Something for all those GYO-ers out there
The harvesting season is now in full swing so make sure you pick crops when they are ready.
Leave them too long and they’ll lose flavour and tenderness.
Sow for next year
Now is also a good time to sow endive, radish and spring cabbage for next year, or winter varieties of spinach and maincrop turnips.
Having spent lots of time and effort growing your fruit and veg to perfection, protect it with fleece or small-mesh plastic netting or if you have a large area, put up a fruit cage.
Cover brassicas with a fine mesh netting to keep cabbage white butterflies off them. You could also leave one plant uncovered so that the caterpillars can thrive and perpetuate for next year.
Pests and diseases
Pests and diseases thrive in hot weather, so check plants regularly for tell-tale signs. Mildews and red spider mite are always worse in warm, dry conditions and these can soon get out of control.
Dishes galore
But best of all, enjoy the fruits of your labours with dishes galore from courgette soups to salads, cakes, crumbles, preserves and veggie lasagnes. Happy harvesting!
For more FREE advice
For more free advice, please get in touch with one of our member garden centres. Find your nearest GCA garden centre here.