In this episode of the Veg Grower Podcast, Richard, the host, and Scott, a chef, share their insights and experiences on gardening and cooking with seasonal produce. Richard focuses on the process of planting garlic, particularly elephant garlic, and discusses various seeds that can be sown in October. Scott complements this with a delicious recipe for an autumn vegetable gratin.



Planting Elephant Garlic



Understanding Elephant Garlic



Elephant garlic is a unique variety that grows similarly to regular garlic but is much larger and milder in flavour. It is more closely related to leeks than to regular garlic, which is interesting given its name and appearance. The bulbs can grow up to 14 cm in diameter, making them a standout addition to any garden.



This feature is in collaboration with Premier Seeds Direct. Premier seed direct are my go to place for good seeds at very reasonable prices and in decent quantities. They even sell elephant garlic for growing, don't forget to use our discount code psdvegpod.



Steps for Planting Elephant Garlic




Choosing the Right Location

Sunlight: Select a sunny spot in your garden. Garlic thrives in full sunlight, which is crucial for a successful harvest.



Soil: Ensure the soil is well-drained. Elephant garlic does not do well in waterlogged conditions.





Preparing the Soil

Weed Removal: Clear the area of weeds to reduce competition for nutrients.



Soil Enrichment: Incorporate organic matter such as compost to enhance soil fertility. This creates a nutrient-rich environment for the garlic to grow.





Planting Technique

Spacing: Plant the cloves about 10 cm deep and 20 cm apart, with the pointed end facing upwards. This spacing allows the plants to grow without competing for resources.



Depth Adjustment: If you have clay soil, consider planting shallower to prevent the cloves from rotting.





Watering and Mulching

Initial Watering: Water the cloves immediately after planting to help them settle in.



Mulching: Cover the area with a mulch of chopped leaves to retain moisture and suppress weeds.





Care and Maintenance

Cold Period: Garlic needs a period of cold to split into cloves, which is why it is planted in autumn.



Minimal Care: Once growth starts, usually by December, ensure the soil remains moist and weed-free.






Seeds to Sow in October



Richard emphasizes the importance of growing food year-round and provides a comprehensive list of seeds that can be sown in October. Here are the detailed recommendations:



Herbs




Basil, Parsley, Coriander, Dill, and Chives: These herbs thrive in cooler temperatures and can be grown on a kitchen windowsill. They provide fresh flavors for winter cooking and can be harvested throughout the season.




Microgreens




Indoor Growing: Microgreens are small, flavorful plants that can be grown indoors. They are quick to harvest and add color and taste to dishes. Consider growing varieties like radish, mustard, and cress.




Brassicas




Cauliflower and Cabbages: These can be sown in October but will need protection from the cold. Use cloches or cold frames to shield them from frost.




Winter Salads




Winter Lettuces and Hardy Spring Onions: These can provide fresh produce during the colder months. They are hardy and can withstand lower temperatures.




Broad Beans and Peas




Indoor Starting: Sow broad beans and peas directly into the ground or start them in root trainers in a greenhouse. Starting them indoors can ensure an earlier crop and reduce the risk of black fly infestations.




Green Manures




Soil Health: Green manures like field beans and phacelia help protect the soil, prevent nutrient loss, and suppress weeds. They improve soil health and structure, making them a valuable addition to your garden.




Recipe of the Week: Autumn Vegetable Gratin



Chef Scott shares a comforting recipe for an autumn vegetable gratin, perfect for using up seasonal produce.