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Get a head start on the growing season
It may have started snowing, but that doesn’t mean you have to wait until spring to get planting. In fact, there are plenty of vegetables – from lettuce and peas to carrots – that can be sown right now, even in the depths of winter.
'In January, having a greenhouse is useful when it comes to getting a head start on the growing season,' says Chris Bonnett, founder of GardeningExpress.co.uk. No greenhouse? A cold frame is a more affordable, space-efficient alternative that still offers vital protection from frost.
A heated propagator on a bright windowsill is another easy option. 'This allows you to sow seeds much earlier while the ground outside is still frozen,' Chris explains. That said, some particularly hardy vegetables can be planted outdoors even now, provided conditions are right.
Keen to get going? These are the vegetables you can begin growing this winter.
Fast-growing and fuss-free, radishes are ideal for impatient gardeners. 'Crops like radishes can be started under cover,' says Chris. Sow them in a greenhouse or cold frame and you could be harvesting crisp, peppery roots in as little as three weeks – perfect for brightening winter salads.
Broad beans are hardy enough to cope with low temperatures. While starting them in pots under cover is safest, they can also be sown directly into the ground. Just make sure the soil isn't frozen or waterlogged, advises Chris.
Like radishes, you can start germinating carrot seeds using a cold frame. They are a little slower to mature, which is all the more reason to get them going early. Expect to harvest sweet, crunchy carrots in around two to three months.
Leafy greens are another winter-friendly option. Earthy, peppery rocket grows well in a greenhouse, cold frame or even on a windowsill. It's a great choice for small spaces and regular sowings will keep you supplied with fresh leaves through late winter.
Onions will also grow outside under the right conditions. 'Plant onion sets in well-drained soil, but make sure it is not frozen or waterlogged ground,' says Julian Palphramand, head of plants at British Garden Centres.
Peas are surprisingly tough and will germinate in cold soil, according to Chris. Starting now can mean earlier harvests in spring – just be sure to protect young plants from birds.
Garlic thrives when planted in winter. It can be grown in pots outdoors or planted directly into the ground in January. Cold weather helps bulbs split and develop properly, resulting in stronger plants later on.
You don't have to wait until March to start prepping your spuds. 'Pop early seed potatoes into egg boxes in a cool, bright spot to chit and sprout sturdy shoots,' advises Julian. This encourages short, sturdy shoots and sets them up for planting in early spring.
Lettuce needs protection at this time of year, so a greenhouse or cold frame is essential. Baby leaves can be harvested in as little as three to four weeks, while larger, hearting varieties may take up to eight weeks.
Shallots can be treated much like onions and garlic. Plant the sets pointed end up in well-drained soil, making sure that the ground isn't frozen. Given the right conditions, they'll quietly establish over winter and put on strong growth in spring.
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