Sow... what are you waiting for?

NOW LONGER, LIGHTER DAYS ARE HERE MAKE THE MOST OF THEM WITH SOME WELL-TIMED PRE-SPRING PREP

- DAVID DOMONEY

FEBRUARY is when seed-sowing can start to get under way. The days are lengthening, light is improving, and a few well-timed sowings now can give you some sturdier plants and earlier harvests.

The key is to match each crop to the right conditions. Some will cope perfectly well on a bright windowsill. Others need the steady warmth of a propagator. And a select few can be sown outdoors, but only if your soil is workable and your weather is kind.