Things should really get going on the allotment in April, the days will start to lengthen & temperatures start to rise. Do keep an eye on the weather forecasts as a cold snap or snow are not unheard of in April & the occasional frost is to be expected. The first rule is never trust the weather.
There is plenty to sow & plant outside especially if the month of March was not suitable.Onion sets & shallots can be planted now, remember shallots need a long time in the ground. Aim to get your seed potatoes planted by the end of the month, you can start to sow carrots & peas outside. Remember though the peas are a good snack for mice, so keep them covered. Radish can now be sown outside & keep sowing every three to four weeks for a continuous supply over the summer. Beetroot can be sown directly outside,but may need covering if the soil is too wet, also leeks & Turnip.
Aubergines, chillies , tomatoes can now be sown in the greenhouse as they all need a long growing season. You can also sow cucumber seeds in the greenhouse for planting outside later. Sweetcorn also needs a long growing season, it would be ideal to start them in modules under cover. Courgettes, pumpkins & other squashes can be started in the greenhouse, also kale, marrows, climbing beans & dwarf French beans under cover. Start sowing also celery indoors, aubergines, & Summer cabbages & other variety’s from the brassica family.
Lettuce,rocket & salad leaves can also be sown outside along with root vegetables all dependent on the weather of course.
Blog created by Mark Burton (Allotment Secretary)
