LUCY CHAMBERLAIN’S FRUIT AND VEG
Windowsill veg, sowing broad beans, making a cold frame
Tap water in winter can be an incredibly chilly 2°C (36°F). Let it stand for at least an hour indoors before using it to water your plants.
Excess heat (above 22°C/72°F) will compound the effect of any insufficient multidirectional light, so turn your thermostat down!
Direct sunlight in January isn’t strong, but by March it will be hot enough to fry seedlings in windowsill propagators, so add shade netting.
Don’t repeatedly use water from softening units, as it contains sodium.
Alternate with rainwater, cold boiled water and water from dehumidifiers. seedlings result. Placing a length of white card or smooth aluminium foil behind your windowsill plants will reflect it, tricking them into thinking the light is coming from indoors, too.