Sowing Indoors

Almost fill a seed tray with moist seed compost. Sow seeds thinly over the surface, and lightly cover them with a little more compost.

Place in warmth 10-15C (50-60F), and keep moist. When large enough to handle, transplant seedlings 5cm (2in) apart to trays of potting compost. Gradually accustom them to conditions outside for 2-3 weeks before planting out to their cropping positions 45cm (18in) apart from late spring onwards.

Water plants generously in dry weather.

Sowing Outdoors

Sow seeds thinly in a shallow, short, pre-watered row. Lightly cover them with a little soil. Keep soil moist until seedlings are established, then thin to 2cm (1in) apart.

Transplanting

When the seedlings have produced about for true leaves, transplant them to their cropping positions, allowing about 45cm (18in) each way between plants. Firm in, and keep well watered in dry spells.

Special note

Cut shoots when they are about 15cm (6in) long.