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or polytunnel, and cooler conditions outside. It is used to harden off seedlings and young plants by opening the lid on warm days.Cold frameGreenhouses are easily fitted with guttering for rainwater collection, providing a convenient water source. Where possible

-free compost to the bottom of the hole, to aid moisture retention.Water the plant, then gently remove it from the pot. Tease out the roots, then settle the rootball into the hole.Plant deeply, so the top of the rootball is 5-8cm below the soil surface

gently around the plug to ensure the roots spread as the young plant grows.When all the plugs have been planted, water with a fine rose. Keep on a bright windowsill or in the greenhouse for four to five weeks, potting on once for trailing plants, or twice

Two years, I felt the need to grow a local, native plant in my garden. I gathered rosehips from a field rose at the edge of a nearby canal, soaked them in water and sowed the seed in coarse compost.The pots sat in a corner of my patio, doing nothing

and often.When crops fail, it's usually for one of three reasons: because they've been smothered by weeds; they've gone short of water and feed (which makes them tough, stunted or run to seed); or been infested by pests or disease.The big mistake that many

and courgette plants are extremely productive, so you'll harvest generous amounts from a smallish space. Salad leaf seeds are another good investment, as they grow fast and give useful crops from the tiniest patch, or a container.Early and late crops are another

, and what the needs of your plants will be. If you’re planning to grow crops in there all year round, raise seedlings or overwinter tender plants, you’ll need a spot with maximum light and sunshine, away from frost pockets and cold winds.Discover the six

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