Why seed Winter crops in Spring?

Some crops that we harvest and eat in Winter need to be sown in Spring as they take a long time to grow. This careful planning can result in large healthy crops by the time Winter starts. 

Which Winter crops should I sow in Spring?

Leeks are the best example if you'd like to start them from seed. This gives you the chance to choose your own varieties that will mature at different times. Of course if you plant seedlings from the shop then they can go in anytime up to late-Summer instead. Leeks take about 2 months from seed to grow large enough to be transplanted into the field. They then need another 4 months of growing time in the ground to size up well. Brussel sprouts also take up to 6 months to grow and should be started from seed in Spring. 

Some crops are best grown in Spring for eating over Winter. Bulbing onions are a great example and can be grown in Spring, harvested in Summer and stored all through Winter if you choose the right varieties. Pumpkins are very similar. 

So with a little planning your Winter kitchen can be full of home-grown goodies. 

Still to come

Next time I will talk about the importance of weed control in Spring. 

This week's recipe links

Celery Salad from The Mediterranean Dish. 

No-Knead Scandinavian Seeded Carrot Rolls from The Cafe Sucre Farine. 

Mustardy-Salmon with Beetroot & Lentils from BBC Good Food. 

Swiss Chard Patties from Veena Azmanov. 

More info

To read more about what's happening on our local organic farm this week as we grow and care for veggies for our box delivery, check out this week's newsletter here.