Autumn Planting Made Easy: Basil, Lettuce & Spring Onions
While summer may be over, there’s still plenty more veggies and herbs to grow! The mild weather and occasional rain make it a perfect season for planting, giving your veggies a great start without the scorching heat. This week we will focus on 3 fast growing crops- basil, lettuce, and spring onions. These three require minimal effort and will keep your meals fresh and flavourful all season long. Let’s dig in!
Basil: The Fragrant Favourite
Basil isn’t just for summer! While it loves warmth, with a little care, it can thrive in autumn too. This aromatic herb adds a punch of flavour to pastas, pizzas, and salads. Plus, it’s packed with antioxidants and has antibacterial properties!
How to Grow:
Location: A warm, sheltered spot with plenty of sunlight. Basil prefers well-draining soil and doesn’t do well in overly wet conditions.
Planting: If it’s still mild, you can sow seeds directly. Otherwise, start with seedlings.
Care: Basil hates the cold—protect it with cloches or bring pots inside overnight if temperatures drop.
Lettuce: The Ultimate Easy Grower
Nothing beats fresh, homegrown lettuce. It’s quick to grow, packed with vitamins, and perfect for throwing together a crisp autumn salad. Whether you love iceberg, cos, or fancy mesclun mixes, there’s a variety for everyone!
How to Grow:
Location: Prefers partial sun—too much heat can make it bitter.
Planting: Sow seeds directly into moist soil, spacing them about 20cm apart.
Care: Water consistently but don’t overdo it—soggy soil can lead to rot.
Hot tip: Stagger your planting every few weeks for a continuous supply!
Spring Onions: The Low-Maintenance All-Star
Spring onions (or scallions) are a must-have in the garden. They grow fast, take up little space, and add a mild oniony kick to everything from stir-fries to soups.
How to Grow
Location: They’re happy in most spots, but a sunny area will speed up growth. They prefer loose, well-draining soil, so mix in compost before planting.
Planting: Sow seeds in rows or plant seedlings about 5cm apart.
Care: Keep the soil evenly moist and remove weeds regularly, as spring onions have shallow roots and don’t compete well with other plants.
Harvesting Tips for Maximum Flavour
Knowing when and how to harvest your crops ensures you get the best taste and quality. Here’s what you need to know:
Basil: Pick individual leaves as needed, starting from the top to encourage bushy growth. Avoid letting the plant flower, as this can turn the leaves bitter.
Lettuce: Harvest outer leaves when they reach a good size or cut the entire head at the base when mature. For continuous harvest, plant new seeds every couple of weeks.
Spring Onions: Pull up the whole plant when they reach the right size or trim the green tops regularly for an ongoing supply.
And remember, as you clear out old plants and make space for new ones, we’re here to help with all your green waste collection needs! Let us take care of the mess so you can focus on growing the good stuff.