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What Vegetables to Plant in February

You’ll want to split what vegetables to plant in February into where you’re going to sow the seeds and how you’re going to grow them.  So we’ll look at vegetable seeds to sow in February inside and what to sow outside.

As I’m writing this, I realize how much of what we grow is started inside, so I think it’s a good idea to mention that we start things off inside the house.  Warm window sills and the front porch.   But this is also a good time to think about whether a small greenhouse or a polytunnel would help your vegetable growing endeavours.  They’re a great (and small) investment and both will last for years.  A mini greenhouse can take up a very small footprint, and a polytunnel a little more space, but they both come in a variety of sizes.   I’ve written about the best of both.

• Best Polytunnel Kits for the UK
• Best Mini-Greenhouses for the UK

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The Best Mini Greenhouse

This mini greenhouse is small, compact and easy to put up and store in the winter. It’s not expensive and its reasonably robust.

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We’re both hands-on when it comes to the garden, so everything we select is easy to put together and doesn’t need any special tools other than what you’d have in a regular toolbox.

Vegetable Seeds to Sow inside in February

February is a great month to start sowing vegetable seeds for those summer harvesting veggies that need a longer season.  Whether your inside is a windowsill, porch, greenhouse or polytunnel, you’ll want to take into account the actual temperature of the “inside”.  If it’s minus 4 outside then the polytunnel or greenhouse will provide some protection, but it is not going to be as toasty as your kitchen windowsill.  Here are our recommendations of what you can easily sow inside in February.

Grow Mushrooms Inside in February

If you read some of my other guides on what vegetables to plant throughout the months, then you’ll see I write about mushrooms a lot.  And that’s because they’re so easy to grow.  Once we bought our first mushroom growing kit we never looked back.  They’re so easy to manage, just add water (regularly) and crop your first mushrooms in about 3 weeks.

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Chestnut Mushroom Growing Kit

The Best Mushroom Growing Kit

This excellent Mushroom Growing kit from the folks at Merryhill Mushrooms is the perfect starter mushroom growing kit and it’s so easy to get started with full instructions

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Plant Chili Peppers Inside in February

We use a lot of chilli in our cooking and it’s one of the ways we save money by growing our fruit, vegetables and spices, we grow what we eat.  So we try and start a chilli plant a month over the winter months – especially seeing as we love to see the chillies growing and adding a splash of colour to the window sills.  (We have crowded windowsills!)

Top Chilli Growing Seed Packs

Chilli Seed Mix

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Chilli Growing Kit

Growing chillies is easy.  You’ll need warmth, sunshine and regular watering.  It’s seriously easy to get started growing chillies with a chilli growing kit – and they help you experiment with new chilli seeds without having to buy a large seed packet. Chilli seeds should start to germinate in about 10 days and then you’ll want to check them regularly and make sure they get enough warmth.  The hotter the chilli on the Scoville scale the warmer the environment they need.

Chit or Sprout Potatoes Inside in February

Growing potatoes in bags is one of the easiest things you can grow.  And digging out your own potatoes is just fabulous.  They taste different from what you’ll buy from the supermarket.  January and February is a good time to start chitting potatoes – again inside – and it’s not hard.  Get your early potatoes started sprouting by standing them in a cardboard egg box on their end on an inside window sill of the porch.  

Once the potatoes have sprouted then we put them into the potato grow bags in the backyard.  If it’s cold, like it is this year, then we’ll keep the potato grow bags inside the mini greenhouse that lives in the backyard until the weather warms up a bit more. Our full guide on how to grow potatoes in bags is here.

Start Tomato Seeds inside in February

Ever since our first year of fruit and veg growing when we grew 480 tomatoes (for the two of us to eat), we’ve loved growing tomatoes.  I adore going outside and picking a ripe tomato off the vine and eating it there and then. The smell and taste are divine.   We invested in a jam and chutney making kit that year to turn the glut of tomatoes into incredible chutneys and tomato relishes that became presents for family and friends that year.  These days we’re somewhat more controlled about how many seeds we plant, but tomatoes are always one of the seeds that we started indoors on the windowsills.  We’ll try and mix it up by trying new varieties, but our out and out favourites for taste and flavour are here.

• Moneymaker Tomatoes
• Gardeners Delight Tomatoes

You can also read some of our tomato growing secrets here.

Vegetables to Start in the Greenhouse or Polytunnel in February

If you do have a greenhouse or polytunnel then there are a variety of seeds that you can sow undercover.   Always take into account the regional variations in the temperature and check the seed packet, but you should be able to sow these veggie seeds undercover.

• Leeks – these heirloom leek seeds are fab – buy now
• Spinach – these perpetual Spinach seeds are fabulous
• Carrots – these are a great option for growing carrots in pots
• Rocket and Mizuna Salad Leaves – this rocket is really tasty and easy to grow
• Beetroot – Boltardy beetroot seeds are such a great option
• Early Peas > Read about how to grow peas in a pot here

Don’t have a greenhouse yet? Check out our guide to mini-greenhouses and get started this year!

Vegetable Seeds to Sow Outside in February

I’ll preface this section by saying, sowing vegetable seeds outside in February very much depends on whereabouts in the UK you are, what the local conditions are and what the weather is like that year.   Realistically, it’s unlikely that you’ll be able to plant any vegetables outside in February without a cloche, greenhouse or polytunnel. As I write the ground is frozen here and looks set to be for the next week or so.

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The Best Polytunnel Kit

This polytunnel is a great starter kit for your first tunnel. It’s easy to construct, pretty robust and a good price too!

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Plant Rhubarb Crowns in February

We’re a big proponent of making it easy to grow fruit and veg and that’s why we’d recommend buying a rhubarb crown rather than growing rhubarb from seed.  That’s because you shouldn’t harvest rhubarb until its second year.  So a rhubarb crown (a year old plant) means you can skip the “early years” and get right to the harvest at the end of your first year. 

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You can plant rhubarb crowns in the spring and autumn months and plant dormant crowns in February, assuming that the ground isn’t frozen.  We get around the vagaries of the weather by growing rhubarb in pots and keeping them inside the polytunnel until it’s a little warmer.

All our monthly vegetable planting guides

• What vegetables to plant in January
• What vegetables to plant in February
• What vegetables to plant in March
• What vegetables to plant in April
• What vegetables to plant in May
• What vegetables to plant in June
• What vegetables to plant in July
• What vegetables to plant in August
• What vegetables to plant in September
• What vegetables to plant in October
• What vegetables to plant in November
• What vegetables to plant in December

Final words on Vegetables to Plant in February

February in the vegetable garden is a great time to get a head start on those vegetables that have a long growing season.  Tomatoes are a great example, get them started inside ready for summer harvesting.   If you’re lucky enough to have a greenhouse or polytunnel, then you’ll be able to sow many vegetable seeds inside so that they’ll be ready to transplant later in the year.  Get the potatoes chitting, and keep your window sills full – whether it’s glorious smelling herbs or the colour of a chilli plant.  It may be cold outside, but there’s a whole lot of hope for the garden in the year ahead!

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The Best Chilli Growing Kits

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The Best Chilli Growing Kit

This is the best general chilli growing kit you can get. It has a great slection of chilli seeds and includes all you need to get started growing chillies!

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I always think that when you start to grow anything you should try for the simplest way to do it that has the best chance of a quick return.  This will quickly build your confidence to try different things.  And growing chillies is a great example of that.  We’ve grown chillies on windowsills for years and with varying degrees of success.  Here are the highlights of the best chilli growing kits and you can also read more about growing chillies generally further down this article.

Want to read more about how to grow chillies?  Here’s our in-depth guide to the best of growing chillies at home.

What are Chilli Growing Kits?

Chilli growing kits are simple.  They contain everything that you need to get started growing chillies.  They’ll give you enough seeds to grow several plants of a range of varieties – there’s no need for a huge investment in large packets of seeds.  All the chilli growing kits that we recommend – like our favourite chilli growing kit here – come with full instructions and some even come with help if you get stuck.  You’ll get details of what you’ll need to do in terms of watering, temperature requirements and also the best location for your chillies while you are growing them. 

Details of Chilli Growing Kits	Highlights	What It Looks Like	Read Reviews & Buy Now!
Best Chilli Growing Kit	Simple to use provides 5 varieties of red hot chillies in a single gift box Easy to Use designed with beginners in mind Seed varieties include- anaheim, jalapeno, cayenne, habanero and naga jolokia Easy to follow instructions	Check Prices & Buy Now	Read reviews and buy now
Best Hot Chilli Growing Kit	Simple to use provides 4 packets of seeds 100% non-GMO heirloom chilli seed varieties – Carolina Reaper, Trinidad Scorpion, Habanero Chocolate and Yellow Hot Scotch Bonnet Includes four varieties of the worlds hottest chilli seeds, four fabric grow bags, four expanding coco coir potting soil disks for planting your seeds, four bamboo plant markers, chilli plant feed, our very own seed growing guide including recipe section and a real wood gift box planter with drip tray Easy to follow instructions	Click for a Bigger Image	See more reviews and buy now
Best Chilli and Sweet Pepper Growing Kit	Extreme Hot Chillies Collection – includes Cayenne, Naga Ghost, Habanero Orange, Serrano, Habanero Rogue, and Thai Birds Eye seeds. With approximately 55 seeds, these red-hot varieties bring heat and flavor to any dish Mild & Sweet Chillies & Peppers Collection – Ideal for those who prefer a more moderate heat, this collection features Anaheim (Mild), Yellow Ball (Sweet), Chocolate Paprika (Mild), Traffic Light Mix (Sweet), Jalapeno (Mild), and California Mix (Sweet) peppers, totaling around 62 seeds of colorful and flavorful varieties	CHILLIS AND PEPPERS	Check reviews and buy here.

What Types of Chilli Growing Kits are there

The basic chilli growing kits focus on the heat of the chilli pepper.  (there’s a guide to chilli heat ratings here).   We’ve focused on chilli growing kits that give you hot chillies, but also those that include spices that you’re likely to use in recipes alongside your chillies.  There’s also chilli and sweet pepper growing kits and a kit that is vegan friendly too.   We’ve included: 

• The Best Chilli Growing Kit UK
• The Best Hot Chilli Growing Kit
• The Best Chilli and Sweet Pepper Growing Kit
• The Best Vegan-Friendly Chilli Growing Kit

All the chilli growing kits we have selected are designed for a UK climate and are available for the UK market.  That means that they’re designed to be grown indoors – and by indoors we mean inside your house rather than inside a greenhouse.  If you have a heated greenhouse then we are incredibly envious and happy to report that you can grow these chillies inside that too.

Where should you start?  What type of chillies should you grow?

What Variety of Chillies Should you Grow?

Start simple.  There’s no point (to me anyway) in growing something that you’re not going to use.  So look at the heat of chillies that you’re likely to use in your recipes and start there.  If you prefer milder chillies and sweet peppers, then take a look at our favourite chilli and sweet pepper kit.  

If you start by growing chillies that you normally buy (and don’t forget you can preserve and store chillies too – read our guide to how to do that here, then you’ll be using your green-fingered skills to save money – which will give you more money to spend experimenting on more chillies to grow!

What to Look for in a Chilli Growing Kit

The main thing to look for in a chilli growing kit is the type of chilli seeds it comes with.  Then you’ll want to look at the materials that it includes and what else you might need to buy as the chilli plants grow.   Also, look for the temperature requirements where your chilli plants will live.  Most of the time, our chilli plants live in the kitchen window as that tends to be the sunniest and warmest window sill in the house.

Types of Chillies You Can Grow With a Chilli Growing Kit

Each different chilli growing kit comes with a variety of seeds for different chillies.   From habanero to Scotch Bonnets you’ll find a huge variety of seeds.   Once you have success growing chillies from kits, then you can extend your chilli growing reach.  The folks at Crocus have a HUGE variety of different chilli seeds here.

The Best Chilli Growing Kit

We’ll start with the simplest and easiest chilli growing kit.   This is one of the best selling chilli growing kits in the UK.  If you’re a beginner at chilli growing, then this is the perfect place to start and one of the best chilli growing kits for beginners. 

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This chilli growing kit comes with everything you need for growing chillies – and the instructions are really easy to follow too.  Check other reviews and buy now!

Key benefits of this hot chilli growing kit

• Simple to use provides 5 varieties of red hot chillies in a single gift box
• Easy to Use designed with beginners in mind
• Seed varieties include- anaheim, jalapeno, cayenne, habanero and naga jolokia
• Easy to follow instructions

Buy now  – This is a great starter chilli growing kit or a fabulous gift for friends and family.

The Best Hot Chilli Growing Kit

Hand-packed from a family company in the North East of England, this super hot chilli growing kit focuses on FOUR of the world’s hottest chilli varieties.  You’ll get fabric grow bags, four sachets of seeds, four expanding coco coir potting soil disks, bamboo plant marker, chilli plant feed, a seed growing guide AND a wooden gift box planter with a drip tray too! Hot chillies are a perfect fruit for preserving through drying. Read about drying chillies here.

Click for a Bigger Image

This chilli growing kit comes with everything you need for growing chillies – and the instructions are really easy to follow too.  Check other reviews and buy now!

Key benefits of this hot chilli growing kit

• Simple to use provides 4 packets of seeds
• 100% non-GMO heirloom chilli seed varieties – Carolina Reaper, Trinidad Scorpion, Habanero Chocolate and Yellow Hot Scotch Bonnet
• Includes four varieties of the worlds hottest chilli seeds, four fabric grow bags, four expanding coco coir potting soil disks for planting your seeds, four bamboo plant markers, chilli plant feed, our very own seed growing guide including recipe section and a real wood gift box planter with drip tray
• Easy to follow instructions

Buy now  – This is an amazing HOT, HOT, HOT chilli growing kit from a family firm in the North East of England.

The Best Chilli and Sweet Pepper Growing Kit

Everything you need to grow chillies and sweet peppers all in one box.  You’ll get a packet of seeds of each of the 12 varieties of chillies and sweet peppers.  This is a great option to cover all heat varieties – the sweet peppers are delicious and so colourful on a salad, while the chillies will spice things up too!

CHILLIS AND PEPPERS

This chilli AND sweet pepper growing kit is an awesome option for brightly coloured salads too!  Check other reviews and buy now!

Key features of this chilli AND sweet pepper growing kit

• Complete Chilli & Pepper Seed Collection – Spice up your garden or kitchen with 12 different varieties of chillies and peppers, carefully selected to provide a range of heat levels and flavors. This bumper pack is divided into two exciting collections: Extreme Hot Chillies and Mild & Sweet Chillies & Peppers
• Extreme Hot Chillies Collection – For those who love a fiery kick, this collection includes Cayenne, Naga Ghost, Habanero Orange, Serrano, Habanero Rogue, and Thai Birds Eye seeds. With approximately 55 seeds, these red-hot varieties bring heat and flavor to any dish
• Mild & Sweet Chillies & Peppers Collection – Ideal for those who prefer a more moderate heat, this collection features Anaheim (Mild), Yellow Ball (Sweet), Chocolate Paprika (Mild), Traffic Light Mix (Sweet), Jalapeno (Mild), and California Mix (Sweet) peppers, totaling around 62 seeds of colorful and flavorful varieties
• Non-GMO Seeds – Our chilli and pepper seeds undergo stringent quality control to ensure high germination rates. Grown naturally in the Netherlands and hand-packed in the UK, these Non-GMO seeds promise reliable growth and bountiful harvests

Buy now  – Get started growing sweet peppers and chillis with this fabulous value growing kit.

Why use Chilli Growing Kits?

I love using fruit and vegetable growing kits when it’s new to me.  Chilli growing kits (and indeed other vegetable growing kits) let you experiment with growing a new fruit or vegetable without buying oodles of seeds and kit to see whether it works for you.  We have had GREAT success with growing mushrooms from kits too! 

Chilli growing kits make growing chillies easy, and using a chilli growing kit enables you to grow different varieties of chillies with ease, without a huge investment and quickly.  Because growing things quickly and seeing success will give you the impetus to grow more – that’s what makes chilli growing kits an excellent gift for vegetable gardeners!

All our guides to the best growing kits

• The hydroponic starter kits
• The best mushroom growing kits
• The best herb growing kits

FAQs on Chilli Growing and Chilli Growing Kits

Got a question about growing chillies and chilli growing kits?  If we haven’t answered your questions in this article, why not add a comment and we’ll answer and also include our answer in these most frequently asked questions about chilli growing kits.

What Conditions do Chillies Need to Grow in?

Chillies need a sunny, warm position.  The hotter the chilli on the Scoville scale, the warmer the location it needs – a warm, protected position helps the chillies to develop taste, heat and flavour.   You can grow chillies outside, but it needs to be warm and sunny.  Chillies will thrive on sunny windowsills indoors.

Once you’ve started growing chillies at home, you can use them in recipes, like this one for Spinach,Yoghurt and Baked Tofu Curry.

What’s the Best Place to Grow Chillies in the UK?

If you have a heated greenhouse then that’s a perfect place to grow chillies in the UK.  We don’t.  And we grow chillies on windowsills that catch the sun.  That, for me, is the best place to grow chillies in the UK. If you have a greenhouse, then in the warmer months your chillies will flourish in it. (Read our guide to mini-greenhouses here.)

Can you Grow Chillies Outside?

Yes, you can grow chillies outside, BUT,

Yes, chillies can be grown outside.  Chillies that are grown in the garden take much longer to grow – as they’ll be getting a lot more light than inside, where you can more effectively control light sources.  Outdoor grown chillies can take from 6 months to THREE years to grow. 

How much water do chillies need to grow?

It’s the age-old answer.  Don’t overwater your chillies, but make sure that they have enough water to turn the white flowers that they produce into the chilli fruits.  You’ll want to check that the compost is not drying out and water two-three times a week.  We also recommend spraying your chilli plants with water, this will avoid overwatering or watering from the base into a tray.

Do chilli plants need sun or shade?

Chillies will thrive in a full sun situation.  Chillies will also grow in semi-shade, but they won’t produce as many fruits as they would in full sun.   You’ll also need to ensure that your chilli plants it away from strong wins and receives regular watering, without which they are unable to produce the white flowers which then turn into the chilli fruits.

When do you plant chilli seeds?

The traditional time for sowing seeds for chilli plants is from February to April.   We have grown chilli plants indoors all year round – but you will need an average temperature from 18 to 21 degrees and you’ll need decent compost (read our guide to compost here) and a good sunny location for your chilli plants.

How long will it take to grow chillies?

Some chilli plants will produce ripe fruit just two months from sowing the seed.  Other chilli plants take as long as 4 months.  Always check the seed packet or the details in the chilli growing kit that you buy.

What is the best fertilizer for chilli plants? 

You can buy a specific fertilizer designed for chilli plants (we recommend this one), or tomato fertilizers will work well too.

Can you grow chillies indoors all year round?

Yes, you can grow chillies indoors all year round.  You can start to grow chillies from seed inside from January.  Chillies will thrive on a warm sunny windowsill, or under artificial lights and can provide a welcome splash of colour when they begin to fruit.

Do chillies come back every year?

Yes.   Chilli plants are perennials and can actually produce fruits for several years.  However, it is the cold that tends to kill them off each year.  If you provide the right conditions for your chilli plants it can come back the next year and produce chillies for many a season.

Final Words on the Best Chilli Growing Kits

One of the best ways to have access to fresh edible chillies is to grow them yourself.  And when you’re a beginner fruit and veg grower, there’s no better way than to use a growing kit.  You’ll get all the equipment you need to get started, a variety of seeds – and in a LOT of cases a guarantee that the provider will replace the seeds if they don’t germinate!  So long as you have access to a warm sunny window sill you can grow chillies all year round in the UK, so why not get started now with a fabulous chilli growing kit.  And don’t stop there!  These chilli growing kits make fabulous gifts for friends and family too!

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Why you need our Tomato Growing Secrets

Normally tomatoes need great sunshine and heat to grow to their best potential.  A warm environment is essential and tomatoes that are grown indoors in colder climates tend to have less taste as they’re grown with the assistance of chemicals and/or artificial light.  Growing tomatoes when it’s colder or in the winter needs time and effort, and in return, you will get delicious tomatoes. Here are some of the best secrets for growing tomatoes in colder weather.

10 Secrets for Growing Tomatoes

There are a few key requirements when it comes to growing tomatoes successfully and once you have these down you’ll have no problems growing tomatoes – here’s our guide and 10 secrets to growing awesome tomatoes.

Tomato Growing Secret 1:  Tomatoes Need Light

Our first secret to growing tomatoes requires a lot of light. During winter in the UK, sunlight is not sufficient to grow and ripen your tomatoes.  Tomatoes require large amounts of sunlight, especially in their early stages of growth.   You’ll need to try and get 10-12 hours of artificial light to a young tomato plant to allow it to grow rapidly.  Once it starts to mature then a greenhouse (read our mini greenhouse guide here) will help it grow further and produce fruit.  You can start tomatoes off inside and move them outside for the summer season.

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The Best Mini Greenhouse

This mini greenhouse is small, compact and easy to put up and store in the winter. It’s not expensive and its reasonably robust.

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You won’t need artificial light if you’re growing tomatoes in a greenhouse, just remember to water them as they can dry out quite quickly, especially when they are fruiting. If you want to know about growing tomatoes indoors with artificial light, then take a look at our guide to hydroponic fruits here.

We use collected rainwater as much as we can, when that’s not possible, we use space-saving expandable hoses – check out our guide to expanding hoses here. 

Tomato Growing Secret 2  – Getting Your Tomatoes off to a good start is easy

Whether you’re growing tomatoes from seeds that you’ve saved from tomatoes or from tomato seeds that you’ve bought, you want to give them a good start.    An easy way to do this is to use a paper cup, or a coffee filter or a cardboard egg box.  Add a small amount of compost, sprinkle the compost with tomato seeds (one per cup/filter/egg slot).  Gently water.  After a few days, you’ll see sprouts coming through.  When the size of the tomato seedling is about 2-3 centimetres then you want to cut away excess paper cup/filter paper or cardboard egg container and plant it in a pot.   If you’re not using tomato grow bags (or an oblong container), then you’ll have better success with pots if you only plant one tomato plant per pot.  Read about the best compost to use for vegetables including tomatoes here.

Tomato Growing Secret 3:  Plant the seed quite deeply

As we’ve mentioned Tomatoes need a good warm environment to grow, so you’ll want to sow the tomato seeds (and young plants quite deep in your compost – meaning that the seed and young plant get the insulation of the compost or soil.  When you transfer your tomato plants to either their own pots or a grow bag – in what will be their forever home, be sure to put your supporting stake not too close – you don’t want it hindering the growth of the tomato plant. These tomato seeds are brilliant for home growing!

Tomato Growing Secret 4: – Keep the compost warm in cold weather

Tomatoes grow better in a warm environment.  If you’re in a colder climate, then the soil takes some time to warm up and this will stunt the growth of your tomatoes.  To increase the heat of soil or compost, just cover the plant with insulating material while is it seeding and growing.   Don’t just think about the temperature of the soil during the day, but also at night as well. We recommend this compost from Miracle Gro if you’re not using a specific tomato grow bag.

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The Best Multi Purpose Compost

When you buy compost for veg growing you want something that’s multi purpose and great quality. This compost is perfect for giving your veg the best nutrients.

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Tomato Growing Secret 5:  Pick Your Growing Spot Carefully

From the beginning – well from the point when your tomatoes have progressed into their forever homes, you’ll want to choose a place where there is enough sunlight.  A tomato plant will flourish the best if it gets 8-10 hours of sunlight a day.  Tomatoes are a fast-growing veggie – want more of those?  Here’s our guide to the easiest fast-growing vegetables to grow.

Tomato Growing Secret 6:  Give Tomatoes their Space!

To produce a good harvest, your tomato plants need a lot of nutrients (which is one of the reasons that we’re feeding them right?) and this means that they need enough space in which to live and grow.  This is a key secret to growing large tomatoes.  So when you’re growing tomatoes in pots or containers or bags you need to make sure that your plants have enough compost or soil around them.  This compost is brilliant for tomatoes.  You can grow 3 or 4 tomato plants in a tomato grow bag – our guide to the best tomato grow bags is here.

Tomato Growing Secret 7:  Get the Stake in Early

To give your tomato plant the support that it needs you need to stake or support it properly. Those fruits are going to be heavy for it then you’ll need to keep your soil moist (don’t let it dry out) and you need to use a supporting stake. 

How to stake tomatoes

Tomato support stakes can be bamboo, or twigs or sticks, they don’t need to be fancy.  But they do need to be inserted into your pot early on.  Too late and you run the risk of slicing straight through the roots of the tomato and that will not end well for your growing season.  It’s best to put the stake in when you move tomato seedlings to their forever home.  Remember, not too close, this plant is going to grow bigger.  If you’re using a gardener’s string to attach them to the stake, then do NOT tie them too tightly.  Leave it relatively loose then you can adjust as the plant grow.

Supporting tomato plants in pots is very similar to supporting tomato plants in a greenhouse. In a greenhouse, you can attach canes and gardeners string to the framework of the greenhouse. It’s slightly different if you want to support tomato plants in grow bags.

How to stake tomatoes in grow bags

Supporting tomatoes in grow bags and staking tomatoes in grow bags is different from providing support in a pot.

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Levington Tomato Bags

The Best Tomato Grow Bag

This tomato grow bag really is the best in the business. It’s really good, easy to used and just the number one around.

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The grow bag doesn’t provide a solid structure, so you’ll need to create a frame of canes to support your tomato plants.

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Tomato Growing Secret 8:  Grow different varieties of tomatoes

There are many types of tomatoes – you shouldn’t stop at just growing one variety.  You’ll find that tomatoes are sensitive to heat (as in they like it!) and watering conditions (you need to keep a steady program of watering them).  Experiment by growing different varieties of tomatoes to work out what’s best for your garden, yard or greenhouse. If you’re particularly impatient, then make sure you go for fast-growing tomato plants!

Tomatoes will fruit at different times. They have different tastes. Some varieties prefer to be grown in hanging baskets, others need more heat and warmth. When selecting which variety of tomato to grow you need to work out where you will be growing your tomatoes (in a greenhouse, outside, in a pot, in the ground).

Tomato Growing Secret 9 – Water = Life

Your tomato plant will need water on a daily basis.  Sometimes tomatoes will need watering twice a day, especially when the temperature is high.  Don’t wait until your tomato plant starts to wilt.  No matter how good you are to your tomato plants they will have dead branches.  Just cut them off, there’s no point in your tomato plant giving them any more energy when it’s obvious that they’re dying.  You can leave them in the base of the plant pot, they will rot down and provide additional nutrition.  Obviously, remove them if it looks like they have pests or some form of rot on them.

You can also grow tomatoes in water. No compost. And all year round. If you want more details on growing tomatoes in water – then read our guide to hydroponics here.

Tomato Growing Secret 10:  Feed your tomato

This probably isn’t a secret unless you’re an absolute beginner.  Tomatoes need food to give their best tasting harvest.  Ensure that you have a steady supply of water – we check morning and evening.  You’ll also want to feed your tomatoes.  Read my guide on the best tomato feed here.

We use and recommend Tomorite Tomato feed > buy yours here

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Levington Tomorite Concentrated Tomato Food 1 Litre

The Best Tomato Feed

This tomato feed is the best in the business. It’s great for giving your tomatoes everything they need to deliver the best and tastiest fruits.

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The general rule of thumb is to follow the advice from the tomato feed manufacturer – but you should feed little and often.  Water the compost around the base of the plant.  You’ll want to be careful, especially when it’s hot, not to water the leaves or the fruit, as this will help the sun to burn your plant. Once your fruits have set, then you’ll want to feed twice a week with a liquid specialist tomato feed.

And once you’ve got a good crop of tomatoes you’ll want to use them in some of our fabulous recipes, like this one for Spinach, Yoghurt and Baked Tofu curry.

FAQs on Tomato Growing Secrets

Got questions about how to grow great tomatoes?? Or want to know what to look for with successful tomato growing and growing better tomatoes and we haven’t answered your questions?  Check out our frequently asked questions about the secret to growing tomatoes below, or ask us yours in the comments.

How do you stake up tomato plants?

There are a variety of methods to stake up tomato plants, but in essence, all you need to do is provide support for the plant as it grows. The best material to use is bamboo cane and gardeners twine. I always tie my twin in a releasable knot or bow, as then I can use the twine again, and also move it when the tomato plant grows.

When do you stake up tomato plants?

I think it’s best to stake your tomato plants as early as possible. Certainly no later than a month after transplanting them to their forever home. You want to get the stake in early so that you avoid damaging the roots when placing the stake in the pot or ground.

How to collect seeds from tomatoes

Collect seeds from tomatoes at the end of the season when the fruits are ripe. Simply scoop the seeds out of the tomato fruit and place them in a sieve. Rinse them under running water (cold). Rub the seeds against the metal of the sieve to remove their sticky coating and then spread the tomato seeds on a bit of kitchen towel and leave to dry. When they are completely dry fold up the paper, make sure you label it and store it with the rest of your seeds – somewhere cool and dry.

What is the best tomato feed UK market?

You can buy dry or liquid tomato fertilizer. I prefer liquid tomato feed and while I recommend Vitax and Tomorite, I seem to end up using Tomorite more often – Buy Tomorite tomato feed here

When to feed tomatoes?

You should begin feeding your tomatoes when the first truss of tomatoes has set. This means that when the first lot of flowers start to form into tiny tomatoes. If you feed earlier you are likely to just increase the number of leaves that the plant has. Once the first truss has set follow the instructions on the tomato feed – this is usually not less than once a week. Here’s our recommended tomato feed

What is the best compost for tomatoes?

The best compost for growing tomatoes is a compost that holds moisture and nutrients, but that also drains well, so that your tomatoes don’t get soggy. A multi-purpose compost will work well, so long as you continue to feed the tomato plants.

Can I grow tomato plants during winter?

Yes. you can grow tomatoes in winter. You can actually grow tomatoes all year round. However, they will need light and heat. Some of the easiest tomatoes to grow year-round at hydroponic tomatoes. You can grow tomatoes in a specially designed desktop grower easily and quickly.

Can you grow tomatoes near oregano?

You need to be careful when planting other crops near tomatoes. I’ve covered details of what companion planting is in my guide here. But I also specifically write about growing tomatoes with oregano here.

Our favourite recipes for using tomatoes in

• Amazingly fresh tabbouleh salad
• Extend the life of your tomatoes – here’s how to dehydrate tomatoes!

Final Words on the Secrets to Growing Tomatoes

So what is the secret to growing tomatoes? There is no one secret. There are a series of tried and tested techniques that will help you grow tomatoes at home. We hope that we’ve covered the top secrets of growing tomatoes here. We love growing great tomatoes, they taste so much better than those bought from the store.  And there is something just so nice about taking them off the vine and eating them soon afterwards.  Tomatoes can be easy to grow, they need a few items in order for that to happen and a few little touches to make them flourish.  We hope you’ll have success in growing tomatoes with our tomato growing secrets and that the homegrown taste is worth it!

LetsGrowCook is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com, amazon.co.uk, amazon.ca. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates

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The Best Rhubarb Crowns

You can preorder these Rhubarb Crowns to be delivered during planting season. They’re a great selection and this is the fastest way to grown rhubarb.

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Why grow rhubarb?

The vegetable rhubarb really is one of the easiest vegetables to grow, despite the fact that most people associate it as a fruit!  It’s very hardy, likes cold weather and is perennial, so you don’t have to reinvest year after year.  In fact, your rhubarb plant should keep producing for 10 years or more!  Rhubarb works well in pies, desserts and jams, it can also be eaten raw! Read more about other perennial vegetables in our guide here.

Which variety of rhubarb should you grow?

You’ll find a whole host of rhubarb varieties to grow.  The best rhubarb variety for UK climates is covered here.  Your first rhubarb plant is likely to be a cutting from someone else, but if not and if you get the choice, then here’s a primer on our five favourite varieties of rhubarb.

What is the best Rhubarb variety for UK climate?

NOTE: You can buy Rhubarb Crowns and Seeds from Amazon.

• Champagne Rhubarb Seeds and Champagne Rhubarb plants: this is easy to grow and reliable, colours a glorious deep red if left, and takes on a pink stalk if forced. Buy Champagne Rhubarb Crowns now!
• Rhubarb Delight : this variety has dark green and red stems with a long harvesting season. Delight rhubarb is particularly disease resistant. > Get Delight Rhubarb here
• Fulton’s Strawberry Surprise Rhubarb this variety of rhubarb was voted best flavour in RHS Wisley trials and has vivid red stems.  Buy Fulton’s Strawberry Surprise Rhubarb here
• Rhubarb Glaskins Perpetual – this variety is easy to grow and is one of the varieties that can be harvested, albeit lightly in its first year if you started it inside during winter. Buy Glaskin Perpetual Rhubarb seeds now.
• Rhubarb Raspberry Red – this variety is a favourite because it can be harvested early without the need for forcing. It has a very sweet flavour and has deep red thick stalks. Buy Raspberry Red Rhubarb Now

What is the best Rhubarb for pots?

Each of these varieties of rhubarb are great for growing in containers.

• Champagne Rhubarb Seeds and Champagne Rhubarb plants – Buy Champagne Rhubarb Crowns now!
• Rhubarb Delight- Get Delight Rhubarb here
• Fulton’s Strawberry Surprise Rhubarb –  Buy Fulton’s Strawberry Surprise Rhubarb here
• Rhubarb Glaskins Perpetual – Buy Glaskin Perpetual Rhubarb seeds now.
• Rhubarb Raspberry Red – Buy Raspberry Red Rhubarb Now

Different ways to grow rhubarb

You can grow rhubarb from seed, from crowns or from what’s called a division.  Beginner gardeners might find it easier to grow from a crown or division.  A rhubarb crown is a plant that is at least one year old.  You can crop from these plants in the first harvesting season after planting.  If you’re growing rhubarb from seed, then you shouldn’t harvest until the second year.  A division is just that, a part of a rhubarb crown.  You can harvest from them in the second year after planting.

So, for ease, and quicker harvesting, go for a rhubarb crown. > Buy Rhubarb Crowns Now

What is forcing rhubarb?

The term forcing rhubarb means forcing it to produce an earlier harvest.  The way to do this is to cover the rhubarb plant to stop light from getting to it.  You can buy specific forcing pots to do this – these are large, usually terracotta, pots that cover the entire plant.   You can also use a dustbin or a bucket over the top of the whole rhubarb.

Put the forcing pot over the top of the rhubarb at the first sign of growth.  If you ensure that no light gets to it, that and the heating that’s provided by the cover quickly makes your rhubarb ripen.  It can be ready to eat within 3-4 weeks.  You’ll know that the rhubarb is ready when the stems have reached the top of the container.  It’s best not to try and force rhubarb for two consecutive years – if you’re going to want early rhubarb each year, then grow a few plants and rotate the rhubarb forcing between them. Read about the health benefits of rhubarb here.

When should you plant rhubarb?

When to plant rhubarb depends on how you are growing it.  Crowns of rhubarb and rhubarb divisions are best planted in spring or autumn.  You’ll want the soil to be warm and moist.  If you’ve started rhubarb from seed in a pot, then you can plant it out at any time, provided that the soil isn’t either completely dry, waterlogged or frozen.

How to plant Rhubarb crowns

Plant your rhubarb crown as soon after you buy it as you can. If the roots are compacted then try and tease them out a little. You’ll need a 15-centimetre deep hole in the new pot that you’re going to grow your rhubarb in. Place it in carefully and backfill with compost. There’s no need to cover any of the stalks or leaves with soil.  Give your new rhubarb plant a good watering. Make sure it gets some sunshine while it establishes itself.

When to plant Rhubarb crowns

You can plant rhubarb crowns in Spring or Autumn months.

Where to grow rhubarb

The primary thing to remember about rhubarb is that it doesn’t like moving, so when you’re looking at where to plant rhubarb you’re best to try and find it a permanent home from the start, transplanting rhubarb can be difficult.  

What is the best place to grow rhubarb?

Rhubarb grows well in sunny locations but will also thrive in semi-shade.  You’ll need to make sure that it’s planted in well-drained, but moist soil.

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Growing rhubarb in the garden

Planting rhubarb directly into the garden is the most common way of growing it.   However, you will need to ensure that you plan for the most optimal area of your garden for rhubarb as moving rhubarb plants can be challenging.   Rhubarb does not react well to moving and if you mistime this your rhubarb plant may not survive.

Growing rhubarb in a pot

We think that rhubarb grown in pots is the best way to grow rhubarb.  Regardless of the size of your garden, if you grow rhubarb in a pot you will be able to move your rhubarb pots around the garden to take advantage of changing conditions.  Buy rhubarb plants and get started now!

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When to move rhubarb

Rhubarb doesn’t usually like being moved – and by this, we mean that if you plant it in the ground, digging it up again is going to upset its growing cycle.  Equally, if you are growing rhubarb in a container, then you want to try and make sure you plant it in its “forever” container as soon as possible, to avoid the moving of it.  If you are growing rhubarb from seed, then usually at about the 2-week mark you’ll want to move it to its forever home.

Growing rhubarb indoors

Many commercial rhubarb growers grow rhubarb indoors, which allows the rhubarb to be forced.    These commercial growers of rhubarb use hothouses or special forcing sheds, but you can “force” rhubarb in a garage, shed or cellar.

How to Grow Rhubarb in a Pot

You can start to grow rhubarb in 3 different ways.  You can buy seed and grow rhubarb from seed, you can buy a one-year-old rhubarb plant, a baby rhubarb plant, also called a rhubarb crown or you can take a cutting of rhubarb or a rhubarb division from an existing plant.  Here’s on the best way to plant rhubarb and what your options are.

There’s a great selection of Rhubarb Crowns available from Crocus here

Growing rhubarb from seed

If you’re starting to grow rhubarb from seed, then if you soak your rhubarb seeds in warm water for a couple of hours before sowing, then you’ll speed up germination.  This loosens the casing around the seeds.  Start your seeds off indoors about 3 months before the last frost is due.  You can start them in starter seed trays or small pots.  You’ll want to put them about 6 centimetres deep in a hole that you can make with your finger.  Cover them over and water them.  Now you’re going to want to leave them for about 10 days to 2 weeks. Try these to grow rhubarb from seed.

When to transplant rhubarb

At about the 2-week mark, they’ll need to be transplanted into bigger pots.  The less you transplant rhubarb the better, so you could even start them in these bigger pots.   Keep them inside for now, but they’ll need sunshine and good watering, although don’t let them get waterlogged. (check out our guide to the best expandable hoses here)

How to transplant rhubarb

When the risk of frost passes and your baby rhubarb plans are about 15 centimetres tall, then you’re ready to move them outside in bigger pots and begin “hardening them off”.  You do this by putting outside in a sunny but protected, area and each day increase the amount of exposure that they get.   If you go from about 2 hours to 8 over the course of a week, then they’ll be ready to live outside in their forever place.

Growing rhubarb from a rhubarb crown

Growing rhubarb from a crown, remember, it’s just the name for a plant that’s at least one year old, is the easiest way to grow rhubarb.  Growing rhubarb from a crow means that you’ll be able to harvest your rhubarb from this plant the first season after you plant it.

Try these Rhubarb Crowns Today!

Take the rhubarb plant out of the container that you got it in.  Carefully.  Place it in a 15-centimetre deep hole in your new container.  If the rootball is really compacted, then try and gently untangle it.  Backfill the hole with compost (check our recommendations for the best compost for vegetables here).  Just cover the root ball.  There’s no need to cover any of the stalks or leaves with soil.  Your new rhubarb plant will need a good watering and you’ll need to keep the soil moist.  While rhubarb is very hardy, try and find a spot for it which means it’s going to get a few hours of sunshine each day as it establishes itself.

Growing rhubarb from a division

Depending on the size of the division, you’ll want to put it in its “forever pot” or “forever place” as rhubarbs really don’t like being transplanted too much.  Plant each division in a 25 centimetre hole, leave the stalks and leaves uncovered, but make sure that the rootball is covered.  Water thoroughly and find a sunny spot for your new plant!

Taking a cutting from rhubarb

When it comes time to divide a bigger rhubarb plant, perhaps you’re spreading the rhubarb love and giving a division to a friend, then follow these steps to divide.

1. You’ll need to dig up the root  – be sure to try and pull the root ball out with you hands, so you don’t slice through any root systems
2. Cut through the tuberous root with a spade or trowel and cut it into 2 or 3 pieces, depending on how big it is.
3. You want to aim for each division having 1-3 buds. And don’t worry, your plant will survive!
4. Spring is the best time of year to divide rhubarb plants. If you must do it at another time of year, then go for autumn just before the rhubarb plant goes dormant.

How to Force Rhubarb

If you want to enjoy your rhubarb earlier in the year you can get your rhubarb to produce an earlier harvest, or “force’ it.   Some tips on forcing rhubarb.

1.  Try not to do this every year –  every consecutive year is the most that you sohuld try thos to encourage healthier growth for your rhubarb plant
2. If you want early rhubarb each year then grow several rhubarb plants and rotate the forcing.

What is forcing Rhubarb?

Forcing rhubarb is the process of bringing forward its harvest. It’s done by stopping light from getting to the rhubarb.  

When to force Rhubarb

You can begin to force rhubarb at the first signs of growth.   Force rhubarb at most every other year.    If you like rhubarb early but don’t want to force consider buying Raspberry Red Rhubarb, it’s an early harvest and has a great sweet flavour. Buy Raspberry Red Rhubarb Now

Using a forcing pot for Rhubarb

While many commercial growers use “forcing sheds” to grow Rhubarb in the dark, you only need to make the area immediately around the rhubarb dark.  For this, you use a Rhubarb Forcer pot or a rhubarb forcing pot.  You can head out and buy a fancy terracotta pot for this, or you can use an old bucket or garden trug.  

Tip it upside down and over the rhubarb.  You’ll need to continue watering and fertilizing it as you normally would and using a forcing pot for rhubarb should get it ready to harvest in about 2 months.

The best way to grow rhubarb for beginners

The best way to grow rhubarb for beginners with either from a crown or a division.  A one-year-old plant means that you can harvest the next season so you don’t have to wait as long.  If you’ve got a division from a friend, then you’ve probably also got some assistance if you run into any trouble with your rhubarb plant! Get a Rhubarb Crown and Start Now!

Growing rhubarb in pots UK climate and conditions

Planting rhubarb in pots is an excellent way to keep it under control and within the space that you want to allocate to it.  Rhubarb plants have very big root systems – so you’ll need a decent-sized container to grow it in.   If you can get a container that holds 40 litres of compost then you’ll have an excellent spot for the lifetime of your rhubarb and it should produce a pretty decent amount of stems for you.

Recipes that we use our homegrown rhubarb for

• Rhubarb and Ginger Gin
• Rhubarb and Apple Crumble

FAQs on Growing Rhubarb in Containers

Got questions about how to grow rhubarb in containers?  Check out our frequently asked questions about how to grow rhubarb in pots, or ask us in the comments.

Can I grow rhubarb in a pot?  Will rhubarb grow in a pot?

Yes.  You can easily grow rhubarb in a tub, container or pot.  Rhubarb will last for years in the right environment and if your garden is small, or you are growing edible plants in a yard or patio, then growing rhubarb in a pot is a great way to make the best use of space and also grow some of this tasty plant!

What size of pot do I need to grow rhubarb in?

Rhubarb has a big root system and they tend to grow to fit the space – so if you don’t plant in a pot they can take over your garden (not as much as mint though!  Try and get a 40-litre capacity pot and you won’t need to transplant your rhubarb.

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What is the best rhubarb variety to grow?

We like Glaskins Perpetual – which you can buy here – but we’ve also covered some of the benefits of the different rhubarb varieties above.  When you are getting started, don’t worry too much about the variety, just get it going and then start experimenting.

When should I be planting rhubarb in a pot?

If you are planting rhubarb from seed, then you can plant it at any time.  Make sure that the soil or compost doesn’t get too dry or too waterlogged – or definitely not frozen.  If you are planting rhubarb crowns then these are best planted in the spring or autumn.  Rhubarb divisions are also best planted in spring or autumn.

Is container grown rhubarb different to rhubarb grown in the ground?

Rhubarb grown in containers is much more contained, so it won’t spread out or grow as big.  It’s a good way to keep your garden under control.  It will taste the same.

Should I be covering Rhubarb in winter?

Rhubarb is pretty hardy and can survive at least a couple of freezes.   If it is going to be particularly cold, then put some insulation around the base of your pots.  If you cover the tops of the rhubarb with anything, including insulators such as straw then it’s going to start the forcing process.

Can you plant rhubarb seeds?  Can you grow rhubarb from seed?

Yes, rhubarb seeds can be planted easily. However, growing rhubarb from seed will not give you rhubarb to harvest in your first year.  Rhubarb grown from seed needs a growing season before you can harvest it.  If you want to be able to harvest in YOUR first year we recommend that you plant rhubarb crowns. (check these rhubarb crowns out here)

What is a Rhubarb crown?

A rhubarb crown is a plant that’s at least a year old.  It has either been divided from a strong disease-free plant, or it has been grown to this maturity from seed.    The important thing about the rhubarb crown is that it’s a year old and this is along the maturity scale, you’ll be able to harvest from it in your first season if you grow from crowns.

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Can you grow rhubarb from a stalk?

No.  The best way to grow rhubarb is from a crown or division.  

Do you pull rhubarb or cut it?

Rhubarb is harvested by pulling the stalks gently away from the plant when the stalks are 30-45 centimetres long.  Do NOT harvest in the first growing season.

When should you stop picking rhubarb in the UK?

You’ll usually pull your last rhubarb of the year in late summer – the end of July or August.  If the summer is particularly hot then the rhubarb will stop growing earlier.  Some varieties are best stopped even earlier, about the end of June

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The Best Rhubarb Crowns

You can preorder these Rhubarb Crowns to be delivered during planting season. They’re a great selection and this is the fastest way to grown rhubarb.

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What is the best time to plant rhubarb in the UK?

If you are growing rhubarb from seed in a pot, then you can plant it at any time, and plant it out at any time.  Make sure that the soil isn’t frozen, waterlogged or too dry!  If you growing rhubarb crowns, then you’ll want to plant rhubarb crowns in spring or autumn.  

How long does it take to grow rhubarb?

Rhubarb will grow in its first season.  However, it will not be ready to crop in its first year.  You can expect to crop rhubarb two years after planting.  It’s quicker to grow rhubarb from crowns to get a head start.

Can you eat rhubarb the first year? Can you harvest rhubarb the first year?

Well yes.  You can harvest rhubarb in the first year, BUT it’s going to damage the long term vitality of the rhubarb plant.  If you’re looking at growing rhubarb for the long term (i.e. more than a single year), then do not harvest or eat rhubarb the first year of its growth.  It’s also recommended to harvest lightly in the second year, to build up the vigourousness of the vegetable.

How big does rhubarb grow?

When its fully mature a rhubarb plant can be as big as 1.2 metres in diameter.  Obviously, if you plant it in a smaller pot it will constrain its size.

How many rhubarb plants do I need to grow?

We are a two-person household and we have three rhubarb plants.  We like rhubarb and force the rhubarb every third year.  

What is the best time to transplant rhubarb?  When is the best time to move rhubarb?

The best time to transplant rhubarb is early spring or early autumn.   

Can you grow rhubarb indoors?

Yes, you can grow rhubarb indoors.  Many commercial growers grow rhubarb indoors.  It does not need to be heated, as rhubarb does well outdoors.

What should I know about growing rhubarb in the dark?

The method of growing rhubarb in the dark is known as forcing rhubarb.  Before you can force rhubarb it must be 2-3 seasons old.  You only need make the area around the rhubarb plant dark, so you place a “rhubarb forcing pot” over the top of it, you can buy a specific one, or just use an old bucket.  Keep your rhubarb plant watered and fertilized as you normally would and your rhubarb will be ready to harvest in about 8 weeks.

What do I need to know about planting rhubarb crowns in pots?

There’s nothing different about planting rhubarb crowns in containers to sowing rhubarb seeds in containers.  Make sure that you select a big enough container so that you don’t have to retransplant it in future years, ensure that the plant is well watered, well-drained and trim off any dead leaves.  Buy a rhubarb crown now.

When it comes to how deep to plant rhubarb crowns, they don’t need to be that deep – aim for loosening the soil or compost down to about 30 centimetres, then refill with the loose soil and plant your rhubabr crowns about 10 centimetres down.  This will allow the roots of the rhubarb to seek out sustenance easily.

What is a rhubarb forcing pot?

A rhubarb forcing pot is a pot that is bell shaped and that has a lid covering at the top.  You can also use a bucket.  The lid on the pot is used for access, as you will need to continue to water and fertilize your plant.  Rhubarb forcing pots are used to encourage the plant to grow early in the season, by limiting photosynthesis.  You can only successfully use rhubarb forcing pots with two- to three-year-old rhubarb crowns.  Place the forcing pot on in winter or very early spring and your rhubarb will be ready to harvest 8 weeks later.

What other fruit and vegetables can I grow in pots?

Try these other guides to growing in pots and containers

• Grow peas in pots
• Grow carrots in pots
• Grow rhubarb in pots
• Grow spinach in pots
• Grow courgettes in pots
• Growing onions in pots
• How to grow Asparagus in pots
• How to grow Beetroot in pots
• How to grow Coriander in pots
• How to grow Basil in pots

Final words on growing rhubarb in pots

Rhubarb really is one of the easiest vegetables to grow (for more recommendations on easy vegetables to grow read our guide here) Rhubarb is a hardy plant and its likely that you can find someone who will give you a division, which means that you can start growing rhubarb for free!  We recommend growing rhubarb in pots, to ensure you can control the size of the root system, and it lessens the need for transplanting, which isn’t something that rhubarb plants tend to like.  We hope that you’ve enjoyed our guide to rhubarb, how to grow it and the answers to all the questions we’ve got about growing rhubarb in the UK.  Now all that remains is to get on with your rhubarb growing and to plan what you’re going to cook with the results of your rhubarb harvest!

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How to Grow Onions in Pots and Containers

Growing onions in a pot or container is quite similar to growing onions in the ground. Great-tasting onions need excellent fertilizer, healthy compost or soil, the right amount of water and sunlight as well as enough drainage to provide good results. The growing methods used to grow onions in containers are similar to those used to grow onions in the garden; the only difference is the cultivation techniques.

Spring onions can be grown in a 20-centimetre pot or bigger. Bigger, or, bulb onions are ideally grown in large containers to provide each onion with approximately 7 centimetres around each plant.

The benefits of growing onions in pots

Growing onions in containers or pots at home is an excellent option when space is at a premium. Even beginner gardeners can give it a go since growing onions in pots is relatively straightforward.

Because you’re not planting in the ground or placing the container in a garden, growing onions in pots is an excellent option if you don’t have a garden, or if you don’t have much space.  Our small backyard got very little sunshine, was all paved over but grew some amazing onions in pots for us over the years.

Our Guide to Growing Onions in Pots

What you need to grow onions in pots

All you need is a good fertilizer, healthy compost, or soil with enough drainage, water, and sunlight. Other than that, you’ll need a pot large enough to accommodate the number of onions you want to grow.   You don’t need to invest in an expensive pot or container – you can even use plastic trugs, tubs, or buckets.  But don’t forget to drill holes in the bottom, otherwise, your onions won’t drain properly and they’ll rot.

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The area where you place your container will require six to seven hours of direct sunlight each day.  This is a great benefit of growing onions in containers – you can move them around to catch the sun!  If you’ve grown onions in the past in the ground, be aware that container-grown onions require more water than those grown in the ground.

The best varieties of onions to grow in pots

A wide range of onion types is available for home-growing. In terms of taste, some are best when picked early, bringing a delicate flavour to salads and stews; others benefit from remaining in the ground for longer, throughout the growing season and they can withstand cold and dry conditions. Onion types that grow well in pots and containers include the following:

Grow Globe Onions or Brown Onions

These are the regular brown onions you’ll likely see in supermarkets.  They have lovely brown skin, they’re reliable and they can grow pretty big.  You can’t go wrong growing these onions, they do, however, take up to 6 months to grow.

• Buy globe onion sets here
• Buy globe onion seeds here

Electric Red Onions

If you’re new to onions, red electric onions are a fantastic choice.   These onions have a fab flavour and are also great eaten raw.  They’ll also last a long time if you store them correctly.

• Buy Electric Red Onion Seeds here
• Buy Electric Red Onion Sets here

This is a fabulous red onion to grow that goes with this Smoked Mackerel, beetroot, and potato salad. You can also use it in my Spinach, Yoghurt and Baked Tofu Curry.

Shallot (Zebrune) Onions

Shallot (Zebrune) is sold in sets or individual dormant bulbs that are ready to plant when you get them.  The Zebrune is a red onion with red and white lined flesh.  It’s a mild flavour, which means it’s great in both salads and cooking.  It usually harvests earlier than other varieties of onion.

• Buy Zebrune Shallot onion seeds here
• Buy Zebrune Shallot sets here

The best pots to grow onions in

When it comes to growing onions, the size of the pot makes a difference. A pot with a depth of at least 30 centimetres and a breadth proportional to its height is ideal.  I like troughs for a large number of onions, as they’re easiest grown in rows.  It’s also great to have smaller pots with different varieties, although you can mix and match.

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There’s no deep root network to worry about, so they don’t need to be hugely deep.  The more space they have the bigger the onions can get.    When onions are growing, the tops of the onions should be at least 7 centimetres apart. Onion plants may reach heights of up to 1 metre, so use broad enough pots to allow the plant’s growth.  A pot that is too small will inhibit the growth of your onions.

Why grow onions in pots?

Growing onions in pots and containers is a simple and efficient way to grow your own vegetables when space is limited. At Lets Grow Cook, we’re all about making it easy to grow your own vegetables, even if you don’t have a garden.  Growing onions in pots means that you can always have an ample supply of these seriously versatile bulbs at your disposal.

Onions are a great source of vitamins and minerals – from vitamin C to B6, folic acid and fibre.  Onions help boost your immune system and regular blood sugar levels too.

Onions have the extra benefit of retaining their flavour and freshness for many months after harvest. They store well, and if you store them correctly, then you’ll get the same flavour and taste months later. Onions are simple and easy to grow vegetables.  What’s also great about growing onions is that all varieties pretty much grow the same way, so there are no special techniques to learn.

With most homegrown foods, the better taste tends to come from eating it fresh, but with onions, so long as you store them correctly that flavour will be retained for months

When to plant onions in pots

Onions are typically planted in the spring, between March to late June. Some varieties may be grown from October to mid-March since they are less susceptible to cold, which would typically induce bolting. If the weather is frigid, start your onions indoors or in a greenhouse and move them outdoors when the weather warms up.

During the first stages of growth, onions need cold temperatures.  You can grow onions from seed by sowing between March and June. It is common for onion bulbs to form as the temperature rises and onion tops to start developing when the temperature falls.

You can sow onion seeds four to six weeks before the typical last frost date – or even earlier if growing them indoors. You can harden off indoor seedlings when they are 5-7 centimetres tall by exposing them to above-freezing night temperatures.

A quicker way to go from start to finish in growing onions in pots is to buy onion sets.   These are small onion bulbs that were grown from seed last season.  They are the EASIEST way to grow onions in pots.

You’ll be able to buy onion sets in early spring and late summer online (try these here ) and from garden centres.  Plant onion sets from mid-March to mid-April.  You’ll find some onion varieties – like these ones which are suitable for planting from October to mid-March.

Where to grow onions

Given that onions don’t need a lot of space, growing them in pots is a great option.  When growing onions in a tub or pots, the container must be put in a location where it will get six to seven hours of light every day.   Your location needs to be sheltered and if you’re growing onions in a pot, then you’ll want to start things off after the risk of frost has passed. 

If you’re growing onions inside and don’t have access to adequate sunlight, placing fluorescent bulbs or grow lights near the onions may help to supplement the light.

Onions are an interesting vegetable when it comes to growing near other plants. You shouldn’t for instance plant beans and onions in close proximity. You can read about this and the details of companion planting in my guide here.

How to plant onions in a pot

Start your onion seeds indoors eight weeks before you want to plant them in the pot. If you’re using onion sets, plant from mid-March to mid-April

In a container with holes for drainage, sow the seeds 2-3 centimetres deep, and space them 4-6 centimetres apart.  If you’re using sets, then plant them to the same depth.

Keep adding compost to the roots as they expand. For best results, add some vegetable feed (I love using tomato feed) when onion tops are approximately 15 centimetres high. This trough is a great option for growing onions in.

How to grow onions from seed in a pot

Growing onions in a container from seed is easy. Make three or four drainage holes at the bottom of the plastic container, each 1 centimetre apart. Make two wide ventilation holes on the sides as well. Fill the container with 7 centimetres of compost.

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Sprinkle the onion seeds over the soil, spacing them approximately about half a centimetre apart, you’re likely going to discard the weaker seedlings later.  Cover the seeds with compost and water then with a fine spray. After the seeds have been sown, pop this nursey container in a bright location, but make sure the temperature isn’t going to fall below 15 degrees.

Keep the compost damp, but not soggy.    You can start this off inside in January if you have space and your onions will be ready for transplanting outside in April.   When you transplant seedlings you’ll want to space them out – about 10-15 centimetres apart.  And you’ll want to harden them off slowly before truly transporting them outside.  SO taking them outside on pleasant days for a little longer each time is the best way to do this. 

How to grow onion sets in a pot

Growing onions from sets in a pot couldn’t be easier.  Buy your sets (check these out as a great option), press them gently into your container, so that the tip is only just showing.  Firm up the compost around them and water the container well.  Onions are easy to grow in containers because they don’t have an extensive root base – but that also means that they’ll benefit from some good compost (check out our recommended compost for vegetables here).    You may also want to look at a good fertilizer.  We recommend this for growing onions.

Watering and Feeding Onions

Onions aren’t particularly thirsty, but onions grown in pots will need more water than those grown in the ground.  They do NOT like being overwatered.  So if you get some heavy weather you’ll want to try and ensure that your pots are draining and perhaps move them to a covered area.  Onions do well with a regular supply of nutrients, but you don’t need to give them a huge amount – you’ll likely end up with loads more foliage and possibly flowers if you overfeed them.  I’d recommend using a good general vegetable fertilizer (like this one ) perhaps once a month, but to be honest, if they’re looking healthy just leave them.

When the onions are well-formed – you’ll see them peeking at the surface of the compost or soil, then stop watering and feeding, as contrary to what you might think this will actually encourage them to focus on developing the bulb.

Harvesting Onions

The time to harvest your onions depends on the variety, the weather and what the season has been like.  If you’ve sown in spring, then your onions will be ready in later summer or early autumn.   When they’re ready to harvest, the onion leaves will droop, they’ll turn yellowy and then brown when they’ve stopped growing altogether.

Loosen the soil with a hand fork and lift the onions out.  If you’re going to store them then they need to dry properly for a few weeks otherwise they’ll go mouldy.  Dry them in a cool, dry airy place – a greenhouse or shed is great.  This drying process is called curing.  The outer skin will go dry and papery, which actually protects the inner onion.  When they’re “cured” cut off the extra top leaves and foliage and store them.

How to store onions

Keep your onions (including red, yellow, and white varieties, as well as shallots) dry – preferably organic material bag to minimize mould and sprouting, and store them in a cool dry place. I don’t recommend plastic, but cotton or natural fabric is good.  A hessian sack is great, a paper bag is good, a basket is also good.  You can also store onions in a wire basket. 

It’s imperative to keep your onions out of direct sunshine and in a cool, but not freezing, environment with some breeze, rather than in direct sunlight. Store them in an onion bin or crate in the pantry, garage or cellar.  When stored in a cool, dry, dark location, they can last for up to twelve months.

Dealing with pests and problems when growing onions

There are two types of rot that you may encounter when growing onions.   Onion neck rot occurs when the soil or compost is too damp.   You’ll notice this as a grey fungus that’s a little fluffy around the neck of the onion.  It softens the flesh of the onion, which turns transparent and dries out.  Keep your soil well-drained to avoid this.  White rot is a white fungal growth that is present around the roots and bottom of the onion bulb.  You can’t fix this one.  Dig them up, burn them and don’t plant anything in the compost that you’ve dug them up from.

If you grow your onions in large pots or tubs, weeds may sprout and compete with the onion plants. Remove them as soon as possible by pulling them out with your own hands – check out our guide to gardening gloves to protect your hands

FAQ’s on Growing Onions in Pots and Containers

Got questions about growing onions in pots? Or want to know more about growing onions in containers, and we haven’t answered your questions? Check out our frequently asked questions about growing onions in containers below, or ask us yours in the comments.

Can you grow healthy onions in pots?

Most definitely. Onions are one of the most adaptable crops for container gardening. They may be grown both inside and outdoors, and since their roots do not stretch too far looking for nutrients, they need a minimal growing area. Growing onions in pots and then transplanting them into the ground also works. However, growing onions in containers in the UK just means that it’s simpler to move the whole pot about the garden as your garden and weather conditions change.

How deep should a container be for growing onions?

When determining how to plant onions, make certainly sure that you plant them at the proper depth. Enough onions will be planted in an area at least 25 centimetres deep but at least one meter wide.

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How many onions will one onion grow?

Each onion plant produces one onion. The potato onion, also known as the multiplier onion, is a kind of onion that develops roughly 5 onions per plant. The potato onion, formally known as Allium cepa var. aggregatum, is linked to shallots and garlic more closely than other onions.

Can I grow onions from the supermarket?

Yes, you can grow onions from the grocery store, but you shouldn’t. They will grow if you plant them. However, if it’s already a bulb, the next great growth surge will be to develop a seed stalk. The bulb will stop growing and shrink and finally vanish into the stalk’s base. 

Should I grow onions from sets or seeds?

Onions are a versatile vegetable that is used in various dishes, and growing your own ensures you’ll always have them on hand. They are simple to develop from immature bulbs known as sets. Although the seed is available, growing them in sets is the most convenient and time-efficient method and you know we like the easy option here at Let’s Grow Cook!

How long does it take to grow onions?

Onions are a cool-season crop that takes 90 days or more to grow onions in pots. Because of the extended growing season needed and their preference for colder conditions, sowing onion seeds immediately into the garden in the spring makes it difficult for the bulbs to mature before the arrival of warm temperatures.

What other fruit and vegetables can I grow in pots?

Try these other guides to growing in pots and containers

• Grow peas in pots
• Grow carrots in pots
• Grow rhubarb in pots
• Grow spinach in pots
• Grow courgettes in pots
• Growing onions in pots
• How to grow Asparagus in pots
• How to grow Beetroot in pots
• How to grow Coriander in pots
• How to grow Basil in pots

Final Words on How to Grow Onions in Containers

You won’t save much money by growing your own onions, they are likely to be cheaper buying them in bulk in the supermarket, so why grow your own onions?  Well, the taste.  It’s definitely better.  The variety is also much better.  If you normally only buy globe onions, try growing shallots (which can be a lot cheaper to grow your own than buying), or some heritage varieties.  My goal of growing my own onions in pots is for the sake of taste.  And so, I hope you found my guide on how to grow onions in a pot helpful.  See how it works if you try growing your own onions in containers. Once you tried it, you’ll never go back to store-bought onions again!

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January in the vegetable garden is also a great time to get organized and plan what you’ll grow throughout the year, organize your space, clean your equipment and get your motivation for vegetable growing up.

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What Vegetables to Plant in January

While January isn’t the best time of year in the UK to be planting vegetables, (that would be Spring or Autumn) there are still several vegetables you can sow and get started.  We’ll start with growing vegetables on windowsills inside, you need little space, little equipment but these super easy starters of veg to plant in January will give you great motivation for growing more!

Let’s face it, the weather isn’t usually that great in January and planting January vegetables can be a bit miserable and the vegetables to sow in January do rather depend on both the weather and whether you have any inside or covered spaces. So I’ll split this guide on what to plant in January into veggies to plant in January outside and what veg to plant in January inside – and that doesn’t always mean running into the greenhouse in January, some great vegetables can be grown on windowsills too.

Vegetables to Plant in January Outside

There are several seeds to sow in January and January planting vegetables – but when planting in January – as with any other month, you always have to take care and check the weather and the forecast too.

Plant Rhubarb Crowns in January

Rhubarb can be grown from seed, but can’t be harvested until its second year, so you’re best buying a Rhubarb crown (a year old plant) and planting that.  Rhubarb crowns are best planted in the spring and autumn months, but you can also plant a dormant crown now.  Pick up a rhubarb crown and get started now – or read more about growing rhubarb in our guide here.

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In a mild winter – sow these vegetables towards the middle or end of January

If the weather is forecast for a mild winter, then you can get a head start on some of the vegetables that you’d traditionally plant during February, these include beetroot, cabbage, carrots, garlic, onions, potatoes and spinach. 

These veg are particularly good for early-season planting.

• Great beetroot seeds for January planting
• Get these onion sets planted in a mild January
• This garlic plants well early season

If you’re successful then you’ll end up with an early harvest – we recommend succession sowing throughout the planting season to ensure a regular supply of your favourite vegetables.  You’ll also have more success if you’re able to offer them some protection – say a clear cold frame, or a mini greenhouse or polytunnel.  You’ll want to have a decent pair of gardening gloves to protect your hands from the elements in January – here’s our guide to the best gloves for gardening in all seasons. 

Vegetables to Plant in January Inside – Greenhouse / Larger Space

If you’re lucky enough to have a greenhouse or a polytunnel, then you can get a head start on the vegetable growing year and get some seeds sown. If you’re thinking of adding a greenhouse to your yard or garden, then they don’t need to be either big or expensive – I wrote about the best mini-greenhouses here.

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Sow Broad Beans in January under a cloche, cold frame or in a greenhouse

When it comes to what veg to sow in January, it’s a shortlist, however, if you’re in an area of the country where the weather is mild then you can sow broad beans in January.  They’ll need the protection of a cold frame or greenhouse, even in a mild area at least for the first few weeks.  This is the best buy mini greenhouse from our guide on greenhouses.  If you are planning on growing broad beans in greenhouses then you’ll need to ensure they have PLENTY of space, it’s much better to start them off inside and then transplant them outside when the weather (and its prospects) are better).

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Grow Early Potatoes in Bags Under Cover

We’ve been a big proponent of growing potatoes in bags for a long time.  One of our favourites for an early crop is Charlotte potatoes – we start by chitting them (sprouting) early potatoes by standing them in an old egg box on their end on the window sill of the porch.  Our full guide on how to grow potatoes in bags is here.

Once they’ve sprouted then they go into the potato grow bags in the mini greenhouse in the back yard.

Sow the following vegetable seeds indoors during January

During January and February, our house tends to look more like a greenhouse.  Every available windowsill is taken.  The front porch also gets taken over and that’s even with the mini greenhouse in the backyard.  Sowing spinach and lettuces for early green harvest is what tends to take over. 

These seeds are excellent to get an early-season indoor planting

• Sow early season Spinach indoors > these are great
• Sow lettuce indoors for an early start in January > try these seeds

We sow them inside to give them a head start so that once the threat of the really bad weather goes we can transplant them outside and wait, mouth-watering, for an early harvest of fresh greens!

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Vegetables to Grow inside in January – Window Sills or Small Spaces

The following vegetables are fabulous for very small spaces – I’m talking window sills or cubby holes and they’ll brighten up your January too!

Plant Chili Peppers in January

I’ll start with perhaps some of the easiest vegetables to grow in January. We try and start at least one chilli pepper plant (we use them in lots of cooking and end up preserving our ripe chillies for future use) in November, December, January and February.

Healthy chilli peppers on a windowsill don’t need much encouragement to grow, just a little warmth and as much sunshine as the time of year is going to give them.  Oh, and water, don’t forget to water them!  You can sow chilis at any time of year, but during the winter months, they’re going to need the warmth of being inside.  

They don’t need much space.  Find a small pot or container, fill 2/3 with good compost (here are our recommendations of good compost for growing vegetables), sprinkle a few seeds in, cover with compost, water until the compost is moist and sit back and wait.  Your chilli seeds should start to germinate in 7-10 days.

Alternatively, why not look at a chilli pepper growing kit which comes with everything that you need.

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Grow Mushrooms In January

Once you’ve grown your first lot of mushrooms you’ll be sold on the idea – mushroom growing kits are the easiest way to grow your own mushrooms.  It drives me nuts that when I buy mushrooms from the supermarket that I have to use that day for them to still be good and fresh.  Growing my own mushrooms means that I get to harvest pretty much when I want and regularly. My favourite variety is the plain white mushrooms, but I must admit I’m being won over to oyster mushrooms too!  These are our favourite kits for mushroom growing if you’re a beginner.

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What Vegetables to Harvest in January

January sees us harvesting more of the leeks, which we leave in the ground until we’re ready to use them.  Leeks are pretty hardy and survive most frost and snow.

January is also another month for us when we’ve harvested fresh mushrooms – we keep a steady supply by using mushroom growing kits and growing them indoors. 

What Jobs to do in the Garden in January

I confess, my favourite job in the vegetable garden in January is to stay indoors!  That works so long as we’ve sorted out the ground, cleaned all the pots and containers and tools in earlier months of course!  And when I say that I’m not keen on the outdoor work of course that doesn’t include sorting out a few broad beans in the greenhouse, managing the germinating seeds on the window sills and watching my chilli pepper plants growing too.

All our monthly vegetable planting guides

• What vegetables to plant in January
• What vegetables to plant in February
• What vegetables to plant in March
• What vegetables to plant in April
• What vegetables to plant in May
• What vegetables to plant in June
• What vegetables to plant in July
• What vegetables to plant in August
• What vegetables to plant in September
• What vegetables to plant in October
• What vegetables to plant in November
• What vegetables to plant in December

Final words on Veg to Plant in January

Well, that’s it for our January vegetable planting guide. I think what I like best about January in the vegetable garden is the promise of what’s to come.  We start a few seeds on windowsills – ok, so we start a lot on windowsills – there are potatoes on the go on windowsills and then in the greenhouse and we’re still harvesting leeks from the garden.  January is also the time for us to plan what’s going to be grown in the rest of the garden throughout the year and that’s exciting and interesting too.  Mostly, we’re chomping at the bit for the weather to turn a little warmer so we can get started fully!

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What Is a Courgette, Anyway?

Although courgettes feel at home in French ratatouille, Italian pasta primavera, courgette bread and this amazing creamy courgette soup, their story begins much farther away — in the Americas.

Courgettes are a cultivar of Cucurbita pepo, a species native to Central and South America.  Known as zucchini in the US and Australia, the courgette is a variety of summer squash, part of the Cucurbitaceae family (alongside pumpkins, cucumbers and melons). Indigenous peoples cultivated various forms of squash for thousands of years before explorers brought them back to Europe in the 16th century.

However, the courgette as we know it today didn’t really emerge until Italy in the 19th century, where selective breeding transformed summer squash into the slender, tender vegetable it is beloved for today. Italians referred to it as zucchina (meaning “little squash”), and from there, the culinary evolution began.

Despite its southern European roots, the courgette has adapted beautifully to British soil — both literally and culturally.

My content on Courgettes:

• Growing Courgettes – all you need to know
• How to Freeze Courgettes
• Creamy Courgette Soup
• Courgette Bread Recipe
• Courgette, Feta and Mint Quiche

The Mediterranean Embraced Courgettes: Italy, France & Spain

Europe’s warm climates, especially in southern countries, proved ideal for growing courgettes. In Italy, courgettes quickly became a fixture in kitchens, often sautéed with garlic, stuffed with cheese and breadcrumbs, or added to pasta dishes.

In France, the courgette became a key player in Provençal cuisine — think ratatouille, a slow-cooked medley of courgette, aubergine, tomatoes, peppers, and herbs that celebrates the summer harvest.

Spain also welcomed the vegetable, integrating it into tortillas, stews, and grilled tapas. The courgette’s mild flavour and ability to soak up spices made it a natural fit across a variety of traditional dishes.

The Arrival of Courgettes in the UK: From Foreign to the Familiar

Courgettes began appearing in the UK during the mid-20th century as part of a growing interest in Mediterranean cuisine. British holidaymakers returning from France and Italy brought back not only a taste for wine and olive oil, but also vegetables like aubergines, peppers, and, yes, courgettes. By the 1970s and 80s, cookbooks and celebrity chefs began showcasing lighter, vegetable-led dishes. With the rise of vegetarianism and health-conscious eating, the courgette’s low calories, high water content, and mild flavour made it an ideal ingredient for British households looking to mix up meat-heavy meals.

My favourite courgette recipes

• Creamy Courgette Soup
• Courgette Bread Recipe
• Courgette, Feta and Mint Quiche

The British Courgette Glut: A Garden Phenomenon

Perhaps the biggest reason courgettes became a British summer staple? They’re ridiculously easy to grow. Courgettes thrive in the UK’s temperate summers. They are famously productive — a single plant can produce a staggering number of fruits over a few months — so much so that allotment holders and home gardeners often find themselves with more courgettes than they can use. This seasonal abundance has led to the term “courgette glut”, a very British gardening problem.

By the mid-to-late 20th century, as more Europeans turned to home gardening during and after wartime food shortages, courgettes earned their place in gardens from England to Greece. They were reliable, fast-growing, and versatile — everything a home cook could want. They’re one of the EASIEST vegetables to grow.

This has even led to the infamous “courgette glut” — a point that we ALL know when the plants start producing more than anyone can reasonably eat.  You know the one.  You go to bed and all is well, you wake up the next day and there are MONSTER courgettes in your garden.

The Courgette’s Modern Popularity: From Health Trends to Instagram Fame

In the 21st century, the courgette has ridden a wave of food trends: low-carb, gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan — it fits them all. With the rise of the spiralizer, “zoodles” (courgette noodles) became a health-conscious alternative to pasta. Courgette bread and muffins now sit beside banana bread in cafés.

The courgette’s mild, slightly sweet flavour makes it a flexible ingredient that can move easily between savoury and sweet dishes. It’s this adaptability that’s helped it become not just a home-grown favourite but a star ingredient in restaurants, cookbooks, and social media feeds.

The Courgette is a True Summer Icon

Today, the courgette is a symbol of European-style summer cooking — light, fresh, and endlessly versatile. Whether you’re grilling them on the barbecue like they do in Portugal, layering them in a gratin as in Provence, or tossing them with olive oil and pasta pretending you’re on a Roman terrace, courgettes are everywhere from June to September.  Or all year round if you buy them from the supermarket.

And with sustainability, local food, and seasonal eating all trending, the courgette’s popularity looks set to grow — quite literally — for years to come.

How to use Courgettes in Modern British Cooking: From Roast Dinners to Ratatouille

Over the years, the courgette has become a flexible favourite in British kitchens

• Grilled or barbecued, often simply with olive oil, sea salt and a squeeze of lemon
• In stews and ratatouille, borrowing from French influences
• Made into soups and frozen
• Baked into cakes with lemon or chocolate (courgette adds moisture, much like carrot cake)
• Made into a courgette bread for a tasty alternative to banana bread
• Spiralised as a low-carb pasta alternative
• Fried into fritters or added to omelettes
• Delivered in Quiches (my Courgette, Feta and Mint Quiche is a fabulous summer favourite)
• Made the star ingredient in fresh pasta dishes – like this simple courgette, garlic, lemon & black pepper pasta.

Why the Courgette Grows and Cooks Well in the UK

• Climate-friendly: Courgettes thrive in British summer conditions with minimal effort
• Health appeal: Low in calories, rich in vitamin C and fibre
• Culinary versatility: Works in both sweet and savoury dishes

Sustainability: Seasonal, low-waste, and homegrown

All this makes the courgette a poster child for the UK’s growing interest in seasonal eating and homegrown produce.

UK Courgettes – From Gardens to Allotments to Supermarkets

Today, you’ll find British-grown courgettes filling supermarket shelves from June to September and beyond! They’re featured in everything from BBC Good Food recipes to school garden projects, making them a true part of British food culture. Whether you’re growing them yourself or grabbing a bag from the local greengrocer, courgettes are no longer a Mediterranean mystery — they’re a reliable, adaptable part of the UK summer.

Final Words on the UK Summer Staple Courgette

Once a modest garden crop, the courgette—known as zucchini in North America—has grown into one of the UK’s most beloved summer vegetables. From fresh salads and barbecue grills to spiralised pasta stand-ins, it’s become a versatile staple of warm-weather cooking. But how did this green squash go from exotic import to a star of British gardens and kitchens? Let’s trace the courgette’s journey from its New World roots, through the Mediterranean, to becoming a summer essential in the UK.

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What Vegetables to Plant in July

As the weather is generally warm and sunny in July in the UK you can get a great start by sowing vegetable seeds in July, the warm temperatures mean that you can get some great quick veggie crops going.   In July you can sow vegetable seeds directly into the soil or compost as the temperatures are warm enough for this.  Here’s what veg to plant in July.

Beetroot are great vegetables to plant in July UK weather permitting

This is my favourite of the July vegetables to plant (read about growing beetroot here) and July is your final chance to plant beetroot – so get some in there, by now we hope you’ve been enjoying the results of your succession planting and eating both the leaves in your salads and also the beets.  What’s your favourite way to eat them?  We love preserving beetroot to enjoy throughout the year! Boltardy is a great beetroot variety to plant in July.

Broccoli is a great veg to plant in July UK wide

July is a great time to start your autumn and winter vegetables and broccoli is a great example of crops to plant in July.  Buy Broccoli seeds to plant in July about 1 centimetre deep and 30 centimetres apart to ensure that the veg has plenty of room to grow.  The ground needs to be kept moist and if possible in full sun.   Once the broccoli starts to appear and you can see crowns, it is best to try and keep them dry, so water the ground, not the plant.  Many varieties of broccoli will be ready to eat in 80-90 days.  Make watering easier with an expandable hose – here’s our guide to the best of them.

Carrots are last chance vegetables to grow in July

July is usually the last month for sowing carrots, so if you’re looking for more things to plant in July in your vegetable garden then look no further.  If you’re planting carrots from seed then you need to plant -10 centimetres apart.  Remember to weed and water them regularly.  These heirloom carrots are great for quick-growing, especially in pots.  Watch for carrot fly if you’re thinning seedlings.  Read more about carrots – and how to grow carrots in pots in our guide here.

Start growing mushrooms in July

You can grow mushrooms all year round with the help of mushroom growing kits, which are the easiest way to grow your own mushrooms.   Starting is simple, pick up a kit – which includes everything that you need and then expand out.  While we started with plain white mushrooms (this is a fabulous starter kit here), you don’t have to you can grow chestnut mushrooms, oyster mushrooms and shiitake mushrooms.  Give it a go!  Here are just some of our favourite kits for mushroom growing if you’re a beginner.

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Chestnut Mushroom Growing Kit

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Cauliflower are great things to plant in July

We love cauliflower – it is awesome in Indian dishes, which are our favourite, and it’s great fresh veg for the colder weather.  Cauliflower grows well in a sunny spot and will do best if you start it in a well-fertilized soil – so make use of that compost bin, or buy some decent compost to boost your soils.  Growing cauliflower from seed is easy, drop the seeds about one centimetre deep and 10 centimetres apart.   Cauliflower needs watering regularly if the soil dries too much in the sun try and provide some shade for your baby caulis.

Succession Sow more Lettuce and Salad Leaves in July

Salad leaves and lettuce are a fabulous fresh veg to plant successively throughout the year, and you’ll want to keep doing this through July.  With some varieties ready to eat in just 21 days, you’ll find that salad leaves and lettuce will save you a packet when it comes to shopping.

Top Pick of Rocket, Lettuce and Salad Leaf Seeds to Grow

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PREMIER SEEDS DIRECT – Lettuce – Mixed Leaf – MESCLUN Mix – 2000 Seeds

Salad leaves and lettuce are seriously quick wins when it comes to growing vegetables.  If you sow them continually from about March until September then you’ll get heaps of fresh veg direct from the garden and save a LOT of money compared to supermarket buying.   This bag of mixed salad leaf seeds will save you a fortune!

Sow Radishes in July

Radishes are a great vegetable to sow in July.  They’re pretty quick to grow to maturity and you can use them as a companion plant to other vegetables.   Radishes need lots of sun and consistently moist soil or compost – but don’t drown them!  Radishes are also a great vegetable for succession sowing – sow a batch of radishes every two weeks for a great regular harvest to add to your salads and cooking.

These French Breakfast Radish seeds are quick growing and are seriously easy to grow – buy French Breakfast Radish seeds here.

Plant Spinach during July

Here at Let’s Grow Cook, we love spinach as a salad addition and also in cooking.  Yeah, we totally get that that it cooks down to nothing, but it’s a great green to add and it’s high in iron.  Spinach is also a great crop to grow in pots and another one to add to your succession sowing list.  Spinach Perpetual is a great variety to grow in July > buy perpetual spinach seeds now!

Plant Onions in July

While growing your own onions won’t save you a lot of money, they’re a really great vegetable to plant in July for making your own chutney or even just using in your home cooking.  Onions are also pretty hardy.  They’ll need a good watering and pay special attention to watering them during periods of little rain too.

You can grow onions from seeds or more easily than ever from onion sets – we recommend these onion sets for beginners.

Try planting Turnips in July

Turnips might not be in vogue, but they’re a good vegetable to sow in July and will give you two crops.  You can direct sow turnip seeds about 1 centimetre deep – keep the soil moist and you’ll be able to harvest turnip crop 60 days from sowing seeds.  You can eat the leaves and greens in salads, or use them as a spinach replacement in some dishes.  And of course the root.  You’ll find that young turnip is much tenderer than the older, bigger ones. These Turnip Seeds are a great one for starting with – buy them now!

Sow French Beans in July

July is your last chance to sow French beans and runner beans if you’re in the south of the UK – it’s more so that the pods can mature a little before it starts to get too cold!  Use dwarf varieties (we like these ones) in containers for a more manageable use of space!

Bargain Gardener Tip – Garden Centre Discounts in July

If you’re vegetable gardening on a budget, then we recommend heading to the garden centres in late June and early July.  You’ll find the end of range and end of season vegetable plants a whole lot cheaper.  Not all of them will look as healthy as they might once have done, but you’ll also find some bargains that will give your vegetable harvesting a boost!  You’re likely to find lots of tomato plants around as well as squash or bell pepper plants.

If you’ve made friends with other local vegetable gardeners you could also luck out on the honest box scheme.  Take a walk around your neighbourhood and check out those selling plants from their front driveway and pick up a few bargains from local growers.  One of the benefits of doing this is that the plants have been grown in your local area and that should give you confidence that they’re a good variety for your garden too!

What Jobs to do in the Vegetable Garden in July

While you might not immediately think that there’s a lot of vegetables to plant during July the above list could also give pause to thought!  There are as well a few jobs that you’ll want to get into the habit of doing to ensure that your vegetable harvest is safe.

Harvesting during July

If you’ve been succession sowing vegetables since earlier in the year you’ll want to keep harvesting – for many vegetables regular harvesting ensures that they continue to crop, so keep harvesting and you’ll get better results.

Keep Watering Your Vegetables in July

As the weather heats up so the soil or compost dries out.  By now though you should be in the rhythm of regular watering.  Aim to water on an evening after the sun has moved away from your crops and it’s best to try and water the compost or soil rather than the leaves of a vegetable, which can cause them to burn.

Thin Seedlings during July

If you’re lucky enough to have planted in a raised bed or into the soil and you’ve sown a lot of vegetables then you’ll want to thin out certain ones to make sure that they don’t crowd each other and that each plant gets enough space and nutrition to grow.  This shouldn’t be as much of a problem if you’re growing in containers or pots.

What Vegetables to Harvest in July

Depending on what you’ve been sowing earlier in the year (check out what to plant in May) and the varieties of vegetables that you’ve grown then, you’ll likely find beetroot, some carrots and of course salad leaves ready for harvesting in July.    It is best to only pick what you’re going to use immediately, as one of the best ways to keep vegetables for longer is to leave them growing for a while.  Leaving vegetables on the plant also means that they’ll have that fresh-from-the-garden taste when you do pick them.  Be wary of courgettes though – they can seem to double in size overnight, which means you’ll need to have a plan of what to do with a glut of courgettes (we recommend chutney, which means a good chutney making kit is a requirement).

Read about how courgettes became a UK summer staple here.

All our monthly vegetable planting guides

• What vegetables to plant in January
• What vegetables to plant in February
• What vegetables to plant in March
• What vegetables to plant in April
• What vegetables to plant in May
• What vegetables to plant in June
• What vegetables to plant in July
• What vegetables to plant in August
• What vegetables to plant in September
• What vegetables to plant in October
• What vegetables to plant in November
• What vegetables to plant in December

Final Words on What Vegetables to Plant in July

Warmer, sunnier weather in July means that the weather will do the majority of the work for you in the vegetable garden.  Sowing seeds directly into compost or soil is an easy way to get things started, although you’ll need to ensure that your soil is moist.  While July is a great time for enjoying the garden, we hope this is a useful guide to what to grow in July in the vegetable garden.  Most of all in July you should enjoy the vegetables that you’ve planted earlier in the year and enjoy the summer weather safe in the knowledge that it is helping your future harvest!

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The post What Vegetables to Plant in July [Succession Sowing & Planting] appeared first on Lets Grow Cook.

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What Vegetables to Plant in November

Grow Mushrooms in November

We started growing mushrooms for the first time earlier this year and it has been fantastic.  Growing mushrooms is incredibly easy and mushrooms can grow year-round.  The easiest way to grow mushrooms – from white button mushrooms to oyster mushrooms, chestnut and shiitake – is by using a prepared kit. 

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These come with the growing materials – which can be a box of treated compost and manure or a log, the mushroom spawn and full instructions.    Growing mushrooms in November has never been easier – from starting off to your first harvest can be as little as 3 weeks!  Read our guide to the best mushroom growing kits here  – or buy the quickest and easiest mushroom growing kit here. 

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Plant Garlic in November for a Spring Harvest

I know we mentioned planting garlic in October, but there’s nothing to stop you from planting it in November as well or instead of October.  Garlic is a great vegetable to grow in the ground, but we’ve also grown it successfully in pots and containers (and being the owners of a backyard) that’s our preferred method.  Great varieties of garlic to grow for beginners are Vallelado and the “Flavour” variety also grows well when planted in November. > get garlic to grow here 

Plant Onion Sets in November

We’re big advocates of the idea of succession planting so that you get a steady supply of fresh vegetables throughout the season.  Onions are another of those that we like to plant in succession – so we’ll tend to start in September and keep going and planting onion sets through November too.  Onions overwinter well in both pots and containers as well as directly into the ground. We’ve found that the Radar variety is a good option. > Here’s onion sets you can plant now!

Sow Peas in Containers in November

We love having fresh peas to harvest in the early Spring, so sowing peas such as Kelvedon Wonder and Meteor means that you’ll be harvesting in early spring.  We prefer to grow our peas in pots and containers and protect them from slugs. > Buy peas to plant here

Sow Spring Onions in November for a Spring Harvest

Sow winter varieties of spring onions like Performer now and you’ll be harvesting in the Spring.  Performer grows well in pots and containers, but can also be sown directly into the ground.  Depending on the weather you may need to protect them with a cloche or in a greenhouse.  Get spring onion seeds here.  Growing in pots makes it easy to move them into the greenhouse if the weather does turn particularly cold or wet.  Cold and wet weather means cold and wet hands – unless you’ve got a decent pair of gloves – here’s our guide to the best gardening gloves around.

Plant Rhubarb in November

Rhubarb can be grown from seed, but can’t be harvested until its second year, so you’re best buying a Rhubarb crown (a year old plant) and planting that. 

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Rhubarb crowns are best planted in the spring and autumn months, but you can also plant a dormant crown now.  Pick up a rhubarb crown and get started now – or read more about growing rhubarb in our guide here.

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Continue Planting Spring Cabbage in November

There’s nothing better in the spring after a long winter of heavy root vegetables than some fresh greens and Spring Cabbage is perfect, so carry on with the succession planting of Spring Cabbage for great harvesting in Spring and into early summer.  Don’t forget that you need the cabbage to have attained a reasonable size to survive the winter.  Durham Early is a good variety for overwintering.  > start planting spring cabbage now!

Sow Salad Leaves in November

If you haven’t yet picked up a mini greenhouse (check our guide to them here ), then we seriously recommend them.  They’re not expensive and it means you can keep sowing and expecting salad leaves throughout the winter. Try mizuna and spinach for some great fresh greens outside > here are the seeds for that. Alternatively, commandeer a sunny windowsill inside.

Sow Chilli Peppers in November

There’s nothing like a bit of colour on the window sill or in the greenhouse during the winter months.  You can sow chilli peppers any time of year, but it’s fabulous to grow them over winter for this colour in your life. 

Top Chilli Growing Seed Packs

Chilli Seed Mix

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Chilli Growing Kit

Read our guide to the best chilli growing kits – the easiest way to start growing chillies. They will need warmth, so the inside is better than the greenhouse unless you have a heated greenhouse.  A good sunny window sill and you’ll get a good harvest.  Then, when you end up with a great harvest, read our article on how to preserve chillies here. 

What Vegetables to Harvest in November

November should see the last of maincrop potatoes and carrots being taken out of the ground or containers.  Our full guide on how to grow potatoes in bags is here – including when you will have needed to plant potatoes to harvest in November. Spinach also will likely be in its last hurrah.  And just in time for the chilly autumn nights, any leeks that you’ve planted will be starting to be ready to harvest. 

What Jobs to do in the Garden in November

Keep digging.  As you take out vegetables don’t just leave the ground.  Dig it over, cover with manure.  Break up any big clumps of soil. 

Keep adding to your compost and turning it if you’re using a drum-type composter > check out the best compost bins here.

All our monthly vegetable planting guides

• What vegetables to plant in January
• What vegetables to plant in February
• What vegetables to plant in March
• What vegetables to plant in April
• What vegetables to plant in May
• What vegetables to plant in June
• What vegetables to plant in July
• What vegetables to plant in August
• What vegetables to plant in September
• What vegetables to plant in October
• What vegetables to plant in November
• What vegetables to plant in December

Final words on Vegetables to Plant in November

November is a great time of the growing season to sow some seeds and sets that will bring early Spring harvests.  You’ll do especially well if you have sunny window sills for herbs, chilli peppers and some salad leaves.  Greenhouses can be used for containers of peas and moving pots inside if the weather does turn nasty. 

LetsGrowCook is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com, amazon.co.uk, amazon.ca. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates

The post What Vegetables to Plant in November appeared first on Lets Grow Cook.

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN COMPENSATED AND AFFILIATE LINKS. MORE INFORMATION IN OUR DISCLAIMER

Vegetables to Plant in October

There’s a mix of quick cropping veg and salad leaves to be planted as well as some hardy overwinter vegetables to go into the ground in October.  Much will depend on the weather and if you can keep young plants undercover.  Here’s our best of what vegetables to sow in October.

Plant Rhubarb in Autumnal October

Autumn is a great time to plant rhubarb. While rhubarb can be grown from seed, it can’t be harvested until its second year, so you’re best buying a Rhubarb crown (a year old plant) and planting that.  Rhubarb crowns are best planted in the spring and autumn months.  Pick up a rhubarb crown and get started now – or read more about growing rhubarb in our guide here.

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You can preorder these Rhubarb Crowns to be delivered during planting season. They’re a great selection and this is the fastest way to grown rhubarb.

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Salad Leaves can still be planted in October

Yes, you can still plant hardy salad leaves and lettuces during October.  You’re aiming for quick cropping varieties such as lambs lettuce and also rocket, which works well in slightly cooler temperatures.  

Top Pick of Rocket, Lettuce and Salad Leaf Seeds to Grow

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PREMIER SEEDS DIRECT – Lettuce – Mixed Leaf – MESCLUN Mix – 2000 Seeds

Also, look at oriental varieties of salad leaves and lettuces.  Mizuna is a great variety of rocket for this time of year. > buy mizuna salad seeds now

Plant Cauliflower in October

If you have a greenhouse, polytunnel or somewhere to keep them undercover, then an early harvest variety of cauliflower such as “Snowball” is a great option to get into the ground over the winter.   Read our guide to the best mini greenhouses here and extend your growing season!

Mushrooms can be grown all year – including in October

Mushrooms are a fabulous vegetable to home grow.  You can grow mushrooms all year round if you use mushroom growing kits, which are the easiest way to grow your own mushrooms.   Starting is simple, pick up a kit – which includes everything that you need and then expand out.  We started with plain white mushrooms (this is a fabulous mushroom growing starter kit here), but you can also grow chestnut mushrooms, oyster mushrooms and shiitake mushrooms.  Give it a go!  Here are our favourite kits for mushroom growing if you’re a beginner.

Top PRODUCT PICK

Chestnut Mushroom Growing Kit

The Best Mushroom Growing Kit

This excellent Mushroom Growing kit from the folks at Merryhill Mushrooms is the perfect starter mushroom growing kit and it’s so easy to get started with full instructions

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Plant Garlic in October

Garlic is a really easy overwintering vegetable to grow.  Whether you plant garlic cloves in October will depend on the weather, so you’ll want to take a look at the long term forecast.  Garlic isn’t going to do too well if there’s a lot of rain forecast, and you might be better off waiting until Spring if there’s a long term forecast of lots of rain.  However, if you’re not expecting downpours then pop cloves into the ground, or in a pot or container and you won’t have to do too much more until you harvest next Spring.  The autumnal variety Vallelado is great for planting now, and if it gets a bit later into the month then for the “Flavour” variety.

Plant Onion Sets in October

As we mentioned in the article on what vegetables to plant in September, onion sets are great overwintering vegetables to grow and you can continue (usually) planting them until November.  We sow onion sets in October into pots and containers and into the ground too.  Radar is a great variety for planting in October and you should be ready to harvest onions in May next year.  Try these onion sets

Plant Oriental Leaves such as Pak Choi in October

If you have cloches, or a small greenhouse then planting oriental stir fry favourites such as Pak Choi is a great option.  They will definitely crop much more vigorously if they’re undercover. 

Keep Planting Spring Cabbage in October

So long as October is mild then you can continue planting Spring Cabbages – remember it needs to be a decent enough size to survive the winter.  Any cabbages that you’ve sown indoors earlier in the autumn can go out now.  They’ll go into dormancy over the winter and start growing again in the Spring.

What Jobs to do in the Vegetable Garden in October

There’s not a huge amount to do in the vegetable garden during October, but if you have a plot with open ground, then it’s worth setting some time aside to get some digging in.  (be sure to wear a decent pair of gardening gloves to avoid cold hands and blisters).   When you’ve dug up any harvested vegetables and composted the relevant (healthy, non-diseased) parts in your compost bin you’ll want to spread compost that’s ready over the surface of your ground to protect it a little for the next year.

Focus too on making compost, gather up all those fallen leaves, last lots of grass clippings and get them into your compost bin.

What Vegetables to Harvest in October

If you have any potatoes left in the ground these should be ready now and so should main cropping carrots.    Finally, if you’ve any green tomatoes left on the plant, you’ll want to bring them indoors to ripen indoors or use as greens.

All our monthly vegetable planting guides

• What vegetables to plant in January
• What vegetables to plant in February
• What vegetables to plant in March
• What vegetables to plant in April
• What vegetables to plant in May
• What vegetables to plant in June
• What vegetables to plant in July
• What vegetables to plant in August
• What vegetables to plant in September
• What vegetables to plant in October
• What vegetables to plant in November
• What vegetables to plant in December

Final words on what veg to plant in October

As the weather likely makes an autumnal turn your vegetable growth is going to slow considerably, it will come to a halt next month in November.  There’s still time, however, in October, to get a few vegetables in.  Take a mix of quick cropping autumn veggies and some spring cropping veggies that will grow a little then remain dormant over winter and be ready to start growing again in the Spring. 

LetsGrowCook is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com, amazon.co.uk, amazon.ca. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates

The post What Vegetables to Plant in October [Sow Veg in Oct] appeared first on Lets Grow Cook.