Cultivate your edible crops in April
In her April garden guide, Rosie Yeomans shares tips for growing asparagus, courgettes (zucchini), and squash.
To grow courgettes and squash successfully, start by sowing seeds indoors from March or directly outdoors from late May to early June once the risk of frost has passed and the soil is warm and moist[1]. Sow seeds about 1.5 cm deep in pots or 2.5 cm (1 inch) deep in the garden, spacing plants about 30 cm (12 inches) apart[1][3]. Use well-drained soil rich in organic matter and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged during germination[1][2]. Protect young plants from frost with cloches or insulation if sowing outdoors early[1].
Once plants emerge, place them in a sunny position, ensuring they have plenty of space to spread[1][3]. Regular harvesting of courgettes when fruits reach about 10-12 cm encourages continuous production[1]. Pruning or pinching back can promote stronger growth and prevent disease, maximizing yields[5]. Squash and courgette plants enjoy warmth, sunlight, and consistent watering but avoid wetting foliage to reduce disease risk.
Asparagus, on the other hand, requires specific care. Asparagus plants need extra drainage and lots of organic matter in heavy soil[4]. A 20cm deep trench with a 10cm high hump along the middle should be made to plant asparagus crowns now, making a new bed[4]. Soil should be pulled back over just to cover the crown, then gradually filled back up to ground level as shoots appear.
Asparagus plants are replanted every 8-10 years when the old one begins to slow down[6]. Home grown asparagus is tastier than the bundles bought in shops[6]. Overlapping asparagus crowns is worthwhile[4].
Courgette and squash seeds are sown one per pot, about 2cm deep, and kept warm and in plenty of light[2]. Rosie grows one green, one yellow, and one striped variety of courgettes[7]. Two to three courgette plants can feed a family and neighbours[7].
Squash store well into the winter but take up lots of space[8]. Asparagus spears are harvested by cutting into the soil[4].
Rosie Yeomans is sharing her April activities for the fruit and veg garden, and her tips will help ensure a productive courgette, squash, and asparagus harvest throughout the growing season[1][5][6][7][8]. Bean supports are being constructed now, and should be strong and secure for summer winds and the weight of the bumper crop.
To further enhance Rosie Yeomans' home-and-garden lifestyle, she recommends growing not only asparagus, courgettes, and squash but also incorporating a variety of courgettes, such as green, yellow, and striped ones, in the home garden. In addition to this, courgettes and squash can be raised through gardening techniques by sowing seeds indoors from March or directly outdoors from late May to early June.
