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THE WINTER GARDEN
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Choose the Right Plants:
This is fairly obvious but if unsure talk to your local garden centre. They usually sell plants by the season so see what is for sale and also take into account whether or not you are frost free or have other challenges such as shade or damp.
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Opt for cool season crops that thrive in winter conditions. Brassicas like cauliflower, cabbage, and broccoli are excellent choices.
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Consider heat-tolerant cauliflower varieties for more flexibility in planting times.
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Sowing and Planting:
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Sow seeds directly into warm soil or use seed trays with seed-raising mix for transplanting later.
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Dwarf beans, radishes, and salad greens can fill gaps between slower-growing brassicas.
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Specific Crops:
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Cauliflower: Plant in late summer or autumn for optimal growth. Some heat-tolerant varieties allow more flexibility.
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Brussels Sprouts: These cool-climate treats need shelter from strong winds.
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Broccoli: Homegrown broccoli is tastier and more nutrient-dense than store-bought. Harvest side shoots after the main head.
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Kohlrabi: Easy to grow and tastes like a mild, sweet turnip.
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Beetroot: Ideal for winter harvest; sow directly into the soil.
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Winter Care:
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Fertiliser. If you have a good layer of mulch it will assist the natural soil bacteria to do their work unhindered and create the soil chemicals necessary for plant growth. We recommend a good organic fertiliser especially chicken manure that can be gently dug in around plants. You may need to do this twice throughout the winter. If you use chemical or inorganic fertilisers there is little need to get specific plant-based fertilisers but remember N-P-K is also interpreted us up, down and around. Nitrogen for good above ground leaf and stem growth, phosphorous for roots and fruit development and potassium (potash) for helping plants fight of disease and maintain vigour. We consider that if you are using good mulch then a gentle inorganic mix of 4-1-4 is great for winter.
Remember, winter gardening can be rewarding! Enjoy fresh produce even during the colder months.
Happy Gardening😊