If you’ve never grown your own vegetables before, the idea can be daunting, however, according to experts from Mesh Direct there are eight vegetables that are perfect for beginners. And, regardless of the size of your garden or outside space, there are vegetables to suit all needs – some of which you can even grow on a balcony if you have a vegetable patch box.
Mesh Direct’s managing director, Dan Hancock, said: “The thought of growing your own vegetables may seem overwhelming at first, but there are so many benefits which make the effort worth it. For starters, there are a number of vegetables which are easy to grow so anyone can give them a go.”
Not only will growing your own vegetables add a flash of green to your outside space and provide you with an enjoyable project, Mesh Direct point out that it could even be a lucrative opportunity.
“As we all know, the cost of the average grocery shop has increased over the last year, so many of us are looking for ways to reduce our food bills,” said Dan.
“Growing your own food can save you money on your shop if done correctly, which is why it’s a good idea to start off with easy-to-grow veg to ensure you get the best chance of getting a good harvest.”
Eight easy vegetables to grow at home
To help get you started on your own vegetables, the experts have shared eight of the easiest options to grow in your own garden.
Onions
This versatile vegetable works in so many different recipes, and it’s easy to grow in your own garden too.
“It’s relatively easy to grow from seed, but if you’re looking for an even more low-maintenance option you can buy onion sets from the garden centre,” said Dan.
“Simply plant them in a sunny spot in the spring in well-drained soil. They should be ready to harvest in the summer months.”
Spring onions
Fast and easy to grow, spring onions are another perfect option for first-time gardeners or those looking for a straightforward option. Dan said: “You can sow them in light soil anytime from spring to early autumn, and you can harvest them after just three weeks.”
Potatoes
“Not only are potatoes easy to grow, but you usually get a generous yield from them,” commented Dan. “Simply plant the potato seeds, cover them in a good quality compost, and cover them again when leaves start to emerge.”
Depending on the variety, you usually plant potatoes in March or April time and harvest them from June to July for early potatoes, or August to October for main-crop potatoes.
Carrots
As long as you have the right soil, carrots are easy to grow. Carrots prefer soft, loose and sandy soil that drains well. Carrots are usually sowed from March until June and will usually be ready to harvest around 15 weeks or so later.
Peas
Perfect for a British garden, peas thrive in cooler, damper climates. However, if you want peas to be ready by summer you will need to plant them between March and April.
Dan said: “Peas can be especially tempting for birds to nibble on, so it’s a good idea to protect them with 13mm hole weld mesh or chicken wire, or a plastic anti-bird netting.”
Courgette
Courgettes are known for not just being easy planters, but for rewarding growers with an abundant supply of the crop.
Dan explained: “Plant courgettes in late May for best results, and remember to keep picking them when grown to size (around 10cm long), otherwise, they will become marrows.”
Radishes
Like spring onions, radishes are quick and easy growers which are often ready to harvest in as little as three weeks after sowing.
They also grow well next to carrots, so these are worth adding to your vegetable patch if you already have some carrots growing.
Dan explained: “This crunchy salad vegetable has a long sowing and harvesting period too: you can sow them any time from February to August, and harvest them any time from May to February.”
Kale
A hardy lefty green that is also bursting with health benefits, kale is a good option for those who are just testing out their green thumbs.
“Simply sow the kale seeds in a seed tray and plant them once they’re around five inches tall, any time from March to June,” said Dan. “They should be ready to harvest in the autumn and winter months.”
