3 to start now

Endive ‘Pancalieri’ A slightly bitter-flavoured chicory that’s an excellent source of vitamins A and K, with finely curled, green leaves and rose-tinted white mid-ribs. How to Sow direct outdoors in watered 2cm-deep drills in rows 30cm apart. Thin out once large enough to handle, with a final spacing of 30cm between plants. Use young leaves in salads, mature leaves in stirfries.

Pea ‘Champion of England’

A heritage variety with pods of 7-10 peas. Ideal for growing in raised beds and borders.

How to Sow seeds 5cm apart in 15cm-deep drills, cover and water in well. Once germinated, provide 2m-high climbing supports. Start weekly watering with the onset of the first flowers. Harvest within 14-16 weeks.

Borage

A useful annual companion plant, with sky-blue flowers that attract pollinators and are edible too, with a spicy, cucumber-like taste used to flavour drinks and salads. How to Sow directly, 1cm deep, 30cm apart. Will grow in average to poor soil. Restrict fertiliser use to encourage flowers. Thrives in full sun, but will grow in partial shade until the first frost.