Gardeners are being encouraged to sow five varieties of seed in April to 'set themselves up for success', according to expert Benedict Vanheems, known as Grow Veg. He describes April as the 'most important sowing month' and stresses the significance of not missing that 'all important sowing window' as milder conditions arrive.
Benedict advises sowing overwintered carrots first, favouring stump-rooted varieties for their superior taste. He warns that slugs love carrot seedlings, so gardeners need to monitor for pests. Carrots are best sown directly into the soil as they do not appreciate being transplanted.
Courgettes are another recommended crop, described as the 'plant that keeps on giving'. They develop quickly from seed to plant, and Benedict prefers to harvest them young for the densest, nuttiest flavour. He advises sowing them three to four weeks before the last frost, starting in pots and transplanting into larger containers before moving outside.
Cucumbers should also be sown now, as they germinate quickly in warmth. The key to success is regular feeding and watering, as inconsistent moisture leads to bitter fruit. Chard is praised for its reliability and productivity, being more tolerant of heat and cold than many greens, but sowing too early can cause premature flowering.
Despite celery's reputation for being difficult, Benedict enjoys growing it from tiny 'dust-like' seeds. He scatters them on the surface of a pot, mists them, and covers with clear plastic to create a snug environment before planting out. Finally, he recommends sowing vegetable-friendly flowers such as marigolds, zinnias, and alyssums to support the garden ecosystem.
