There’s an awful lot of goodness wrapped up in gardening. There’s the time spent outside, the bending, stretching, digging and carrying. There’s that bit of peace and quiet for your head while your hands are busy. And then there’s that lovely little “I grew that” feeling when you wander back indoors carrying something for dinner. And, of course, there’s what ends up on your plate too. These six bring plenty of flavour to the table, with vitamins, minerals and fibre tucked in there too. Some will give you fresh leaves surprisingly quickly, while others are an investment in meals still to come. Eat them fresh, steam them, sauté them or cook them gently. There’s something rather satisfying about knowing you grew them. Never underestimate the goodness of gardening Cauliflower All Year Round – autumn sow, overwinter and enjoy next year. Yes, these take time. Yes, they taste divine. And yes, there’s a huge pat on the back waiting when you finally carry your own cauliflower into the kitchen! They’re a good source of vitamin C and fibre too, so there’s more than great flavour hidden in those white curds. (18 seeds) Chicory Brussels Witloof – one of the finest and tastiest winter salads or try braising the small whole heads in butter. Chicory also contains inulin, a prebiotic fibre. Something rather special to be harvesting when the winter garden has gone decidedly quiet. (40 seeds) Leaf Beet Rhubarb Red – a ‘must have’ for the winter garden. Seeing those vivid crimson stems out there makes me feel better just looking at them! Packed with vitamins and minerals, these are versatile, tasty and beautiful. And they’re easy to grow! (40 seeds) Purslane, Winter – this winter green can give you a quick crop, then resprout so you can cut it again. You get a mild, fresh taste with a slight tang and succulent crunch, with leaves, stems and flowers all edible in salads or as a cooked veg. Oh, and there’s plenty of vitamin C tucked away in there too. (100 seeds) Spinach Giant Winter – this fantastic variety has large tasty dark green leaves. A real workhorse in the garden, sow it now and it can give you hearty goodness in the depths of winter, with iron, fibre, and vitamins thrown in for good measure. (50 seeds) Turnip Snowball – sow now for greens and tops that can be cut and will shoot up again. They taste fantastic sautéed with garlic and onions and a splash of cider vinegar, or simmered in a savoury stock. Nutritious, delicious and coming straight out of your own garden. That’ll do nicely! (100 seeds) Get sowing. There’s an awful lot of goodness waiting to grow!
Save
