Get a head start on your veg patch and borders by sowing slow-maturing seeds now. The new shoots will be a sign of hope in February’s dreary days

Lucy ponders some of the potentially exciting jobs for the fortnight ahead

There’s not much happening outdoors at the moment, but if you follow the prepping advice of these RHS stars, you’re guaranteed a fabulous display later in the year – and you’ll save money too

Aubergines: You can start to sow this crop in February under cover in an unheated greenhouse. Broad beans: Now is a great time for under cover sowings in pots. Brussels sprouts: Use cell trays or litt

Hardy herbs such as chives and thyme can be sown in a heated propagator now, but delay starting tender ones, like basil. Dig up and force small herb plants, moving them into a well lit, gently heated

Spring is arguably the season when a greenhouse becomes worth its weight in gold. Anyone who has ever tried to germinate seedlings on a windowsill and found their home overflowing with the resulting p