wildthingspublishing.com this May.

Add a point of focus to your


garden with this stylish
obelisk from Agriframes,
which is perfect for climbing
crops. The Queen Obelisk is
part of the companys new
Somerset range and is priced
at 69. For more information
visit agriframes.co.uk or call
0845 2604 450.

A new study has found that


drinking beetroot juice every
day could help reduce high
blood pressure. The effect is
thought to be due to the
vegetables naturally high
levels of nitrate.

HAVE YOU GOT ANY SMART NEWS OR IDEAS TO SHARE? Email smart@growfruitandveg.co.uk

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47

Smart gardening Qx.e$S_GYO new size 19/03/2015 14:19 Page 4

SMART
GARDENING
SMALL SPACES:

Wildlife gardening
in containers

Gardening expert Emma Hardy reveals ways in which you can encourage
wildlife to your garden while still growing plenty of edible produce

TOP TIP

Container plants
can encourage
and provide food
for a whole host
of wildlife

Buy the
book!

This extract has been


taken and modified
from The Urban
Wildlife Gardener by
Emma Hardy,
published by CICO
Books (14.99). The
photos on page 49
have been taken by
Debbie Patterson.

Growing plants in containers is a very practical


approach to gardening because it offers valuable
growing opportunities for even the tiniest of
spaces. From the humblest window box,
bursting with flowers that attract pollinators to
your windowsill, to collections of old sinks, water
troughs and bathtubs for shrubs and climbing
plants, containers can suit any garden or
backyard, big or small. With container planting,
it is important to provide the correct conditions
for the plants, ensuring that there are drainage
holes, using nutrient-rich compost and soil, and
adding moisture-retaining granules or sand and
grit to lighten the soil.

The benefits of container gardening


One of the benefits of gardening in pots is that
plants which require different growing conditions
can be displayed and arranged together, each
container providing for its individual plant. A
mini wildflower garden in a pot, which favours
relatively poor soil, can sit next to a potted rose
that thrives in rich, fertile compost. Its a great

48

growfruitandveg.co.uk

way to grow some varieties of fruit and


vegetables because they, too, often have very
specific nutritional needs. Many crops thrive
when grown in containers, and they are perfect
for gardeners who have only a balcony or roof
terrace but want to cultivate their own food. In
the wildlife garden, pots are very useful
because they can be planted with insectattracting plants (such as nettles, weeds, and
grasses) that you might not want to plant
directly into the ground, and can be then
dotted around the garden and nestled into
borders. Grouping containers together can also
create the effect of a border even on a patio
or in a courtyard garden and can encourage
and provide food for a whole host of wildlife
without the need for a garden at all.

car-boot sales for years and have now amassed


quite a collection, spending only a small amount
on each one. I love the rather hodgepodge look
of them all grouped together. Look out for old
food cans, enamel breadbins, and even old
galvanized washtubs, which can all be put to
good use and are a great way to recycle, or visit
garden centres for elegant terracotta pots and
tubs if your garden is more formal.

Choosing a container

A weighty matter

Just about any container can be used as long


as it has a few drainage holes and enough
room for plant roots to grow. I have been
buying old buckets and enamel pans from

Moisture

Its very important to keep containers moist, so


regular watering is vital, especially in hot, dry
weather. If you are unable to water them for a
few days, stand the pots in dishes or bowls to
conserve moisture and group them together in a
shady spot to prevent them drying out too much.
If you decide to use large tubs on a balcony or
roof terrace, bear in mind the weight of the
containers and ensure that they will not cause
damage to your building.

Smart gardening Qx.e$S_GYO new size 19/03/2015 14:19 Page 5

Clever ideas Tiny spaces

Step by step...
Make a bee-friendly herb tub
Make a bee-friendly pot that will provide
beautiful herbs for the kitchen as well. You
can repurpose anything from an old metal wok
to a metal tin for this project. Pots can be used
for a selection of lavender plants, as shown
right, or a wok can be used for a collection of
thyme plants thyme is quite low-growing
and does not need deep soil, so this type of
container works well.

You will need:


nA

container such as
a large metal wok
or old tin
n Gravel
n Sand
n Potting compost
n A varied selection
of herb plants

How to do it
Step 1: Drill holes in the base of your container for drainage, and add

gravel to allow water to drain away.


the potting compost to mimic the soil that they would naturally grow in.
Pour the sand and potting compost mixture into the pot.
Step 3: Soak the herb plants in water so that the roots are thoroughly
wet and take them out of their pots.
Step 4: Gently pull the roots out to encourage them to spread in their
new surroundings, and plant them in the container, scooping holes in
the potting compost and pushing the plants into them.
Step 5: If necessary, add more potting compost to even the
surface, and flatten it off.
Step 6: You could also place some gravel and a
few larger stones over the surface of the potting
compost. This gives a decorative touch, but it will
also help to retain moisture and heat.

Debbie Patterson

Step 2: If using Mediterranean herbs, mix a few handfuls of sand with

Growing fruit and


vegetables in containers
This miniature wildlife garden in a trug
contains plants that are all wildlife friendly and
which benefit one another well. Alpine
strawberries, cherry tomatoes, marigolds
(Calendula officinalis), and a sunflower
(Helianthus annuus) sit along side a few herbs,
such as basil, that are appealing to bees and
butterflies and look very pretty together.

How to do it
Step 1: Make holes in the base of the trug

or basket with a drill or a hammer and nail.

Debbie Patterson

Step 2: Cover the holes with broken pots

You will need:


n Metal

trug or
basket
n Drainage crocks
n Gravel
n Potting compost
n Moisture-retaining
granules
n Sunflower
(Helianthus annuus)
n Alpine strawberry
(Fragaria vesca)
n Cherry tomato
(Lycopersicon
esculentum)
n Pot marigold
(Calendula officinalis)
n Purple basil
(Ocimum basilicum
var. purpurascens

and add a few handfuls of gravel in the


bottom to aid drainage.
Step 3: Put some potting compost into the
trug, adding a few handfuls of moistureretaining granules, which will help to prevent
the trug from drying out.
Step 4: Soak all the plants well, and then
carefully take them out of their pots.
Step 5: Position the sunflower at the back of the trug. Then put
the other plants in the trug, placing the alpine strawberries around
the front so that they spill over the edge.
Step 6: Fill the trug with potting compost and firm it down gently
around each plant. Water well and feed with a natural fertiliser
every week.

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49

Smart gardening Qx.e$S_GYO new size 19/03/2015 14:19 Page 6

SMART
GARDENING
SMART
TIP:

Remember some
crops are thirstier
than others. Keep
this in mind
when irrigating

SMART GUIDE TO:

GROWING IN
UNPREDICTABLE WEATHER
At this time of year, it can feel like we are at mother
natures mercy but here are some key tips to help
you through the growing season come rain or shine
Gardening in the UK does mean, by default, that you
never know quite what you are going to get when it
comes to growing conditions. In the past 10 years we

have had hot, wet and Indian summers, late frosts,


gales and everything else you could think of. By no
means do we have the most severe extremes going,
but we certainly come in contact with weather that
can make vegetable gardening an unpredictable game.

Rain: too much, or not enough?


It goes without saying that irrigation is one of the
most important jobs in the gardeners calendar
especially coming into the summer months. But how
much does rain (or lack of) really affect our crops?
Correct levels of water help almost all elements of
growing aiding the development of roots, seedlings,
leaves and then the following fruits. But too much or
too little can both do damage and compromise your
potential harvests later on in the season.
If you have claggy, poorly drained soil, your plants
may be at risk of waterlogging, which can cause root
rot, stunted growth and other issues. Luckily, this is
quite easy to amend, by adding well-rotted organic
matter to your soil. In pots, always make sure there

50

growfruitandveg.co.uk

are drainage holes in the bottom. Crocks can also


be placed in the container although there are
varying thoughts on whether this is actually an
effective practice or not.
Equally, not enough rain can be damaging, too,
with plants wilting and turning brown. Container
growers in particular are often prone to soils drying
out quickly, and in these conditions it can be difficult
to keep up with thirsty plants (in particular, deeprooted crops such as tomatoes and courgettes)
which will lose strength quickly. However, it is
possible to take the stress out of summer care with
a few simple measures.
Mulching this is key for both retaining moisture
and offering protection against damage caused by
heavy rain. Add a layer to your beds or pots and
enjoy the benefit of it acting as a weed suppressor.
n Remembering that some crops are thirstier than
others chillies, chard and artichokes are among
those that can survive with minimal watering, while
tomatoes, courgettes and lettuces will struggle with
dry soils prioritise these when irrigating and they
will thank you for it with bountiful crops.
n

Smart gardening Qx.e$S_GYO new size 19/03/2015 14:19 Page 7

Unpredictable weather

Growing tips

Watering later in the day less evaporation will take place


in the evening, giving your plants the time to soak up the
moisture they need.

The heat of summer


Those glorious summer rays make us all feel good and
this includes our plants. Much like water, sun is one of the
key components to a successful season. Plus, as all growers
know, there is nothing quite like a sun-warmed tomato
plucked from the bush and popped straight into your
mouth heaven (ditto all soft fruits). But as well as
encouraging plant growth, high levels of heat can
sometimes take a toll on crops.
Sun scorched plants will have dry, brittle patches on
their leaves. This is caused by moisture being lost faster
than it can be recuperated. Crops located in exposed
ground will be particularly susceptible to this, so be aware
of placement if you grow on a very open site.
If youre growing in pots, you do have some level of
control over the time your plants spend in direct sun and
shade. Although lugging containers backwards and
forwards throughout the day might seem like a drain on
time (not to mention a strain on your back), having the
ability to move delicate leaves out of the way of harsh
midday glare can help harvests later on.

Mulching is
key for both
retaining
Late visits from Jack Frost
moisture
Weve all been there those sunny days of spring when
evenings are getting lighter instil a confidence that summer
and offering
is on the horizon and our green fingers start to itch. You
know what comes next... seeds being sown prematurely,
protection
seedlings bursting from modules and trays, and an early
need to be planted on. Then, once the young plants are
against
happily sitting in pots in the garden, a frost strikes. The
green shoots shrivel, and a slightly disheartened gardener
damage
has to start all over again. Although there is no absolutely
water-tight method here, as the weather will do as it
pleases, the best thing to keep in mind is to stick to sowing caused by
dates recommended for each variety. Early crops are
heavy rain
invariably caught up by those started later once days
lengthen and the mercury rises. However, if you really do
need to scratch that growing itch, utilise your containers,
as pots and troughs can be lifted into sheds or
greenhouses over night, and can easily be covered with
horticultural fleece if temperatures threaten to plummet.

Wind damage
Although our fruit and vegetable crops are probably a lot
hardier than the mollycoddlers among us would believe,
we know we need to put some protection in place against
certain elements. Top of most peoples lists are slugs, birds
and frosts and it would also be advisable to add wind to
that list. It is well documented that plants can recover from
certain issues lost leaves can be regrown, new fruits can

be set but a main stem is a one off. If this gets snapped


or broken, this usually means it is the end of the road for
that particular plant, which is always a shame.
As well as aggressive tousling of our crops, windy
weather can also be a contributing factor to plants drying
out. A few simple measures can be put in place to help
make sure your veg is less vulnerable to wind.
Erecting netting around your plants can act as a
windbreak. Alternatively, a more aesthetically pleasing
method can be planting edible hedging around your
growing area something like raspberries work well,
but you need to keep on top of volunteer plants!
n Pots can be placed next to the wall of your house, which
will offer some protection. However, you will need to
check the direction of the winds, as this method can
sometimes unwittingly create a wind tunnel effect.
n Offer taller plants and climbing varieties adequate support.
Stems can be tied, but avoid doing this too tightly.
n

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Science Park, Sittingbourne ME9 8GU

Naomi Schillinger
Urban grower Naomi Schillinger
shares her tips for compact crops
and city gardens

Naomis projects

Growing pea shoots


Sowing lettuce

May for me is always synonymous


with the Chelsea Flower Show and Ill
be eagerly keeping an eye open for
any fruit and veg appearing amongst
the perennials. Ill also be visiting as
many Chelsea Fringe events as I can
from May 16 until June 7. These are
wonderfully exciting (and often free)
horticultural happenings all over the
capital, such as pop-up veg gardens,
and well worth looking out for should
you be in and around London in May.
For more details visit chelseafringe.com
Back in my own garden, Im basking
in the extra hours of sunlight we now
have and filling my new greenhouse
with more and more seed trays whilst
continuing to plan for the year ahead.

58

growfruitandveg.co.uk

THE URBAN
GARDENER
Only got a small growing space?
Dont worry this month Naomi
is sowing pea shoots in containers
and highlighting the benefits of
successional sowing with lettuce
TRY GROWING PEA SHOOTS
For a bit of extra crunch in the spring
months, I try to regularly sow pea shoots.
As well as adding texture to dishes, they
have a wonderful pea-like flavour that
combines really well with many other
salad leaves. I started growing these one
year when snails completely demolished
a tray of lettuce seedlings overnight and
I was scratching my head as to a swift
solution to my lack of leaves.
It doesnt matter how much space
you have be it a single pot on a
windowsill, a balcony or a flower border,
you can squeeze some of these tender
shoots into the smallest of spaces. These
gourmet bites are expensive in the shops
(thats if you can find them!) so youll be
saving plenty, too.
Use any left over pea seeds for pea
shoots, or, for a more economic

option, buy a pack of dried marrow fat


peas (I can usually find these at my
local corner shop). These will need
soaking overnight before planting, but
a handful will go a long way!
To get started, Im using a discarded
wooden fruit tray, which Ive lined with
an old compost bag, with added holes for
drainage. Pots dont have to be very deep
for pea shoots as theyll only be growing
for a matter of weeks, so all shapes and
sizes of container should fit the bill for
growing this tasty veg. Almost fill up the
tray with multipurpose compost, leaving
roughly an inch at the top for planting the
seeds and watering.
As these pea seeds wont be growing
into full sized plants, you can sow them
closely to get maximum shoots from your
container. Sow seeds about a centimetre

Urban gardens

LOVELY LETTUCES
I know Ive already written about
growing lettuces in February, but
limiting my sowing to this month is
usually where I fall down in achieving
a fantastic successional crop of salad
leaves. Sow little and often (every few
weeks ideally) should be my mantra, but
as things get busy in spring, I sometimes
forget to sow lettuces again until Ive
eaten the last of my first batch and
then I have to wait weeks before I can
pick leaves again. As I live on salads in
summer, this can feel a little tragic!
So, if youve only sown an early
crop in February or March and nothing
since then (or indeed none at all!), its
definitely worth sowing another batch
now (and again in a few weeks time!) to
keep your home-grown leaves flowing.
In February, I planted my favourite cos
lettuce, Freckles, and although I may
sow a few more seeds now, Im also
going to sow a variety called Lobjoits
for majestic upright bright green
lettuces with lovely crisp leaves.
Cocarde is another favourite of
mine. Its a pointy upright oak leaf
lettuce with very decorative wavy green
leaves, heavily tinted with deep red at
apart, cover roughly with their own
depth of compost, about 1-1.5cm deep
and water in well. If youre growing on
outdoor window sills and balconies, be
sure to keep your shoots well watered,
even when it has rained. Regularly check
to see that compost is moist to keep the
plants growing healthily.
At this time of the year shoots will
be ready to eat in two to three weeks,
depending on the weather as ever.
Pick the shoots just above the lowest leaf
and this will allow the shoots to grow
again and give you another picking in a
few weeks time.
After your second batch has been
harvested, compost everything, and
start again. Keep on sowing every few
weeks in small batches, and youll be
dining on these delectable shoots all
summer long.

the edges. Even more pointy is Really


Red Deer Tongue, which has been
recommended to me by a fellow lettuce
enthusiast for its good looks. It forms
a large rosette of deep red arrow-like
leaves and should contrast wonderfully
planted alongside the Lobjoits.
Its warm enough now to direct
sow if slugs and snails arent a problem
but if you need to protect seedlings
until theyre big enough to fend for
themselves, sow in modules. If you
have the luxury of having an entire
bed simply for lettuce, be creative,
sowing in circles or diagonals,
alternating colours and textures for
really playful designs. You could also
add in some herbs such as chives and
tarragon for further delicious additions
for your salads and edible flowers
such as sweet Williams or violas for
extra colour and scent. Many violas are
perennial and last year I bought a few
beautiful pale yellow Pat Kavanagh
plants from Wildgoose Nursery, a
viola specialist. These delicate little
blooms had the most delicious honeyed
fragrance that stopped me in my
tracks each time I passed by the lettuce
bed and, even better, theyll come back
year after year!

NAOMIS TOP LETTUCES


TO TRY THIS YEAR
If you love a Cos type lettuce then
Lobjoits is majestic handsome
upright bright green variety with
lovely crisp leaves. Simply Seed
0115 727 0606, simplyseed.co.uk
Really Red Deer Tongue is a perfect
partner to contrast against upright
Lobjoits with its dark red rosettes of
pointy leaves. Real Seeds
01239 821 107, realseeds.co.uk
Cocarde has gorgeous soft wavy
green leaves, tinged with deep red
at the edges. Very decorative indeed,
both in the salad bowl and in the
border. Kings Seeds 01376 570 000,
kingsseeds.com
growfruitandveg.co.uk

59

GYO May 15 ROPs_Layout 1 19/03/2015 14:17 Page 60

Sarah Raven Qx_GYO new size 19/03/2015 12:44 Page 2

Expert advice

Garden Chat

SARAH RAVEN

Both zinnias and basil thrive if sown in May. Gardening guru Sarah Raven
reveals how to make sure your plants get off to a good start
May is the month to sow
two of my favourite
plants zinnias and basil.
They both come from
warmer, dryer climates and
find our grey skies and high
levels of rainfall a challenge,
but sown in the next couple
of weeks, they will grow
well. By now, the worst of
the cold nights should be
over and light intensities are
rising by the day. I always
think to myself: 'Dont sow
either until you are happy to
have supper in the garden.'
If its warm enough for you
to be outside in the evening
and into the night, its warm
enough for zinnias and basil
to be out there, too.
Zinnias famously hate
root disturbance, so direct
sow them into freely drained
Pick basil
soil, two or three seeds,
with
scissors,
4-5cm apart at 30cm
cutting
out
whole
spacing. Find them a sunny
sections of a plant
corner and give them plenty
of water, in the morning, not
to a pair of leaves
at night. Theyre particularly
lower down
prone to damping off and
the stem
botrytis from the moment of
germination all the way
through their life cycle. In a
damp, cool year with high air humidity, plants can get a plateau
of mould which sits on the growth tip and rots down into the heart
of the plant. You can use a fungicide such as Bordeaux mixture to
prevent this, but full sun and good drainage at their roots will help.
The same rules apply to basil, which is best sown in the next few
weeks in a sunny spot with a fine tilth and good drainage. Basil likes
its nights mild and its roots moist. Sow it at the same spacing as the
zinnias and then thin out, so you end up with one plant every 30cm
or so. If youre in a part of the country where supper outside is a
once-a-year experience, then opt for the window-ledge, greenhouse
or polytunnel. If you want to keep your plants growing quickly, keep

them well-watered, again


dousing them in the
morning, not in the
evening. If basil leaves are
damp, slugs and snails will
have a great feast in the
dark, so your plants are
best left dry overnight.
This will also help
discourage basil's tendency
to succumb to mould.
Its also worth
knowing how to pick basil
leaves. Dont just grab a
handful as you would with
the more prolific and
resilient mint or parsley.
Pick with scissors, cutting
out whole sections of a
plant to a pair of leaves
lower down the stem.
Cutting here will promote
the formation of axillary
buds. These will become
the next generation of
leaves which you can eat
in a week or two. If you
snip off the tips, youre
left with an ugly stump
and mould is more likely
to strike. This can then rot
back down into the rest
of the plant and kill it.
A careful layered haircut
is what is needed rather
than a simple straight swipe. The scenes now set for countless
jugs of colourful zinnias on your kitchen table in July and August
and for lots of delicious pesto suppers and excellent tomato
salads. Bon appetit!
Sarah Raven has been running cooking, flower arranging,
growing and gardening classes at her East Sussex farm since 1999,
and has presented on BBC Gardeners World. She also has her own
website (sarahraven.com), where you can purchase flowers, seeds,
kits and view a full list of courses.

READER OFFER
For 20% off zinnia and basil seeds, plus many other great varieties for
sowing in May, visit sarahraven.com and quote offer code GYO15MAY.
Terms and conditions apply, visit sarahraven.com/terms-and-conditions

growfruitandveg.co.uk

61

The Practical gardener April 15 Qx_GYO new size 19/03/2015 12:03 Page 1

THE PRACTICAL
GARDENER
Do you want to know how to train any unruly
bay plants in your garden? Simon shows you how

Simon Akeroyd
The plot of National Trust gardener
Simon is always bursting at the seams
I like to maintain good standards in my
garden in south Devon, and Im not
talking about the general appearance of
my vegetable patch. Im referring to those
posh standard bay trees that you see
adorning either side of doorways and
garden gates. They immediately give a
property an increased sense of grandeur,
something seriously lacking in my new
house, and frame entrances beautifully.
But, these established standards are
expensive to buy in garden centres, and I
dont have a budget that will stretch that
far. Thankfully, they are very easy to make
at home and cost next to nothing.
However, I dont just want any old
standard tree. I like something a bit more
quirky, so Im giving mine a twist
literally! Im making a multi-stemmed bay,
and plaiting the stems together. With the
surplus shoots from this project, Im also
drying leaves for cooking, taking cuttings
and making a spiral tree, too.

MAKING A PLAITING BAY


A standard is basically a plant that is grown with
a long stem with a spherical head at the top,
commonly called balls on sticks. Bay is the
traditional plant used, but there are lots of other
options such as privet, photinia and olive trees.
Some fruit bushes such as gooseberries, redcurrants
and grapevines are particularly suitable, too.
However, bay is ideal for creating plaited stems
because they have a tendency to send out lots of

long, upright and pliable shoots. Ive made a pair


of standards, which requires six stems in total,
three per plant. Im lucky to have lots of
overgrown bay trees in my garden which Ive dug
up, but you can buy multi-stemmed plants from
the garden centre for the fraction of the price of
a standard, too. After a few years the plaited
trunk will look fantastic it does take time, but
you know what they say good things come to
those who wait!

MINI PROJECTS

GYO STEP-BY-STEP: Three ways with bay

62

DRIED BAY
Ive collected up surplus clippings from
making my plaited standards. I could just add
them to the compost heap, but Ive got other
plans. Firstly Im taking a few sprigs into the
kitchen to dry. Im keeping them on their
stems and tying them upside down near
head height so I can easily pinch a few when
cooking to intensify the flavour of meals such
as casseroles, stews or Italian mince dishes.

growfruitandveg.co.uk

SPIRAL BAY
Im creating another type of standard tree.
This one is going to have a spiral stem. Ive
selected a young pliable plant and removed
sideshoots and leaves up the height of the
head. Ive then planted it in a container, and
pushed a bamboo cane next to it. Ive
twisted the stem around the cane and after
a couple of years, it can be removed and Ill
be left with a corkscrew-like stem. Cool!

BAY CUTTINGS
Finally, Im going to use some of the bay
clippings to take cuttings. To do this, select
young shoots that are about 12cm long.
Gently tear them off the main stem to leave
them with a slight heel to aid rooting.
Then strip back the bottom two third of
the leaves, dipped the bottom in hormone
rooting powder and insert the cuttings into
a potting compost.

The Practical gardener April 15 Qx_GYO new size 19/03/2015 12:03 Page 2

GYO STEP-BY-STEP: Creating a standard bay

STEP 1
Identify a bay plant in your garden which
has produced lots of shoots and dig the
clump out. Alternatively, buy a multi-stem
type from a garden centre. These are usually
easy to find and very cheap.

STEP 2
Separate out the individual stems by cutting
through the rootball with an old pruning
saw or a pair of loppers. You will need to
identify six straight shoots which are of a
similar height for this project.

STEP 3
Place some crocks at the bottom of your
two containers, making sure there are
drainage holes. If there arent any, you will
need to drill some in the bottom of the pot
so your plant doesnt get waterlogged.

STEP 4
Partly fill the container with compost.
Ive used a peat-free medium, suitable for
containers. You can use a multi-purpose
kind although bear in mind this will dry
out quicker in the summer.

STEP 5
Bundle three stems together so that the
base of the individual plants are as close as
possible to each other. Pack compost tightly
around the rootball to just below the rim
of the container.

STEP 6
Use a pair of secateurs to cut back all of
the sideshoots on the plant. Then remove
the foliage along the stem until you reach
the point that you plan on creating the
head of the standard.

STEP 7
Start to plait the bay stems together until
you reach the desired height for the head
of the standard. They may need tying half
way up the trunk to hold them in place.
Secure them at the top using string.

STEP 8
The surface of the soil can be mulched this
helps to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
I live near the beach so Ive used local sea
shells on mine, but a layer of gravel or
pebbles will suffice.

STEP 9
Cut the head so that it becomes a sphere
shape by pinching or pruning out the tips.
Give the standard a watering, place on
either side of your front door, stand back
and admire your handiwork!

YOU WILL NEED Multi-stemmed bay plant


String,

Two pots Crocks Compost Secateurs


cable ties or elastic bands to hold plait in place Gravel or stones for mulch

growfruitandveg.co.uk

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GYO May 15 ROPs_Layout 1 19/03/2015 14:18 Page 64

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Herbs oregano 2 Qx_GYO new size 20/03/2015 11:46 Page 2

Herbs

Herb growing
for beginners:

OREGANO
Do you want to try your hand at
growing this woody perennial?
Heres how

reganos mild flavour and growanywhere capabilites make it one of


the best herbs to introduce to your plot.
It will hold its own through most weather
conditions, making it an ideal outdoor plant
this crop will also happily grow in almost any
type of soil, just keep it well-drained. If youre
worried the earth will be too moist, keep it in
a container, adding some stones or grit at the
bottom of the pot to improve drainage. A great
feature that gardeners will love is the diseasefree constitution problems caused by pests are
also sparse, with leaf hopper being the only
insect that commonly targets the plant.
There are two main varieties of this herb that
can be grown pot oregano (Origanum vulgare)
can be dried to use in cooking, whilst sweet
marjoram (Organum majorana) must be eaten
fresh as it has a more delicate flavour. They are
both members of the mint family and are very
similar in appearance one key difference is the
harsher scent that comes from an oregano plant.
The seeds can be sown indoors year-round or
outdoors between April and May. Alternatively,
cuttings from a mature plant can be rooted
do this by placing them in a pot of soil during
the summer months.

STEP-BY-STEP: GROWING IN A POT


Sow

the seeds thinly into seed-sowing


compost in holes that are 2cm deep. Then
cover with more soil. Allow around 15cm
between each plant.

the leaves out in a


warm room or in the
oven before removing
them from the stalks. They will
then be ready to use in various
dishes. Alternatively, keep your
pickings fresh in the fridge for a
few days or freeze them.
Oregano requires very little care
once the plant is fully established
just ensure regular watering and
keep an eye on the health of the
leaves. If youve made the effort
to dig compost into the soil and
have added some well-rotted
manure then there should be no
need to use fertiliser.
Keep the plant in an area of full
sun or partial shade it will take
up to five years to reach its
maximum growth of 1m.
In early spring, cut back any old
stems that are still holding on to
their flowers. This will encourage
more productive growth for the
next season.

GYO
TIP!

After

two to three weeks, seedlings will


appear. At this point its best to spread them
out to allow 30cm between each crop.
Water regularly, ensuring that the soil stays
moist but doesnt become waterlogged.
Harvest your oregano in July before the plant
begins to flower. If you wait until after this
period then the herb can develop quite a bitter
taste. Cut a 15cm bunch of the leaves using a
pair of clippers.

Dry

growfruitandveg.co.uk

65

ON TEST Daves equipment QX _GYO new size 19/03/2015 12:12 Page 1

ON TEST

SOWING
PRODUCTS

Dave Finkle takes a look at some of the


sowing and drilling products on the
market at the moment

Flexibility 5/5
Durability 5/5
Practicality 5/5
SEED SOWER
KINGS SEEDS 3.49
This nice little seed sowing tool has been carefully thought out and
designed. Every detail has been considered the twisting dial has been
given a toothed edge for grip and even the nose of the tool has small
grips on both sides. In addition to this, the dial has been well marked
with numbers and arrows for easy identification when choosing the
correct hole size to match up with the seed you will be dispensing.
When I first used it I was expecting the seed to race out of the dial
into the nose. However there are small ridges that slow down the
speed of the seed allowing you keep good control.
Kings Seeds 01376 570 000, kingsseeds.com

he soil has woken


up from its winter
slumber, worms are
on the move and the lid has
been thrown open on my
seed tin. Here we go for
another year! At this time in
the season, there is nothing
more enjoyable than perusing the
vast displays of seed packets on the stands. People can spend days
researching what variety to grow, but dont forget it is also about
making sure you have the right equipment to get the results you
want. I am sure most of you will agree that it is very frustrating
when you buy expensive seed, and only days later you are already
thinning out! Improved tooling is now on the market as well as a
plethora of seed trays and propagators to get you going in the right
direction. In recent years there has been surge of new
manufacturers bursting into the market, which is great for the
consumer as it helps to bring down the price of items. As for the
seed itself, there are more options presenting themselves to novice
growers and children, as well as ideas for preventing age-old
problems. This month I have a few small items that all play a
valuable role in getting the season off on the right foot.

WHERE TO BUY

Kings Seeds 01376 570 000, kingsseeds.com


Two Wests and Elliott 01246 451 077, twowests.co.uk
Harrod Horticultural 0845 402 5300, harrodhorticultural.com
Suttons Seeds 0844 922 0606, suttons.co.uk
Marshalls 0844 557 6700, marshalls-seeds.co.uk
Gro Garden Products 01282 868 133, grogardenproducts.com

66

growfruitandveg.co.uk

/5
Flexibility 5
/5
4
Durability
/5
Practicality 5
AUTUMN COLLECTION SEED TAPE
SUTTONS SEEDS 9.99
The seed tape concept is a great idea for beginner growers and a brilliant
way to get children involved in sowing, too. Being pre-made, the tape
has already taken care of the seed spacings for you and guarantees reliable
results. Clearly labelled and easy to use, you cant put a foot wrong.
They really are very convenient if you are struggling for time or need a
boost of confidence as all the brain work has been done for you. Simply,
plant them together in a suitable spot and enjoy a great harvest of veg
come autumn! There are other options available in the range and they
would be well suited for raised veg beds.
Suttons Seeds 0844 922 0606, suttons.co.uk

ON TEST Daves equipment QX _GYO new size 19/03/2015 12:12 Page 2

BEST
BUY

/5
Flexibility 4
/5
Durability 5
/5
Practicality 3

Flexibility
5/5
Durability
5/5
Practicality
5/5

SEED SOWING TROWEL


TWO WESTS AND ELLIOTT 9.55
This product is clearly made to last for a long time! Very simple in purpose
and design, it boasts a robust bamboo handle and carbon steel head. The
trowel is stylish and comfortable to use, feeling well balanced in your hand.
One thing to bear in mind is that if you are using this tool to sow fine,
fairly round seed you may have difficulty keeping control of seed flow and
spacing. I think the head could have perhaps done with a rougher finish
to counteract this. In my opinion, it is best suited to medium, irregularshaped seed like beetroot and for this purpose it is definitely a tool I would
like to have in my artillery at this time of year.
Two Wests and Elliott 01246 451 077, twowests.co.uk

EASY SEEDER
GRO GARDEN PRODUCTS 3.05
What a cracking tool! I am a bit of a perfectionist when it comes to correct
seed spacings, and this little chap allows you to be exact. The concept of a
syringe crossed with a click dispenser is perfect and works very well
when the button is pressed, a needle pops out of the end and dispenses a
single seed. The tool gives you total control great for sowers like me!
Well-made and solid for its size, it wont let you down. Although it has
been marketed for the veg market, you can use it for flower seeds, too.
Personally I would like to see the range expanded to include products for
small, medium and large seeds.
Gro Garden Products 01282 868 133, grogardenproducts.com

/5
Flexibility 4
/5
Durability 4
/5
5
ty
Practicali

/5
Flexibility 5
/5
Durability 4
/5
Practicality 5
SELF-WATERING PROPAGATOR
HARROD HORTICULTURAL 12.90
Who could resist a propagator that is self-watering? This clever product
utilises a 40-cell design that is very handy, especially as the base tray also
doubles up as a plug pop-out tool. The plug trays are made of polystyrene
which is well known for transferring heat and is forgiving when easing out
plugs. Supplied with a capillary mat that manages water uptake, this
propagator enables you to eliminate the risk of over or under watering
young seedlings at their most delicate stage. As you would expect, the lid
can also be removed to allow for hardening off later in the season. The
build quality is average but sufficient.
Harrod Horticultural 0845 402 5300, harrodhorticultural.com

WINDOWSILL PROPAGATOR
MARSHALLS 14.95
If you are a fan of growing plugs you wont be disappointed with this
product. Too often I find that propagators are overpriced, but not this
time! The kit gives you plenty of options with three different sized trays,
allowing you to have several trays of seed at different stages of growth.
Also supplied are 12 capillary mats for controlled watering, seed compost,
black labels and a waterproof pen. To keep the price down, a compromise
has been made in my opinion as the durability of the product is slightly
weaker than its counterparts but as it is intended for the windowsill, it is
unlikely to get knocked about. For the price I feel you get a great package.
Marshalls 0844 557 6700, marshalls-seeds.co.uk
growfruitandveg.co.uk

67

GYO May 15 ROPs_Layout 1 19/03/2015 14:19 Page 68

Weve got everything to help you

Grow Your Own!


FSC Wooden Compost Bins FSC Wooden Raised Beds
Patio Growing Pots & Propagators
Troughs & Mangers Plus much, much more!

www.recycleworks.co.uk
Tel: 0800 0320 377
68

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Enter code GYO5 for 10% discount.


Offer ends 31st July 2015. Standard terms apply.

Plot people Qx_GYO new size 19/03/2015 16:42 Page 2

Inspiring stories

INTERVIEW

People & their

PLOTS

Phil McCann talks to charity worker Ruth Nicholls about


how inspiring growing fruit and veg can be
As a teenager, Ruth found
herself homeless, but rather
than giving up and giving
in, she battled her way to
achieving a university
degree and then, after
writing hundreds of letters
to prospective employers,
found employment with the
charity Cambridge
Cyrenians. Now she is using
all her skills with around 10
homeless volunteers on five
allotments, three sheds and
one polytunnel. I realised that
social care was the thing I
wanted to do and now, with an
RHS Level 2 qualification, my
teaching qualifications and
personal experiences, I can
combine the lot to help
others, Ruth explained. Her
help is ongoing at five plots in
the centre of Cambridge,
where homeless volunteers get
a chance to bring some stability
to otherwise potentially chaotic
lives. The routine is vital. It
gives everyone a focus and the
act of getting your hands dirty at the plots seems to be calming.
We run teaching sessions at the allotment but often I choose a
regular volunteer to mentor newcomers, say in planting cabbages or
sowing carrots, and they just get on with it. The growing is great fun
but it's also the social side of the plots that is just as important.
Whatever we are doing we always stop for a tea break at the same time
every day. It gives us a chance to chat, swap stories and experiences.
Now, neighbouring plot holders who aren't part of the project come
along for a talk.
Ruth drives around and gives a lift to many of the volunteers on
gardening days. By the very nature of who the volunteers are, some

become regulars and others


appear once or twice a season
but they are all welcome to
come and work on the plots.
I wrote a basic horticultural
course for anyone at the plots
to follow. A couple of the lads
did that, completed the course
and we awarded them
certificates. It was momentous
for them, and it's occasions like
that which show this place is
making a real difference.
As all plotholders realise,
there are so many benefits to
gardening. There's the
connection with nature, Ruth
explains, but with cities being
so clinical, the aesthetics of an
allotment site are important.
They can be scrappy but there is
also beauty. Two of our plots are
being used for crop rotation,
two have been turned into
wildlife areas and another has
small beds of herbs and
perennials. The pond is a very
popular feature.
Working so much land takes
plenty of consideration and planning. We have to be flexible yet work
to a vague plan, Ruth says What we get done depends on who
actually turns up. We grow small amounts of a large range of crops
and what we don't provide to homeless day centres we sometimes sell
through our pop up stall in Cambridge.
Currently unfunded, Ruth relies on the trustees of the Cambridge
Cyrenians, donations and proceeds from the sale of the crops to pay for
seeds, tools and of course, tea bags! It doesn't actually take a lot of
money to run the plots, but it does make a massive difference to the
homeless community. For more information on the charity and
Ruth's work visit cambridgecyrenians.org.uk

The growing is great fun but its also the social side
of the plots that is just as important
growfruitandveg.co.uk

69

Allotment Noticeboard APR14 Qx_GYO new size 19/03/2015 12:54 Page 1

w
o
r
G
n
w
o
r
u
yo
U CAN TRUST
GARDENING ADVICE YO

DONT MISS
THE CHELSEA
FLOWER SHOW

garden magazine
n
he
tc
ki
g
lin
el
-s
st
be
s
K
The U

ALLOTMENT NOTICE BOARD

The top spot for information and advice about growing on allotment sites

ALLOTMENT SECURITY
EXPERT
Phil Gomersall
is the National
Allotment
Society mentor
for Yorkshire
and Humber
Allotments are a great way to socialise
with other gardeners and share
valuable experience. However, they
lack the benefit of constant
supervision, so there are a few things
to consider in order to protect your
crops and possessions.
Phil says: Allotment sites do suffer
from theft and vandalism especially in
winter when there are not so many
people around. Security has two

70

growfruitandveg.co.uk

elements you need to think about


the issues affecting the site as a whole
(which can be remedied with fencing)
and the individual plots which can
include sheds and tools.
Mature prickly hedging is
considered the best security but many
sites now use palisade fencing. It is
also important that plot-holders lock
the gates behind them. You could
try running an allotment watch
scheme with the local police force.
A communal steel storage container
for valuable garden tools is a great
way to prevent thefts.
Allotment sheds make easy
pickings as they are usually quite
flimsy you can either leave your
shed unlocked and not keep anything
of value in it or secure it using
concealed fastenings for hinges and
locks. A shed alarm could be another
option if its likely that someone
nearby will hear it.

One of the most popular flower shows of


the year is just around the corner, so get
ready to pick up some tips and equipment
and discover some fantastic new products
on the market. This year, the Chelsea
Flower Show will take place in London
from May 19 to May 23. It promises to be
an unforgettable celebration of
horticulture, featuring exhibits that focus
on garden design, plant nurseries, floral
centrepieces and educational exhibits.
Many companies will be attending to
showcase their innovative products. If you
will be visiting, we recommend looking out
for Backdoorshoes, which specialises in
footwear for keen gardeners. The shoes
come in a range of vibrant designs
and are water-proof, washable
and comfortable perfect if
you want a fuss-free option
when tending to
your plot.

WE ASKED What are your

OUR FORUM

best tips and


tricks for getting rid of carrot
fly on your plot?
This formidable pest will look to make a
comeback this month the fact that new
generations can appear from a previously
infected patch makes the effect of these
insects even more devastating. What
advice do you have for gardeners dealing
with this problem?
A carefully constructed mesh barrier is the
only way to get rid of carrot fly in my opinion.
If you suffer regularly from this pest do not
grow carrots in the same soil each year and if
infestations are severe I would advise giving up
growing carrots for a couple of years to give
time for any eggs to hatch and move on.
Bill HH, via the GYO website

Allotment Noticeboard APR14 Qx_GYO new size 19/03/2015 12:54 Page 2

Allotments
PROTECT NESTIN
G BIRDS

This month its crucial to kee


p an eye
out for our feathered friends
who
might be raising their young
in bushes
and shrubs. Every year, many
nests are
destroyed by gardeners trim
ming
hedges who only discover the
se
homes when its too late. Kat
e Slater
from the RSPB explains the
best nestworthy plants. She says: Ha
wthorn,
holly and ivy are all fantast
ic for birds and a range of
other wildlife
they provide flowers for inse
cts, berries for feeding bird
s and
great cover for anything tha
t wants to find a hideaway
to build a
nest and rear their young.
If a situation arises when you
find these
visitors in an unsuitable are
a of your allotment, Kate sug
gests the
following actions: If you hav
e to deter any bird from eat
ing seed
in growing areas, you can use
an old trick to let the veggie
s grow
in peace. Take an old CD or
water bottle and string it to
a bamboo
pole allowing it to move in
the wind. This deters pigeon
s and
corvids like crows and magpi
es from an area that has just
been
seeded. For more informa
tion, visit rspb.org.uk

TOP THREE
jobs for May...
n Plant

out young vegetable such as lettuces,


cabbages and courgettes into prepared beds and
give them a good watering around their base to
settle the roots.
n As the new growth of early planted potatoes start
to push through the soil, use an onion hoe or rake
to draw soft earth up over the stems to create a
ridge, leaving the tops of the growth visible.
n Climbing French and runner beans can be planted
directly into the garden when the soil starts to warm up.
Plant two seeds per cane approximately 5cm deep and protect the
new seedlings as they emerge from slugs and snails.
Written by Martin Fish expert horticulturalist and brand ambassador for Moulton Mill tools

I find growing carrots in a 120cm x


90cm pallet box with rows of spring
onions grown between them and fleece
covering does the trick. It may be a belt
and braces approach, but who wants to
spend the season growing, only to find
the blighters have beaten you?
Skeggijon, via the GYO website
Ive found that in addition to using
enviromesh it helps to only weed and
thin the carrots while its raining it
seems that carrot fly arent active at
those times. I also check the enviromesh
every spring to repair holes.
Planetologist, via the GYO website

Ipswich

PLOT SHOWCASE
The Peoples
Community Garden
The Peoples Community Garden aims to
encourage people of all ages to grow fruit
and veg. The Ipswich-based plot was first
started in 2008 on an abandoned corner
of an allotment field, and has now
developed into a fantastic opportunity for
local people to grow a huge range of
produce. The garden is split into six
sections, including growing plots, a
wildlife section, a sensory garden, an
orchard, facilities for gardening lessons
and a picnic area. The public are
encouraged to visit even if theyre not
looking to start gardening everyone is
welcome to view the space and simply
enjoy the social experience. The
organisation also offers therapeutic
horticulture sessions to help those with
mental health issues and physical
disabilities as well as training programmes
for the long-term unemployed. Courses
are provided for anyone interested in
developing skills such as pond building
and permaculture. Jo Whittle, who helps
run The Peoples Community Garden, says:
We all benefit from working together to
protect our environment through
developing and maintaining a wildlife
pond and meadow, a bee garden and
community hives, and we have also been
working with the RSPB on a turtle dove
conservation. There is a whole range of
activities in the gardens for people to get
involved in, so everyone gets a chance to
contribute their unique skills and to
blossom with the gardens.
For details visit activlives.org.uk

GO TO GROWFRUITANDVEG.CO.UK
growfruitandveg.co.uk

71

Hanging Qx_GYO new size 20/03/2015 10:31 Page 1

Ask the

experts
EXPERT
Craig Sams is the executive
chairman of Carbon Gold.
carbongold.com

Is there any particular compost


which is most beneficial for use in
a hanging basket?
Craig says: If youre keen to ensure that your
hanging basket plants get all the water and
nutrients they need to keep on cropping,
then Carbon Golds All Purpose compost is
ideal. Made from recycled coconut husks
(coir) and blended with enriched biochar, it
is teeming with beneficial mycorrhizal fungi
which feed and protect your plants making
them stronger, healthier and more resilient to
disease. Biochar acts like a sponge, stabilising
moisture levels in the compost and holding
on to nutrients. As its less likely to dry out,
you can water less and any fertilisers you add
to the baskets wont drain away.

EXPERT
Sue Sanderson
is Thompson and
Morgans online
horticultural expert

Which edible crops can I grow in


hanging baskets?

Sue says: Hanging baskets offer a useful


opportunity to grow fruit and vegetables in
even the smallest of spaces. Tomatoes can be
particularly good croppers in fact, a healthy
tomato plant will produce higher yields than
almost any other container grown crop!
Choose varieties that have been specially bred
for containers such as Cherry Cascade and
blight resistant Losetto. These compact
plants are bush varieties which wont need
training or side shooting. Their fruit laden
stems will cascade over the edge of hanging
baskets to make an attractive, space saving,
edible feature for a sunny patio or balcony.
Go to thompson-morgan.com/GYW12
to get FREE P&P worth 4.95 on
tomato Losetto young plant orders.

72

growfruitandveg.co.uk

Reach new heights of

GROWING
SUCCESS

Make the most of hanging baskets and produce


bountiful yields of edible delights
Are you stuck for space? Or looking for
new ways to grow your crops? If so,
hanging baskets could be the answer!
Not only is this method of growing easy
to manage, but it also provides the perfect
environment for plants that hail from the
Mediterranean and thrive in hot dry
conditions such as oregano and thyme.
our crops will receive uninterrupted sunlight
which will give them the energy to become
healthy and more productive this can
greatly increase their yields along with
regular use of slow-release fertilisers. They
are also the perfect growing option for
gardeners who are short on space or those
who lack the time to tend to a large plot.

If you have adequate protection (such as


cloches) for late frosts then this month is a
great time to pot on crops into baskets. If you
dont have any guards available, its best to
wait until early summer when plants will not
experience a cold shock.

Edible options

Hanging baskets arent just for flowers with a


little imagination its possible to grow beautiful
crops that are appealing to both the eye and
the taste buds. Many types of fruits and veg
that are suitable for containers will grow well in
this environment choose trailing varieties of
edible plants such as tomato Tumbling Tom
Red and pepper Sweet Sunshine for an eye-

Hanging Qx_GYO new size 20/03/2015 10:31 Page 2

Hanging Baskets
catching feature. Chillies will also do well in
these containers varieties such as Ring of
Fire will be happy to grow in this limited space,
whilst still producing beautiful, spicy yields.
Strawberries are an excellent choice, too
grow up to six plants in one basket and theyll
reward you with clusters of red, juicy fruits. Its
also possible to cultivate cut-and-come-again
crops such as lettuce, spinach and chard in this
way. Early carrot varieties that only produce
finger-sized roots are a possible option as they
wont grow too deep.
If you want your basket to look more
traditional, try varieties of edible flowers such
as nasturtium, busy lizzie and fuchsia, which
are not only beautiful, but will also make a
deliciously colourful
addition to summer
salads. Remove any
drooping or dead
petals to keep plants
focused on producing
new buds rather than
seeds their bright
appearance will also
attract pollinators
which will in turn,
benefit your other fruit
and veg plants.

Starting up

Hanging baskets come


in a variety of materials,
shapes and sizes,
including plastic, wire
and wicker they are all
reliable options that will keep your plants wellsupported. Suspend them from brackets, hooks
or railings to make delightful features in your
garden. A more unusual option is a vertiplanter,
which is fixed to a wall and includes a number
of pockets to plant small crops in. Layers of
plastic planting trays can also be attached to the
side of the house and serve the same purpose as
hanging baskets, and you could even make your

EXPERT
own vertical planters
out of guttering. Selfwatering products are
available to save time
and effort, too.
Once you have
chosen your hanging
basket, you will need
to include a liner as a
base we recommend
using a recycled option
such as coir or woolbased material. One
of the most important
things to remember is
to include drainage
holes this allows
water and air to reach the roots for optimal
growth. Pierce through the lining in various
places to allow good drainage. You can also
place a small plastic pot in the centre of the
container and surround it with soil this will
create a sump to collect water which can be
slowly absorbed by the crop.
Its crucial to fill your baskets with the best
quality compost you can afford. This will not
only help to maintain moisture but it will have
a great supply of beneficial nutrients that are
important for healthy growth. If you skimp on
this element, its more likely that your produce
will be lacking.

Continued care

Another
great chilli
variety to
grow in hanging
baskets is
Basket
of Fire

Keep in mind that because of a stronger


exposure to the sun, the soil will dry out very
quickly in baskets, so you will need to find
the time for regular watering. Alternatively,
you can set up a drip irrigation system to give
your plants a steady supply of moisture this
product releases droplets of water on a
regular basis into the soil, which helps to
keep it constantly moist for optimum growing
conditions. You can also place gel crystals
into the compost to hold water under the
surface for longer. The height of hanging
baskets means that your crops will generally
be safe from crawling pests such as slugs and
snails this will certainly give salad leaves a
helping hand. Just be sure to place the basket
in a semi-shaded area to prevent these greens
from wilting in the heat during summer.

Alison Smith is the


hanging basket
production manager for
Brookside Nurseries,
which sells a range of trailing hanging
basket plants on its website,
brooksidenursery.co.uk

How often should I water my


hanging basket?

Alison says: Your hanging basket needs


watering daily, either in the morning or
evening, and will usually require more than
you think, especially in high summer when
drying winds and hotter weather can
quickly evaporate moisture. Know the ideal
feel and weight of your hanging basket
when fully planted, and if it feels lighter
than normal, water more often. You can
also take a pinch of compost from under
the surface to test for moisture content
ideally it should hold together but not be
dripping wet or too dry and flaky.

EXPERT
Ken Dawson is the
garden centre manager
at Crowders.
crowders.co.uk

What kinds of edible flowers can


I grow in a hanging basket?

Ken says: There are many great options that


will provide you with beautiful and tasty
petals throughout the season. Tuberous
begonia or Begonia Tuberhybrida has a
deliciously light, lemon taste with a crisp
texture however, the petals contain oxalic
acid and therefore should only be eaten in
moderation. Fuchsias look very decorative if
crystallised or inserted into jelly the berries
are also edible and useful for making jams.
Before eating the flowers, remove all green
and brown bits and gently remove the
stamen pistils. Marigold (or Tagetes Patula)
flowers and leaves have a citrus taste,
making them ideal for adding to salads,
sandwiches and even some fish dishes.
growfruitandveg.co.uk

73

GYO May 15 ROPs_Layout 1 19/03/2015 15:13 Page 74

NEW
VED
IMPRO

The Ladder Allotment Company


Quality product
manufactured
in the UK

Tel: 01252 675054 Mob: 07887 848700

www.ladderallotments.com
74

growfruitandveg.co.uk

Pick of the Crop MAY 15 Qx_GYO new size 19/03/2015 11:51 Page 2

PICK OF THE CROP

Vertical pots & baskets

Looking for innovative ways to utilise your growing space? Try these items!

Easy fill baskets


(12.99)

These innovative baskets have removable


side panels, meaning you can have lots of
fun creating a truly spectacular display of
herbs, vegetables, fruit or flowers. Simple
to put together and fill, theyre great for
time-strapped gardeners. They are also rust
and rot-proof. Suttons Seeds
0844 922 0606, suttons.co.uk

Elegance wall
planter (28.05)

This sophisticated wall planter will really add


a touch of class to a forgotten wall or fence.
With enough room for a few pots of different
plants, you can choose to make it into a great
garden feature trail flowers over the sides or
stand herbs inside for an easily accessible edible
area. Agriframes 0845 260 4450,
agriframes.co.uk

Verti-wall planters
(Two-pack 9.95)

These planters look great fixed to a fence or


outside your back door and can be filled with
salads, herbs or flowers. Each planter has
three pockets, ample space for six plants,
and the top pockets have drainage holes to
help water the crops below. Available in pink
and green. Greenhouse Sensation
0845 602 3774, greenhousesensation.co.uk

Elegance pot
holder (3.15 each)

These pot holders couldnt be easier to use


simply hook them over your chosen structure,
place your potted crops in and hey presto
youve got a fantastic new point of interest in
your garden! Theyre made from high quality
galvanised steel and weather-coated in a sage
green colour. Agriframes 0845 260 4450,
agriframes.co.uk

Vertical garden planter


(Three planters and single
saucer set 29.80)
Grow up with this handy vertical garden
planter and maximise the amount of fruit and
veg you can enjoy. Up to five of these tough
pots can be stacked on top of each other up,
giving your edible crops or flowers plenty of
room to grow. Harrod Horticultural
0845 402 5300, harrodhorticultural.com

Water retaining baskets


(pack of two for 14.95)

These ingenious baskets have a special


reservoir at the base which can catch as
much as 80 per cent of the water usually lost
at the bottom of hanging baskets, delivering
it back to the plants through a capillary wick.
Its a useful way to reduce the likelihood of
crops drying out. Marshalls Seeds
0844 557 6700, marshalls-seeds.co.uk
growfruitandveg.co.uk

75

Growing Help_GYO new size 19/03/2015 10:15 Page 1

Growing help
Jane Perrone walks us through the latest
releases to inform and entertain gardeners
Visit Janes personal blog at perrone.blogs.com

Book

Growing without soil

Straw bale gardening hasnt caught on in the UK yet, but it


should. Straw Bale Gardens Complete demystifies the whole
process of growing crops this way, explaining what kind of
bales to use, how to condition them, what to plant in them
and how often to feed and irrigate. This method is perfect
where soil is thin or non-existent, it saves water and you can
grow everything from carrots to squash. Im totally inspired
having read this book now, where can I source some bales?

Straw Bale Gardens Complete by Joel Karsten


(Cool Springs Press, 15.99)

Get learning online

Want to understand how pollination works,


discover the secrets of compost tea or find out
exactly whats living in your soil? The
Exploratorium is a San Francisco museum with
a super website, including a brilliant section on
gardening (exploratorium.edu/gardening).
Children and adults alike will love the clever
interactive guides, articles, photo essays and
videos posted here youll learn without even
realising youre expanding your mind!

The website can be found at


exploratorium.edu/gardening

Blog

Rooftop allotment

Wendy Shilliams beautifully-written blog is one of my regular reads.


Rooftop Veg Plot (coffeeinthesquare.typepad.com) is a masterclass in
how to make the most of a small space. Gardening five floors up on
a London rooftop amid what she describes as a Mary Poppins
landscape of slate roofs and chimney stacks, Wendy still manages
to grow all sorts of edibles, helped in part by the warming effects
of the urban heat island. Am I jealous? Totally!

The blog can be found at coffeeinthesquare.typad.com


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Website
MORE
RESOURCES
Epic Tomatoes by Craig LeHoullier is
a great book for tomato obsessives with
everything from pests to seed saving
(Storey Publishing, 14.99)
If you prefer scientific approach to
gardening, check out this blog
blogs.extension.org/gardenprofessors
by four US academics,

GYO May 15 ROPs_Layout 1 19/03/2015 14:19 Page 77

Fruit Gardener Qx_GYO new size 19/03/2015 12:46 Page 1

THE FRUIT
GARDENER

This is one of the busiest months in the fruit


garden, says Lucy, but one of the most exciting,
too, as effort now will give huge rewards later
Lucy Chamberlain

Her Essex garden keeps grower Lucy in


delicious fruit for most of the year

This months projects


Care for gooseberries
n Prepare strawberries
n Try unusual fruits
n

Blimey Ive just looked through my to do


list for May and Im feeling exhausted
already! This is one of the most important
times for fruit growers, with blossom and
new green shoots emerging everywhere you
turn. A keen eye and quick intervention is
key to thwarting problems, so this month
Im focusing on those crucial jobs that really
do pay dividends. If a late frost is forecast,
pest populations are on the rise, or growth
is at risk of being compromised, Ill be there
to stop it! Walk through your garden daily
and observe each plants growth youll
soon get to know your crops, ready to spot
anything untoward. Of course, theres time
to dream of the harvests to come, too. Im
indulging myself in a step-by-step journey
to strawberry utopia on the following page
I would hazard a guess that its everyones
idea of heaven!

Top job for May

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growfruitandveg.co.uk

A keen eye
and quick
intervention is
key to thwarting
problems this
month

Protect against frost

Fruit trees and bushes take a bit of a


gamble by flowering so early in the year.
True, theyve got a lot to do to produce
such a sizeable harvest so they need to
crack on with it the trouble is, that this
leaves them open to risk. The crops we
grow outside year-round are fully hardy
their roots and woody stems wont be
damaged by cold weather and can stand
up to it quite well. However, the blossom
they produce isnt so robust and can be
killed off by a late frost very quickly. Its
something that commercial orchard
owners keep a keen eye out for because
it can lead to total crop failure, which is
devastating. In the garden, we need to

show caution, too a poorly timed cold snap


could deny us of our peach, plum or pear
harvest, perish the thought.

Prevent severe damage


The easiest way to protect bushes is to
cloak them in a double layer of heavy-duty
horticultural fleece. If the fleece touches
the open blooms it could transfer the frost
through, so be sure to prop it up with some
well-placed bamboo canes. Fans, espaliers,
cordons, stepovers and potted trees are also
easy to protect using fleece, as these can be
covered quite easily. Larger, free-standing
trees are more tricky but again, fleece is the
best option, so do the best you can to cover
any parts you can get to safely.

Fruit Gardener Qx_GYO new size 19/03/2015 12:46 Page 2

May fruit garden


GYO STEP-BY-STEP: Ensure bumper strawberry harvests
Theyre the most popular of home-grown
fruit crops, so what steps can you take to
guarantee the best yields? Well, Ive listed the
main jobs below and none of them take very
long. As long as you have healthy plants, free
from pests, diseases and viruses the care of

strawberries is simple. As an add-on to the


steps Ive listed below, do ensure your plants
are young and vigorous. If theyre in their
fourth year, make a note in your diary to peg
some runners down this autumn to replace
the tired out parent plants.

CARE FOR GOOSEBERRIES

Step 2 Insects cant access covered flowers, so


hand-pollinate any blooms in greenhouses or
beneath cloches. Gently rub your hands over the
open flowers to ensure plump fruit. Control any
pest problems quickly in these environments.

Step 3 Outdoor plants benefit from being


bedded down with clean straw so that the
ripening berries dont sit on bare earth. This
helps to deters rot, keeps fruit clean and also
protects against slug attack, as they dont like
the prickly surface.

Step 4 Birds are strongly attracted to the


colour red, which is why they target cherries,
raspberries and our beloved strawberries.
Protect ripening fruits from pecks by covering
rows with taut netting it is important to keep
it tight so birds dont get caught in it.

wish, spraying with an


insecticide. The traps lure
male moths onto a sticky
FO
C US
pad and are enough on
their own to reduce damage a
little. Hung at head height on the
windward side of the tree, one trap
(costing around 7) will monitor three
good-sized trees. Non-organic growers
can, via the traps, assess
when moth populations
are high, then spray
trees with
deltamethrin or
lambda-cyhalothrin
(ask at good garden
centres for brand names).

There are some pests that I get asked


about time and time again in the summer,
and plum moth is one of them. Youll
know you have it if you find little pink
maggots inside your plums when you
come to eat them never a nice surprise.
They can be incredibly destructive, with
heavy attacks frequently damaging 90
per cent of the crop. Repeated
infestations are utterly
disheartening, but you can
act now to prevent
them. There are two
stages of defence
hanging pheremone
traps in vulnerable
trees and later, if you

& DISE

E
AS

Plum moth

PEST

Step 1 Hopefully youve taken my February


advice and forced a few plants under cover.
Cloak some of your outdoor plants with clear
plastic or glass cloches to bridge the gap
between the indoor and outdoor harvest.

Up until now, I dont think Ive even bought a


gooseberry bush Ive always been lucky enough
to inherit them on allotments or in back gardens.
Its introduced me to a fruit that I wouldnt have
looked twice at, but, being a thrifty foraging sort
of gal, Ive since cooked fools, preserves and tarts
with them and have been utterly converted. They
possess the perfect sweet-tart balance for my
palate, and have a delicate flavour that doesnt
need any tweaking. My new garden is devoid of
bushes, so its encouraged me to look at the
range of varieties available Im opting for a mix
of culinary and dessert types and, having seen it
ravage bushes in the past, strong resistance to
American gooseberry mildew. Gooseberry sawfly
is the main pest but since there are no resistant
varieties, Ill need to rely on regularly monitoring
the plants to nip it in the bud.
Its a little late in the season to be planting
bushes, but I need to risk it which means Ill
have to water them a lot this summer.
Gooseberries are especially useful for shady
sites a clue being in their tart flavour so Ive
earmarked a north-facing wall for three fantrained bushes. This space-saving method will
allow me to splay the branches out in a twodimensional shape using canes and wires. Then
its just a case of shortening any sideshoots that
grow out from the wall, using my secateurs
throughout summer.

Three gooseberries
to grow:
n Invicta This will form the backbone of
my collection a conventional green-fruited
variety that can be used as a dessert or
culinary crop. Mildew resistance is excellent.
Pomona Fruits 01255 440 410,
pomonafruits.co.uk
n Pax I like everything about this variety
its stems are spine-free, the fruits are red
and can be used for both eating fresh and
in cooking and mildew resistance is high.
Kings Seeds 01376 570 000,
kingsseeds.com
n Hinnonmaki Yellow Im tempted by
this variety because of its flavour, which is
supposed to be apricot-like and honeyed.
Disease resistance is also strong. Ken Muir
01255 830 181, kenmuir.co.uk

growfruitandveg.co.uk

79

Fruit Gardener Qx_GYO new size 19/03/2015 12:46 Page 3

DONT FORGET
Avoid drought

Grow an
exotic crop
today!

TRY UNUSUAL BERRIES


Are you a bit like me, in that you hear of the
latest quirky fruit and think well, surely if it
was that good wed all be growing it and so
it wouldnt be unusual? Ive decided that
my dismissive attitude might cause me to
miss out on some real gems, so have opened
my mind (and my purse) to some more
uncommon crops. Ive written before about
less widely grown fruits such as kiwi berries,
alpine strawberries, wineberries and cape
gooseberries which, to me, are definitely
worth growing, and also about goji berries
which, for my tastes, are too bitter, but what
else is out there?

Spoilt for choice


Browsing through the fruit catalogues
(my favourite for its huge diversity is
agroforestry.co.uk) my eye has been caught
by berries that promise good-sized harvests
and flavour worth tasting. Crab apples and
cherry plums appeal to me theyre small
trees that most gardens can accommodate,
their blossom and autumn leaf colours are
highly ornamental, and they crop
abundantly. John Downie crab and
Mirabelle de Nancy cherry plum are two
well established varieties. And did you know
that many hawthorns are edible? One,
Crataegus pinnatifida major Big Golden Star

sounds amazing, with sweet fruits over 2cm


in diameter. Elderberries are also taking my
eye. For years Ive foraged the blooms to
make cordial and champagne, and used the
abundant berries in hedgerow jellies, but
having discovered that elders are grown as
commercial fruiting crops in Europe, Im keen
to find out what improved selections theyve
bred. One, Samidan, is claimed to be more
compact than others yet very high yielding.
Its too tempting not to give it a try.
The very first Asian pear I tried was a bit
disappointing incredibly juicy and crunchy
yes, but the flavour was mild. An RHS member
sent it into the advisory service at Wisley and I
wonder if it was a poor selection? The spherical
fruits are smaller than conventional pears, but
theyre abundant and easy to grow, so are on
the maybe list. Promises of exquisite flavours in
catalogues have re-whetted my appetite.
The list goes on there literally are
hundreds of different varieties of less wellknown crops to tempt you. Websites such as
pfaf.org and hort.purdue.edu make for
absorbing reading, I really do recommend
losing a few hours to them.

Three more exciting berries:


n

80

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Fuchsia magellanica This hardy species

produces oval fruits with a plum-like taste.


Like other garden fuchsias, its also freeflowering so can be winkled into borders.
Crocus, crocus.co.uk
Lonicera caerulea You may need two
different varieties in order to set a heavy
crop, but the blue honeysuckle is grown
commercially in China and Japan, producing
tasty grey-blue, stub-based fruits.
Pomona Fruits, pomonafruits.co.uk
Rubus tricolor A creeping raspberry that
forms thick ground cover. Happy in shade,
it would work well under trees. Vigorous,
evergreen and very free-fruiting.
The Fruit Nursery, thefruitnursery.co.uk

Dry roots during the


crucial period of fruit
set spells calamity for
our crops, with this
stress causing the
immature fruitlets
to abort. Keep plants
well watered,
especially those that
are very vulnerable
to dryness such as
crops planted against
walls and fences.

Thin
raspberries
Both autumn and
summer types have
the ability to throw
up suckers well away
from the main bed,
which can be quite
invasive but also a
treat. Hoik these out,
roots and all, to give
to friends or start a
new bed elsewhere in
our growing space.

Plant melons
These vines offer
delectable harvests. If
you sowed seed last
month, at some point
during May theyll
need planting into
grow bags. Water
these three or four
days before and
move them into the
greenhouse so
plants go into
warm compost.

out gooseberries
Bush fruits set a crop earlier
than trees, and while the
likes of currants and
blueberries dont need thinning, dessert
gooseberries do. Leave one every 5-8cm
of stem, removing the others.
n Pollinate grapes if you insulated
your fig tree with straw, wadding or
other material during the colder
months its now safe to remove it.
Let light and air get to the branches
so that the large leaves can unfurl
and grow unhindered.
n Lean-tos erected over peaches and
nectarines to deter peach leaf curl
fungus can be removed as soon as the
weather warms up. Remove emerging
leaves showing symptoms pronto.

GYO
TIPS

n Thin

GYO May 15 ROPs_Layout 1 19/03/2015 14:20 Page 81

GYO May 15 ROPs_Layout 1 19/03/2015 15:53 Page 82

82

growfruitandveg.co.uk

Win Harrod Qx.e$S_GYO new size 20/03/2015 14:39 Page 2

WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN

UP FOR

GRABS!
Get your hands on some great garden
gear with these brilliant competitions
Agriframes arches
GYO has teamed up with Agriframes to offer
two lucky readers the chance to get their hands
on a round arch from the companys Elegance
range, worth over 220 each. This delicate sage
green structure looks perfect over any door or plot
path, making an attractive entrance or centrepiece
for your growing space. The steel body provides
excellent support for your climbing plants, which in
turn creates a focal point for your garden which is
both decorative and practical. The arch is made from
high quality galvanised steel, meaning it can stand
up to whatever weather is thrown at it and will be a
long-lasting piece of equipment.

WORTH

440!

For your chance to win this brilliant prize,


simply turn to page 104 and follow the
instructions, or go to
growfruitandveg.co.uk/competitions to enter
online. For more information on the rest of the
fabulous Agriframes range, visit the website,
which can be found at agriframes.co.uk

n Loosely

stacked pine cones will attract


green lacewings and ladybirds, which between
them will feast on aphids, greenfly, blackfly
thrips and mealy bugs.

n Hollowed

Neudorff insect habitats

WORTH

500!

Attract beneficial insects to your garden,


patio or balcony with this great prize from
weed, feed and control brand, Neudorff.
It has launched a range of 'insect flats', which offer
deceptively spacious accommodation for insects in need
of either a temporary of more permanent residence and will be giving
away a set of three of these to 10 readers. The hexagonal designs can
be displayed singularly or in a group to create an attractive focal point
in the garden. Each set features a different material, which will help to
encourage a range of beneficial insects to the garden.

out wood provides breeding tubes for mason bees which


lay their eggs within the space and build up walls to keep them safe.
The hatched bees gnaw their way out in the spring.

n The

centres of bamboo canes are ideal for digger wasps, which


like to create narrow spaces to nurture their offspring. These insects
eat greenfly, blackfly and leaf beetle larvae.
Each flat is hand-crafted and made from natural materials.
Neudorff has 10 product sets worth 50 each to give away.
To enter, simply follow the instructions on page 104 or visit
growfruitandveg.co.uk/competitions. To find out more
about the products, visit the website, neudorff.co.uk

WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN
growfruitandveg.co.uk

83

GO guide May 15 Qx_GYO new size 20/03/2015 10:11 Page 1

Garden Organic

Masterclass
...Unwelcome visitors
Identify the new pests
and diseases on the
block with this guide
from Anton Rosenfeld
There is always a risk of new plant pests and
diseases being introduced into this country.
An international trade of fresh produce and
nursery stock provides the perfect vehicle for
associated pests to move around the globe.
Although there is a system of measures in
place to reduce the chance of them being
introduced, it is impossible to eliminate this
risk completely.
With a change in climate seemingly
bringing us milder and wetter winters, this
threat may have increased. Pests or diseases
from warmer areas that would not have
survived our winters now have a better
chance of becoming established.
Here are a selection of more recent
arrivals in the UK. Some of them are already
evident in parts of the country, whilst others
have only been found in a few isolated
incidences but could become a big problem
if allowed to spread.

ALLIUM LEAF MINER


Phytomyza gymnostoma
Many of you will have become familiar with this pest in the past few
years, particularly if it has caused widespread destruction in your leek
crops. It was first found on an allotment in the Midlands in 2002 and
has been radiating outwards from this area ever since. It has more
recently been sighted in many places as far north as Manchester and as
far west as Barnstable, and most likely it will have moved further afield by
the time you have read this.
The first signs of the pest are a twisting of the leaves on your leeks in late
autumn, followed by a disintegration of the whole plant as the maggots tunnel
through the stem. The damage is caused by the white larvae that soon turn into
brown pupae the size of large grains of rice. The best way to combat this pest is to
cover your plants with fine mesh from September to October, the period that the flies
are laying eggs. If you have already spotted allium leaf miner in your crop, then it is
too late to cover it but you could try cutting down the plants. They will grow back to
give you a small yield which is certainly better than nothing at all. Remember to
cover them in autumn next season!
84

growfruitandveg.co.uk

What to do if you find a notifiable disease

A notifiable pest or disease is one that is not well established in


the UK, but considered one that would be a major threat if it
was. A list of notifiable pests and diseases can
be found on the Fera (UK pest and disease agency) website
(fera.co.uk). If you think that you have spotted one of the pests
or diseases on the list then you should report it to your local
plant health and seeds inspector, again listed on the Fera
website. There are many other pests and diseases that are
already present in the UK, and many of these have been
assessed to be only of limited damage. There is no need to
report siting of these.

GO guide May 15 Qx_GYO new size 20/03/2015 10:11 Page 2

Green gardener
ROSEMARY BEETLE Chrysolina americana

This pest is already well established in London and covers the south
east but distribution further north and west is more sporadic. Your
first reaction may be how beautiful it appears with a bright
metallic, multi-coloured, stripy coat of armour that glistens in the
sun. In early summer, the beetle does little damage, but it is later
on in the season when things take a turn for the worse. Once
breeding begins, both adults and larvae feed on the shoots leaving
them dried out and shrivelled. They only have one generation a
year and the larvae are less easy to spot they are a dull grey
colour with white stripes down the side.
On a small scale, it is possible to keep the numbers down to a
manageable level by shaking the bush and collecting the beetles on
newspaper underneath. This is best done as soon as you see them in
early summer, before they start laying eggs and feeding.

PLUM POX (sharka virus)

Plum pox is a notifiable disease that is widespread in Europe but


has a restricted distribution around the UK.
This virus has the potential to cause devastation in plum and
damson crops and some other species of the prunus genus
such as peaches and apricots. It causes round lesions
on the fruit, low yields and poor flavour. You may
also notice mottling on the leaves, although
this could be caused by many things.
The variety 'Victoria', is particularly
susceptible. Planting infected
trees is the main way of
spreading this disease around
so make sure that you select
yours from a certified source.
Although it can be transmitted
by aphids from wild hosts, this
is not thought to be a major
route of infection. The disease
symptoms will get worse over
one or two years, and once a
tree is infected there is little that
can be done except destroy it.

Useful contact

POTATO BROWN ROT Ralstonia solanacearum


This is a bacteria that infects potato and is
different to the fungus that causes brown rot
in apples and other fruit. Currently it is not
established in the UK, but could pose a grave
threat to potato growing in this country if it
became widespread.
Within the EU there have been sporadic
findings of the disease including in nearby
countries such as Belgium, France and the
Netherlands. There has also been a small
number of outbreaks in the UK.
The bacteria causes wilting of the potato
plant, but the symptoms you are most likely to

see are in the tuber. The defining


characteristic is a brown staining of the
vascular tissue that starts at the end nearest
the plant. This may lead to areas of
disintegration oozing white liquid certainly
not very appetising!
The most important way of avoiding the
disease is to use clean seed grow certified
tubers from a known provenance, as
repeatedly saving potato seed builds up the
risk of introducing plant virus and other
diseases. The disease also spreads through
waterlogged ground and water courses.

Garden Organic, the UKs leading


organic growing charity, is dedicated
to promoting green gardening in
homes, communities and schools.
Using innovation and inspiration, the
charity aims to get more people growing
in the most sustainable way. The
charity believes an organic approach to
gardening can help build a sustainable
future for people and the planet. To make a
donation or to find out about becoming a
member, call 024 7630 3517 or visit
gardenorganic.org.uk. Alternatively, you can
support the charity by shopping with The
Organic Gardening Catalogue. Call 01932 253
666 or visit organiccatalogue.com for information
on courses, campaigns and membership.

Where to buy

The Organic Gardening Catalogue


01932 253 666, organiccatalogue.com
growfruitandveg.co.uk

85

GYO May 15 ROPs_Layout 1 19/03/2015 14:21 Page 86

ICA MASSACRE
PREVENTS BRASS

86

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Polytunnels

PART 1

Polytunnel masterclass
SETTING UP YOUR STRUCTURE
If youre looking to invest in one of these great growing aids, Lia Leendertz has all
the key information to help. Here is part one of her new, three part series
In the year since I first installed my
polytunnel I can safely say that it has
significantly changed my experience of
gardening. For one thing, I sit in the house
staring out at the rain a lot less. I can now
take a chance on the allotment, even in dodgy
weather. I have somewhere to bolt should I be
there when the rain starts, and can even carry
on gardening with the pattering of rain drops
above my head. Ive found there are few
things lovelier.
The polytunnel has also created a
wonderful mini micro climate that makes it
feel like Im gardening in a different part of
the world. All of those crops that just got by
before, that looked unhappy but produced a
few measly prizes for all my (and their) hard
work they all thrive now, looking luxuriant,
plump and delighted by life.

Choosing your polytunnel


When buying your structure, follow the
greenhouse rule get the biggest one you
can afford to fit into the space. You will
always wish you had bought a bigger one, so
make the right investment at the start. Having
said that, if you are siting your tunnel on an
allotment do check your sites rules on the

matter before you buy. At 2.5m by 3m mine


is the maximum size allowed.
Along similar lines I would buy the
chunkiest and sturdiest you can afford, too.
Those light-weight plastic-framed types look
perfectly adequate on a summers day and it
is easy to fool yourself into thinking there is
little difference. But come winter and you will
really notice. My allotment site is littered with
the broken skeletons of these cheaper tunnels
each spring, so do invest if you dont want
yours to be one such.
An early decision will be whether you
choose to use a base rail to attach the
polytunnel skin to, or whether you will dig
a trench and bury the skirts below ground.
Stretching the polytunnel skin is meant to be
far easier if you use a base rail than it is with
trenching, and I would recommend a base
rail purely because of this. I used one and
that was hard enough.
Once youve chosen your tunnel your next
decision is skin. There are a few to choose
from. A completely clear covering is advised
where light levels are low, but at the height
of summer this may well lead to scorching of
plants. A slightly opaque type is less extreme,
though it will shade out some sun. On advice

I chose Super Therm which has an additive


that increases thermic efficiency (i.e. it keeps
more heat in). It is the most expensive of the
covers but thick and sturdy. Avoid green ones
which are really best for shade loving plants.
growfruitandveg.co.uk

87

Set up
Everything about setting up a polytunnel takes
time. Unless you have a week to spare and a
cast iron back, I would break it into a series
of tasks and take a weekend over each. My
polytunnel was a hand-me-down from my
mums garden. It is worth looking out for
second-hand ones, but bear in mind that while
these may be significantly cheaper than buying
new, they may also come (as mine did) with the
stipulation that you arrive and help dismantle
the thing which is a weekends job in itself.
But Im getting ahead of myself. The first
task should always be to prepare the ground
ready to receive the new polytunnel, which
means making it level. This was a big job on
my plot as the area I had chosen was rough
ground, uncultivated for some time, and my
whole plot is on a slope. If youre siting your
tunnel on an area previously used for garden
beds it may be an easier task. Use a spirit level
and take your time.
My polytunnel came with built in
foundations the poles extend a good 35cm
into the ground and end in square base plates.
This was good as my site is at the top of a
windy hill, but meant digging 2.5m deep holes
in clay soil, which was quite the task. The
structure isnt going anywhere fast though.
You can cement these in but I felt that my
soil was solid enough, and just refilled the
holes with that.
The next job is to assemble the hoops and
slot them into the foundation tubes and then
to fix support struts and finally the ridge pole.
Once everything is in place go around and
tighten nuts and bolts and make sure poles are
perfectly pushed together. Any ill-fitting bits
can make the skin rub and stretch, and this will
shorten its life. Fit the base rail if using one, and
hang the doors. I also applied anti hot spot tape
over the whole structure once it was in place.

The first task should always be to prepare the


ground ready to receive the new polytunnel
This is a cushioned adhesive tape that is well
worth bothering with as it helps to prolong the
polytunnel skins life by reducing friction and
heat at contact points, as well as making the
skin slide across the frame without catching,
during construction.

How to stretch a skin


This is a big job in itself and requires
dedicated time dont think you can do it on
the same day as frame construction unless

you have roped in a large and experienced


team of helpers. Choosing the right day will
have a lot to do with the weather. Your aim
is to get the skin tight over the frame and for
this you need warm temperatures, which help
to make the skin more supple. Do note that in
very hot weather the skin can be too stretchy
and it will then be vulnerable to ripping when
it has shrunk back in cooler weather. So nicely
warm is the ideal. You also want no wind
even a tiny breeze will make handling this vast
plastic sheet impossible, so choose wisely.
Use screws and wooden batons to attach
the skin to the base rail along each long side
first, pulling as taut as you can. Cut a v-shaped
flap at each end and fold the skin to fit around
the doors before trimming off the excess
(there will be a lot).
In short, putting up a new polytunnel is
masses of work, and you will need to get
some good friends along to help you and
perhaps bake several cakes to keep them
happy. But once up it creates a truly fantastic
growing space and I wouldnt be without it.
I think its well worth the trouble.

GYO RECOMMENDS

88

growfruitandveg.co.uk

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GYO May 15 ROPs_Layout 1 19/03/2015 14:22 Page 89

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89

Under Cover Qx_GYO new size 20/03/2015 11:58 Page 1

How to avoid: Vine weevil


Irregular notched holes in the
leaves of pot-grown greenhouse
plants are the gardening
equivalent of flashing red danger
signals a sure sign that the
biggest enemy of container crops
is on the march.
Vine weevils are laying their
eggs about now in any compost
thats full of juicy roots for its
larvae to feed on.
Do nothing and the
fat white grubs will
chomp away under
the soil until your
plant topples over,
stone dead. Make
sure you tackle

adult weevils now and youll


prevent damage later in
the year. Pick them off at dusk,
shaking plants over a sheet of
newspaper to catch them, and
check under staging benches
where they like to hide.
If you find a high population,
some of the weevils will already
have laid their eggs so make a
note to start applying
the biological control
(Steinernema kraussei)
from late summer and
it will make short work
of the developing
grubs that threaten
plants under the soil.

Dos and donts

DO keep the greenhouse temperature

UNDER COVER
What to do now in the greenhouse and polytunnel
Words by Sally Nex

MUST-DO JOBS
Keep sheets
of newspaper
handy to thro
w
over seedlings
for light
temporary
shading on ho
t
sunny days

Grow sweet
potatoes in
containers
under cover to
give them the
heat they need
to produce
high yields

SOWING NOW: TURNIPS


Turnips have not been the most
popular choice over the years their
traditional use as an animal feed,
and the old habit of boiling them
to tastelessness before eating is
unlikely to have helped.

90

growfruitandveg.co.uk

more
To grow e mini
s
u
,
s
p
cro
pop-up ses to
u
greenho our
y
extend pace
s
g
in
w
gro
seed
as your fill up
benches

Its a shame as there are few


vegetables so fragrant with flavour
as a young turnip pulled at tennis
ball size and roasted in olive oil and
rosemary. Or try the tops earthy
greens with an unusual nutty flavour
thats a revelation steamed with a

down. It can be a real challenge to


keep plants healthy in the heat of
summer, especially in smaller
greenhouses. If the thermometer tops
30C install more ventilation, use fans,
hose down the floor and take panes
of glass out if necessary to keep your
crops comfortable and save your
harvest from drought.
DONT try to replant strawberry plants

after forcing. The process (in which you


grow plants in artificial warmth to make
them fruit earlier in the year) takes such
a lot out of them they wont ever crop
well again. Dont worry, your outdoor
plants will soon have plenty of new
runners that you can propagate for
next seasons replacements.

Cove
r
and b yourself
uy in
plug
plants
seam for
less
replac
germin ement of
failure ation
than s rather
resow
ing

little garlic, or fried up with bacon.


Tokyo Cross is one of the fastest to
harvest in eight weeks and will supply
you with both greens and roots for
ten months of the year. Try them
once and you wont want to be
without them again.

Under Cover Qx_GYO new size 20/03/2015 11:58 Page 2

Under cover
HOW TO: Plant up grow bags
Grow bags have gone from strength to strength lately and no wonder, as its
hard to think of a more versatile growing method. Inexpensive, easy to handle
and flexible, theyre equally at home in a greenhouse, polytunnel, balcony or
patio. Double them up for extra depth, add a support system and disguise with
attractive wicker or hessian for a planter thats good-looking as well as effective.

Grow bags from a garden centre


are normally stored outdoors. To
avoid your plants getting a shock in
cold compost, leave them in the
greenhouse overnight before
planting so they can warm up to
ambient temperature.

Add supports straight after planting


and water in. There are enough
nutrients in the compost to last six
weeks after that, add liquid feed
to the watering can once a week,
starting with liquid seaweed.

Stab holes in the bottom for


drainage, then cut out the premarked planting squares. Cut out
squares from the underside of a
second grow bag to match the
planting holes on the first, then flip
it on top so the squares align.

Harvest your tomato plants between


June and August. Once they have
finished fruiting, you can re-use the
grow bag for a late crop of salads,
the spent compost makes great soil
improver for the garden, too.

THREE TO TRY
Snowball is a startling
white in colour and ready
to harvest in eight to 10
weeks from sowing at
tennis-ball size

Purple Top Milan


is one of the most
handsome of all the turnips
with a flattened root thats
coloured purple on top

(suttons.co.uk)

(mr-fothergills.co.uk)

Manchester Market is
an unusual addition with
white roots topped with
green leaves very hardy
and a good choice for
storing (moreveg.co.uk)

GROW
TOMATOES
UP STRING
SUPPORTS

Before you reach for the


bamboo canes to support
your fledgling tomato
plants this year, consider
saving yourself the bother
of endless tying in by
growing them up a string
support instead.
This versatile method is simplicity itself. No more
complicated Heath Robinson cane-and-string contraptions
all you have to do is fix one end of the string to the
greenhouse roof, and the other end to the tomato plant
for an instant, flexible support that will never be too tight
around the tomatos stem, stays upright however big it
grows, and costs pennies.
Metal fixing supports give you somewhere to attach
the top end in aluminium greenhouses, while screw-in
hooks work well for wooden frames. At the other end, if
your tomatoes are in grow bags or pots simply tie the
string around the container, knotting it over the top so the
string comes vertical alongside the plant.
If theyre in the greenhouse border, tie the string
gently around the rootball when you plant. Attach the
other end to the roof so that its taut, but make sure its
not pulling the plant out of the ground. The roots
gradually anchor the string more firmly into the ground as
it grows, so by the time the plant gets heavy its easily able
to take the weight.
Theres no need to tie plants in as they grow just
twist the string around the stem every so often for
effortless support throughout the season.

UNLEASH
BIOCONTROLS
ON
GREENHOUSE
PESTS

Harnessing the power of


natural predators against
the legions of critters
intent on ruining your
greenhouse crops not
only avoids having to use
unpleasant chemicals on
your plants its also a
very effective way to stop
an infestation in its tracks.
Biocontrols are usually from tropical climates, so its
wise to wait until temperatures are warm enough before
you use them (at least 13-15C during the daytime). By
this month, you should be safe to unleash your lethal
weapons conveniently just as greenhouse pests are
beginning to emerge and do serious damage.
Timing is important. You want to release the
biocontrol just as pest numbers are building up but
before they get to epidemic proportions, as the predators
need time to multiply too. Dont introduce a biological
control until youve positively identified pest damage,
though, as itll have nothing to feed on and will die out.
Applying the controls is easy, and varies according to
the biocontrol some are in granules to scatter on the
leaves, some are watered on while others arrive on cards
to hang among your plants. Most will last all season and
provide you with peace of mind and a pest-free
greenhouse all summer long.
growfruitandveg.co.uk

91

GYO May 15 ROPs_Layout 1 19/03/2015 14:22 Page 92

Beekeepers Diary Dec Qx_GYO new size 20/03/2015 14:42 Page 2

Bee diary

Buying a swarm:

HOW TO INTRODUCE
A BEE COLONY INTO
YOUR GARDEN
BBKAs Gill Maclean discusses
the options available to anyone
interested in this exciting hobby
If you are thinking about acquiring
your first swarm of honey bees
then you have probably already
discovered what a fascinating
pastime beekeeping is. It requires
you to be reasonably fit, have
somewhere suitable to keep bees
and be able to understand the basics
which will help you realise much
of what happens inside a colony
and how to deal with problems.

Why give honey


bees a home?
Swarms are natures way of increasing
the numbers of colonies. Come springtime, bees start to build-up their
numbers and if they run out of space
in their hive, they move on. Their
numbers typically consist of around
20,000 worker bees and a queen, they
have the sole intention of finding a
new home to build up a colony.
Swarms that cannot find homes are

unlikely to survive, which means lost


honey production but even more
importantly, fewer of these hardworking insects to pollinate crops,
including our favourite fruits and
vegetables. By giving a swarm a home
you will be helping bees continue their
incredibly helpful purpose.

Things to consider
Youll need to work out where to keep
your bees. Lots of gardens have room
for hives if they are sited sensibly. If
you havent got enough space it may
be possible to find a suitable location
in someone elses garden, on an
allotment or at a club apiary.
If youre interested in acquiring
bees, there are many theory courses
offered by local beekeepers
associations during the winter months
and practical sessions can then be
started the following April or May.
Attending demonstrations and

undertaking some training before


investing in bees and equipment is
incredibly valuable.

Where to buy a swarm


There are a number of ways to buy
your bees. This process may require
some research to ensure you are
choosing the best option for you.
n If

youre a member of a local


beekeepers association you may be
able to buy your swarm locally from
a fellow keeper. This could be in the
form of a nuc or a full-sized colony.
A nuc (short for nucleus) is just a
small group consisting of five or six
frames of brood, food, worker bees
and the all-important laying queen.
A full-sized colony will have 11 or
12 frames and more worker bees
and stores, whereas a nuc will build
up to full size throughout the course
of the season.

n You

can also buy from a reputable


bee breeder. We recommend that
you buy a species that has been
bred locally or within the UK rather
than imported.

n If

you are lucky enough to acquire


a swarm through your local
association. The season spans from
April to July, but the peak is from
early May to mid June. Many groups
will be happy to add your name to
their list of beekeepers willing to
give these insects a home.

To find details of your nearest


association and various
equipment suppliers who sell
nuclei of honey bees and
complete colonies, visit The
British Beekeepers Association
website at bbka.org.uk
growfruitandveg.co.uk

93

GYO May 15 ROPs_Layout 1 19/03/2015 14:23 Page 94

The Chillington Tool Company


has been supplying the
agricultural and construction
industries with quality hot forged
Hoes and Forks for over one
hundred years. Using high carbon
British steel, Chillington sets the highest standard for quality
worldwide. All Chillington products are recognised as the
hallmark of quality, durability and reliability.

Or ring for a brochure on 01902

826826

Backdoorshoes are ideal for all garden


lovers. Saves soggy socks/feet, leave
them by the back door and slip
them on!
They are waterproof, lightweight,
durable with removable washable
insoles and are printed with our own
unique designs.
Prices start from a reasonable 20+pp.

Visit www.backdoorshoes.co.uk
for our full range of Mens and Ladies Shoes
94

growfruitandveg.co.uk

Chickens Qx.e$S_GYO new size 20/03/2015 10:33 Page 2

Livestock

Ask the expert:


Ian Water man

Ian is the proprietor of Heritage


Turkeys a company dedicated
to halting the decline in
traditional turkey varieties
(heritageturkeys.co.uk)

Which breeds would you


recommend as pets and livestock?
Choosing the right breed for you to suit your
unique circumstances is crucial. First ask
yourself some key questions such as, how much
space can I provide, how much time can I
allocate, how much is my budget and why do I
want chickens? Then research breeds in detail
on the internet, visit local breeders, and buy the
best stock available.

Should you care for hens that are


egg-layers and those intended for
the table differently?

KEEPING CHICKENS:

Chickens as pets vs
chickens as livestock
Do you keep your hens for their tasty eggs, or
are you rearing them as meat birds? Lorraine
Coverley looks at the key differences
It is believed that the number of backyard
chickens in the UK is around the three
million mark, owned by probably threequarters of a million people. The greater
majority of these do exactly what I do keep
the hens as pets and make use of their eggs.
However, there are many keepers who also
raise birds for their meat, but it seems that as a
nation of animal lovers we wont eat chickens
that we see as pets.
A good proportion of the birds for sale are
breeds like White Leghorn, Araucana, Speckled,
Silkie, Goldline, Buff Orpington, Rhode Island
Red, or bantams, depending on local
preferences. These have one significant similarity
they are all good egg-layers, with some
producing up to around 300 eggs a year. In
other words, buy these chickens and youve just
bought pet hens.
These hybrid varieties are bred to create
birds which are more prolific layers, but theyre
also lively, robust and can be very active, so
they tend not to put any significant weight on.
They are amongst the cheapest varieties to buy
and are perfect for those of us who are only
interested in eggs.

Around 80 per cent of owners keep their


chickens as pets, and its likely that most
people will have taken at least one of their girls
to the vet at some point, for problems ranging
from impacted crops to moulting. Poultry vets
do not come cheap and the expenditure of a
reasonable sum of money is a clear sign that
the bird is definitely a pet. Some owners will
also take their chickens to be put down if they
become old and ill.
If youre looking to raise hens for meat, then
choose a pure breed. They are thought to make
the finest table birds, but these can take up to 10
months to grow sufficiently to reach a suitable
weight. They are generally quite slow-moving
and placid which helps with weight gain.
However, smallholders need both meat
and eggs, so the solution is often to rear chicks
from dual-purpose breeds, like Black Rock,
Orpington, Speckledy, Bovans Nera,
Lincolnshire Buff, Barnevelder or Blubelle. They
use the hens for eggs and kill the cockerels for
their meat when they reach the age of about
14-20 weeks. The dual-purpose breeds,
though, are a compromise, with lower egg
production generally.

Poultry for all purposes are treated the same.


Getting the best from your flock and keeping
them happy is about maintaining a strategy that
provides regular quality feed, permanent access
to clean water, safe weatherproof housing and
regular cleaning. So, get the basics right and you
will get the best from your birds whatever your
reason for keeping them.

Is there a feed you would


recommend to help chickens gain
weight and improve their flavour?
Getting the best from a chicken intended for the
table with regard to a domestic situation is fairly
simple. A table bird that is able to free range
will pick up naturally a variety of insects, seeds
and vegetation which will improve the flavour
and texture of the meat. Essentially, give your
hens a good, balanced and varied diet, and
make sure nothing is provided to excess.

One of the main things to consider with


livestock birds intended for the table is that
you will need a cockerel in order to produce
the next supply of meat. However, roosters
can be incredibly noisy, and may not be
suitable for more urban areas.
If youre going to be dispatching your
chickens, its important to make sure its done
humanely. This is not something to have a go
at without practice and knowledge. Those
who kill their own reared birds to eat,
though, are positive that there are a lot of
benefits you know for a fact that the birds
have been well-treated, they havent been fed
anything suspect and the meat is apparently
far superior to any commercially massproduced broilers.
Its a decision that every individual chicken
keeper needs to carefully consider. Personally,
Im going to stick with the daft names, and if
necessary theyll end their days at the vets
just like Rover and Mrs. Fluffykins.
Lorraine Coverley lives in Essex with her
husband and two daughters and various
animals, including six chickens. Check out
her blog at lorrainesvoice@wordpress.com.
growfruitandveg.co.uk

95

Advertorial EGO Qx_GYO new size 19/03/2015 16:48 Page 1

STEPS TO A
GORGEOUS

green space

Get ready to enjoy the warmer months in


your garden with this simple advice
Now that the nights are drawing out and the
weather is getting warmer it can only mean
one thing summer is on its way! And, if
youve spent the last few months eagerly
attending your veg plot, caring for seedlings and
preparing to transplant crops, you may now be
realising that youve overlooked the rest of your
garden and long straggly grass and out-of-control
hedges and trees are taking over. But, dont worry
keeping your garden maintained during spring
and summer neednt take long.

Look after
your lawn

At this time of year, caring for your


lawn will be one of your top
priorities, aside from your veg
patch. During spring and autumn,
you should be looking to mow
once a week, but up this to twice
a week if possible during the
summer. Your first mow of the year should be
done at the highest height setting, and you
should gradually lower this throughout the
spring months until you reach your desired
height (usually around 25mm). Although it looks
attractive, mowing too short can make your
grass weak, meaning that weeds and moss are
more likely to pop up and invade your space.
To keep grass healthy and strong, consider
alternating the direction in which you mow on a
weekly basis grass tends to lean the way you
have cut it, so if you change this regularly, the
shoots will grow straighter.

Prune
your hedges

Nows the time of year to take a


look at what maintenance
pruning needs to be done to
your deciduous and evergreen
hedges. While shears are usually
fine for small hedges, gardeners
with larger hedges may find it easier to use a
powered trimmer. If youve invested in the latter,
start at the bottom of your hedge and work
upwards, using a smooth and continuous
sweeping action and keeping the blade parallel
to the hedge. Cutting straight edges or shapes
into your hedges can be difficult but there are
some handy tricks to make this easier. If youre
96

growfruitandveg.co.uk

opting for a crisp, sharp straight lines, for


example, canes placed into the ground can help
when trimming vertical lines, while a line of
string pulled taut can help with horizontal lines.
If youre hoping to achieve an arched shape, cut
a template out of cardboard and use this when
trimming. Before you start any pruning work,
dont forget to make sure there are no nesting
birds in your hedge or bush as it is an offence to
intentionally take, damage or destroy the nest of
any wild bird while it is in use or being built.

Keep on top
of weeding

This time of year is notorious for


weeds. Turn your back even for
two seconds, and a dozen or so
pesky plants will have sprung up
and made themselves at home
in your well-kept garden. While
it can be a struggle and a
chore that soon wears thin keeping on top of
weeds as soon as they appear is the best option
for gardeners. Get rid of annual weeds by hand
or with a hoe, and use a hand fork to remove
perennial weeds and their roots. Bare patches of
soil will quickly fill up with unwanted plants, so
reduce available space by ensuring you have well
stocked borders and beds. Mulching is another
way to suppress these shoots from appearing.

Enjoy smart-looking beds


Neat edges and smart borders can transform
a garden and whether you use your beds for
ornamental plants or vegetable crops, theyll
look better if the area around them is tidy.
A strimmer is an essential piece of kit for this
job. They are used by gardeners after mowing
and comprise a plastic or nylon thread which
spins at high speed to cut through grass and
weeds. To ensure your strimmer works to the
best of its ability, keep the
head as clean as possible as
debris can prevent the string
from spinning efficiently. If
youre buying a new tool,
check the line can be replaced
easily and, when using a
trimmer, cut thick grass in
sections to prevent the line
becoming tangled.

Think ahead

We dont want to wish away


summer before its even started,
but thinking ahead and getting
organised for the rest of the
year is always a good idea.
Such preparation work
could involve anything from
planning your borders and veg
crops for the coming months,
considering whether any substantial work
needs to be done in regards to removing trees
or installing greenhouses or sheds, or taking
stock of what tools you have and what youre
missing. Ask yourself what you will be hoping
to achieve this year and what you will be
dealing with come autumn and winter. Items
such as leaf blowers can be really useful for
when the season changes, and if you have a
land with a lot of trees, you may need to
prepare for logging by checking that your
current chainsaw or log splitter
is adequate for the
work planned.

Advertorial EGO Qx_GYO new size 19/03/2015 16:48 Page 2

Promotion
EGO Power+ Strimmer RRP 129
(excluding battery and charger)
This lithium-ion batterypowered cordless string
trimmer is perfect for
cutting lawn edges or hard
to reach places. The bump,
dual-feed, spiral-twist 2mm
diameter line provides a
30cm cutting width and
can be replaced
quickly and easily.

EGO Power+ Chain Saw RRP 199


(excluding battery and charger)

TOP TIP

Nitrogen-rich
grass cuttings can
be used as a thin
layer of mulch
around your veg
patch

USE THE RIGHT TOOLS FOR THE JOB


Investing in practical and efficient tools can make garden chores
a whole lot easier and EGOs new range of cordless outdoor
power products might be just what you need.
EGO Power+ Hedge Trimmer RRP 129
(excluding battery and charger)

EGO Power+ Blower RRP 129


(excluding battery and charger)

Make your hedge trimming chores easier,


quieter, safer and more comfortable with the
EGO Power+ Hedge Trimmer.
This battery powered
cutter has a
61cm laser cut,
diamond ground,
dual action
blade which will
tidy even tough,
mature hedges. With
an operating noise level
of just 90Db, it is also one
of the quietest machines on the market.

This battery-powered blower is a hand-held


tornado and shifts rubbish and leaves quickly
and effectively.
Its wind speeds can reach up to an
astonishing 92mph when in boost mode and
just one charge of its lithium-ion battery will
provide up to one hours work. Its just
the thing to help busy gardeners
clear up their gardens in
autumn and winter.

Fitted with a 350mm Oregon bar, this batterypowered cordless chain saw will make up to a
staggering 100 cuts per charge. Operating at
6300 rpm, it has a kickback brake, tool-free
chain tensioning and a chain scabbard as
standard. There is also an easy-to-see oil level
indicator on the tank. The D-Shaped handle
ensures easy manoeuvrability and maximum
operator comfort and safety.

EGO Power+ Lawnmower, RRP 499


(including battery and charger)
This new battery-powered cordless
lawnmower is as powerful as its petrol
counterparts but operates without the fuss,
fumes and noise. It has a cutting width
of 49cm and a cutting depth from
25mm to 80mm. The heightadjustable handle allows gardeners
to find their most comfortable
mowing position and the 60
litre grass bag capacity
means you can mow for
longer between
emptying cuttings. It
also folds flat for
easy storage.

EGOs range of tools are powered by a 56-volt lithuim-ion battery with one battery fitting every tool. Charged in just 30 minutes,
this battery provides all the power you need to get the job done. For further information about the EGO Power+ range call
0333 222 1437 or visit egopowerplus.co.uk
growfruitandveg.co.uk

97

wish list 2 Qx _GYO new size 20/03/2015 16:07 Page 1

Mays

Wish List!

Get your hands on some


amazing discounts and prizes
for the growing season

SAVE
15%

SAVE
10%
Treat Republic personalised tools
If youre looking for a simple and thoughtful gift for a grower in your life, the
personalised tools from Treat Republic could provide the answer. GYO readers can
claim a 15 per cent discount on the head gardener trug and the trowel and fork set,
which would make valuable additions to your collection. The trowel and fork set are
originally priced at 19.99 and are made from a light-weight wooden handle and
steel, which makes them incredibly durable. The trug is originally priced at 34.99
and is a must-have for the harvesting season its made of pine and measures 30cm
x 21cm x 12cm. The option to include your name on these products makes it much
easier to identify your belongings they also make the perfect gift for a friend or
family member. In order to claim this great discount, simply enter the code SPRING15
at treatrepublic.co.uk where you can see the rest of the range.

Free bird feeder with mini


greenhouse purchase
Whether youre sowing seeds or protecting your
crops from the elements, youll find a purpose for the
three-tiered mini greenhouse from Primrose all-yearround. It includes three adjustable shelves to
accommodate all kinds of plants and can hold up to
nine seed trays. The greenhouse is priced at 19.99
and measures 110cm x 70cm x 40cm a removable
reinforced polythene cover is also included. The free
wooden bird feeder would also make a charming
garden feature its simple design allows you to
attach a piece of fruit or bird feed to the metal
skewer. It measures 20cm x 19.5cm x 6cm and is
originally priced at 10. Using this brilliant offer,
GYO readers will receive a free wooden bird feeder
in green when they purchase this Lacewing mini
greenhouse. To claim this freebie, simply enter
the code FREEBIRD15 at primrose.co.uk
98

growfruitandveg.co.uk

FREE!
bird feeder

Sirius hoe from


Implementations
Multi-purpose tools are essential for
any gardener as, they save time and
spare you the effort of carrying various
pieces of equipment. One product that
no veg plot should do without is the
Sirius hoe from Implementations it
has a bronze blade and lime wood
shaft, is just under a kilo in weight
and 127cm long. The triangular
head is used to uproot weeds, hoe
drills, earth up potatoes and more.
The sharp bronze blade slices
away top growth, cuts into the
soil then breaks it up, whilst the
flat part of the head can be used
to firm down the soil after
planting. The original price is
65 which includes p&p to most
of the UK (offshore and the
Highlands are 6 extra). An
exclusive 10 per cent discount
is available for GYO readers
to claim this offer, telephone
Implementations on
0845 330 3148, and quote
GYO5. For more information
visit implementations.co.uk

wish list 2 Qx _GYO new size 20/03/2015 16:07 Page 2

Giveaways

WORTH

250!

RHS NATURAL
GARDENERS
THERAPY SET

Bronnley is a company renowned for its luxurious


product formulations, and green-fingered fans will
be pleased to know that it has recently re-launched its Royal
Horticultural Society Natural Gardeners Therapy Collection.
Designed with gardeners needs very much in mind, the
collection offers ultimate indulgence, helping to cleanse, relax and
revive the body after a hard days toil in the garden. This giveaway
set includes six products including exfoliating hand wash, nourishing
hand lotion, moisturising hand and nail cream (with a smaller
handbag variant), hand soap and bath soak. They all feature a
beautiful blend of aromas including citrus, bergamot, oakmoss,
amber and precious woods.
Bronnley has provided five sets worth over 50 each for
this competition. To be in with a chance of winning one
of these collections, follow the instructions on page 104,
visit growfruitandveg.co.uk/competitions. For more
information about Bronnleys range, visit bronnley.co.uk

Up for grabs!
worth 500
pampering kit worth over 250
Bulldog tool set worth 240
Garden

Trading vouchers

Bronnley

BULLDOG TOOLS

When working on your plot its essential to


use quality tools that are long-lasting
and efficient. If you think your
equipment is in need of an
upgrade, enter this
competition for your chance
WORTH
to win a spade and fork set
from Bulldog. This prize
features both a border spade
and fork from its premier range
they are durable tools that will make
many gardening jobs easier. Also available
with an ash T grip.

240!

GARDEN TRADING VOUCHERS


Now is a great time to
update any tools and
equipment youll need
to grow fruit and veg
this year this will help
you get the most from
your gardening efforts.
If you think you could
make good use of
some new products,
enter our competition
for your chance to win
a 25 voucher to spend
on your choice of
products from the
Garden Trading
website. The company
provides a wide range
of useful items
including stylish
outdoor planters, seed
boxes and kitchen
garden buckets.

WORTH

500!

GYO have teamed up with Garden Trading to provide 20


winners with a 25 online gift voucher to spend on any
product they wish. To be in with a chance of winning,
follow the instructions on page 104, or visit
growfruitandveg.co.uk/competitions. To view everything
the website has to offer, visit gardentrading.co.uk

GYO and Bulldog have teamed up to


provide three winners with their own
spade and fork set worth 80 each. For
your chance to win this prize, follow the
instructions on page 104, or visit
growfruitandveg.co.uk/competitions. For
more information about these and other
Bulldog products, visit bulldogtools.co.uk
All offers subject to availablity. Offers valid from
April 2 to May 1, 2015 unless otherwise stated.

growfruitandveg.co.uk

99

Seasonal chef MAY15 DPS Qx_GYO new size 19/03/2015 12:07 Page 1

RADISH AT A GLANCE
Sow: March September
Harvest: March January
Conditions: Fine, moist soil
in a partially shaded spot

Chef
Seasonal

SERVES FOUR
2 tbsp olive oil
2

tbsp butter

onion, chopped

garlic cloves, sliced

tbsp cumin seeds

tbsp fennel seeds

tsp black onion


seeds

400g

basmati rice

400g

butternut
squash, diced

800ml

hot chicken

stock
Salt

and pepper

100ml
100g

Greek yogurt

radishes, sliced

100g

roasted
almonds, crushed

Small

bunch of mint,
roughly chopped

Small

bunch of
coriander, roughly
chopped

100

chilli, chopped

growfruitandveg.co.uk

Tangy little radishes provide the perfect addition


to a number of dishes. Start harvesting now to
use them to their full potential
Radish and butternut pilaf with
almonds and Greek yogurt

Heat the oil and butter in a large saucepan with


a tight fitting lid. Add the onion, garlic, cumin,
fennel and black onion seeds and cook for three
minutes, stirring every now and then until the onions
are translucent.
Now add the rice and cook for a further two
minutes until it has also turned translucent,
stirring constantly.
Add the butternut squash and stock, bring to
the boil and turn down the heat to a gentle
simmer. Season with salt and pepper, place the lid on
the pan and leave to cook without stirring for 10
minutes, or until all the stock has been absorbed.
Turn off the heat and leave to stand for five minutes
to finish cooking.
Sprinkle the remaining ingredients over the dish
and serve whilst still hot.

2
3
4

How to harvest

Pull radishes from the ground while they are


still young (four to six weeks after sowing) to
preserve their texture and flavour this can
be done throughout the year. Trim the leaves
and wash the roots thoroughly before storing
in the refrigerator. Remove any that start to
discolour immediately.

Seasonal chef MAY15 DPS Qx_GYO new size 19/03/2015 12:07 Page 2

Eat seasonally

Spaghetti with crab,


lemon, chilli, parsley
and radish shavings
SERVES FOUR
500g dried
spaghetti
5

tbsp extra virgin


olive oil

garlic cloves,
sliced

tsp fennel seeds

large red chilli,


deseeded and finely
chopped

150g

white
crabmeat

50g

brown
crabmeat

lemons, zested
and juiced

large bunch of
parsley, shredded

Sea

salt and black


pepper

50g

French
breakfast radishes,
very thinly sliced

1
2

Bring a large pan of salted water to the boil and


cook the spaghetti until is it still slightly firm
according to the packet instructions.
While you are waiting for the spaghetti to cook,
heat the olive oil in a large frying pan, add the
garlic and fennel seeds, and cook over a medium
heat until the garlic starts to turn golden brown.
Remove from the heat and add the chilli, crab,
lemon zest, juice and parsley.
Once the pasta is cooked, drain thoroughly and
then add to the pan with the crab sauce. Season
with sea salt and plenty of black pepper, mixing well.
Divide between four warm bowls, sprinkle over
the radishes and serve at once.

3
4

WITH THEIR PEPPERY CRISP


CRUNCH, RADISHES ARE A
FANTASTIC WAY TO PEP UP SLAWS.
I LIKE TO MAKE A MEXICAN-INSPIRED ONE BY
SHREDDING HALF A RED CABBAGE, GRATING
20 RADISHES AND ADDING THREE PEELED
CARROTS. I DRESS IT WITH LIME JUICE AND
CHOPPED CORIANDER AND, IF IM FEELING
BRAVE, HALF A DE-SEEDED RED CHILLI, TOO.

GYO
TIP!

FAE GILFILLAN,
EDITOR OF COOK VEGETARIAN (COOKVEG.CO.UK)

Recipes were provided by lovethecrunch.com, visit


the website for more inspirational recipes

growfruitandveg.co.uk

101

Coming Next Month MAY15 Qx_GYO new size 20/03/2015 12:23 Page 1

MAKE SURE YOU DONT MISS AN ISSUE


WITH 3 MAGAZINES FOR JUST 6!** Go to growfruitandveg.co.uk/GYO15T

6 FREE PACKETS
OF SEEDS WITH
THE JUNE ISSUE!

LOVE ASPARAGUS?

Enjoy growing a great selection of veg


courtesy of GYO rocket, broccoli,
fennel, turnip, radish and chard.

If so, youll enjoy the asparagus pea


a great tasting, unusual veg

Month
Coming Next

JUNE ISSUE OUT ON SALE MAY 1

GET YOUR ISSUE OF GYO DELIVERED STRAIGHT TO YOUR


DOOR BY SUBSCRIBING TO THE MAGAZINE. SEE PAGE 56
FOR DETAILS AND RECEIVE A FANTASTIC FREE GIFT, TOO!

DIVIDING OPINION

Famous for dividing opinion, learn to


love coriander with our guide.
102

growfruitandveg.co.uk

PLUS!
GROWING IN THE SHADE

DONT GIVE UP GROWING BECAUSE


YOUVE GOT A SHADY PLOT. THERE ARE
A HOST OF CROPS YOU CAN ENJOY.

SOWING AND PLANTING


IN POLYTUNNELS

LIA LEENDERTZ SHARES HER ADVICE


ON HOW TO GET THE BEST FROM
YOUR POLYTUNNEL.

FROM PLOT TO PLATE

Add gooseberry recipes to your repertoire


and learn about harvesting this fruit.
*Postage cost applies **terms & conditions apply see online for details

p103-104 GYO May 15 Classifieds_Layout 1 19/03/2015 16:27 Page 103

Greenhouses

Can
you
afford
not to
be
seen!
Do you want up

Fruit Trees

NATIONAL FRUIT SPECIALISTS


Over 300 Apple tree varieties alone plus Cherry, Plum, Pear, Peach,
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Tel: 01983 840750/01983 522243 info@deaconsnurseryfruits.co.uk
NATIONWIDE DELIVERY

www.deaconsnurseryfruits.co.uk

to 461,000
unique visitors
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DermaGuard

Garden Accessories

Hand made for you by

The Lichfield
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to see YOU?

Discover the difference


Your hands will love it!

The Grow Your

Skin protection lotion


a gardeners best friend!

Own website

250ml......6.50 or 500ml.......12.00
The Skin Care Company Ltd, St Asaph, LL17 0HH.

POST !
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FREE Order Hotline: 0800 917 2219

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receives up to
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Herbs

Manor Farm Herbs

month.

Specialist Herb Growers

Makes
you
think...?

www.thelichfieldplantercompany.co.uk
sales@lichfieldplanters.co.uk

01952 541170
MADE WITH 100% BIODEGRADABLE COTTON

Gardeners Market Classifieds

Fruit Cages

Call Teresa on
01206 505950

Available online and from all good garden centres


www.biostretch.com

Garden Compost

www.manorfarmherbs.co.uk
01869 278106 0780 3082408

or Rachael on

Sponsored By Maxicrop

An immense range of potted herb plants from


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all grown by professional wholesale growers.

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for further
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Polytunnels

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Potting Units etc

Quality polytunnels in a broad range


of types and sizes. 30 Years of
polytunnel experience with personal
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Tel: 01623 443331


for 16 page colour catalogue

www.greenhousesgalore.co.uk

info@ferrymanpolytunnels.co.uk
www.ferrymanpolytunnels.co.uk

Unit 2B, Brookhampton Lane,


Kineton, Warwickshire CV35 0JA
Tel/Fax: 01789 842 689
Email: info@citadelpolytunnels.co.uk

SmartSoil Ltd 01639 701888


www.smartsoil.co.uk

CITADEL POLYTUNNELS LTD

Seed Tray Units


Staging

Buy on line at:


www.citadelpolytunnels.com

growfruitandveg.co.uk

103

p103-104 GYO May 15 Classifieds_Layout 1 20/03/2015 09:23 Page 104

Pond Cleaning Naturally

Raised Beds

Do you have a Garden Pond?


Is it as clear as mud? Is it murky, muddy, slimy,
smelly, choked with algae or weed and a chore to clean out? if
you have a pump are you forever cleaning or changing the filter?

AQUAPLANCTON

Sponsored By

Could be just what youre looking for


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VOTED HOME & GARDEN PRODUCT OF THE YEAR BY FARMING TODAY


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This natural powdered mineral has created crystal clear water and
removed silt, algae, BLANKET WEED and odour for hundreds of happy
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Raspberry Canes

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104

allotment movement.
From only 15 p.a

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01536 266576
Seaweed Fertiliser

Maxicrop Our seaweed makes the difference

Supports for Plants

Plants do better with Maxicrop naturally


Available from most garden centres (including Wyvales) and online at www.capitalgardens.co.uk

COMPETITION FORM

To be in with a chance of winning one of our fantastic


prizes, correctly answer the question below by ticking the
corresponding box then send us your completed form. You
must also tick the boxes to indicate which giveaways you
wish to enter. You may tick as many as you wish, but entries
must be received by May 15, 2015.
One photocopied or handwritten form per person is
acceptable. Alternatively, you can enter online at
growfruitandveg.co.uk
Which crop features on page 24 of the May issue
of Grow Your Own?
Carrots Winter squashes
Sweetcorn (Please tick).
Send your entries to: Grow Your Own,
PO Box 443, Ipswich, Suffolk IP2 8WG

QUICKCROP RAISED BEDS


NEUDORFF BUG HOUSES
AGRIFRAMES ARCHES
BULLDOG SPADE AND FORK SETS
GARDEN TRADING VOUCHERS
GARDENERS THERAPY SET
growfruitandveg.co.uk

Title

Forename

Gardeners Market Classifieds

body for the

Surname

Address
Postcode
Telephone*

Email

Favourite feature this issue


Male

Female

* To receive deliveries entrants must provide a daytime contact telephone number

Date of birth DD/MM/YY


Your details will be processed by Aceville Publications (publishers of Grow Your Own) in full accordance with data protection legislation. All entries become the
property of Aceville Publications, publishers of Grow Your Own. Aceville Publications Ltd. and sister companies may wish to contact you with information of
other services and publications we provide which may be of interest.
Please tick here if you DO NOT wish to receive such information by Post Phone Email SMS .
Aceville Publications will share details with WoodblocX and Omlet. Please tick here if you DO NOT wish to be contacted by Post Phone Email SMS .
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
This competition is open to all UK residents aged 18 or over, excluding employees or agents of the associated companies and their families. One entry per person. The prizes detailed in each
competition cannot be exchanged for goods, or towards the purchase of goods at any retail outlet. Entries must be on the coupon provided or online at growfruitandveg.co.uk/competitions. It
cannot be exchanged for cash, or replaced if lost or damaged. Illegible entries and those that do not abide by these terms and conditions will be disqualified. Prizes must be taken as stated and
cannot be deferred. The decision of the judge is final and no correspondence will be entered into. CLOSING DATE: May 15, 2015. Winners will be notified by post, a list of winners will be available in
writing on request from Rachel Tudor, 21/23 Phoenix Court, Hawkins Road, Colchester, Essex. CO2 8JY

p105 GYO May 15 Website Directory_Layout 1 19/03/2015 16:21 Page 105

A Wright & Son Ltd


MADE IN SHEFFIELD, ENGLAND

Est. since 1947


A Wright & Son Limited, 158 Charles Street, Sheffield, S1 2NE

Tel: 0114 272 2677


Fax: 0114 278 7157

www.penknives-and-scissors.co.uk

Maxicrop

Our seaweed makes the difference


Available from most garden centres (including Wyvales)
and online at www.capitalgardens.co.uk

Over 1000 varieties from just 50p online or 01823 681302

Gardening..... Naturally
Delfland Nurseries Limited

Tel: 01354 740553 / 742029

01568 611729

Organic Vegetable, Salad, Ornamental & Herb Plants. Mail Order, Nursery Shop & Wholesale

www.organicplants.co.uk
Bespoke patio fruit cages we can design and cover
most patio and garden fruit shrubs Just phone
or email your requirements for free Quote.
Not sure how what size cloche or throw-over
you require we have the answer at Easynets.
HDPE UV Stabilised Bird netting 20-25mm mesh size available up 20m
in width any length or cut to your required size.

www.thenaturalgardener.co.uk

Gardeners Market Online

Website Directory

01429 420743 07530743734


www.easynets.co.uk

The Franchi family are 7th generation seedsmen based in the Alps. We produce local,
regional varieties with provenance and lost flavour, each one used traditionally for a
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growfruitandveg.co.uk

105

Behind the scenes with... Qx_GYO new size 20/03/2015 12:10 Page 1

Last word

Behind the scenes with...

Rob
Smith
We chat heritage veg with Rob Smith
winner of The Big Allotment
Challenge and seed guardian

Garden Organic has a Heritage Seed


Library, which is a charity organisation
that helps with the preservation of
varieties of fruit and veg from years ago.
These are small, almost forgotten types of
vegetables that are grown by certain members
of the public I think there are about 350 seed
guardians throughout the country. Were sent
different fruit and veg each year that are really
rare and on the endangered list. They are
known as orphan seeds, and our job is to
grow them, let them flower and go to seed.
We then collect the seed, clean them, prepare
them and send them back to the library. Once
the HSL has enough of those seeds, it will then
put them in the main catalogue. It gets them
off the endangered list and gets people
growing them again.
This year Im cultivating some purple peas,
which I think will be fun to grow and easy to
pick because you can see them against the
green leaves. Last year I grew chillies called
Trifetti and theyre on the endangered list. The
little plants are almost like ornamentals they
leaves are green and go purple on the edges.
They produce tiny little dark purple chillies that
stick upright and look really decorative you
could easily grow them in a pot in your house.
Ive got some peas that are called Lockies
Early which were on the orphan list a couple
of years ago. They were from an elderly man in
Northampton who grew them, and his father
before him nobody else had grown them,
106

growfruitandveg.co.uk

and they eventually got passed to the seed


library and the guardians got involved, and
now they are out of danger.
With heritage varieties, you see things you
wouldnt normally see. Ive grown peas that
were nearly three meters tall in the end they
were so big and productive. But because they
hadnt been taken up by a major seed
company, or they were not commercially
viable, they had just been forgotten. When
these things are gone, theyre gone, we dont
get them back, which is why its so important
to preserve them.
Things like peas are probably the cheapest
vegetable you can buy you can get a great
big sack of them for about a pound, but if
you grow them, you have access to all these
different types. They might not be as
productive but I dont need 400kg peas
from one plant I just want enough so I
can eat them. Its the quality and the taste
you grow for.
I remember growing with my granddad
when I was absolutely tiny and in his shed he
always used to have big brown bags full of
seeds that you could hear rattling when things
were moved around. As a kid I was so amazed
by the fact Id eaten something and then it had
gone like a rock-hard little pebble and you
could grow it again the next year.

Robs top three


heritage veg to grow
Peas
We have so many different varieties at the
HSL some that only grow to hip height,
some that grow miles about my head,
yellow ones, purple ones, green ones,
mange tout... so many types. Even if you
just have an old bucket you can put some
canes in and have some small plants.

Runner beans
There are a lot of interesting and unusual
bean varieties available to grow that are
totally different to the stringy supermarket
types we are used to seeing.

Cucumbers
One of my favourite veg is the Boothbys
Blonde cucumber I grew on The Big
Allotment Challenge. They are so iconic
and different compared to what you get
in a shop. They have tiny little fat yellow
fruits and when I first started growing
them everyone thought I was growing
melons outside!

GYO May 15 ROPs_Layout 1 19/03/2015 14:51 Page 107

How to

ENSURE STRONGER AND


HEALTHIER PERFORMING
PLANTS
Increase your harvest this season!
Regul
ar wa
tering
in the
su
month mmer
better s gives
rewar
ds

Where to buy
Maxicrop is available from most garden
centres including Wyevale. If the Maxicrop
product you want isnt available in your local
garden centre, check the Garden Centre
Group website thegardencentregroup.co.uk
for your nearest store (128 centres in
England and Wales). Or visit
www.capitalgardens.co.uk

GYO May 15 ROPs_Layout 1 19/03/2015 14:24 Page 108

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