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Alys Fowler's top 10 veg plantsWith increased awareness of organic farming, food miles and healthy eating, many more people are trying their hand at growing vegetables. We caught up with Alys Fowler at the Chelsea Flower Show for some tips

for growing in the greenhouse. Plant in large containers and water well.Unusual fruit varietiesBanana 'Dwarf Cavendish'This is the hardiest, most reliable and heaviest cropping fig in northern Europe.Fig 'Brown Turkey'A high yielding outdoor variety that also

Home-grown carrots can't be beaten for flavour. Pulled fresh from the soil, they fill the air with scent and provide that satisfying 'crunch' so often lacking in supermarket crops. Carrots are also rich in nutrients, containing high levels

the soil deeply and adding organic matter to the surface, veg can safely be planted at two-thirds’ normal spacing with no paths between rows, so you pack lots into the space. You can also use large patio containers for certain crops, or create a decorative

-prepared ground. Choose bush varieties and let them ramble over a mulch to eliminate weeding. One or two plants produce plentiful crops and stay productive for weeks (providing you keep picking).Four time-saving veg cropsCourgettes, squashes and patty pansSow seed

seeds such as carrots with sand if it helps to sprinkle them thinly.Sow seeds thinly and evenlyGive away or swap surplus veg seedlings among yourselves. This is ideal when each of you wants just a few plants of several varieties. Suggest the gardening