At Gardeners Kitchen, we want to ensure your plants have the very best chance of producing a healthy, abundant crop. To help you achieve this, we’ve provided the following care advice.

All varieties are supplied with an individual plant label and a growing guide to help you get the most from your plants.

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Hardy Plants

This includes all varieties of: artichoke, asparagus, broad bean, beetroot, brassicas, lettuce, alliums, carrots, radish, spinach, parsley, coriander, chard, and sweet peas.

1. Unpack immediately
   On arrival, remove plants from their packaging. If the plants appear dry, stand them in a shallow dish of water for around two minutes. Some compost may have loosened from the roots during transit—this is normal and will not affect growth once planted.

2. Light and colour
   Plants may appear pale due to limited light during transit. This is normal and colour will return once they are potted on or planted out. If planting must be delayed, place plants upright in a bright, sunny position such as a windowsill or conservatory.

3. Multi-sown plugs
   Any multi-sown plugs must not be split apart, as this can slow growth. These should always be planted as a clump (sweet peas are the exception).

4. Planting out
   Ideally, plant out as soon as possible once your soil has been prepared. Dig a hole, place the plug in so that the compost level matches the soil surface (do not bury the plug), then backfill, firm gently, and water well.
   Protect young plants from slugs and snails, and water only when the soil begins to dry.

Please refer to the variety label supplied and our website for information on spacing, soil preferences, and individual growing requirements.

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Non-Hardy Plants

This includes all varieties of: French, climbing and runner beans, basil, celeriac, celery, cucumbers, courgettes, fennel, marrows, peppers, chillies, aubergines, squash, sweetcorn, and tomatoes.

• Follow points 1–3 from the Hardy Plants section above.

1. Growing on
   Non-hardy plants must be grown on indoors in pots until all risk of frost has passed. Cucumbers, in particular, should be kept at a minimum temperature of 16°C.

2. Hardening off
   Once frosts have finished, gradually acclimatise plants to outdoor conditions. Start by placing them outside during the day and bringing them in at night, gradually increasing their exposure as temperatures improve.

3. Planting out
   When conditions are suitable, plant out following the planting instructions in point 4 of the Hardy Plants section above.