The allotment in February

Spring is approaching and the days are beginning to lengthen but it’s still likely to be very cold with average temperatures much the same as those of January so we’ll try to remain patient. At the allotment there’s still time to keep up with the tasks we started in January and it’s a good time to for an early application of a general purpose fertiliser if you think your soil needs a boost. This won’t be necessary if you mulched with some good garden compost or well-rotted manure in the autumn.

If you haven’t already done so make a planting plan and a list of seeds you need to get.

Sow indoors in February

Sowing opportunities this month are much the same as in January with a few additions.

If you didn’t sow onion seeds, in a propagator or sunny, warm window sill last month there is still time to do so. Celeriac can be started in the propagator too.

Tender crops like aubergines, chillies and peppers can also be started in the propagator. Tomatoes can be started towards the end of the month but I prefer to wait until early March.

Additionally get a head start with broccoli, cauliflower and leeks by sowing in modules and placing on a sunny, warm window sill.

Remember that your seedlings need as much sunlight as possible, so once germinated move them to a sunny window sill. Plants that don’t get enough light grow tall and thin and will often collapse and die.

Sow in the greenhouse in February

Most varieties of broad beans and early peas can be started in an unheated greenhouse ready for planting out in March or April.

Towards the end of the month we will also begin sowing brassicas such as sprouting broccoli, brussels sprouts, summer cabbage and cauliflower.

I also sow my first beetroot and perpetual spinach at the end of the month.

Shallot seeds can be started too. Zebrune and Figaro are my favourites. These are ‘banana’ style shallots. I love them, they’re easy to grow, great for cooking and will grow as big as your fist on a good year.

Sow outside in February

Continue to sow broad bean varieties such as Aquadulce Claudia in the allotment in February but for more reliable results, particularly where soil is heavy, start them off in pots in an unheated greenhouse. Those sown outside will benefit from the protection of cloches or fleece.

Hardy early peas can also be started outdoors in sheltered positions but, like broad beans, better results can be had from greenhouse sowings.

If you didn’t plant garlic in the autumn it can be planted outside now. I have achieved my best results with autumn plantings so prefer that method.

Ready to harvest in February

As in January winter brassicas such as savoy and January king, brussels sprouts, sprouting broccoli and kale can be harvested from the allotment in February. Spring cabbage will be coming into season too. Parsnips and late sowings of spring onions will be available. Leeks should still be available too if only we’d grown more last year!

Parsnips, swede and celeriac can be used from the root bed. Celeriac will need protection if the weather is extremely cold. Fleece or straw will do the trick.

Further reading…