courgettes
Seed can be sown in pots from March to the end of May. Fill a 7.5cm (3in) pot with compost and firm gently. Sow a seed on its side 2.5cm (1in) deep and cover. Label, water and put in a propagator or on a windowsill. When roots begin to show through the bottom of the pot, put into a 12.5cm (5in) container. Plant out into growing bags, soil or a large pot in late spring or early summer. Seed can also be sown directly into the soil from late-May to early summer. Choose a sunny, sheltered spot and improve the soil by digging in some well-rotted manure or compost. Sow two seeds on their side 2.5cm (1in) deep and once the seedlings have germinated, take out the weakest one.
Plenty of water is essential, especially when the plants are in flower and then when the fruits have started to swell.