STEP BY STEP

How to mark out areas for sowing

1 Decide how big you want each sowing area to be and insert canes at the desired intervals, using a tape measure as a guide.

2 Insert the canes on each side of a raised bed and create squares or rectangles by tying string to the canes and running a line of string to each cane opposite.

3 Add a layer of compost over each area when you are ready to sow and spread it thinly over the area. This gives a fine surface for the seed to be sown on and makes it easier to see the seeds as you sow.

4 Sow different crops within each square or rectangle to maximise the amount of different crops that can be grown in a small space. Label each area to keep track of what you have sown.

Dos and don’ts

✔DO concentrate on growing crops

that you or your family like to eat

✔DO plan to sow salads and quickmaturing roots such as radishes little and often to avoid gluts

✔DO plan to harvest something every month of the year – check the sowing times on the back of the seed packets

✔DO look up how long a crop will take to mature to decide if it is worth the space it will take up

DON’T forget to check expiration dates on seed packs before sowing

DON’T think that you have to sow the whole packet of seeds in one go

Key points

Sowing little and often helps you get in the habit of following the plan Two crops can often be grown in the same space to boost your yield

Find out more

Watch Alan Titchmarsh guide you through the essential kit for seed sowing, with tips on compost, watering and the right pots and trays for your seeds.