A Beginner’s Guide to Growing Your Own Herbs and Vegetables

Growing your own herbs and vegetables is a rewarding and cost-effective way to enjoy fresh, organic produce right from your garden, balcony, or windowsill. 

Whether you have a spacious garden or just a small space to work with, this beginner’s guide will help you get started on your home-growing journey.

Why Grow Your Own?

There are a number of benefits to growing your own herbs and vegetables, including:

Freshness – Enjoy the unbeatable taste of homegrown produce.

Health benefits – Avoid pesticides and grow organic, nutrient-rich food.

Cost savings – Reduce grocery bills by growing essential kitchen staples.

Sustainability – Lower your carbon footprint by reducing food miles.

Therapeutic value – Gardening is a great way to relieve stress and connect with nature.

Choosing the Right Location

The success of your home garden depends on where you plant your herbs and vegetables. Consider these key factors:

Sunlight – Most herbs and vegetables require at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.

Soil quality – Good drainage and nutrient-rich soil are essential for healthy plants.

Space availability – Whether you have a garden, balcony, or windowsill, choose the right containers or beds to maximise growth.

Protection from pests – Use natural methods to keep insects and animals at bay, keeping chemicals to a minimum. 

Easy Herbs and Vegetables for Beginners

Herbs

Herbs are some of the easiest plants to grow and require minimal maintenance. Here are some beginner-friendly choices:

Basil – Perfect for salads, pasta, and pesto, basil thrives in warm conditions.

Mint – Grows rapidly and is great for teas, cocktails, and garnishes.

Parsley – A versatile herb that adds flavour to many dishes.

Rosemary – A hardy perennial that adds a fragrant touch to roasts and soups.

Thyme – Low-maintenance and perfect for seasoning meats and vegetables.

Vegetables

If you’re new to vegetable gardening, start with these easy-to-grow varieties:

Lettuce – Grows quickly and can be harvested multiple times.

Tomatoes – Great for containers and ideal for fresh salads and sauces.

Radishes – Fast-growing and perfect for adding crunch to dishes.

Carrots – Easy to grow in loose, well-drained soil.

Courgettes – Prolific growers that provide a bountiful harvest.

Essential Gardening Tools

To make your gardening experience smoother, invest in these basic tools:

Trowel – For planting and transplanting.

Hand fork – Useful for breaking up soil and weeding.

Watering can or hose – Essential for keeping plants hydrated.

Gardening gloves – To protect your hands from dirt and thorns.

Pots or containers – Ideal for small-space gardening.

Planting and Caring for Your Herbs and Vegetables

Prepare the Soil – Use well-draining compost or nutrient-rich soil for best results.

Plant at the Right Time – Follow seasonal guidelines for each herb and vegetable.

Water Regularly, but sensibly – Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.

Feed Your Plants – Use organic fertilisers or compost to nourish your plants.

Harvest Often – Regular harvesting encourages new growth and prolongs the plant’s lifespan.

Dealing with Common Gardening Challenges

Pests and Diseases

Use companion planting (e.g., planting marigolds with tomatoes to deter pests).

Make natural insect sprays from garlic or neem oil.

Keep plants healthy to reduce vulnerability to diseases.

Weather Conditions

Use mulch to retain soil moisture in hot weather.

Provide shade for delicate plants during heatwaves.

Cover crops with fleece to protect them from frost.

Final Thoughts

Starting your own herb and vegetable garden is an enjoyable and fulfilling endeavour. With a little patience and the right approach, you’ll soon be enjoying the fruits (and vegetables) of your labour.

 Whether you have a garden, patio, or just a sunny windowsill, there’s always a way to bring fresh, homegrown produce into your kitchen.

Have you started growing your own food? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below.

Light & Refreshing Spring Salads for Warmer Days

As the days grow longer and the temperature rises, heavy winter meals give way to light, refreshing dishes that celebrate the vibrancy of spring. 

Salads are the perfect way to embrace the season, combining crisp greens, fresh vegetables, and bright dressings for a delicious and nutritious meal. 

Whether you’re looking for a side dish or a main course, these spring salad ideas are packed with flavour and seasonal goodness.

1. Spring Greens & Citrus Salad

This salad bursts with the fresh flavours of citrus and peppery greens, making it a perfect light lunch or dinner starter.

Ingredients:

100g mixed spring greens (rocket, watercress, baby spinach)

1 orange, peeled and sliced

1 grapefruit, peeled and segmented

50g crumbled feta cheese

30g walnuts, toasted

1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

1 tbsp honey

1 tsp Dijon mustard

Salt and black pepper to taste

Method:

In a large bowl, combine the spring greens, orange slices, and grapefruit segments.

In a small jar, mix olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper, then shake well.

Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently.

Top with crumbled feta and toasted walnuts.

2. Asparagus & Pea Salad with Lemon Dressing

A true celebration of spring produce, this salad is fresh, zesty, and wonderfully green.

Ingredients:

200g asparagus, trimmed and blanched

100g sugar snap peas, sliced

100g fresh or frozen peas, blanched

50g radishes, thinly sliced

2 tbsp lemon juice

2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

1 tsp honey

1 tsp wholegrain mustard

Salt and pepper to taste

20g fresh mint, chopped

50g goat’s cheese, crumbled

Method:

Arrange the asparagus, sugar snap peas, peas, and radishes on a large plate.

In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, honey, mustard, salt, and pepper.

Drizzle the dressing over the vegetables and toss lightly.

Sprinkle with fresh mint and goat’s cheese before serving.

3. Strawberry & Avocado Spinach Salad

Sweet strawberries and creamy avocado create a delightful contrast in this beautifully simple salad.

Ingredients:

150g baby spinach

100g fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

1 ripe avocado, sliced

50g toasted almonds

50g crumbled blue cheese or feta

2 tbsp balsamic vinegar

2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

1 tsp honey

Salt and black pepper to taste

Method:

In a large salad bowl, combine the spinach, strawberries, and avocado.

In a small jar, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper.

Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently.

Top with toasted almonds and crumbled cheese before serving.

4. Radish, Cucumber & Herb Salad

A crisp and refreshing salad that is perfect as a side dish for grilled meats or fish.

Ingredients:

1 cucumber, thinly sliced

100g radishes, thinly sliced

20g fresh dill, chopped

20g fresh chives, chopped

1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

1 tsp honey

Salt and black pepper to taste

Method:

In a large bowl, mix cucumber, radishes, dill, and chives.

In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper.

Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss well.

Serve immediately for a crisp, refreshing side dish.

Final Thoughts

Spring is the perfect time to enjoy fresh, light meals that highlight the best seasonal produce. Whether you’re in the mood for a citrusy, sweet, or herby salad, these recipes will bring a burst of freshness to your table. Enjoy them as a side dish, a light main, or a delightful addition to your springtime picnics and barbecues!

What’s your favourite spring salad? Let us know in the comments below!

Say Hello to Lost Sheep Coffee's New Iced Caramel Latte!

If you love good coffee but you always seem to be short on time, then this is for you!

Lost Sheep Coffee is taking ready-to-drink coffee to the next level with the launch of its New Iced Caramel Latte, the latest addition to the brand's award-winning range of Aussie-style craft coffee cans, made by speciality coffee roasters who really know their beans.

It's a natural source of caffeine, It's the perfect, ultimate combination of smooth speciality coffee and deliciously sweet caramel, all wrapped up in one perfect can for drinking anywhere, anytime.

Here's why you need to try it:

It's made by proper coffee roasters: So this is most certainly NOT your average coffee in a can. With over a million speciality coffees brewed since 2012, Lost Sheep Coffee has perfected the art of great-tasting coffee. It's the highest quality coffee you will find in can and no fancy café is required.

You'll be able to taste the difference: Made with Lost Sheep's signature Get To The Hopper Coffee, a dreamy blend of Colombian and Brazilian Arabica beans,  this Iced Caramel Latte is anything but basic. You should expect rich, creamy flavour with a touch of gorgeously sweet butterscotch goodness.

And what's more, it is fully traceable from origin to can: Lost Sheep doesn't just talk the talk. Every single can is made with coffee beans that are 100% traceable from origin so you can feel good knowing exactly where your coffee comes from.

All the sweetness, less of the guilt: Craving something sweet?  With less than half the sugar of the leading brand, the new Iced Latte offers all the caramel sweetness you love but with less than 80 calories a can, so can treat yourself without any of the guilt.

Brimming with the good stuff: Made with silky skimmed milk, it's also a brilliant source of calcium plus vitamins A, D and B12, also.

Lost Sheep Coffee founder, Stuart Wilson says: “At Lost Sheep, we're strong believers that no-one should have to compromise on great quality coffee. Our Iced Coffee Cans are made for everyone, serving up a craft coffee experience wherever you are, at whatever time of the day."

He went on to say: "For us, it's all about quality. While other RTD brands use instant coffee or low-quality beans, we brew only the best, using freshly ground, speciality-grade beans that are hand-roasted to perfection and traceable from origin to can. The result is real, Aussie-style sweet coffee in the convenience of a can. It's a genuine game-changer.”

New Lost Sheep Iced Caramel Latte Cans are available from www.lostsheepcoffee.com and Amazon.co.uk from March 2025 with more stockists to follow. RRP £2.30 for a 250ml can.

 Did you know Frappuccino Caramel Iced Coffee from the leading ready-to-drink coffee brand has 9.7g of sugar per 100ml / Lost Sheep Iced Caramel Latte has 4.5 g of sugar per 100ml? And that's good to know!

Introducing Bonne Maman Delicious Tartlets

Why not curl up, relax and treat yourself to some delicious Bonne Maman Tartlets? 

These are crisp little pastries, that are deliciously filled with tasty fruit or caramel compote. 

Now available in three varieties – fresh and zesty Citron, fruity Framboise and luscious Chocolate Caramel – Tartlets offer a simple little moment of indulgence - perfect with a morning cup of coffee, ideal for an afternoon teatime break or an on the go treat! 

Made using only the finest ingredients, Tartlets are crafted from a traditional French recipe, giving a crisp pastry base topped with a delectable melt in your mouth filling – a scrumptious balance of flavour and texture.

Individually wrapped, Bonne Maman Tartlets are available in packs of nine from Sainsbury's stores and online from Ocado at £2.00rrp. 

For further information, tips and recipes see www.bonnemaman.co.uk, like them on Facebook @BonneMamanUK and follow on Instagram @bonnemaman_uk

Range availability in store may vary by location.

Bonne Maman Cakes & Biscuits contain no artificial colourings or flavourings.

The UK range includes:

Madeleines: La Madeleine All Butter, Chocolate, Lemon and Les Petites Madeleines

Cakes: Chocolate Sweet Hearts, Fruit Cake, Loaf Cake, new Mini Chocolate Muffins, new Mini Vanilla Muffins, Marble Cake and new Chocolate Cake.

Biscuits: new Tartelettes Citron, Tartelettes Framboise and Tartelettes Chocolate Caramel, Mini Cookies, Chocolate Filled Biscuits, Chocolate Hazelnut Biscuits, Dark Chocolate Sablés and Milk Chocolate Sablés 

Stay one step ahead of hay fever with hay-band

Put off eating by irritating hay fever? Then you should apply some pressure! 

The principles of ancient Chinese acupressure have been used for centuries to help treat the symptoms of allergy, including hay fever.

hay-band, a top family favourite, works by applying pressure to the acupressure point on either arm, called the LI-11 point.

Acupressure is believed to increase the flow of natural energy through the stimulation of various pressure points and in doing so, help unblock energy pathways to the nose and throat, and promote your well-being.

The LI-11 point can be found at the end of the crease at the elbow. Once located, simply slide a hay-band into position so that the button faces inwards over the pressure point, with the bands passing either side of the elbow.

The band is fast-acting and may be worn on either arm or if symptoms are acute, one can be worn on both arms. Drug-free, natural and discreet, hay-band can also be worn as a preventative.

There's no drowsiness or other unwanted side-effects and the band is suitable for adults and children over the age of three, but not suitable for use during pregnancy.

hay-band costs £13.09 per (they are washable) band and is available online from hay-band.co.uk.

Raise a Glass to Mum and Mother Nature with Candover Brook Rosé NV

This Mothering Sunday, 30th March, you can celebrate and honour the remarkable women in your life with a gift that embodies sophistication, thoughtfulness, and natural beauty. 

Candover Brook Rosé NV, an award-winning English Sparkling Wine, is the ultimate expression of love and appreciation.

Crafted in Hampshire's beautiful and idyllic Candover Valley, Candover Brook is a testament to the art of winemaking in harmony with Mother Nature. 

Nurtured in chalk-rich soils and made with a meticulous commitment to regenerative farming, this sparkling rosé celebrates conscious indulgence and refined luxury.

With its delicate blush hue, fine effervescence, and notes of wild strawberry, cranberry, and toasted brioche, Candover Brook Rosé NV delivers an enchanting sensory experience. A balance of crisp freshness and velvety smoothness makes it the ultimate toast to Mum and a thoughtful, eco-conscious alternative to chocolates and flowers.

Candover Brook is more than a vineyard, it is a legacy of sustainability and stewardship. Every bottle contributes to the protection of local biodiversity, including the endangered, white-clawed crayfish, the vineyard's emblem and a symbol of its dedication to preserving the natural world.

Luxurious gift boxes make your gift even more special, and handwritten notes are available to ensure your Mother's Day gesture is as personal as it is elegant.

Candover Brook Rosé NV is available for purchase online at www.candoverbrook.co.uk (£38 per bottle).

This Mothering Sunday, raise a glass to the extraordinary women in your life with a wine as exceptional as they are. A sparkling tribute to Mum and Mother Nature in every sip.

Longer days, lighter bites: Premium Country Pub Collection welcomes spring with new seasonal dishes

Spring is now blooming, and with it, an exciting menu has arrived at the Premium Country Pub Collection, bringing fresh seasonal flavours, vibrant ingredients, and irresistible dishes to the table. 

Famed for its collection of the finest country pubs set in some of the UKs most breathtaking locations, Premium Country Pub Collection provides the perfect setting for every occasion.  

Whether you are celebrating a milestone birthday with a three-course meal, toasting an anniversary with a bottle of chilled champagne, or simply catching up with friends over barista-made coffee, these charming venues offer a truly idyllic escape. 

As the evenings grow longer and the sunshine lingers a little later, the new and refreshed menu is bursting with vibrant ingredients offering a range of crisp, nourishing salads, tantalising vegan delights and sumptuous sharing boards. And now, with warmer days, guests can enjoy alfresco dining at its finest, unwinding in unsoaked terraces and scenic gardens.  

One of the standout additions is the new Signature Sunday Sharing Roast – a decadent sharing experience for two, showcasing the finest cuts of meat and all the traditional, delicious trimmings for an indulgent Sunday treat. 

Also coming soon is a refreshed drinks menu, featuring new additions to the Collection’s already extensive champagne and wine list, sweet and zesty cocktails perfect for summer evenings and a whole range of ‘mocktails’, made using the finest alcohol-free spirits. 

Said Paul Smith, who is Operations Director at the Premium Country Pub Collection: “We’ve worked very closely with our talented chefs to curate the perfect menu for the warmer seasons that blends classic comfort with fresh, exciting flavours.  From indulgent traditional favourites such as pan-fried sea bass fillets and 30 day-aged 10oz rib-eye steak, to decadent desserts, complete with an enticing drinks menu, every plate has been crafted to complement the premium dining experience we pride ourselves on.” 

“Our pubs are more than just places to eat; they are destinations for unforgettable moments. The new menu embodies our passion for delivering the most delicious plates in stunning surroundings, so whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or unwinding after a long countryside walk, you know you’re in the right place. 

“On behalf of the whole team, I’d like to extend a warm welcome to both familiar faces and new guests to experience the magic of the latest menu themselves – we can’t wait to welcome you!” 

Premium Country Pub Collection has also recently launched its new “Rewards by Premium Country Pub Collection” App, offering enticing loyalty rewards and exclusive offers for guests. From a complimentary glass of Moet champagne just for signing up to an entire bottle of Veuve Clicquot upon collecting all stamps, guests can be well and truly spoiled. 

To explore the full menu and sign up to the mailing list to be the first to receive updates, please visit

premiumcountrypubcollection.co.uk  

NEW Limited Edition Tormek T-1 Florentine Vibrant

With Easter bringing family feasts and roast dinners, having sharp knives is absolutely vital. 

A well-sharpened knife ensures precision when carving roasts, slicing fresh bread and cakes, or prepping vegetables, making cooking smoother, safer, and more enjoyable. 

The NEW Limited Edition Tormek T-1 Florentine Vibrant is the result of an exciting collaboration between Tormek and Florentine Kitchen Knives. 

Featuring a playfully colourful handle designed by Tomer Botner, founder of the Barcelona-based knife-making studio, this edition brings a striking contrast to the sharp, industrial aesthetic of the Tormek T-1 - making it a standout feature in any kitchen.  

Each handle is randomly assembled from a shared colour palette, meaning no two machines are identical - as each one has its own unique "fingerprint." 

RRP £ 370 from shop.tormek.co.uk

And it has an eight-year warranty, too.

Also available in the range - Zinc Gray RRP £335, Carbon Black RRP £335 and Morakniv 1891 RRP £350.

Why You Should Try Fermented Foods This Spring

As spring brings fresh beginnings and renewal, it’s the perfect time to refresh your diet with vibrant, gut-friendly fermented foods. 

Fermentation is an age-old process that enhances the flavour, nutrition, and health benefits of foods, making them a great addition to your springtime meals.

From tangy sauerkraut to creamy kefir, fermented foods can do wonders for digestion, immunity, and overall well-being. Here’s why you should incorporate them into your diet this season.

1. Fermented Foods Support Gut Health

Spring is all about rejuvenation, and your gut deserves a refresh too. Fermented foods are rich in probiotics—beneficial bacteria that support a healthy gut microbiome. A balanced gut can improve digestion, enhance nutrient absorption, and reduce bloating, making you feel lighter and more energetic.

Great options include:

Kimchi – A spicy Korean staple made from fermented cabbage and radishes.

Sauerkraut – Fermented cabbage that’s full of probiotics and vitamin C.

Kefir – A probiotic-rich dairy drink that’s a stronger gut booster than yoghurt.

2. Strengthens Your Immune System

Springtime often comes with seasonal allergies and lingering colds, but fermented foods can help. Since about 70% of the immune system is housed in the gut, a well-balanced microbiome supports a strong immune response. Probiotics from fermented foods can help regulate inflammation and fight off harmful bacteria, keeping you feeling your best.

Try:

Miso soup – A warming Japanese broth made from fermented soybeans, packed with immune-boosting compounds.

Yoghurt with live cultures – A delicious and versatile way to get beneficial bacteria.

3. Helps Detox the Body

Spring is often seen as a time to cleanse and reset. Fermented foods aid in detoxification by promoting a healthy gut, which helps your body eliminate toxins more efficiently. They also support liver function and reduce the burden on your digestive system.

Top picks for detox support:

Kombucha – A fizzy, fermented tea loaded with antioxidants.

Tempeh – A protein-rich fermented soy product that’s great for vegetarians.

4. Boosts Energy and Mood

As the days get longer, you might be looking for ways to feel more energised. Fermented foods help improve digestion, which in turn allows your body to absorb nutrients more efficiently. This can lead to better energy levels and improved mental clarity.

Additionally, gut health is closely linked to mental health. A well-balanced microbiome can help regulate mood and reduce stress, which is great for embracing the brighter days ahead.

5. Adds a Burst of Flavour to Seasonal Dishes

Spring is a time for lighter, fresher meals, and fermented foods bring an extra depth of flavour. Their tangy, umami-rich profiles can elevate simple dishes, making them more exciting and satisfying.

Ways to enjoy them this season:

Add sauerkraut or kimchi to fresh salads or sandwiches.

Stir miso paste into salad dressings for an umami kick.

Use fermented pickles as a side to balance out rich spring dishes.

Final Thoughts

Adding fermented foods to your spring diet is a delicious and natural way to boost your gut health, immunity, and overall well-being. Whether you enjoy a spoonful of yoghurt, a glass of kombucha, or a side of kimchi, your body will thank you.

So why not embrace the season of renewal by giving your diet a healthy, probiotic-rich upgrade? Your gut (and taste buds) will really thank you!

Enjoy the Wetherspoon Spring Beer Festival

Wetherspoon's Spring Real Ale Festival is back, offering a 12-day celebration of exceptional brews from Wednesday, 5 March to Sunday, 16 March 2025. 

This year's festival is particularly special, as it coincides with International Women's Day and showcases beers brewed by, or with the assistance of, female brewers, honouring the historical role of women—traditionally known as 'brewsters'—in the art of brewing.

A World bursting With Flavours

Beer enthusiasts can look forward to a selection of 30 real ales, including five international offerings making their debut at Wetherspoon pubs:

Australia: Wallaby by Penny Red

Canada: Estuary Session Ale by Land & Sea

Italy: Chocolate Porter by Birra Perugia

New Zealand: Antipodean by Brew Moon

USA: Hey Pal by Terrapin

These international brews are complemented by a diverse range of UK ales, such as Boudicca from Brains, Persephone from Brewster’s, Vienna from Harviestoun, Beerhart from Mad Squirrel, Gulpa from Redemption, and Alpha Female from Rooster’s. 

Culinary Creativity in a Glass

The festival's lineup features beers crafted with an array of malt and hop varieties from around the globe. Some brews incorporate unique ingredients like cherries and cocoa beans, offering patrons distinctive flavour profiles to explore. Additionally, several vegan-friendly options are available, ensuring there's something for everyone. 

Savour More for Less

One of the festival's highlights is the exceptional value it offers. Pints are priced from £1.69 to £1.99 at most locations, with some venues charging up to £2.49. For those eager to sample a variety of brews, the festival provides the option to enjoy three one-third-of-a-pint tasters for the price of a single pint. 

Join the Celebration

With detailed tasting notes available in pubs, on the Wetherspoon app, and on customer information screens, attendees can make informed choices and fully appreciate the nuances of each ale. Whether you're a seasoned real ale aficionado or a curious newcomer, Wetherspoon's Spring Real Ale Festival 2025 promises a welcoming and flavourful experience for all. 

Don't miss this opportunity to explore a world of flavours and celebrate the rich tradition of brewing at your local Wetherspoon pub.

And all Wetherspoon pubs serve a wide range of foods from a bowl of soup to a tasty steak dinner or a curry.

https://www.jdwetherspoon.com