Winter greens. And purples, whites, blush pinks, oranges and yellows too

I was more than a little late out of the brassica starting block last year. Come autumn 2019, many were just producing their third set of leaves. The snails and slugs have not been kind either.

Thankfully, at least one of the varieties is a known winter performer - ‘January King’. The crop was grown from quite a mixed bunch of seeds left over from previous years really, and includes self-seeded plants (still not sure what they are yet!), the pointed ‘Jersey Wakefield ‘, two frilly ornamental white cabbages (I actually eat the ornamentals too - delish!), Rainbow Chard (again, self-seeded), kale, and Brussels Sprouts.

I decided to leave the entire crop uncovered over the winter, and they’ve been growing v-e-r-y slowly, but making progress nonetheless. I’ve been harvesting outer leaves of some brassicas, and the more tender leaves at the heart of the chards. Chard is a great ‘cut and come again’ vegetable. I am so chuffed that I haven’t had to buy many vegetables this winter! I’ll start harvesting the Brussel Sprouts tomorrow - they weren’t ready in time for Christmas. Just-picked Brussels Sprouts are scrumptious, a far cry in both texture and taste from the stuff you get in most supermarkets, whether you buy them loose or attached to the stalk.

Click arrows to see what’s growing NOW!