Leafy vegetables

Where to grow They like sun or part shade, in soil that contains a reasonable amount of organic matter. Salad crops such as lettuces and rocket are perfect for growing in containers. Getting started Start sowing when the ground has warmed up, but avoid sowing during really hot spells and when the soil is likely to dry out. With fastgrowing leafy crops such as lettuces, it’s best to sow in small batches – a 1m row every couple of weeks – otherwise much of the crop will go to waste. Problem solving For even growth, they need consistently moist soil and temperatures that don’t fluctuate greatly. Very hot or cold weather is likely to lead to crop failure. Look out for varieties that are resistant to diseases such as mildew. Cover with insect-proof mesh to keep out leaf-eating pests such as flea beetles.