What to sow inFebruary

Pinch out the growing tips once the first pods form to discourage blackfly. They'll also ripen faster.

Sow every 3 weeks for a continuous harvest. Pick regularly to keep them producing — leave one pod on and the whole plant slows down.

Drop seedlings into deep holes and just water in — no need to fill the hole. They'll fatten up on their own.

Different varieties for each season — spring, summer, autumn, and winter types. Red cabbage is less bothered by caterpillars.

Fold outer leaves over the curd to keep it white. Cauliflower leaves are delicious too — don't throw them away.

Grow through summer, harvest from autumn through winter. Flavour improves after frost. Start early — they're slow.

Slow to germinate (3-4 weeks) — don't give up on it. Soak seeds overnight in warm water to speed things up. Flat-leaf has the stronger flavour.

Sow seeds on the surface — they need light to germinate. Start early in a propagator. Cutting celery is much easier than trench celery if you're new to it.

Pinch out side shoots on cordon types. Feed weekly with tomato feed once the first truss sets. Don't overwater — flavour comes from a bit of stress.

Start early — they're slow growers. Pinch out the first flower to encourage bushier growth and more fruit overall.

Need heat to germinate — use a propagator or the warmest windowsill you've got. The more sun they get, the hotter the fruit.

Start very early — January isn't too soon. Limit to 5-6 fruits per plant if you want decent-sized aubergines rather than marbles.

Pinch out the growing tips once the first pods form to discourage blackfly. They'll also ripen faster.