Edible garden: Seedlings

Now is the time to plan for cooler seasons. Photo / Supplied

How to grow:

Although we're in the height of summer, plan now for the cooler months.

Seeds for autumn and early winter veges can be sown into punnets ready for planting in late summer.

Broccoli and other brassicas are worth sowing in pots now, as are beetroot (soak seed first) and celery.

Sow carrot directly into the garden in finely cultivated soil, but ensure the seeds are kept moist while germinating.

Try to plant or sow just before a period of rain.

Mid-summer is a bounteous time.

Freeze veges such as beans and tomatoes (after blanching in boiling water) or bottle plums.

As garlic and onion leaves start drying or yellowing, the bulbs are mature enough to pull.

Dry on the soil in the sun for a couple of days before storing.

In the kitchen:

Plums are ready for picking.

Turn red-fleshed plums into a dessert or breakfast topping by stewing.

Add a cinnamon quill to the cooking pot for flavour, and serve with mascarpone and crunchy biscotti.