Sow parsley, chervil, chives, fennel and marjoram. Coriander can be sown under cover.

It is easier to buy in young plants of mint, tarragon, thyme or rosemary. These are harder to grow from seed, some being prone to damping off, others unreliably producing ripe seed, and others being more quickly and practically propagated by division or cuttings.

Pest & disease watch

Covering plants with fleece can protect them from flying pests, as well as from the cold weather.

Look out for signs of botrytis (fluffy grey mould) on herbs, especially in wet weather.

January February March April May June July August September October November December