Weather is cold and frosty, in fact the frost has not lifted all day - so much for global warming - at least it will kill some of the bugs which have been thriving over previous mild winters. Was going to start sowing the broad beans in the greenhouse but compost was frozen so have moved some inside for use as soon as it has thawed. The varieties I had chsoen were the reliable ‘Aquadulce’ and the decorative ‘Crimson-flowered’. This I grew last year with amazing results, not only were the flowers very attractive but the crop was huge and on plants which were sturdy and did not need staking.  Must also sow the onion seeds as soon as possible, these will need some heat to get them going. Have chosen Ailsa Craig and Bedfordshire Champion this year.

I have heard several comments about the germination of sweet peas recently and it may be worth setting out a few guidelines to get the best from these.

If you haven’t sown in the autumn or if you did but experienced difficulties with germination, you can still sow seeds now and up to the middle of March in pots or boxes. It appears the most appropriate time is during the first or second week of February. Choose relatively deep pots or boxes, at this time soak the seed in some warm water for a couple of hours prior to sowing, this just softens the seed coat. Fil the containers to within an inch of the top using a good quality seed compost, sow the seed and cover with approximately three quarters of an inch of compost. Water well and place in a cool spot ideally in a greenhouse or on a shaded windowsill.

Germination should occur within 3 weeks depending on the temperature. As soon as the seed has germinated the plants should be placed in a cool, light position such as a garden frame and given as much air as possible during the day. Little watering should be necessary and then only when the plants show signs of flagging.

Planting out can occur from middle of March providing the plants have been grown hard as described above.

Potato days are now becoming more popular and easier to find. There are several held in the South West. The somerset Potato Day will be at Pylle this year, a change from the venue used for the past 3 years. You can buy potatoes by the single tuber, great if you only have a few patio pots. It will be held on Saturday February 7th from 10.30am - 3.00pm. This new venue has ample parking and is just off the A37

For more details go to www.potato-days.net