Gardening with the RHS Spring in Full Swing
Apr 24, 2025
Liz Mooney, a horticulturist from RHS Garden Wisley's Edibles team, shares expert tips on growing vegetables like beetroot, turnips, and parsnips. She emphasizes effective planting techniques and pest protection for a thriving garden. Clare Hermans, an authority on Madagascan orchids and recipient of the RHS Elizabeth Medal of Honour, shares her fascinating journey with these rare plants and discusses their cultural significance and conservation efforts. Together, they highlight the joy and challenges of spring gardening.
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Parsnip Sowing Tips
- Sow parsnips directly in mid-April to allow for re-sowing if germination fails.
- Thin seedlings to 10 cm spacing and avoid transplanting to prevent root problems.
Beetroot Multi-sowing Strategy
- Multi-sow beetroot seeds in modules and transplant clumps outdoors with 25 cm spacing.
- Harvest beetroot successively by twisting out the largest seedling from the clump.
Turnip Growing and Protection
- Sow turnips in modules then plant out, covering with fleece to protect against flea beetles.
- Harvest turnips small for sweeter flavor, typically by June for spring sowings.