Three…vegetables to plant during autumn
1. Cabbages, kale and bok choy are best planted during autumn. They like a spot that gets at least six hours of direct sunlight each day, prefer protection from the wind, and grow best in well-drained soil loaded with fertiliser. Cabbage is ready for harvest after about 10 to 14 weeks. Kale leaves are ready from four to six weeks, and will keep growing if only the outer leaves are removed. The Asian greens can be harvested from six weeks.
2. Strawberries are planted in April or May, flower and fruit in cool to warm conditions, and grow best in full sun. Surrounding them with straw mulch will help to keep moisture in, deter weeds and keep fruit off the soil. Fruit should be picked when fully-coloured.
3. Broccoli, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts – all from the brassicas family – can handle quite cold conditions and even frost. They prefer a spot with at least six hours of direct sunlight each day, need protection from strong wind and demand a rich, well-drained soil. Seeds are best sown into pots and transplanted into the ground as seedlings.
