Growing your own vegetables to eat on Christmas Day may seem like a lot of work, but it’s actually pretty simple.
It may be too late to plant and harvest many vegetables such as carrots, parsnips and rosemary, but there still are some which will be ready in time for December.
1. Potatoes
Craig Wilson, gardening expert and founder of Gardener’s Dream, said: “An iconic Christmas staple.
“Surprisingly, a couple of potato varieties can still be planted and harvested just in time for Christmas.
“Varieties such as Charlotte and Maris Piper potatoes can withstand the cooler months which makes them the perfect choice for a winter dinner for their buttery and nutty flavours.”
For the best harvest, keep soil temperatures cold. The expert said anything below 9C is best to keep up a healthy and consistent crop.
It’s also important to plant potato seeds at least 20cm deep for the best results.
2. Radishes
As a festive dish, radishes are great when roasted alongside garlic and parsley. They can either be added alongside parsnips and potatoes or served on their own as a side dish.
Craig explained: “Radishes are a quick-growing vegetable that you can harvest before Christmas. Varieties such as Mooli or Black Spanish are winter-hardy and can be sown in October for an early harvest in December.
“Radishes love cooler temperatures in the winter months and will thrive in a sunny spot in the garden or on an allotment patch.
“When growing these for your dinner, the only responsibility is to ensure the soil stays moist to avoid a bitter crop.
“By Christmas, you’ll have a healthy amount of crisp and peppery radishes to add to your roast dishes.”
3. Rocket
Rocket makes a great addition to any side salad or as a garnish over the festive period, and it’s a great time to plant it out now.
They can be sown directly into the soil and will thrive in moist but well-drained soil and in partial sunlight.
It can be harvested in as little as four to six weeks, giving more than enough time to get it ready for December.
Spinach varieties such as Giant Winter or Perpetual can also be sown in October and be ready for your Christmas dinner.
