SOW IN GROUND: Raise young plants for transplanting in a short row 2-3 ft (60-90 cm) long. From mid-spring to early summer, dig a ½ inch (1 cm) deep trench with a cane or trowel and sow seeds thinly along it. Cover with soil, water and label the row. Thin seedlings to 3 in (8 cm) when they are large enough to handle. You can sow early crops directly into their final positions in mid to late spring, in rows 15cm (6in) apart.
SOW IN POTS: From mid-spring, fill small pots or cells with sowing soil. Sow a seed ½ inch (1 cm) deep in the center of each. Cover, water, label and place in a sheltered location outdoors or on a well-lit windowsill.
WATER AND FEED: Water seedlings thoroughly after transplanting and keep the soil constantly moist during summer. Weed regularly around the plants. Mulch in the fall to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Feed plants with a nitrogen-rich fertilizer in early spring to stimulate growth.
