Spring has sprung and with the days getting brighter and longer, those with green fingers will be keen to get back into the garden.
Whether you're a gardening expert or a novice, now is the perfect time to get planting different bulbs and seeds. But with so many to choose from, there is the question of what should be planted now to thrive in the summer months.
While the pros will often use a greenhouse to help them grow the best plants, this is not possible for every household. Luckily there are plenty of things you can grow in your garden and even inside.
Seeds sown now can produce different fruits and vegetables and this is especially useful at a time when produce supplies are erratic or jumping in price.
But when planting seeds at this time of year, there are some factors to consider. If you are sowing seeds outside, you should look to the weather for guidance and only plant if conditions are suitable - and not too wet.
For planting locations, stick to mild areas with light soil. If the weather is still cold, it could be worth investing in a horticultural fleece to help keep things warm.
This large sheet covers new seedlings to maintain ideal growing conditions and can be bought for just £9.99 on Amazon, while a heavier fabric version on sale for £10.19 from the same outlet.
If you're looking to grow plants indoors, a heated propagator can help boost chances of sprouting seeds. While there are many different types, the Garland Super7 Electric Heated Windowsill Propagator which costs £39.99 on Amazon is perfect for smaller spaces.
If you're on a budget, the Stewart Heated Propagator costs just £19 at B&Q.
With this in mind, read below to see what fruits and vegetables should be planted now, both in and outdoors, according to the Royal Horticultural Society.
Vegetables
Outside
- Onions, shallots, garlic, leeks
- Jerusalem artichoke tubers
- Potatoes
- Asparagus crowns
Broad beans and peas
Carrots
Parsnips and turnip
Beetroot
Lettuce and salad leaves
Radish
Spinach
Summer cabbage
Summer cauliflower.
Inside
- Sweet peppers
- Tomatoes
- Cucumbers
- Aubergines
- Celery
- Salads
- Globe artichokes
Fruit
Outdoors
- Bare-root and plant container fruit trees - apples, pears, plums, cherries
- Strawberries
Of course, there is far more to growing fruit and vegetables than sowing seeds. Luckily, the RHS offers a wealth of growing tips and advice and information, which you can find here.
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