Setup, Compatibility & Care
Sowing (Greenhouse):
- Sow seeds from February to April.
- Use a good, free-draining, damp seed sowing mix.
- Sow seeds on the surface and cover lightly with compost or vermiculite.
- Place in a propagator at 15-20°C (59-68°F) until germination (7-14 days).
Sowing (Outdoors):
- Sow seeds from March to April.
- Follow steps 2-4 above, ensuring consistent warmth.
Transplanting Seedlings:
- Once seedlings have 2 true leaves, transplant into individual 7.5cm (3") pots.
- Grow on at a minimum temperature of 15°C (59°F).
Planting Out (Greenhouse):
- Transplant at the end of May or when the first flowers appear.
- Allow 3 plants per growbag, one per 25cm (10") pot, or plant directly into greenhouse soil.
Planting Out (Outdoors):
- Wait until all risk of frost has passed.
- Gradually acclimatise plants to outdoor conditions over 7-10 days.
- Plant out from early June when plants are approximately 20cm (8") tall.
- Choose a sheltered position in full sun.
- Ensure fertile, reliably moist, well-drained soil.
- Space plants 60cm (24") apart.
Support & Care:
- Drive a 5-foot cane into the soil next to each plant.
- Tie the main stem to the support using soft garden twine as it grows.
Compatibility:
- Suitable for pots, growbags, greenhouse borders, and outdoor beds.
- Thrives in full sun.
Care:
- Water regularly, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged.
- Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer once fruits begin to form.
- Monitor for pests and diseases, although blight resistance is a key feature.