SAVE YOUR SEEDS – Carrot

Paucus carota var. sativus – daucus is Latin for carrots and karoton the Greek word for wild carrots.

ORIGINS

Native to many regions, including parts of Europe, northern Africa, Afghanistan and central Asia. First used as medicine, carrots come in many colours. Purple carrots arrived in Western Europe from the Middle East in the Middle Ages. After considerable selection, these evolved into yellow ones, and it wasn’t until much later that a mutation which had the orange pigment appeared.

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MEDICINAL PLANTS – Holy Basil

Tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum), commonly known as holy basil, is a sacred herb in India and a powerhouse of benefits.

Tulsi is a versatile herb with many health benefits. As well as supporting digestion and relieving cramping and bloating, it can also ease the congestion of colds.

A morning cup of tulsi tea can provide calming, soothing effects and it is believed to improve mental focus. Tulsi imparts a bright, spicy flavour reminiscent of clove, cinnamon and mint. Use it in stir-fries, chutney, salads, smoothies or a seasonal pesto.

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How to build a mini DIY greenhouse 

Frost doesn’t have to spell the end for your newly planted winter veg. A homemade cloche is a quick, low-cost way to protect young seedlings from cold snaps. If you're wondering how to build a mini DIY greenhouse, starting with a simple cloche is the perfect first step – and you probably already have everything you need to make one.

How to build a mini DIY greenhouse. 

Frost doesn’t have to spell the end for your newly planted winter veg. A homemade cloche is a quick, low-cost way to protect young seedlings from cold snaps. If you're wondering how to build a mini DIY greenhouse, starting with a simple cloche is the perfect first step – and you probably already have everything you need to make one.

Soil contamination testing: our simple guide

Winter is the perfect time to get a handle on your garden’s soil health and test for soil contamination — especially if you’re planning to grow food in spring. While most of us look at things like pH and nutrients, one crucial detail often gets missed: contaminants. Heavy metals like lead and arsenic can linger in the soil for decades, especially in older or urban areas.