Leafy Greens You Can Grow Almost Anywhere

Leafy greens offer the quickest return on a packet of seed. Many are ready in 30–50 days, tolerate partial shade and can be grown in beds, pots or window boxes.

Best greens to start with

• Lettuce — loose-leaf types are easiest; cut-and-come-again.
• Spinach — cool-season, bolts in heat.
• Chard — heat tolerant, colourful stems, long harvest.
• Kale — hardy, productive and rich in nutrients.
• Rocket — fast, peppery, best in cool weather.

Sowing

Sow little and often, every two to three weeks, for a continuous supply. Scatter seed thinly or sow in rows and thin to 15–25 cm apart. Most greens prefer fertile, moisture-retentive soil and a sunny or partially shaded spot.

Water and feed

Keep soil evenly moist; dry conditions cause bolting. A mulch helps. If soil is poor, apply compost or a light organic feed. Avoid high-nitrogen fertiliser late in the season.

Harvesting

Harvest outer leaves, or cut whole plants a few centimetres above the base for regrowth. Remove flower stalks promptly to extend the season. Shade cloth can keep summer lettuce cooler and delay bolting.

Pest watch

Slugs are the main enemy; use barriers and evening patrols. Flea beetles can pepper rocket and kale leaves; row covers help. Netting prevents pigeons from shredding young brassicas.