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Gardening in Winter: A Guide for Beginners
Harvesting Winter Produce
Even in the cold winter months, there are plenty of fresh vegetables you can harvest from your garden. Here are a few tips:
- Pick Brussels sprouts as needed from the stalks. Don’t forget the tasty tops too!
- Pull fresh kale leaves from the outside of the plant.
- Cut winter cabbages at the base with a sharp knife and remove a few outer leaves to reveal the crisp center.
Protecting Winter Crops
To keep your winter crops safe from the elements and pests, follow these tips:
- Check netting regularly to prevent birds from getting tangled.
- Keep an eye on stored crops for any signs of rot.
- Protect cauliflowers from frost by covering them with cardboard or fleece.
Starting New Crops in Winter
Late winter is a great time to start some new crops, such as:
- Bare-root fruit trees and bushes
- Onions
- Rhubarb (forced)
Planning for Spring Gardening
To get a head start on spring gardening, you can:
- Cover soil over winter to keep weeds at bay and warm up the soil.
- Chit seed potatoes indoors in a cool, well-lit place.
Additional Tips
- Forcing rhubarb: Cover rhubarb clumps with a pot or bucket to encourage early growth.
- Using ash in gardening: Sprinkle wood ash around fruit bushes and trees to increase soil alkalinity and provide nutrients.
By following these tips, you can enjoy fresh produce and keep your garden thriving all winter long.
