As the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop, many gardeners might feel inclined to hang up their trowels and wait for spring. However, in the latest episode of the Veg Grower Podcast, host Richard encourages listeners to keep their gardening efforts alive through the colder months, especially sowing some herbs. This episode is packed with practical advice, expert insights, and delicious recipes that will inspire you to continue growing your own food, even in winter.

Seed of the Month: Herbs to Sow in November

One of the standout segments of this episode is the "seed of the month," where Richard shares his top recommendations for herbs to sow in November. Growing herbs indoors on a windowsill is a fantastic way to ensure a continuous supply of fresh ingredients for your kitchen.

This segment is in collaboration with Premier Seed Direct. Richards go to supplier for very reasonable priced seed in very generous quantities. Don't forget to use discount code PSDVEGPOD

Here are Richard's top picks:

1. Basil

Why Basil?: Basil is a fragrant, Mediterranean herb that thrives indoors, especially on a sunny windowsill. Its aromatic leaves are a staple in many dishes, from pasta to salads.

How to Sow: Fill a pot with multi-purpose compost, scatter the basil seeds on the surface, lightly cover them with more compost, and water them. Basil loves moisture, so keep the soil consistently damp for optimal growth.

Care Tips: Ensure the pot is placed in a sunny spot. Regularly pinch off the tops to encourage bushier growth and prevent the plant from flowering too soon.

2. Chives

Why Chives?: Chives, particularly garlic chives, have a mild garlicky flavor and are a perennial plant, meaning they will return year after year if harvested correctly.

How to Sow: Sow a few seeds in pots, allow them to grow, and then harvest as needed. Chives can be moved to a greenhouse in the spring for further growth.

Care Tips: Chives prefer well-drained soil and a sunny location. Regularly trim the leaves to encourage new growth and prevent the plant from becoming too woody.

3. Parsley

Why Parsley?: Parsley is a cold-loving herb that grows best when sown in the cooler months. It’s a versatile herb that can be used in a variety of dishes.

How to Sow: Sow parsley seeds similarly to basil and chives. It can be harvested in larger quantities for cooking.

Care Tips: Parsley prefers a sunny or partially shaded spot. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Regular harvesting will encourage new growth.

Recipe Spotlight: Celeriac Steaks with Salsa Verde

In addition to gardening tips, the episode features a mouth-watering recipe from Chef Scott. He shares his method for preparing celeriac steaks with salsa verde, emphasizing the joy of cooking with homegrown vegetables.

Ingredients:

Celeriac

Olive oil

Garlic

Rosemary

Fresh herbs for salsa verde (e.g., parsley, mint, basil)

Capers

Lemon juice

Olive oil

Salt and pepper

Method:

Prepare the Celeriac: Peel the celeriac and cut it into thick slices. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

Roast the Celeriac: Roast the celeriac slices in the oven until they are tender and golden brown.

Fry with Garlic and Rosemary: In a pan, heat some olive oil and add garlic and rosemary. Fry the roasted celeriac slices until they are crispy on the outside.

Make the Salsa Verde: Finely chop the fresh herbs and mix with capers, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Serve: Plate the celeriac steaks and drizzle with salsa verde.

Winter Gardening Tips

Richard also shares valuable tips for continuing your gardening activities during the colder months. Here are some key takeaways:

1. Sowing Winter Crops

Broad Beans: Sow broad beans in November for an early spring harvest. They are hardy and can withstand cold temperatures.

Garlic and Onion Sets: Plant garlic and onion sets now for a bountiful harves...