#578 Three Herbs For Our Seeds Of The Month

The Veg Grower Podcast

As the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop, many gardeners might feel inclined to hang up their trowels and wait for spring. However, in the latest episode of the Veg Grower Podcast, host Richard encourages listeners to keep their gardening efforts alive through the colder months, especially sowing some herbs. This episode is packed with practical advice, expert insights, and delicious recipes that will inspire you to continue growing your own food, even in winter.

Seed of the Month: Herbs to Sow in November

One of the standout segments of this episode is the “seed of the month,” where Richard shares his top recommendations for herbs to sow in November. Growing herbs indoors on a windowsill is a fantastic way to ensure a continuous supply of fresh ingredients for your kitchen.

This segment is in collaboration with Premier Seed Direct. Richards go to supplier for very reasonable priced seed in very generous quantities. Don’t forget to use discount code PSDVEGPOD

Here are Richard’s top picks:

1. Basil

• Why Basil?: Basil is a fragrant, Mediterranean herb that thrives indoors, especially on a sunny windowsill. Its aromatic leaves are a staple in many dishes, from pasta to salads.
• How to Sow: Fill a pot with multi-purpose compost, scatter the basil seeds on the surface, lightly cover them with more compost, and water them. Basil loves moisture, so keep the soil consistently damp for optimal growth.
• Care Tips: Ensure the pot is placed in a sunny spot. Regularly pinch off the tops to encourage bushier growth and prevent the plant from flowering too soon.

2. Chives

• Why Chives?: Chives, particularly garlic chives, have a mild garlicky flavor and are a perennial plant, meaning they will return year after year if harvested correctly.
• How to Sow: Sow a few seeds in pots, allow them to grow, and then harvest as needed. Chives can be moved to a greenhouse in the spring for further growth.
• Care Tips: Chives prefer well-drained soil and a sunny location. Regularly trim the leaves to encourage new growth and prevent the plant from becoming too woody.

3. Parsley

• Why Parsley?: Parsley is a cold-loving herb that grows best when sown in the cooler months. It’s a versatile herb that can be used in a variety of dishes.
• How to Sow: Sow parsley seeds similarly to basil and chives. It can be harvested in larger quantities for cooking.
• Care Tips: Parsley prefers a sunny or partially shaded spot. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Regular harvesting will encourage new growth.

Recipe Spotlight: Celeriac Steaks with Salsa Verde

In addition to gardening tips, the episode features a mouth-watering recipe from Chef Scott. He shares his method for preparing celeriac steaks with salsa verde, emphasizing the joy of cooking with homegrown vegetables.

Ingredients:

• Celeriac
• Olive oil
• Garlic
• Rosemary
• Fresh herbs for salsa verde (e.g., parsley, mint, basil)
• Capers
• Lemon juice
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Method:

1. Prepare the Celeriac: Peel the celeriac and cut it into thick slices. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
2. Roast the Celeriac: Roast the celeriac slices in the oven until they are tender and golden brown.
3. Fry with Garlic and Rosemary: In a pan, heat some olive oil and add garlic and rosemary. Fry the roasted celeriac slices until they are crispy on the outside.
4. Make the Salsa Verde: Finely chop the fresh herbs and mix with capers, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
5. Serve: Plate the celeriac steaks and drizzle with salsa verde.

Winter Gardening Tips

Richard also shares valuable tips for continuing your gardening activities during the colder months. Here are some key takeaways:

1. Sowing Winter Crops

• Broad Beans: Sow broad beans in November for an early spring harvest. They are hardy and can withstand cold temperatures.
• Garlic and Onion Sets: Plant garlic and onion sets now for a bountiful harvest next year. They require a cold period to develop properly.
• Winter Lettuce and Spring Onions: These can be sown in a greenhouse or cold frame to provide fresh greens throughout the winter.

2. Protecting Plants

• Use Cloches and Fleece: Protect tender plants from frost by covering them with cloches or horticultural fleece.
• Mulching: Apply a thick layer of mulch around the base of plants to insulate the soil and retain moisture.

3. Cleaning and Storing Plastic Pots

• Eco-Friendly Cleaning: Use rainwater to wash out plastic pots. Stack them in the ground and let the rain do the work, making the process efficient and environmentally friendly.
• Storage: Once clean, store the pots in a dry place to prevent them from becoming brittle and cracking.

Join the Supporters Club

Richard also promotes the podcast’s supporters club, which offers members exclusive content, behind-the-scenes insights, and monthly seed packs. Joining the club is a great way to enhance your gardening experience and stay connected with the podcast community.

Join our supporters club

Addressing Food Security

Towards the end of the episode, Richard reflects on the challenges posed by recent weather conditions, particularly heavy rain, and its impact on food supply. He emphasizes the importance of food security and the role that home gardeners can play in mitigating potential shortages.

Gardening on Clay Soil

• Challenges: Waterlogged conditions and pests like slugs and snails can be problematic.
• Solutions: Richard uses no-dig gardening and raised beds to improve drainage. Compost is essential for maintaining healthy soil.

Natural Pest Control

• Slug and Snail Management: Regularly walk through the garden to collect these pests and feed them to chickens.
• Encouraging Wildlife: Attract birds and hedgehogs to help control slug populations naturally.

Engage with the Community

Richard invites listeners to share their thoughts and experiences regarding food security and gardening strategies for the upcoming year. Engage through email, social media, or the podcast’s website, where you can leave comments or voicemails.

Conclusion

This episode of the Veg Grower Podcast is a treasure trove of information for home gardeners. With practical tips, engaging recipes, and a focus on community, Richard inspires listeners to embrace their gardening journey and contribute to food security in their own way. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting, there’s something in this episode for everyone. So, grab your gardening gloves and get ready to grow!