Hassle-free harvests

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

Pick sprouting broccoli shoots before the tight buds open into bitter, bright-yellow flowers. The ones you want for harvesting grow as short shoots coming from the upright main stems. They tend to be

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

When I was a newly qualified gardener in charge of my first vegetable garden, I was brimming with enthusiasm, expectation and excitement. I’d read the books, sat the exams, finished the courses: I cou