3 crops to start now

Rhubarb ‘Fulton’s Strawberry Surprise’ I’m excited about growing this eye-catching plant, with its vivid-red stems. It was voted the best-flavoured rhubarb in an RHS trial. How to Choose a bright, sheltered, free-draining position. Work in compost prior to planting. Position the crown just above soil level and firm in the compost around it. Water in well. Growth will emerge in spring.

Cress

This is a curled, quick-growing leaf that will give variation and texture to a winter salad bowl. How to Sow seeds over moist compost in seed trays on a bright windowsill. Keep the compost moist at all times, watering from the base regularly. Snip when ready to harvest in six to eight days’ time.

Shallot ‘Jermor’

A shiny, copper-skinned bulb with pink-tinged flesh providing a sweet, crisp taste.

How to This variety is for planting outdoors in autumn, including November. Space bulbs 25cm apart with 30cm or more between rows. Push them gently into the soil so the tips are level with the surface. Protect the tips from birds.