SOW SOMETHING FOR SUMMER

IF YOU have a greenhouse, conservatory or well-lit windowsill, you can sow early seeds for hardy or near-hardy summer plants.

Tr y antirrhinums, annual sweet William varieties such as Indian Carpet, sweet peas and annual mallow Lavatera trimestris.

Pink or white Cosmos bipinnatus is less hardy, but also worth risking.

Sow seeds into 7cm or 9cm pots containing potting compost that has been gently firmed, watered and allowed to drain. Cover with a thin layer of vermiculite or perlite and keep the pots warm and moist.

Transfer seedlings to small pots when large enough to handle. Once perked up, move to a cold-frame or non-heated greenhouse — you want tough, hardy plants. Put in the garden from mid-April.