VEGETABLES HERBS GARDEN CULTURE

with

Bindweed, the gardener ©

Vegetables, Herbs and their Garden Culture

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

A

Angelica (Angelica archangelica. Umbelliferae) Hardy biennial or short leaved herb from Europe, which is longer lived if its flowers are removed. Height 72" - 120" (182 cm - 304 cm) planted 36" (91 cm) apart. Stems are ridged and leaves are aromatic with yellow-green flowers in clusters of rounded umbels, 3" (7 cm) across in July and August. Its flower stems, leaf stalks and midribs are light green in colour and are used in confectionary, cake decoration and liqueurs. its roots may be cooked with rhubarb and apple to reduce acidity. Tea is made with its fresh or dried leaves and potpourri with its dried leaves.
Cultivation: Plant seedlings in a moist rich humus in a sunny or partially shaded position in March. Remove flower heads to encourage growth. If the flower heads are not removed the plants will produce seeds and die.
Sow: Seeds should be sown outdoors in shallow drills 12" (30 cm) apart between March or April and the seedlings pricked out 12" (30 cm) apart when large enough to handle and grown until the following March, when they should be lifted and planted in their final position.
Harvest: Cut main stems for candying between May and June and the side shoots in August. Remove leaflets from stems and stalks. Leaves for drying should be picked green and fresh before flowering takes place. Roots to be used should be dug up in their first year before they become woody.
Varieties: One
Pests: Generally trouble free.
Diseases: Generally trouble free.

ARTICHOKE

CHINESE ARTICHOKE (Stachys Sieboldii. Labiatae. Tsanyungtzu) Hardy perennial with edible tubers used as a winter vegetable originally from China and Japan.
Cultivation: Requires space and a well-drained, well-manured, deeply dug soil.
Sow: The tubers should be planted in March, in drills 6" (15 cm) deep, allowing 12" (30 cm) between the plants in the rows and 12" (30 cm) to 24" (60 cm) between the rows. The surface of the ground between the rows should be kept well hoed, and early in July a liberal top-dressing of manure should be given. Water well during July and August. In light soil the tubers may remain in the ground through the winter, or dug out and stored under sand or fine soil covered with litter about the middle of November.
Harvest: Dig tubers as required during the winter. Allowing five to seven months for the tubers to mature.
Pests: Sometimes mice and voles take a liking for the tubers.
Diseases: Generally trouble free.

GLOBE ARTICHOKE (Cynara scolymus. Compositae) Hardy perennial Vegetable 60" (150 cm) high grey green colour with conical 5" (12 cm) heads resembling a Scottish thistle probably originating in North Africa. The summer flower is edible and used as a boiled vegetable, but the plant can be used for decorative borders.
Cultivation: Full exposure to the sun is desirable with frost less harmful than damp. The ground should be trenched and heavily manured in the autumn.
Sow: Planting should be carried out at the beginning of April. Propagation should be by root division or suckers, as seed does not come true. Renew plants after three years with a new planting each year by rotation. The flower-heads should be picked when about half-grown and closed. During summer liberal watering and mulching should be undertaken, and, if necessary staking. As winter approaches some ashes or sand should be banked round the plant, and cover with litter or leaves when frosts are expected. Remove the covering during March and lightly fork, dress with manure between the rows.
Harvest: Cutting heads from top of stem commencing the end of June.
Varieties: Gros Camus de Bretagne and de Leon.
Pests: Generally trouble free.

Diseases: Petal Blight pale brown circular blotches on heads which rot.

JERUSALEM ARTICHOKE (Heliantbus tuberorus. Compositae) Hardy perennial Vegetable 12" (30 cm) - 36" (91 cm) high probably originating from North America. Edible tubers used as winter vegetable.
Cultivation: A somewhat light well drained, deeply dug soil, and in an open situation are best.
Sow: The tubers should be planted early in March in drills 3" (7 cm) deep, 18" (20 cm) being allowed between the tubers, and 3" (7 cm) between the drills. Plant just below the surface In very heavy soil and mix plenty of ashes with the soil. Support may be needed in exposed positions between wires 72" (182 cm) high posts.
Harvest: Cut tubers 12" (30 cm) - 24" (60 cm) above ground level late October.
Storing: The leaves should be cut down early in November and the tubers may be left in the ground through the winter and dug as required.
Varieties: Old Red Fuseau and New White.
Pests: Slugs and Swift moth caterpillars
Diseases: Sclerotinia disease - white fluffy fungus


ASPARAGUS (Asparagus officinalis. Liliacae) Hardy Perennial Vegetable 36" (91 cm) high probably originating in Greece.
Cultivation: Clay soils are difficult, but by throwing up the soil into ridges and placing broken bricks and rubble below the surface to aid drainage asparagus may be raised. With the addition of burnt rubbish, leaf-mould, and surface manuring the crop can be raised. However, sandy soil will aid with the natural drainage and with care and attention a good crop can be grown. A warm situation should be selected, preferably with a southern aspect with protection from the prevailing winds. The soil should be dug deeply, and heavy soils should be enriched with a foot or so of soil to keep the roots near the surface although all soils should be heavily enriched with decayed farmyard manure, preferably to a depth of 48" (122 cm) or more. The ground for the beds should be dug and levelled and be 60" (152 cm) long by 24" (60 cm) wide with alleys between each bed.
Sow: Strong one-year-old plants, without tops, should be planted in April 11" (28 cm) - 2" (5 cm). deep in three rows, the rows a foot from each side of the bed, and the plants 24" (60 cm) apart in the rows. Water well after planting if the weather is dry. Throughout the summer break up the top soil with a hoe and remove weeds. Under no circumstances should any other crop be raised between the plants. About the end of January a mulch of stable manure may be laid on the surface and a sprinkling of earth used to cover it; or alternately a little nitrate of soda or guano may be applied in May. About the second week of February each crown should be covered with a few inches of soil or preferably sand, or sand mixed with soil.
Harvest: Shoots may be cut, or better, broken, as low as possible, when about 8" (20 cm) in length, being careful not to injure young shoots not yet fit for cutting. No cutting should be done for the first two years at least. In the case of older plantations it is unwise to cut asparagus after the middle of June. Cut down all stems in autumn.
Forcing: Lift four year old or older crowns in autumn and place under the greenhouse staging in good light moist soil 2" (5 cm) deep at a temperature of 16°C (61°F). Take a year or two to produce a good crop.
Varieties: Perfection; Connover’s Colossal, Martha Washington, Mary Washington, and Early Giant Argenteuil and White Cap.
Pests: Asparagus beetle.
Diseases: Frost damage and Violet root rot.

B

Balm (Melissa officinalis. Labiatae) Hardy herbaceous perennial grown as a herb for its lemon scented leaves and makes a decorative herbaceous border plant which probably originated in the region between Southern Europe though to Asia. Height 24" - 48" (60 cm - 121 cm) planted 12" - 18" (30 cm - 45 cm) apart to allow a bushy habit to evolve and branching to take place. Tiny white tubular flowers in racemes appear during June and July against nettle shaped pale green leaves. The young leaves and shoots are used for fruit salads and ice drinks. The dried leaves retain fragrance and are used for potpourri.
Cultivation: Use well drained soil in full sun and plant divided roots in the mild months of October or March. Cut back in June to encourage young growth and cut back to within 6" (15 cm) of the ground in October protecting with strew.
Sow: Sow seed outdoors at the end of April and beginning of May in their permeant potions and thin seedlings when 12" - 18" (30 cm - 45 cm) height if transplanting to other positions is required.
Harvest: Gather young shoots and leaves throughout the summer and use fresh. Leaves for drying are picked fresh before the flower buds have set.
Varieties: Variations.
Pests: Generally trouble free.
Diseases: Generally trouble free.

Bay (Laurus) Originating from the Mediterranean region and grown as a decorative evergreen shrub, its fresh leaves are used as a herb for flavouring fish and other dishes. Height about 120" - 260" (304 cm - 660 cm) aromatic leaves lanceolate and glossy dark green. Male and female plants have yellow-green flower clusters in April and purple-black berries.
Cultivation: Plant in any garden soil that is in a sunny sheltered position in March or April. A half standard specimen should be planted in a 15" - 18" (38 cm - 45 cm) pot containing suitable potting compost.
Sow: Heel cuttings should be taken from lateral shoots in August and September and inserted into equal parts peat and sand and placed in a cold frame. Transfer to 3½" (89 cm) pots in April filled with suitable potting compost. The following October the young plants should be placed in a nursery bed and grown on until the following March or April. Plants to be shaped as specimens should be pruned at least twice a year and sucker shoots removed and the top pinched out when the desired height is attained. Low growing shoots can be layered during July and August and severed a year later.
Harvest: The leaves are harvested at almost any time of the year for seasoning and the oils between the months of October, December, January, February, April and June and then dried in the cabinet dryer at 35, 50, 65 and 80°C (95, 122, 149, 176°F) for 12 hours.
Varieties: Sweet Bay,
Pests: Scale Insects.
Diseases: Generally trouble free.

BEAN, BROAD (Leguminosae, Vicia faba) Hardy annual vegetable 36" (91 cm) high. Edible seeds contained in pods used as winter vegetable originating in north Africa and southwest Asia.
Cultivation: Plant the beans in deep, heavy soil, which has been deeply dug and manured in the autumn prior to sowing.
Sow: Sow in a warm and sheltered situation at the end of October or early in November. The main crop should be sown in February and March, then sow a few seeds each month to maintain a succession of crops until May or June. Plant seeds about 9" (22 cm) apart with 24" (60 cm) between the rows. A little earth drawn up to the roots when the seedlings are 3" (7 cm) to 4" (10 cm) high induces them to produce extra roots. When the stem is covered with about 18" (20 cm) of flowers the top should be pinched off to encourage the growth of the pods. All laterals should be removed as they appear. If black fly attack the beans, pinch-back all young shoots; this may stop the pests. If this fails syringe with a solution of soft soap.
Harvest: Cut when the seed pods are about ¾" (1 cm) across during June, July and August. Avoid leaving on the vine or seed pod will go stringy unless required for seed for next year.
Varieties: Early crop, Mazagans or Early Green and Exhibition Longpods; Main crop, Giant Green and White Windsors.
Dwarf Broad Beans grow to 12" (30 cm) to 18" (45 cm) high, are bushy in form, and occupy no more space than the tall varieties. Little Marvel and Dwarf Fan are popular varieties.
Pests: Slugs, Millepedes, Maggots of Bean Seed Fly, Aphids, Capsid Bugs, Glasshouse Red Spider Mites.
Diseases: Brown Spot, Anthracnose of the Dwarf Bean, Foot and Root Rot, Fusarium Wilt, Grey Mould, Physiological Disorder, Rust, Virus Deceases.

BEAN, FRENCH OR KIDNEY (Phasolus valgaris) Hardy annual vegetable. Edible pods used as vegetable between July to October probably originating in Mesoamerica and the Andes.
Cultivation: Plant these beans deep in rich soil, which should have been deeply dug and manured in the autumn. They should be grown in an open, unshaded situation.
Sow: By sowing partly in the open and partly under glass French Beans can be produced almost every month of the year. In the open try to sow under a south wall about the middle of April, sheltering the young plants as soon as they come up with a little loose litter. The main outdoor sowing should be made early in May in weekly intervals until July. Sow seed 6" (15 cm) apart in drills 2" (5 cm) deep and about 22" (56 cm) to 36" (91 cm) between the rows. When the young plants appear they should be thinned and those removed transplanted into rows allowing at least a foot from plant to plant between each plant.
Harvest: The pods should be gathered before the seeds have formed which will help prolong the period of bearing .
Varieties: Early: Masterpiece, Ne Plus Ultra; followed by Negro Longpod followed again by Canadian Wonder and Perfection; late sowing the Newlngton.
Pests: Slugs, Millepedes, Maggots of Bean Seed Fly, Aphids, Capsid Bugs, Glasshouse Red Spider Mites.
Diseases: Brown Spot, Anthracnose of the Dwarf Bean, Foot and Root Rot, Fusarium Wilt, Grey Mould, Physiological Disorder, Rust, Virus Deceases.

BEAN, RUNNER (Phaseolus multiflorus) Hardy annual vegetable. Edible seed pods 12" (30 cm) long by 1" (2 cm) wide from July to November originating from Central America.
Cultivation: Plant in a deep, moderately retentive soil, which has been well manured and deeply dug in the autumn.
Sow: Sown early seed in a sheltered situation about the middle of May. To get a succession of crops sow in the open through until the middle of June. Sow in drills, 2" (5 cm) deep, with 5" (13 cm) between seeds with 72" (183 cm) between rows. Spray with water in hot weather. Liquid manure applied weekly as soon as the pods start to set should increase the crop. When the plants have formed their first leaves, 96" (244 cm) tall poles or supports should be firmly set in the ground. Dust the young plants liberally with soot to keep away slugs.
Harvest: The pods should be picked as soon as they are ready, or they will become hard and stringy.
Varieties: Early: Earliest of AIl, Tender and True, semi-dwarf: Kelvedon Marvel, Kelvedon Wonder and Princeps. Late: Prizewinner. Scarlet Emperor, Streamline, and Mammoth White, Painted Lady. Main: Best of All, challenge, Streamline. Non climbing: Hammond's Dwarf.
Pests: Slugs, Millepedes, Maggots of Bean Seed Fly, Aphids, Capsid Bugs, Glasshouse Red Spider Mites.
Diseases: Brown Spot, Anthracnose of the Dwarf Bean, Foot and Root Rot, Fusarium Wilt, Grey Mould, Physiological Disorder, Rust, Virus Diseases.

BEETROOT (Beta vulgaris Crassa. Chenopodiaceae) Biennial root vegetable grown as an annual probably originating in europe.
Cultivation: The soil should be of medium texture and free from manure before sowing, but after a previous crop of leeks that has been heavily manured well will assist growth.
Sow: March, April, May, June, July. For early use, the turnip-rooted kind, of which Sutton's Globe and Crimson Ball are good varieties may be sown on a mild hotbed in a frame from the beginning of January to the end of March, or about the first week in April, in a warm border in the open, in drills 1" (2 cm) deep and 15" (38 cm). apart. A little salt dusted into the drills at the time of sowing, and sprinkled between the plants occasionally during June and July, will materially improve the roots. The soil should be made firm after sowing, and the young plants should be thinned to about 9" (22 cm) apart. Dust the young shoots with soot or lime to protect them from the birds. The turnip-rooted kinds may also be used for later supplies, where the soil is too poor or shallow for the long-rooted kind. Where the soil is suitable, however, the long-rooted kind are to be preferred for all but the earliest crops. These should be sown in May under similar conditions to those suggested for the turnip-rooted kinds. Cheltenham Green-top or Galloway Purple are perhaps the best varieties of all this group. Pineapple and Nutting's Old Dwarf Red are excellent.
Harvest: June, July, August, September, October.
Storing: Any roots that remain in the ground should be lifted before the middle of October, the leaves should be twisted off, the roots dried and carefully packed away in dry sand in a cool but frost-proof place. If carefully and periodically looked over the roots will remain in good condition until the following April.
Varieties: Avon early, Boltardy, Early Bunch, Little Ball, Cheltenham Green Top,
Pests: Marigold Fly Maggots, Swift Moth Caterpillars.
Diseases: Damping Off, Leaf Spot, Mineral Deficiencies, Scab, Violet Root Rot.

BORAGE (Borago officinalis. Boraginacae) Hardy annual herb with 18" (45 cm) - 36" (91 cm) high culinary hollow stem bearing corrugated ovate leaves covered with rough silvery hairs having pendant, five petal flowers with a cucumber flavour used for decoration, salads and fruit cups. Leaves can be used for a refreshing drink. A good plant for beekeepers. Originating in Syria.
Cultivation: It grows In any good, ordinary soil. Water as required. Keep weeded and tall plants supported.
Sow: Should be sown in March or April, in shallow drills 15" (38 cm) apart, the seedlings being thinned subsequently to 10" (25 cm) apart. It does not transfer well due to its taproot. It will self seed so try to choose a permanent position when sowing.
Harvest: One plant is sufficient for one household. Cut leaves as required during growing season. Older leaves become coarse. Can be frozen to store, but best used fresh.
Pests: Generally trouble free.
Diseases: Generally trouble free.

BORECOLE, KALE or rape kale (Brassica oleracea Acephala. B. napus. Cruciferae) Hardy biennial winter leaf vegetable with cucumber flavour. Developed from the wild cabbage. Grows to a height of 18" (46 cm) - 24" (61 cm). Originating in western Europe, the Mediterranean and temperate regions of Asia.
Cultivation: The soil should be well manured and dug.
Sow: The seeds should be sown from March to June in drills about 1" (2 cm) deep. The seedlings should be thinned out to 4" (10 cm) apart where necessary as soon as they appear. The plants should be planted out when about six to eight weeks old, leaving about 30" (76 cm) all round the plant. Water liberally until the roots are firmly established.
Harvest: The Broccoli or Kale is one of the most popular of our vegetables, and is in season from October until April.
Varieties: Autumn - A1. and Dwarf Green Curled; Christmas - Curled Scotch, Drumhead and Read's Improved Hearting; Spring - Asparagus Kale, Welsh Kale, and Cottager's Kale. Spring varieties can be sown early autumn.
Pests: Diamond-black Moth Caterpillars, Flea Beetles.
Diseases: Damping Off, Wire Stem, Violet Root Rot.

BROCCOLI (Brassica oleracea Botrytis. Umbelliferae) Half hardy biennial grown as an annual vegetable. Bears large clusters of white flowers on thick stalks known as curds. The green type is more common and is called calabrese. With care, the broccoli will supply a succession of heads 90 days from sowing. Probably originating from Europe.
Cultivation: A well dug rich soil is necessary to create rapid growth.
Sow: The seeds should be sown in an open position in drills ½" (1 cm) deep and 12" (30 cm) apart from March until June. The ground should have been prepared with soot finely dug and left firm. Start thinning out starting at 6" (15 cm) apart and finishing at 30" (76 cm). Broccoli thrives in ground that has been used for other crops and not retrenched. If the soil has been well manured it should be firmed round the roots. This will encourage hard stems and prevent too much leaf forming. Keep well watered until established, especially the autumn-flowering varieties. Before severe weather sets in it may be beneficial to lay the heads over towards the north, a measure that restricts growth and checks the plant, making them better able to resist the frost and allow the plants to be covered for protection.
Harvest: November to June. Three to four days are allowed for cutting the flower heads. Cut the tight blue-green clusters of immature floret buds before they turn to yellow.
Varieties: Midwinter - Self-protecting, Snow's Winter White, King's large and Superb Early White; Followed by - Purple and White Sprouting Broccoli, Leamington, Late Queen, Model and Nine Star. Lucky, Green Comet, Decathlon and Belstar are green Calabrese.
Pests: Birds, Cabbage Root Fly maggots, Flea Beetles, Butterfly and moth caterpillars.
Diseases: Spray Damage, Downy Mildew, Club Root, Damping Off, Frost Damage, Leaf Spot, Whiptail.

BRUSSELS SPROUTS (Brassica oleracca Gemmifera. Cruciferae) Hardy Biennial grown for the small tight leaved cabbage like buds. The origin is open to conjecture and may be either China or Brussels.
Cultivation: Make sure the soil is well dug, manured and firmed before planting.
Sow: Seed should be sown at the end of February until March in a warm situation in drills about ¾" (1 cm) deep, and about 10" (25 cm) apart and loosely covered with litter until they are well up. They take between 4 and 10 days to germinate. Planting out should begin late April with spacing about 8" (20 cm) apart and transplanted to their permanent position 36" (91 cm) apart. Water well after transplanting. Should earlier planting be attempted seeds should be sown the previous August, transplanted October prior to their permanent position in April. Late seed can be sown at the end of April as the plants will develop quickly. Removing a few leaves will encourage the production of sprouts leaving the top growth intact to be used as greens when the sprouts are picked. Remove any yellow leaves or the sprouts may rot.
Harvest: 3 months from sowing. Twist off the stalk starting in the summer and continuing into the winter months.
Varieties: Early sowing, Dwarf Gem and Matchless; general crop, A”gburth, Cambridge No. 1 and No. 5, Exhibition, Market Favourite.
Pests: Aphids, Greenfly, Blackfly, Cabbage Whitefly, Cabbage Root Fly Maggots, Flea Beetle, Caterpillars.
Diseases: Spray Damage, Downy Mildew, Club Root, Damping Off, Frost Damage, Leaf Spot, Whiptail.

C

CABBAGE (Brassica oleracea Capitata. Cruciferae) Biennial vegetable grown as an annual for its tight centred head of leaves used for vegetable and salads. Defined by their head, round head and conical heads. Red cabbage is grown for cooking and pickling. The Celts brought the cabbage to Europe from Asia.
Cultivation: Make sure the soil is well dug and manured before planting. Water the plants liberally at all stages during their growth.
Sow: For next year’s Spring crop sow seeds at intervals starting about the end of July through until August. Sow the seed 1" (2 cm) deep and in rows 8" (20 cm) apart and dusted with lime, and occasionally salt or soot. Plant out when the plants are about six weeks old in firm, newly dug soil that was prepared three months earlier, spaced 15" (38 cm) apart and 20" (50 cm) between rows and water well.
Harvest: From the autumn when heads are firm. Spring cabbage from April until May when heads are firm.
Varieties: Spring - Round head: Ellam's Early, Greyhound, Harbinger, Primo, Christmas Drumhead.
Conical head: Greyhund, Winnigstadt.
Summer: Main Cram, Sutton’s Favourite, and Miniature Marrow.
Autumn: Coleworts, Winnigstadt, St. Martin and St. John’s Day, New York, January King and Bijou.
Red Cabbage: Dutch Blood Red, Dwarf Blood Red.
Pests: Aphids, Birds, Cabbage Root Fly Maggots, Flea Beetles, Butterfly and Moth Caterpillars.
Diseases: Club Root, Damping Off, Rhizoctonia fungus, Frost Damage, Leaf Spot, Spray Damage.

CARDOON (Cynara cardunculus) Tender perennial vegetable grown as an annual for its young leaf-stalks and used for soups, stews and salads. It is believed to have originated in central and western Mediterranean regions of Europe.
Cultivation: A bed of well rotted manure is required with plenty of space which allows the plant to be grown in trench similar to celery.
Sow: Sow seed outside in a cold frame or under glass in April and in the open in June. Plant out in trenches 18" (20 cm) deep and 18" (20 cm) apart in May. The bottom of the trench should have been prepared with dug in well rotted manure. Blanching is achieved by tying the leaves lightly to a stick when the plant is 18" (20 cm) high and earthing up the stem as with celery. Water frequently during the summer with a little guano to prevent flowering.
Harvest: Start to harvest in September 120 to 150 days after planting and 4 to 6 weeks after blanching. Cut stalks off at ground level and trim leaves.
Varieties: The prickly Tours cardoon, the red-stemmed Marseilles, and the large growing Puvls are all much better than the Spanish variety.
Pests: Aphids.
Diseases: Generally trouble free.

CARROT (Daucus carota. Umberlliferae) Hardy annual biennial vegetable grown for its orange tap root for use as a cooked vegetable or for salads. Probably originated in Afghanistan.
Cultivation: A light sandy soil enriched with manure suits carrots best. If the soil is heavy a liberal dusting of grit or sand should be dug in prior to sowing, failing this wood ash, leaf mould or old potting compost can be used.
Sow: Choose a warm position for the first sowing at the end of February through until July. Sow the seed 1" (2 cm) deep and about 8" (20 cm) and thin to 8" (20 cm) between plants. Continue sowing seed up until June to get continuity. Soot and lime should be added to the soil to help reduce the risk of insect and pest attacks.
Harvest: Draw the carrots between June and November when large enough for use and if stored they should be placed in a frost proof dry place and covered with straw.
Varieties: Amsterdam Forcing, French Forcing, Autumn King, Favourite, Redcored Chantenay, New Red Intermediate, St. Valery
Pests: Aphids, Maggots.
Diseases: Damping Off, Motley Dwarf Disease, Sclerotinia, Soft Root, Splitting, Violet Root Rot.

CAULIFLOWER (Brassica oleracea Botrytis. Umbelliferae) Half Hardy biennial grown for an annual vegetable. Probably originated in ancient Asia Minor then reappearing in the Mediterranean region.
Cultivation: A well prepared neutral or slightly alkaline soil is required and rotation of crops observed.
Sow: Sow from late February when conditions allow to get a succession for cropping starting in June. The seedlings should be thinned out repeatedly and hardened off in succession before planting out in their final positions starting April. When the plants are large enough to be handled they should be transplanted 4" (10 cm) apart in well manured soil. When the heads start to develop break down the top leaves over the top to protect from sun and rain. Water well.
Harvest: Large clusters of thick stalked, unopened white flowers, called curds, which develop at the centre of large leaves are in season from June until November.
Varieties: Old - Early London, All Year Round, Snowball, Dwarf Mammoth, Autumn Giant, Erfurt, Pearl, Purity, Favourite, Walcheren, New -Superb Early White, Extra Early Feltham, Westmarsh Early, Early Feltham, Snow White, mid Feltham, Satisfaction, Late Fetham, Late Queen, Whitsuntide, Extra Late Feltham.
Pests: Birds, Maggots, Flea Beetles.
Diseases: Downy Mildew, Club Root, Damping Off, Frost Damage, Leaf Spot, Spray Damage, Whiptail.

Caraway (Carum carvi. Umbelliferae) Hardy biennial Herb used in cooking and for flavouring from Europe. The seeds are used for flavouring in cakes and bread, salads and cheeses, and flavouring in liqueur and cordials as well as being distilled for cosmetics. Height 36" (91 cm) and grown 12" (30cm) apart. An aromatic plant with ferny, mid-green leaves, minute green flowers carried in umbels between June and July.
Cultivation: Grow in fertile well drained soil in full sun. As the plants are grown for their seed do not force feed the plants or dress the soil.
Sow: Sow seeds in September for a seed crop the next year or March the following year for a same year crop. Sow where the seeds are to flower in 12" (30 cm) drills thinning to 6" (15 cm) apart, then 12" (30 cm) apart.
Harvest: When the seeds are ripe cut the plants at ground level and tie in bundles and hang up to dry in an airy place. Place each bundle in a paper page and tie to catch the seeds or place paper beneath the bunches to catch the seeds as they fall. Sieve the seeds before drying and storing in airtight jars.
Varieties: One
Pests: Generally trouble free.
Diseases: Generally trouble free.

CELERIAC (Apium graveolens Rapaceum. Umbelliferae) Hardy biennial grown as an annual as a thick rooted winter vegetable. Originates in the mediterranean region and Northern Europe.
Cultivation: Easily grown in well prepared garden soil.
Sow: Sow seed in March under glass and pick out the seedlings when big enough to handle into 3" (7 cm) pots. In May plant out in the permanent bed in ground previously dug and manured. The plants should be planted 12" (30 cm) - 15" (38 cm) apart with 18" (46 cm) between rows and allowed to sit on the surface. They will need to be watered liberally during the summer with covering between the rows of leaf mould to retain the moisture.
Harvest: As winter approaches they should be taken up and stored as beetroot.
Varieties: Claudia, Giant Prague, Marble Ball.
Pests: Carrot Fly Maggots.
Diseases: Arabis Mosaic Virus, Cucumber Mosaic Virus, Celery Leaf spot, Damping Off, Physiological Disorder.

CELERY (Apium graveolens. Umbelliferae) Hardy Biennial vegetable cultivated as an annual for its 12" (30 cm) - 18" (46 cm) high stalks and used in salads, soups, juice and eaten with cheese. Believed to be from the Mediterranean region.
Cultivation: Celery prefers a medium soil. Deep or trench cultivation is a necessity with liberal manure and water.
Sow: First the seed should be sown in a tray under glass to a temperature of 70°F (21°C). starting February with successional sowings. When the seedlings can be handled 2" (5 cm) high the plants should be pricked out into 3" (7 cm) pots in a suitable potting compost or soil and well rotted manure and placed in a cold frame. Larger pots may be deemed necessary before planting in beds or trenches. Plant out when 6" (15 cm) high from February until July. The best way of growing celery is the trench system. Manure and ½ oz (14 grms) per square yard (.83 sq metre) of ammonium sulphate and potash salts should be dug into the bottom of the trench, which should be 4" (10 cm) deep 16" (41 cm) wide and 48" (122 cm) apart. The plants should be 12" (30 cm) apart and trodden in firmly. Water should be distributed liberally to the plants with a mulch of old manure. As growth proceeds the plants should be earthed up 4" (10 cm) at a time when the weather is dry with a final earthing up about the end of October about a month before the celery is required. Care should be take to keep the leaves together during earthing up to prevent earth getting between the stalks. The heart should be kept well above the earthing up and side growths removed.
Harvest: Cut when the plant has reached a desirable height at soil level allowing the stalks to adhere to the crown. Store in a refrigerator and remove stalks when required. The crown is considered by some a luxury.
Varieties: Early white: White Gem. Mid pink: Ideal Pink and Unrivalled Pink. Main white: Superb White and Champion White. Main Red: Standard Bearer. Sulham Prize and Mammoth Red.
Pests: Carrot Fly Maggots, Slugs.
Diseases: Arabis Mosaic Virus, Cucumber Mosaic Virus, Boron Deficiency, Celery Heart Rot, Celery Leaf Spot, Damping Off, Physiological Disorders.

CHERVIL (Anthriscus cerefolium. Umbelliferae) Hardy biennial herb up to 18" (46 cm) high grown as an annual for its leaves used as a flavouring. Originates from eastern Europe probably southern Russia.
Cultivation: This plant thrives in well enriched soil that has been raked to a fine tilth before the seeds are sown.
Sow: The seeds should be sown from September ½" (1 cm) deep in rows 12" (30 cm) apart and thinned out to 6" (15 cm) apart and then 12" (30 cm) apart. The plants will grow in sun or part shade. An autumn sowing in a cool greenhouse will produce a winter crop of fresh leaves. Frost protection may be required.
Harvest: Picking of the leaves can begin after 6 weeks.
Pests: Generally trouble free, but Aphids can attack.
Diseases: Powdery mildew, Root Rot.

CHICORY (Cichorium intybus. Compositae) Hardy biennial herb grown as annual for its hearted head of leaves for use in salads and roots used in herbal tonics and coffee. Probably originated in the Mediterranean region.
Cultivation: Grows well in moderately fertile sand loam soil that is well drained and that can retain some moisture.
Sow: Sow seed from the middle of April until the middle of June in fine soil that has been well manured for the previous crop. The row should be 15" (38 cm) apart and the seedlings thinned to about 9" (23 cm) apart and ½" (1 cm) deep. To blanch, the roots should be lifted about the end of October and packed upright 2" - 3" (5 cm - 7 cm) apart in boxes filled with moist sand or fine soil and bleached in perfect darkness at a temperature of 7 - 10°C (45 - 50°F). Discard the roots after blanching.
Harvest: 85 to 100 days to harvest when the weather turns cool in October
Varieties: Witloof de Brussels, Christmas Salad.
Pests: Swift Moth Caterpillars, Slugs.
Diseases: Generally trouble free.

CHIVES (Allium schoenoprasum. Alliaceae) Hardy perennial herb 6" (15 cm ) - 10" (25 cm) high grown as annual for flavouring from its grass like tubular leaves from an onion like bulb. Probably originates in Europe and Asia.
Cultivation: This plant thrives in sun or partial shade in a medium loamy soil that has been well manured, but needs frequent watering.
Sow: Sow seed in March ½" (1 cm) deep and 12" (30 cm) between rows. Seedlings should be thinned out to 6" (15 cm) apart and transplanted to their permanent positions in May and thereafter the stock being increased by division every fifth year.
Harvest: Spring or June and July. if leaves grown for eating only remove flowers as soon as possible. If the flowers are grown for eating or colour keep separate from those grown for eating.
Pests: Generally trouble free.
Diseases: Rust.

CLARY (Salvia sclarea. Labiatae) Hardy biennial herb grown as an annual for culinary use for flavouring in soups and casseroles and in perfumery originating in the Mediterranean region. Grown in a flower border as a decorative plant it has large hairy triangular - ovate leaves and tubular blue-white flowers 1" (2.5 cm) long with purple-blue or yellow bracts in August. Aromatic leaves. Probably originates from southern Europe.
Cultivation: Any reasonable fertile soil that is well drained and in full sun will support this plant.
Sow: The seeds should be sown 12" (30 cm) apart in their permanent position.
Harvest: Leaves are used fresh, dried or deep frozen.
Pests: Generally trouble free.
Diseases: Generally trouble free.

COLEWORT (O.E. Cawel) Cole is the general term for cabbage. Heartless cabbage grown for leaves and used for coleslaw in salads. Probably originates from Asia Minor, or the eastern Mediterranean.
Cultivation: Prefer an alkaline fertile soil which has been well dug and manured. Water plants during their growth.
Sow: Seeds should be sown in partial shade or a sunny position in early Spring and the bulbs at the end of the summer at depth of about ½" (1 cm) and at about 24" (60 cm) to a metre for final positions.
Harvest: Germination three weeks to six months.
Pests: Aphids, Birds, Maggots of Cabbage Root Fly, Flea Beetles, Butterfly Caterpillars.
Diseases: Damping off, Fungus Rhizoctonia, Frost damage. Soft Rot of Grey Mould, Leaf Spot, spay Damage.

COUVE TRONCHUDA (Brassicaceae Couve Tronchuda, Portuguese Kale) Hardy annual cabbage plant growing to 24" (60 cm) high with a loose head of fleshy white leaves used as a cooked vegetable. Probably originates from the eastern Mediterranean or to Asia Minor.
Cultivation: Make sure the soil is well dug and manured before planting. Water the plants liberally at all stages during their growth.
Sow: For next years Spring crop sow seeds at intervals starting about the end of July through until August. Sow the seed 1" (2 cm) deep and in rows 8" (20 cm) apart and dusted with lime, and occasionally salt or soot. Plant out when the plants are about six weeks old in firm newly dug soil that was prepared three months earlier, spaced 15" (38 cm) apart and 20" (50 cm) between rows and water well.
Harvest: Autumn onwards.
Pests: Aphids, Birds, Maggots of Cabbage Root Fly, Flea Beetles, Butterfly Caterpillars.
Diseases: Damping off, Fungus Rhizoctonia, Frost damage. Soft Rot of Grey Mould, Leaf Spot, spray Damage.

CORN SALAD (Valerianella locusta. Valerianaceae) Hardy annual cultivated for its leaves for vegetable and salads. 6"- 9" (15 - 22 cm) high originating in Europe.
Cultivation: A light well drained soil in a warm situation is appreciated.
Sow: Sow 1" (2 cm) deep in drills 3" (8 cm) - 6" (15 cm) apart in a succession of sowings from February until September to give a supply throughout the year. Water liberally.
Harvest: Pick the leaves when they are young and tender usually 50 days after sowing and protect from frost with straw.
Pests: Generally trouble free.
Diseases: Downy mildew.

CRESS (Sinapis alba and Lepidium sativum. Cruciferae) Annual salad plant. Spindly 3" (8 cm) high stalk grown en mass for sandwich fillings and salad decoration. Native to the Middle East it probably originates from Persia.
Cultivation: The soil should be in good heart
Sow: Sow between March and August, four days earlier than mustard to get the mustard and cress mix. A thick sowing of seed lightly covered with soil in sunny spot outdoors from March about every two weeks will give a succession of the crop up until September. From October through until March grow in trays in a greenhouse or window position.
Harvest: May until November after 15 days from sowing.
Varieties: Curled, Plain.
Pests: Mustard beetle larvae and adults.
Diseases: Generally trouble free.

CUCUMBER, Gherkin (Cucumis saticus. cucurbitaceae) Half hardy annual trailing plant grown for its long green skinned fruits 6" (15 cm) - 12" (30 cm) by 1½" (4 cm) - 2½" (6 cm) diameter fruits used in salads. Originated in India.
Cultivation: Early in March a cold frame or greenhouse should be prepared with a quantity of stable manure, forking it over for three weeks and dug in ready to receive the seeds which will appear within two to three days of sowing. A temperature of 80°F (26°C) should be maintained.
Sow: Seeds can be started off in pots, but they then have to establish themselves when planted. Maintain a night temperature of 60°F (15°C) by paying attention to the ventilation. When the plants have made two leaves pinch out the top to facilitate the growth of two lateral shoots. Wire supports will be required in a greenhouse to aid climbing, but not required in a cold frame. After the fruits have appeared pinch out the top to aid lateral shoots and cover the roots with fresh soil. Keep well watered, but do not allowing the leaves to turn yellow through over watering.
Harvest: Remove cucumbers as soon as they are of sufficient size for the table and remove malformed ones.
Varieties: Butcher’s Disease Resister, Challenger, Improved Telegraph, and Tender and True. Ridge and gherkins are varieties for outdoors.
Pests: Glasshouse Red Spider Mites, bronzing, wilting, collapse, Woodlice.
Diseases: Anthracnose of Cucumber, Gummosis of cucumber, Cucumber Mosaic Virus, Grey Mould, Physiological Disorders, Powder Mildew, Root Rot, Sclerotina Disease, Vertecillium Wilt.

D

DANDELION (Taraxacum officinale) Perennial plant that can be grown as an Annual with yellow flower and jagged toothed leaves used for salads. Probably originates from China.
Cultivation: Any reasonable soil will accommodate this plant which will self seed if the seed heads are not removed.
Sow: Sow from March until June in drills I" (2 cm) deep and a foot apart, thin the seedlings to 9" (22 cm) apart in the rows. In November the roots may be lifted and stored in sand until they are wanted or left in the soil when they will begin to grow when the weather is right. The roots can be planted in boxes with heat in a dark place to obtain blanched growths suitable for salads.
Harvest: When used as a vegetable the plant may be left out of doors and picked as required from March until June and the young leaves used for salads taking 95 days to harvest.
Pests: Generally trouble free.
Diseases: Generally trouble free.

Dill (Peucedenum graveolens. Umbelliferae) Annual herb whose leaves and seeds are used for flavouring originating from Europe. Height 36" (91 cm) planted 9" -12" (22 - 30 cm) apart. Stripped dark green and white stem bears blue-green leaves and minute starry yellow flowers in umbels 2" - 3" (5 cm - 7 cm) across from June to August. The leaves can be used for fresh or dry for garnish on salads and add an anise-llke flavour to potatoes, bean, peas, soups, poultry, hors d'oeuvres and fish. The seeds have a stronger flavour than the leaves are often used to flavour the vinegar in pickling especially gherkins. The seeds are also used as a condiment added to sauces.
Cultivation: Grown in any well drained fertile soil in a sunny position.
Sow: Sow monthly from March until July for constant summer supply. The plants are ready for used six weeks after sowing. Sow seeds 9" - 12" (22cm - 30cm) apart and keep well weeded although self sets produce are stronger plants. Do not grow near fennel as they are difficult to identify.
Harvest: When possible use the leaves fresh during the growing season. The leaves can be dried, but the colour is difficult to retain.
Pests: Generally trouble free.
Diseases: Generally trouble free.

E

ENDIVE (Cicborium endiva. Compositae) Half hardy annual resembling and used as an alternative for lettuce in the autumn and winter. Probably originates from the Mediterranean region and developed by the Belgians.
Cultivation: Endive thrives in light moderately rich soil. The ground should be trenched to a depth of 2' (60 cm) and thoroughly manured.
Sow: The first sowing should be made about the middle of March to July. The main crop should be sown in the middle of June, and again about the middle of July. Plants to over winter should be sown early in August. Sow thinly, 1" (2 cm) deep, in drills 12" (30 cm) apart. The plants, when ready, should be thinned out to 9" (22 cm) apart. Plenty of water should be given in dry weather, with occasional feeds of liquid manure. Blanch the plants when nearly full grown, the broad-leaved kind should be tied loosely when dry as with Cos lettuce securing with twine at the top. Later crops should be blanched by covering with an inverted plant pot with the hole sealed with a cork or something similar with an attempt at starting blanching at intervals to give succession of crop. Later crops will need a sheltered position or glass to protect from the winter.
Harvest: Pick from May to September.
Varieties: Large Rugec, Green Curled, and Green and White Batavian.
Pests: Root Aphids, Slugs, Snails.
Diseases: Damping off, Grey Mould, Lettuce Virus Diseases, Physiological Disorders, Sclerotina Disease

F

FENNEL (Foeniculum vulgare. Umbelliferae) Hardy perennial herb grown as an annual vegetable for flavouring. Originates from Mediterranean region.
Cultivation: Sow in rich soil in drill 1" (2 cm) deep, 18" (20 cm) apart. Transplant when the plants are about 3" (7 cm) high and planted 9" - 12" (22 cm - 30 cm) apart. Propagate by seed or root division in March spacing the plants 12" (30 cm) apart and at a distance of 12" (30 cm).
Sow: In April In drills 1" (2 cm) deep, the drills being 18" (45 cm) apart, and when the plants are about 3" (7 cm) high they should be transplanted and set 9" (22 cm) to 12" (30 cm) apart. Root division is done In March, the plants being replaced 12" (30 cm) apart in rows at the distance of 12" (30 cm). Cut off the flower stalks as soon as they appear.
Harvest: 90 to 115 frost free days to mature. Cut as required when the bulb stalk is 3" (7 cm) in diameter and the leaves are 18" (20 cm) tall. Best eaten fresh.
Varieties: Zefa Fino, Rudy, Trieste.
Pests: Greenflies, Snails, parsley caterpillar.
Diseases: Generally trouble free.

G

GARLIC (Allium sativum. Allianceae) hardy perennial herb of the onion family grown for its strong flavour and aroma. Originates from Central Asia.
Cultivation: A sunny position with moist light soil that has been well dug in with manure during the winter ready to plant the corms in the early spring is best.
Sow: Planting should start in February and continue into March just deep enough to firm the corm about 6" to 9" (15 cm - 22 cm) apart and 12" (30 cm) between the rows. During July make sure the corms are uncovered so that they may ripen through into August when the stems die down, when the corms should be pulled up and dried in a moderately light room. An early planting in October will provide bulbs for early use.
Harvest: When the tops start to dry and come away from their stems allow the bulbs to dry out for about 3 weeks in a dry place.
Varieties: Brown Tempest, California White, Chesnok Red, Chet's Italian Purple, Elephant, Georgian Crystal, German Extra Heavy, Hillside Rocambole Og,Ê Inchelium Red, Italian Purple Skin, Leningrad, Lorz Italian, Machashi, Mild French Silverskin, New York White, Polish White, Red German, Red Touch, Romanian Red, Spanish Rojo, Yugolavian.
Pests: Onion Fly Maggots, Stem Eelworms, Bulb Eelworms.
Diseases: Downy Mildew, Onion Smut, Soft Rot, Storage Rot, Blue Mould, Virus Disease, White Rot.

H

HORSERADISH (Coeblearia armoracia. Cruciferae) Hardy perennial grown for its edible roots which are grated and mixed with cream or pickled with vinegar. Originates from southeastern Europe and western Asia.
Cultivation: Well manured and well drained soil are ideal for this root plant. Try trenching the ground in late autumn to a depth of 24" to 36" (60 cm - 91 cm).
Sow: Take up some old roots and remove the crowns of about 1½" (2 cm) and plant the crowns and with a dibble marked to 24" (60 cm) plant the crowns to that depth about 10" to 12" (25 cm - 30 cm) apart with 18" (45 cm) between rows. Rotate the crop each spring to improve its condition.
Harvest: The roots will be ready for digging in November in two years time when they should be lifted and stored in sand until required.
Pests: Generally trouble free.
Diseases: Arabis Mosaic Virus, Leaf Spot, White Blister.

Hyssop (Hyssopus. Labiatae) A genus of one species of hardy herbaceous partially evergreen perennial plant used as a culinary herb originating in the Mediterranean regions to Central asia. The young leaves have a bitter flavour, but are used in salads or dried and used in soups and stuffings for meat and game. The aromatic leaves can be used dried in potpourri. Aromatic mid-green leaves are narrowly lanceolate and arranged in alternate pairs. Purple-blue two-lipped tubular flowers ½" - ¼" (1.5 cm - .6 cm) across born from July until September in terminal whorled spikes.
Cultivation: Plant in ordinary well drained soil in a sunny position during September and March when the weather is mild. Remove faded flower heads unless seeds are required. For ornamental low hedge plant 9" - 12" (22 - 30 cm) apart and pinch out heads to encourage a bushy habit.
Sow: Seeds should be sown in March in trays of compost in a cold frame or in open ground in April. Prick out the seedlings in trays and then transplant into 3" (7 cm) pots using potting compost. Plant in permanent positions in September. Basal cuttings can be taken during April and May and planted in equal parts sand and peat in a cold frame and when rooted transplanted into 3" pots containing potting compost and planted out in their pertinent positions in the autumn. Light pruning in March and April or cutting back to 3" (7 cm) of ground for specimen plants to keep in shape.
Harvest: For flavouring the fresh leaves may be picked throughout the year before the flowers open. For drying the leaves should be picked when young.
Varieties: H. officinalis purple-blue form, Albus white form, Roseus pink form.
Pests: Generally trouble free.
Diseases: Generally trouble free.

I

J

K

KALE (Brassica oleracea Acephala. B. napus. Cruciferae) Hardy biennial grown as an annual vegetable for their edible leaves produced in January through to April when leaves are in short supply in the garden. Originates from the Mediterranean region of Europe.
Cultivation: A well drained soil which has been well manured for a previous crop is recommended and dressed with general purpose fertiliser.
Sow: Sow seed ½" (1 cm) deep and about 1" (2 cm) apart in ground previously prepared with soot finely dug in and left firm. Thin out to 6" (15 cm) apart to finish at 30" (76 cm) apart as the plants grow. Water until established. Laying the heads over can protect from frost.
Harvest: The centre leaves are picked from the end of December onwards until April.
Varieties: Extra Curled Scotch, Dwarf Curled, Cottager's, Asparagus Kale, Favourite, Hungry Gap, Ragged Jack, Russian.
Pests: Diamond Black Moth Caterpillars, Flea Beetles.
Diseases: Damping Off, Wire Stem, Violet Root Rot.

KOHL - RABI ([turnip cabbage] brassica oleracea Caulorapa. Cruciferae) Biennial vegetable grown as an annual. The young roots and swollen stem, which is grown above ground, has the taste of turnip and is used for its culinary properties. Probably originates from the German region of Europe.
Cultivation: Grown in a light fertile soil this vegetable will withstand frost and drought.
Sow: Sow seed in March for summer supplies ¼" (1 cm) deep and 18" (46 cm) apart and then thinned to 10" (25 cm) apart. Autumn and winter supplies should be sown towards the end of July.
Harvest: Pull the roots when they are about the size of a tennis ball.
Varieties: Short Top Green, Earliest White and Early Purple, Purple Delicatesse.
Diseases: Club Root.

L

LEEK (Allium porrum. Alliaceae) Hardy biennial cultivated as an annual as a vegetable for its thick white tightly packed leaved stem with an onion like flavour. Probably originates from the Mediterranean and Asia region.
Cultivation: Dig in manure deeply with fish manure to the top layer three weeks before planting. An acid soil will require a dressing of carbonate of lime.
Sow: Sow in trays indoors with moderate heat in February and outdoors in drills in March. The indoor seedlings should be pricked out 2" (5 cm) apart and kept indoors until April and transferred to a cold frame in April before hardening off and finally planted out in May when outdoor plants should be showing themselves. Seeds can be soaked in luke warm water for about 12 hours previously to aid germination. Plant 12" (30 cm) high plants in their final positions about June in rows 24" (60 cm) apart, about 12" (30 cm) apart. Try planting in trenches a spade 15" (38 cm) deep if the soil is not rich in manure with mature mixed soil in the bottom of the trench. Earth up the plants as they grow to blanch the stem.
Harvest: Dig when required or store in sand in a frost free shed.
Varieties: London Flag. Monarch, Musselburgh, The Lyon, Prizetaker, Walton Mammoth, Empire, Royal Favourite, Winter Crop.
Pests: Onion Fly maggots.
Diseases: White Rot.

LETTUCE (Lactuca sativa. Compoitae) Half hardy and hardy annual grown for salads. Lettuces are of two kinds - those coming under the heading of Cabbage lettuces, which are short and globular in shape, and the Cos kind, which have long crisp leaves. Probably originating in the Mediterranean region.
Cultivation: The soil should be prepared with manure to a spades depth to produce a good light tilth and should help to prevent the lettuces from bolting. Water should be given during dry weather to keep the roots moist and aid leaf growth.
Sow: Sowing should be undertaken under glass between January to March and then in succession in the open until August. The plants should be finally thinned to 12" (30 cm) apart when big enough to handle and planted out as required during the season. Seed should be sown 1Ó (2 cm) deep about 12" (30 cm) apart. Young seedlings should be dusted with soot to prevent slugs and snails. Winter lettuces can be sown between August and October. Anything later will require a glass frame to help growth and protect from the cold. Cos lettuce will require tying with raffia just above the centre in order to blanch the hearts. Cabbage lettuce will not need tying.
Harvest: Pick baby leaves from different plants on leaved varieties and whole heads from June or when firm. Season between July until October.
Varieties: Cos - Paris White, Lobjoit’s Green Cos, Paris Green, White Heart, Little Gem, Nonsuch, Giant White, (Winter) Black Bath.
Cabbage - Trocaders , Grand Rapids, Oak Leaved, Salad Bowl, Cobham Green, Continuity, Susan, Unrivalled, Webb's Wonderful, Windermere, (Winter) Arctic King, Imperial, Vador, Winter Density.
Frame - May King, Chestnut Early, Delta, Klock, Kwick.
Cut and come again - Salad Bowl
Pests: Root Aphids, Slugs, Snails.
Diseases: Damping off, Grey Mould, Lettuce Virus Diseases, Physiological Disorders, Sclerotina Disease

M

MARJORAM (Origanum. Labiatae) Hardy perennial herb used for flavouring. Probably a native plant of Portugal and Syria.
Cultivation: Soil in a sunny well drained position will suit this plant well. Two types of this sweet plant are available, annual and pot.
Sow: Raised from seed under gentle heat from February through March for planting outside from May about 12" (30 cm) apart or by root division. Both kinds can be sown outdoors from April and thinned to 9" (23 cm) to 12" (30 cm) apart. Care being taken to protect the pot version so it may over winter.
Harvest: Use shoots fresh above ground level just after the flowers have opened for drying or freezing. Second harvest during September and October.
Pests: Generally trouble free.
Diseases: Generally trouble free.

MARROW (Cucurbta pepo ovifera. cucurbitaceae) Half hardy annual with a bushy trailing habit producing cylindrical edible fruits 12" (30 cm) long used as a vegetable. Probably originated in northern Italy.
Cultivation: A light rich well drained soil, rich in organic material in a sunny position is required. Ample water is required in dry weather. A frame can be used for the early crop which is dug with leaves and stable manure to raise the temperature to between 55°F (12°C) and 75°F (4°C). A dressing of a square yard (square metre) of superphosphate and sulphate of ammonia should be watered in, and soot should be used if slugs are a problem within the frame. As most of the crop will be grown outdoors.
Sow: Early in April two seeds should be sown 1" (2 cm) apart in a 3" (7 cm) pot at a temperature of 16C (61°F) -18C (64°F) . When two leaves have developed the pot should be transferred to a cold frame then hardened off with the ventilation being increased. In late May set the plants out in their final position beneath a cloche allowing 48" (122 cm) between plants and 72" (183 cm) between rows to allow for trailing marrows. Water regularly and mulch with lawn cuttings. Nip out growing tips when 18" (46 cm ) long to encourage the growth of lateral shoots which bear the female fruits. The flowers may need help with pollination by introducing the male pollen with a camel hair brush to the female flower. The fruits will then set and swell and should be harvested by cutting starting when 8" ( 20 cm) long for the best flavour. Cutting will encourage the production of more fruits. 24 fruits an be harvested from one vine and picked well into October. Store in an airy frost proof place.
Harvest: Cut as required during the summer with late harvest in October.
Varieties: Improved Green, Long Green, Long White, Custard White, Custard Yellow, White Bush, The Melon, Moore's Cream, Table Dainty, Tender and True, Long White.
Pests: Generally trouble free.
Diseases: Cucumber Mosaic Virus, Grey Mould, Powdery Mildew.

MINT (Mentha. Labiatae) Hardy Aromatic perennial herb grown for flavouring and culinary use , but may be found in chewing gum, hair tonics, potpourris, and Creme de Menthe, Chartreuse and Benedictine liqueurs. Probably originated in Europe and Asia.
Cultivation: Rich moist soil in a warm shady position. It does well in almost any type of soil. it will require liberal supplies of water.
Sow: Plant basal shoots during March to May making sure that it is in a container if the roots are to be restricted as it has a tendency to spread.
Harvest: Pick leaves fresh as required when available.
Varieties: Apple mint round leaved, Common mint. Spearmint.
Pests: Generally trouble free.
Diseases: Mint Rust.

MUSHROOM (Psalliota campestris. Agaricaceae) Edible fungus. Probably native to many areas of Europe although they were first mentioned by the Egyptians.
Cultivation: The site should be made up of horse manure and warmth which has been allowed to heat up.
Sow: This can be outside during the summer and autumn, but will require some protection in a building or frame when the weather turns cold, being free of draughts and devoid of light at a temperature of between 10°C (50°F) - 13°C (55°F). The bed should be prepared over six to nine weeks and will be deemed ready when the smell has subsided and the consistency is brown and friable. The bed should be between 12" (30 cm) and 36" (91 cm) high and from 48" (121 cm) to 72" (182 cm) wide on a gentle slope if possible. The heap should be turned every second day during this period to give a fine tilth until the temperature reaches 38°C (100°F) and then falls to about 24°C (75°F) when the spawn should be sown. The mycelium should be broken into 2" (5 cm) square pieces and planted about 2Ó (5 cm) or 3" (7 cm) deep in the manure. The bed should then be covered with about 2" (5 cm) of well-sieved sandy loam, not ordinary garden soil and mats if winter planting. When the mushrooms appear tepid water should be given once a week with a little common salt. The surrounding air should be kept at about 50°F (10°C) to 60°F (15 °C).
Harvest: When picked, the mushrooms should be twisted off at the base or better still cut off above the ground with a sharp knife to preserve the spawn below the surface.
Varieties: White, Rape ( Brassica napus).
Pests: Mushroom Fly Maggots, Woodlice, Traps baited with carrot or potato will do much to keep this pest within bounds.
Diseases: Mushroom disease caused by unhygienic conditions.

MUSTARD (Sinapis alba and Lepidium sativum. Cruciferae) Annual salad plant. Spindly 3" (7 cm) high stalk grown en masse for sandwich fillings and salad decoration. The Romans were the first to be recorded as having used the seed. An early reference to mustard is made in Persia called Iran today so it is possible that it originated in that region.
Cultivation: Can be sown in the open, but is more successful sown under glass. The soil should be fine and moisture retentive. Sacking, flannel or cotton wool are preferable as soil does not adhere to the seedlings.
Sow: Sow four days earlier than mustard to get the mustard and cress mix. A thick sowing of seed lightly covered with soil in sunny spot outdoors from March about every two weeks will give a succession of the crop up until September. From October through until March grow in trays in a greenhouse or window position.
Harvest: 11 to 14 days after sowing allowing 3 days extra for cress or rape.
Pests: Mustard beetle larvae and adults.
Diseases: Generally trouble free.

N

O

ONION (Allium cepa. Allianceae) Hardy biennial bulbous plant cultivated as an annual vegetable for salads, pickling and cooking. Probably originated in central Asia in the Iran or West Pakistan region.
Cultivation: A good clay free sunny site that has been well dug in with manure and dressed with lime in the autumn then left to stand before sowing is best.
Sow: Sow between January and April when the ground is in a workable condition. Sow thinly about 1" (2 cm) deep and 12" (30 cm) between rows under glass in January and judge the time to start outdoor sowing. Thin out for the winter salads to leave room for the main crop to enlarge. Water during the summer to encourage growth when the weather is dry. The main sowing outdoors should take place during August to allow the crop to over winter. September is the time to start storing the bulbs after they have had their tops flattened to dry off and checked their growth.
Harvest: When the leaves have dried off and the bulbs are properly matured they should be lifted, tied up and made into hanging ropes to store in a dry airy shed. Spring onions from March until October.
Main - Ailsa Craig, Bedfordshire Champion, Up to Date, James' Long Keeping, Excelsior
Autumn - Autumn Triumph, Autumn Queen, Reliance, Solidity, Rynsburger, Strutgarter Giant, Giant Rocca
Salad - White Lisbon, Pickling - Small Paris, Silverskin, Small Queen, White Portugal .
Pests: Onion Fly Maggots, Stem Eelworms, Bulb Eelworms.
Diseases: Downy Mildew, Onion Smut, Soft Rot, Storage Rot, Blue Mould, Virus Disease, White Rot.

P

PARSLEY (Carum petroselinum. syns. Petroselinum crispum. P. satvum. umelliferae) Hardy Biennial herb for flavouring and garnishing. Probably originated in the Mediterranean region.
Cultivation: A rich deeply dug soil with a mixture of leaf mould, sand and old mortar are required in a place with plenty of light.
Sow: Two sowings should be made one for summer in April and a winter one in July. Sow thinly about 1" (2 cm) deep and 15" (38 cm) apart. Germination will start to show in seven to eight weeks when the crop should be kept well weeded and watered. Thin out when the seedlings are big enough to handle and keep about 6" (15 cm) to 9" (22 cm) apart. Nip flower buds off when they appear. Pick the winter crop in September when the leaves are fresh. A frame can be used to extend the growing season with transplants in August and September. Make a fresh sowing each year as this plant runs to seed in the second year.
Harvest: Grow all the year round for a fresh supply. It can be dried, but is best fresh.
Varieties:Crispum, Hamburg.
Pests: Carrot Fly Maggots, Celery Fly Maggots.
Diseases>: Leaf spot, Virus Disease, Parsnip Canker.

PARSNIP (Pastinaca sativa. Umbelliferae) Hardy Biennial root vegetable grown as an annual for its long tapering pale yellow roots. Probably originated in the Mediterranean region.
Cultivation: Grow in deeply dug, rich, sandy soil, which has been well manured.
Sow: The seed should be thinly sown and lightly covered in drills 1" (2 cm) deep and 18" (46 cm) apart from February to May. When the plants appear they should be thinned to 6" (15 cm) apart to give space for growth and harvested when large enough.
Harvest: Best left in the ground until required unless servere frost is experienced when the crowns should be covered with ash, or straw, but they may be stored in sand with their tops removed in a dark place. October until February.
Varieties: Student, Tender and True, Arid Hollow Crown, Avonrestister.
Pests: Celery Fly Maggots, Earwigs.
Diseases: Parsnip Canker, Splitting of Roots.

PEAS (Pisum satitum. Leeguminosae) Hardy climbing annual grown as a vegetable for its round seeds within its sometimes edible pods. Height 15" (38 cm) to 72" (183 cm). Probably originates in Egypt.
Cultivation: The soil needs to be well dug and prepared with manure in the autumn or at least three or four months before sowing and a general purpose fertiliser raked in a week before sowing.
Sow: If sowing under glass, a cold frame with ventilation and light, but free from heat should be used, sow in December at a rate of ten seeds to a pot of soil dressed with a handful of potash salts to every twelve plants and thinned to six seeds a pot. These plants should be hardened off and then planted out in a warm aspect mid March. Outdoor sowing should be two weekly starting when the soil has started to dry out in February and continue until June. Sow the seeds 2" (5 cm) to 3" (7 cm) apart in flat-based drills 3" (7 cm) deep and 4" (10 cm) wide. Dust the soil with wood ash before sowing. Dwarf peas should be planted in rows about 24" (60 cm) apart; medium, 48" (122 cm); and tall, 144" (366 cm). Put sticks or canes for the plants to climb up when the plants are 3" (7 cm) high. Water should be given in hot or dry weather as this plant needs moisture to aid the swelling of its fruit.
Harvest: Gather the crop as soon as the fruits have filled their pod.
Varieties: Early May-October : Foremost and Little Marvel. For early sowing in the open : Kelvedon Wonder, Marvellous, Peter Pan and The Pilot. To follow these : Giant Stride, Onward, and Stratagem. These may be followed by Best of All, matchless Marrowfat and Ve”tch’s Perfection. These should carry us well into August Following these with the so-called late peas, such as Autocrat, British Empire and Ne Plus Ultra may be grown in favoured localities.
Pests: Aphids, Millepedes, caterpillars of Pea Moth, Pea Thrips.
Diseases: Damping Off, Downy Mildew, Pusarium Wilt, Grey Mould, Manganese Deficiency, Powdery Mildew, Root Rot, Virus Diseases.

POTATO (Solanum tuberosum. Solanacae) Tuberous rooted perennial grown as an annual vegetable. Probably originates in the originated in the Andes Mountains of south America.
Cultivation: Plant in a deep, sandy, well-drained loam which has been well manured in the autumn.
Sow: Seed that has been saved should be dried in a frost free shed until the skin is set and hard and then stored in trays until required for planting. When three or four shoots appear the seed can be planted, earliest starting in February with the main crop planted in March through to April. The soil should be level and a drill cut to 5" (12 cm) deep and 15" (38 cm) apart. The seed should be planted 15" (38 cm) apart and then covered with a hoe. When the plant starts to show earthing up can begin, keeping the height just below the first leaves of the plant and being carried out about every three weeks. Bought seed is treated in the same way prior to planting. Earlies may be harvested before the tops are dead, but the rest should be left until they are quite dead. Lift one plant deeply and carefully with a fork as a trial and if the skins of the tubers are set the required quantity should be lifted. The tubers may be stored between straw in a frost proof building until required.
Harvest: June and July Spring crop, June and July Second Earlies, September Main crop,
Varieties: Early : Arran Pilot, Duke of York, Home Guard and Ulster Chieftain: Mid-season : Arran Banner, Arran Comrade, Great Scott. Main Crop : Arran Chief, Dunbar Standard, Karr’s Pink, King Edward, Majestic. Red King.
Pests: Aphids, Potato Cyst Eelworm, Slugs.
Diseases: Common Scab, Dry Rot, Gangrene, Internal Rust Spot, Physiological Disorders, Potato Blackleg, Potato Blight, Powdery Scab, Wart disease.

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RADISH (Raphanus sativus. Cruciferae) Hardy biennial root vegetable for salads. Probably originated in China.
Cultivation: A well drained soil that has been enriched with manure and dressed with lime is best to encourage quick grown tender roots.
Sow: Sow the seeds thinly between March and August about 1" (2 cm) deep and about 3" (8 cm) to 4" (10 cm) apart with the larger varieties about 4" (10 cm) to 6" (15 cm) apart. Sowing can start in January with protection from glass in frames or cloches. Outdoor sowing starts in March and continues at two weekly intervals in order to get a succession of crops. Ventilation is required under glass once the seed has geminated, whilst protecting from frosts. Outdoor sowings will require to be kept moist with water to prevent the crop running to seed. Harvest the crop when the roots are young and have filled out. The winter crop should be sown from June to August in drills 9" (22 cm) apart and thinned to 6" (15 cm) apart.
Harvest: Start to pull three to four weeks after sowing.
Varieties: Red Globe Short Top, Red Forcing (early use), Crimson French Breakfast, Scarlet Globe, Sparler (summer use), Turnip Red. Turnip White and Black Spanish (winter use).
Pests: Birds, Codling Moth larvae, Apple sawfly larvae, Aphid s. Caterpillars, Fruit Tree Red Spider mites, Capsid Bugs, Flea Beetle and larvae.
Diseases: Apple Mildew, Brown Rot.

RAMPION (Campanula rapunculus. Pyteuma) Hardy perennial plant with bell flower whose roots are eaten as a salad. Native to the Mediterranean region.
Cultivation: A rich soil is required in a shady position.
Sow: Sow the seed mixed with sand in drills about 10" (25 cm) apart in March or April for use in autumn, and in May for a winter use. Thin out into rows 4" (10 cm) to 8" (20 cm) apart.
Harvest: Lift remaining roots in October onwards and store in sand in a dry frost proof shed.
Pests: Generally trouble free.
Diseases: Generally trouble free.

RHUBARB (Rheum rhaponticum. Polygonaceae) Hardy perennial grown for its edible red stems which is used for a dessert. Originated in China.
Cultivation: Deeply dug soil which has been well manured sheltered from east winds is required.
Sow: Plant roots 60" (152 cm) apart in the spring with the top bud 2" (5 cm) below the surface. The crop should be left uncut during its first season so as to establish itself. A limited number of stems should be harvested in any one year. When harvesting twist and pull the stem from the plant. Flower heads should be cut off the plant. Forcing is carried out on 2 year old plants in early spring by covering the crowns with open ended tubs or pots to prevent light reaching the stems, which are earthed up with a mix of manure and soil. Lift the crowns after the first frost and place in sand in a box protected from the elements for next season. Propagation is by division of the roots every three or four years. Greenhouse forced crowns should be discarded the end of the season.
Harvest: June until August pick when thin and young to get the best flavour.
Varieties: Timperley Early (Early forcing), Hawke's Champagne, Stott's Monarch, The Sultan, Daw's Champion, Victoria (summer use).
Pests: Crown Rot, Bulb Eelworm.
Diseases: Leaf Spot.

ROSEMARY (Rosmarinus. Labiatae) Hardy evergreen flowering shrub whose leaves are used for flavouring. Probably originates from the Mediterranean region.
Cultivation: Similar to lavender this plant likes a semi shaded position in a well drained soil.
Sow: Plant R. officinalis in March and R. lavandulaccus in April and May. Similar to lavender this plant likes a semi shaded position. Propagation is by cuttings in April which can be transplanted in September or the following April. Cut out dead growths in March and keep well shaped and do not let it go straggly.
Harvest: Cut as required.
Varieties: Lavandula, Seven Sea, Albiflorus, Erectus, Fastigiatus, Pyramidalis, Jessop's Upright.
Pests: Generally trouble free.
Diseases: Generally trouble free.

RUE (Ruta. Rutaceae) Hardy evergreen shrub whose leaves are used for flavouring. Probably originated in the Mediterranean or Western Asia region.
Cultivation: Well drained light soil In a sunny position is required for the outdoor crop.
Sow: Should be sown from September to March. Trim back to wood in April to preserve the plants shape and remove the dead flowers in the autumn. The plant is grown for decorative foliage or a low hedge of about 12" - 15" (30 cm - 38 cm) high. The Spring crop is grown in pots filled with a potting compost under glass from March to April for planting out in their permanent positions in September. Cuttings 3" - 4" (8 cm - 10 cm) long can be taken in August and planted in potting compost for planting out the following March.
Harvest: Through the summer.
Pests: Generally trouble free.
Diseases: Generally trouble free.

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SAGE (Salvia officinalis. Labiatae) Hardy evergreen aromatic sub-shrub whose leaves are used as an aromatic culinary herb. Probably originates from Mediterranean and Asia Minor.
Cultivation: Well drained light soil is favoured by this plant.
Sow: Sow in a sunny, sheltered spot in late March or early April. Plant out the seedlings when large enough about 4" (10 cm) apart and transplant to their final position when they are 1 year old. Cuttings with a heel should be taken in April.
Harvest: Pick any time to use leaves fresh preferably before the plant flowers.
Pests: Capsi Bugs.
Diseases: Grey Mould, Powdery Mildew.

SALSIFY (Tragopogon porrifolius. Compositae) Hardy biennial grown as an annual root vegetable. Probably originates from the Mediterranean region.
Cultivation: Sow in a deep, sandy soil. The soil should have been enriched with manure in previous seasons and a deeply dug 10" (25 cm) deep just before sowing.
Sow: Sow thinly in drills 1" (2 cm) deep and 12" (30 cm) apart in April. Thin the seedlings when they are 2" (5 cm) high to 5" or 6" (13 cm - 15 cm) apart.
Harvest: Roots are best left in the ground until required and any unused in February should be dug out before new seed is sown,
Varieties: Giant French. Improved Mammoth, Sandwich Island.
Diseases: White Blister.

SAVORY (Satureja. Labiatae) Hardy annual winter savory and a usually evergreen dwarf perennial sub-shrub grown as a culinary herb whose dry leaves are preferred to the fresh. Probably originates southern Europe and the Mediterranean region.
Cultivate: The plant prefers light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils which are well drained.
Sow: Summer variety should be sown in rich soil in April 12" (30 cm) apart, and seedlings thinned to 9" (22 cm) apart. It can take about 21 days to germinate. The winter variety is the easiest to grow as it does not need sowing yearly with the old plants being divided and replanted in March.
Harvest: Both kinds should give a continuous supply from October onwards about 16 to 25 weeks from sowing.
Pests: Generally trouble free.
Diseases: Generally trouble free.

SCORZONERA (Scorzonera bispanica) Hardy perennial grown for its edible roots. Probably originates Southern Europe and the Near East.
Cultivation: Sow in fertile soil that has been manured during the winter to a spades depth.
Sow: Sow seed between April and May to ¹" (1 cm) deep in drills 15" (38 cm) apart thinning the seedlings until they are between 8" - 15" (20 cm - 38 cm) apart. Keep the bed free from weeds and well hoed so that moisture gets to the roots.
Harvest: Dig the roots from October as required and store away from frost or leave in the ground until the next autumn.
Variety: Giant Russian.
Pests: Generally trouble free.
Diseases: White Blister.

SEAKALE (Crambe maritima. Cruciferae) Hardy perennial grown annually for its 8" (20 cm) - 9" (23 cm) long edible leaf shoots used as vegetable. Probably originates from Eurasia.
Cultivation: The soil should be deeply dug with manure and broken up to be usable.
Sow: Sow seed about 2" (5 cm) deep and about 18" (45 cm) between rows. Germination can takes from 21 days, but can take up to 60 days. Transplant seedlings to about 9" apart when they have six leaves with 18" (46 cm) between rows. Water liberally and give light dressing of manure during the summer months. The next spring allow 24" (30 cm) diameter around each plant. Propagation by root cutting may be found better than seed. Pieces of root about 5" - 6" (13 cm - 15 cm) long and ¹" (1 cm) thick should be planted vertically at the end of March with the bud or top of the wood laid flat to the ground surface with 18" between each set. Keep the surface hoed with a light covering of manure which is watered in. In May remove flowers and weak growth so that strong crowns are formed for forcing in the winter. Water liberally. Blanching is used to produce early roots which should have been lifted the previous November when the leaves have parted from the crowns and stored through the winter in a dry dark frost proof place at a temperature of just below 60°F. The roots are packed closely together and stored in soil that is gently watered and covered with straw or leaves. Forcing takes about three weeks. Forcing can be carried out in the open starting the second week in November under upturned pots surrounded by leaves or manure. Replace roots as the crop is used to get a continuous crop and store uplifted roots in soil to rest and replant.
Harvest: The crop should be cut from March until May when it is between 7" (17 cm) and 12" (30 cm) long, continuation can be brought about by planting new roots under the previous crop.
Variety: Lily White.
Pests: Generally trouble free.
diseases: Club Root, Violet Root Rot.

SHALLOT (Allium ascalonicum. Allianceae) Hardy plant grown as a vegetable for its 1" (2 cm) diameter bulbs and used for pickling. Probably originates from Asia Minor and brought to France.
Cultivation: A well drained soil that has been deeply dug and manured for previous crops is best.
Sow: The top surface should be fairly firm ready to receive the bulbs in February or early March. Place the bulbs firmly in the top of the soil, but not quite covered. They should be 6" to 9" (15 cm - 22 cm) apart and 12" (30 cm) between the rows.
Harvest: During July and August ensure that the soil does not cover the bulbs in order to allow them to ripen and the tops to die down. The bulbs should then be pulled and dried in a light room either by lying on trays or hanging in strings by their tops.
Varieties: Russian is a good variety, and True Shallot for pickling.
Pests: Maggots of Onion Fly, Stem eelworm, Bulb Eelworm.
Diseases: Downy Mildew, Virus Disease, White Rot.

SPINACH (Chenopodiaceae) Annual grown as a vegetable for its leaves. Probably originates from central and southwestern Asian and brought to the Mediterranean region.
Cultivation: The soil should be sandy, or have gravel added, before digging manure deep below the surface in order to strive for a moist consistency.
Sow: Soak the seed in water twenty four hours before sowing in drill 1" (2 cm) below the surface in rows 12" (30 cm) apart and then thin the seedlings when 3" (3 cm) high to 6" (15 cm) to 8" (20 cm) apart. Sow in the open from the end of February in three weekly intervals until early May. Winter supply should be sown in August about 3" (7 cm) apart and 18" (20 cm)) between rows and well watered.
Harvest: September when it takes 50 Days to harvest. Harvest the largest leaves from each plant by rotation with shoots used from Prickly Spinach.
Varieties: Autumn: Victoria Roundleaved, New Zealand, Carter; winter: Prickly or Long Standing spinach.
Pests: Mangold Fly, Millepedes.
Diseases: Damping Off, Downy mildew, Leaf Spot, Magesium deficiency.

Summer Savory (Satureja hortensis) Annual herb. Lilac tubular flowers from July until September with slender bronze green leaves with an aromatic fragrance and grows to a height of 12" to 24" (30 cm to 60Êcm) of Mediterranean origin. Used as a peppery flavouring for salads, soups, stuffing, sausage, and gravy. The leaves are also used as a herb tea. The oil from the flowering shoots is used extensively in perfumery and the crushed leaves have an aromatic fragrance. It also has medicinal uses. Probably originates from southern Europe and the Mediterranean region.
Cultivation: The plant prefers light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils which are well-drained.
Sow: Sow in light moist soil during April in a sunny position and the seeds geminate in two weeks. Do not transplant as it resents disturbance. Allow to self seed the next year.
Harvest: Harvest within two months. Seeds ripen from August to September.
Varieties: Closely related Winter Savory, S. montana.
Pests: Generally trouble free repels insects.
Diseases: Generally trouble free.

SWEET CORN (Zea mays. Gramineae)) Half hardy annual grass with 96" (244 cm) stems surmounted by an upright cluster of seeds on a cob which are edible and eaten as a vegetable. Probably originates in America and grown by Native American tribes.
Cultivation: Plant in sandy free-draining, moisture retentive soil, although it is not too particular about soil type but does like a sunny position. Preparing the bed the previous autumn with well rotted manure will aid growth. Wind pollinated it is best planted in large blocks to allow the male flowers to shed their pollen on the female tassels below and thus allow the cobs to form, producing one or two cobs.
Sow: A propagator is used to germinate the seeds in 7 to 10 days sowing the seed in seed compost 1¹" (3 cm) deep for indoor growing and then transferred to a compost growing bag or outdoor beds. Can be sown outdoors when the soil is warm enough 1¹" (3 cm) deep 12" (30 cm) apart in rows 18" (45 cm) apart.
Harvest: September.
Varieties: Earliking, John Innes Hybrid, syn. “Canada Cross”, Golden Bantam, Kelvedon Glory. Ornamental varieties: Gracillima Variegata, Japonica, Quadricolo, syn. "Gigantea Quadricolor, Rainbow.
Pests: Birds.
Diseases: Generally trouble free.

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TARRAGON (Artemisia dracunculus. Compositae) Hardy perennial herb whose leaves are used for flavouring and vinegar. Probably originates from Mongolia and Siberia.
Cultivation: Plant in sheltered position in October or March in well drained light loam which has been well manured each year.
Sow: Procreation is by root division in March and the rhizomes planted in drills 3" (7 cm) deep with 9" (23 cm) to 12" (30 cm) between each plant with 18" (45 cm) between rows. For winter use lift a few plants and grow on in a cold frame from September. Cut down at end of season.
Harvest: Pick fresh leaves from June until September. Can be frozen.
Pests: Generally trouble free.
Diseases: Generally trouble free.

THYME (Thymus. Labiatae) Hardy evergreen dwarf shrub whose shoots are used as a herb for flavouring. Probably originates from Egypt and Greece to Europe.
Cultivation: The soil bed should be light and rich with the position sunny.
Sow: Raise by 2" (5 cm) heel division in April setting out at 12" (30 cm) intervals in each direction. The plants may be moved to final position if required. Seed may be sown in March and April. it is advisable to make a new bed each year.
Harvest: Pick at any time and use fresh.
Varieties: Common thyme, Garden thyme (t. Vulgaris), Lemon thyme (T. x citrodorus).
Pests: Generally trouble free.
Diseases: Generally trouble free.

TOMATO (Lycopersicon esculentum. Solanaceae) Tender or half hardy procumbent or semi bush annual grown for its edible fruits used in salads and as a cooked vegetable or for chutneys. Originates from western South America and Central America.
Cultivation: Depending on the latitude tomatoes can be grown in favourable conditions in the open air against a south facing wall or fence, but it is preferable to grow them behind glass. The soil should be fibrous loam mixed with sharp sand, leaf mould and well decayed manure for growing in the open. Do not over manure the plants after planting as this may lead to unfruitfulness and lots of green leaves.
Sow: Sow seed in a warm greenhouse 1" (2 cm) deep and 1" (2 cm) apart in a pot or tray at weekly intervals during February and March with a night temperature, 60°F (15 °C) and a day temperature, 70°F (21 °C.) shaded from strong sun until germination has taken place usually from February to July. It takes about fourteen weeks to bring greenhouse varieties from seed to readiness. A March sowing should produce fruit by June. August and September sowings take approximately six months to produce fruit. When 2 leaves have appeared prick out singly in pots in a suitable potting compost with half the stem buried in the compost with a sprinkling of water. Keep the seedlings near the glass in a greenhouse in order to keep the plant short jointed and stop it bolting. Larger pots will be required as they grow with a 10" (25 cm) diameter for fruiting. At about 10 to 12 weeks, the time the first truss of blossoms appears, those being moved outside will need to be moved to a position where it can be about 18" (20 cm) apart and planted firmly. Those plants for greenhouse cultivation will need generous watering to encourage growth, but not over watered to cause saturation. Indoor cultivation will require wire to support the tomato trusses with its highest wire about 9" (23 cm) below the roof glass descending in increments to the ground and supported at intervals along its length at 36" (91 cm) intervals. All side shoots must be nipped off leaving only the flower shoots to break from the main stem and then the heads nipped off when they reach the top wire. Most fruit flowers will set on its own with the help of insects, but some may require a daily powder with an artificial aide, such as a feather or the traditional rabbits foot. Maintain the 55°F to 75°F (13°C - 24°C) temperature as extremes with ample ventilation are essential. For winter cultivation sow seeds in June and July. Plants for outdoor cultivation should be sown in March or April and should be gradually hardened off before planting out towards the end of May. Choose medium loam with good drainage against a south facing wall for outdoor, but they may need protection against frost during the first weeks. Keep well watered with liquid manure, made with water and manure, or proprietary brands to promote rapid growth. As soon as buds appear watering should cease. Stop the side shoots and nip the tops and remove all sprays that show little sign of fruit, stopping the plant at 36" (91 cm) high. Water only during a very servere drought. Mulch during dry weather. When the fruit is slow to ripen cut the trusses and hang up a warm dry greenhouse.
Harvest: Depending on whether the plants are grown indoors or outdoors will depend on when they are ready, generally take about 90 days.
Varieties: Shirley, Best 0f All, Harbinger, Money Maker, and for early sowing Early Market and Sunrise and for outdoors look out for older varieties Essex Wonder, Market King. M.P. or Stonoy.
Pests: Caterpillars Tomato Moth, Potato Cyst Eelworm, Aphids.
Diseases: Blotchy ripening, Damping Off, Foot Rot, Root Rot, Green Back, Grey Mould, Leaf Mould, Magnesium Deficiency, Potato Blight Fungus, Spray Damage, Stem Canker, Tobacco Mosaic, Tomato Mosaic Wilt, Tomato Spotted Wilt, Tomato Viruses.

TURNIP (Bassica rapa. Cuciferae) Half hardy biennial grown as an annual vegetable for its fleshy bulbous root and tender leaves. Probably originated in northeastern Europe or Asia.
Cultivation: A sandy loam which has been deeply dug with manure is required for this crop.
Sow: Sowing can commence in April through until July and continue at four weekly intervals to give a continuous crop taking 50 days to harvest. Thin to 6" (15 cm) apart. Crops for autumn and winter should be sown in the open from July until August. When frosts start cover the roots with leaves or straw to protect the crop.
Harvest: May until September when medium size for the best flavour and to avoid woodyness. In the Spring the crop will start to shoot and these “Turnip Tops” are useful for a Spring vegetable.
Varieties: Red Milan, White Milan, Early Paris Market, Early Sixweeks, Snowball, Redtop Mousetail, Veitch’s Red Globe, Orange Jelly, Golden Ball, Greentop White. Pests: Flea Beetles.
Diseases: Club Root, Damping off, Downy Mildew, Soft Rot, Splitting, Violet Root Rot

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WATERCRESS (Rorippa nasturtium aquaticum, syn. R. microphylla. Nasturtium officinale. Cruciferae) Hardy perennial aquatic vegetable whose young shoots are used for salads. Originates from Europe and central Asia.
Cultivation: A plant best grown in a stream of pure running water with a good gritty bed, although a land variety is now available.
Sow: Plant vigourous shoots 15" (38 cm) long, evenly over the bed in March. If this is a new stream the water should gradually be introduced over a few days until the plants are covered and become established. If water is introduced too quickly the young roots may be torn from the bed.
Harvest: Harvesting can commence in August. This crop can be grown in deep wet trenches with the seed sown in May for harvesting between August and September to give a longer season from the autumn.
Varieties: Brown Water Cress.
Pests: Generally trouble free.
Diseases: Generally trouble free.

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