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.

A warm, sunny windowsill is ideal for hardy seedlings that don't need tropical temperatures.

Peas can be started in pots or modules, giving you strong young plants to move on when the conditions outside improve. Kale is another useful February sowing for indoors, particularly if you want a reliable supply later in the season.