Six unusual herbs to sow in your garden

Whether you’re a hardy veteran in the greenhouse or making your first steps into indoor growing on a windowsill, a few simple tips can help you get the most out of your plants during the early stages, says Andrew Davidson, of mail order veg plant specialists Quickcrop (01788 298795).
The company grows 1.5 million seedlings every year, so has a wealth of experience when it comes to ensuring seeds survive to become healthy plants.


1 Water carefully. You’ll be surprised how quickly plants will dry out in a greenhouse on a hot day, but don’t overwater as saturated soil has no air spaces and can “suffocate” plants. More people kill plants by over- rather than underwatering.
2 Water in the morning rather than evening. Evening watering, given the cooler night-time temperatures is a bit like going to bed in wet pyjamas for plants. It can weaken them and promote disease.
3 If you are starting out, make sure plants don’t get pot-bound (roots emerging from drainage hole). This means the plant has outgrown the pot and the ratio of roots to soil is too high. Plants will dry out quickly, so repot to a larger container. Read More