Spring is almost here, and Chris Bonnett, founder of , is encouraging Brits to start sowing seeds in late March to give plants a head start and ensure a plentiful harvest once the weather warms up.
This season is ideal for planting a mix of root vegetables, leafy greens, and early fruits that will be ready to enjoy by summer.
Most root follow a similar growing process, but it can vary depending on the type. The same goes for leafy greens and .
That's why it's important to research the specific needs of each .
Root vegetables such as carrots, beetroots, and onions are ideal for sowing from late March after the last frost, as they thrive in the cool spring conditions before the summer heat sets in.
They can be sown directly into the soil and should be spaced a few inches apart for proper growth. While they thrive in cooler temperatures, it's important to make sure the compost is loose and well-draining for healthy root development.
If you're looking to grow leafy greens this year, lettuce and spinach are great options to sow early in the season. Similar to root vegetables, they grow well in the cooler temperatures of spring when planted after the last frost.
To promote healthy growth, you'll want to keep leafy greens out of direct sunlight, plant them in well-draining soil, and enrich the soil with nutrients to support their development.
Fruits like berries and tomatoes can be started indoors or in greenhouses, giving them a head start before transferring them outdoors once the weather warms up.
When growing these fruits indoors, it's important to keep the temperatures between 18-21ºC until seedlings appear. After that, you can transfer them to a larger pot and move them outdoors.
For optimal growth, tomatoes require full sunlight, while berries can tolerate a bit of shade but need excellent drainage. Using mulch around berry plants will help retain moisture and improve drainage.
Starting seeds indoors or in a greenhouse in late March helps your plants get ahead of the growing season. This ensures they're ready for transferring once the risk of frost has passed.
15 edible plants you can sow in spring:- Carrots
- Parsnips
- Beetroots
- Onions
- Garlic
- Leeks
- Lettuce
- Celery
- Spinach
- Strawberries
- Raspberries
- Blackberries
- Tomatoes
- Peppers
- Aubergines
For more advice on growing your own and sowing seeds, you can visit our .
