Cauliflower harvest season looms

abundance of lush leaves. Buttoning is often caused when seedlings are allowed to dry out or have become rootbound in their punnet, but can also be caused by overcrowding in the garden. Space plants 50cm apart for best results. Too much leaf growth is usually due to overfeeding. Brassicas need rich soil, but feed them with fertiliser low in nitrogen to help promote the formation of flower buds. when you find yourself suddenly running short).

So what’s new this season? I’m particularly intrigued by oyster leaf (Mertensia maritima) which is a cold-hardy Scottish perennial (related to borage) with leaves that taste like oysters and edible flowers.

There’s also a traditional Japanese spring onion called ‘Ippon Negi’ that resembles a baby leek and is grown in much the same way (earthing up around the stem to blanch it).

In the tomato selection, we see three new organic varieties ‘Artisan Blush’, ‘Indigo Apple’ and ‘Sunrise Bumble Bee’ as well as ‘Indigo Gold Berries’ cherry tomato which sounds fabulous with its unique purple and yellow colouring.

You’ll also find Alexanders (Smyrnium olusatrum) as a new addition to herbs, and in the microgreens section, three varieties of nasturtiums are making an appearance for the first time.

The ever-popular Asian vegetables category continues to expand with the mini-barrelshaped ‘Wa Wa Tsai’ Chinese cabbage, ‘Asian Loki’ gourd and ‘Karela’ bitter melon.

There are also new varieties of cabbage including ‘Mini Red’, cauliflower, onions, peas, Florence fennel, shallots, lettuce, capsicums, ‘Red Indian’ corn and watermelon.

Of course, all of the tried-andtrue favourites are included too, so start compiling your spring seed sowing list and get ordering before they sell out. Check out the new varieties and order online at kingsseeds.co.nz.