TOP TIPS

1 Plastic mulch – weed membrane or black plastic sacking weighed down on the plot is an effective soil warmer, weed suppressant and moisture retainer and prevents erosion.

2 Organic mulch – nutrient and structure can be provided by manure, bark, compost, leaf mould, chippings or seaweed, enriching your plot while suppressing weeds.

3 Cover vulnerable crops – emerging crops need protecting from animals and harsh frosts – try using cloches or half bo le tops to still let water through.

4 Check for blown sprouts – check sprouts and harvest regularly or they can ‘blow’ – burst into a flowering structure. This is caused by lack of water and food or wind rock.