Grow Your Christmas Lunch

Where To Sow Carrots & Parsnips

Sow thinly direct into the growing site 2cm (¾”) deep in rows 30-45cm (12-18in) apart. You are better off delaying sowings if soils are wet and cold.

What to do Next

As soon as seedlings appear, they should be gradually thinned out.

Where to Sow Brussels Sprouts, Red Cabbage and Leeks

Sow the seeds thinly in pots or trays filled with seed sowing compost, or two seeds per cell in modules under glass at 13°-15°C. As soon as seedlings are large enough to handle, prick off into trays 5cm (2”) apart or thin modules to one seedling per cell. Gradually harden off before planting out.
Space Brussels sprouts 60cm (24in) between plants and 90cm (36in) between the rows.
Space Cabbages 45cm (18in) apart between plants and 60cm (24in) between the rows.
Space Leeks 25-30cm (10-12in) apart in the row and 45cm (18in) between rows.
Please Note for Carrots - Carrot fly is attracted by the smell whilst thinning. If you have to thin the seedlings, do so in the evening. Water before thinning and remove all the debris.
Do not transplant. Aim for roots 5-7cm (2-3”) apart.
Please Note for Parsnips - These can take up to 8 weeks to germinate depending on soil temperatures. Do not transplant seedlings. As soon as seedlings appear, they should be gradually thinned until plants are 10cm (4in) apart.

Handy Tip

Try to harvest your Christmas vegetables the day before the festivities, giving you plenty of time to prepare the tastiest home grown Christmas lunch to impress your guests.