Gardening expert reveals ‘staple’ vegetable you can actually grow on your balcony – just make sure they’re ‘earthed up’

A HORTICULTURIST has given her best hacks for making the most out of plants.

She said her gardening advice works on a variety of crops, including a “staple” vegetable.

1

Fiona Jenkins of Myjobquote shared the hacks with outdoor supplies website Toolstation.

They found that garlic, tomatoes, potatoes, and strawberries are among the top searched foods to grow.

Toolstation also shared that many are looking for ways to get rid of pests.

Many are also concerned in how to lay grass for an aesthetically pleasing garden.

THE RIGHT STUFF

Jenkins first gave her advice on growing a kitchen favorite — garlic.

“Garlic will grow well in a sunny spot with well-drained soil,” she said.

“While most people plant their garlic in autumn there are varieties such as Solent Wight and Merseley Wight that are perfect for planting in the spring.

“It is an easy plant to grow needing little maintenance and takes up minimal space.”

POTATO HEAD

Jenkins filled in green thumbs on how to get the perfect potato.

“Potatoes are one of the staples of allotments and veggie plots and are also one of the most satisfying crops to grow yourself,” she said.

“There are a large number of varieties to choose from, but all are grown from seed potatoes which are not seeds but potatoes which are sprouting.

“Planting can be done from March to May for harvesting in summer and autumn.”

She also explained a specific technique that potatoes require to be at their best.

“As the plants grow they need to be ‘earthed up,’” she said.

“This is where soil is piled up around the emerging stems to protect them from frost and exposure to light which can turn the potatoes green, rendering them inedible.

“If you don’t have the space to grow a drill of potatoes, you can grow them in a large container in your garden or even on a balcony.

“You won’t get the small quantity, but you can still grow some tasty potatoes. Your potatoes will need regular watering, particularly in warm weather.”

TOMATO TIME

Tomatoes are a key ingredient in many kitchens — and Jenkins has gardeners covered.

“Tomatoes are one of the most popular crops for people to grow at home,” she said.

“They can be started from seed or young plants, grown outside or in a greenhouse, in the ground or in containers.

“As such a versatile and easy plant to grow, unsurprisingly, they are very popular for amateur as well as seasoned gardeners.

“When grown outside your tomato plants will need a sunny, sheltered spot and protection from any frost.”

STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE

Jenkins also gave her two cents on growing a sweet yet tart fruit that is a favorite of many.

“If you are choosing to grow strawberries straight from seed, sow the seeds indoors in late winter or early spring,” she said.

“Ensure the seeds are covered lightly with compost and maintain a consistent temperature of around [59-68°F].

“Once the seedlings have emerged, transfer them to individual pots and continue to nurture them indoors until the risk of frost has passed.”

She offered a tip for those who don’t have room to grow strawberries inside.

“If you don’t have an indoor space to use, you can pick up pre-planted seedlings from your local garden centre that you can then plant directly in a sunny spot in your garden,” she said.

“Provide them with adequate spacing to allow for proper growth and airflow.

“Regularly water the plants, ensuring the soil remains moist as your strawberries gradually ripen, ready to be enjoyed in the summer months.”