We have had a few milder days with some much wanted sunshine. Now is the time that some enthusiastic gardeners think about an early start and rush out to sow seeds. It is still too early for that in most parts of the UK.
There is far too much made of getting the earliest crops. On some allotments it becomes a strange contest, or rite of passage. Personally I prefer strong healthy plants that will give a good harvest rather than some weedy looking specimen that matures a few days earlier than those in the plot next door.
Have a look at this page for details of germination temperatures for common vegetables. Get yourself a small electronic thermometer with a probe. Check the temperature at a soil depth of 3″-4″ (75-100mm.) Do this for a couple of days to ensure the soil is a few degrees above the minimum. Then try some seed to see if it germinates. Keep a record of what you do for future reference.
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