Let the Plant-a-thon Begin!

If there was a Garden Olympics, I would enter the planting competition. I love it so much.

But having worked with many other gardeners (experienced and novice), I know that planting out fills lots of green-fingered people with anxiety.

Will the slugs get them?

Will a badger dig them up?

Am I being to rough and damaging their roots?

Maybe. But we have to carry on regardless.

The one thing I've found helpful is to think of plants in 3 different groups - ones that like to be treated rough and buried deep; ones that like to be planted level with the soil but isn't fussy; and ones which will sulk for weeks if they sense a breath of wind on their roots.

1. Treat the mean, bury them to their necks

Most Brassicas come into this group (cabbages, sprouts, broccoli etc) as well as tomatoes, peppers and sunflowers. They like to be planted deep for stability. Tomatoes, peppers and sunflowers send out more roots from their buried stems. You can really firm them in - I often use my heel rather than my hand.

2. Plant them level, no need to be too careful.

If in doubt, plant them level with the soil. The majority of plants like to be planted at soil level so this is your fail safe option. You don't need to be super careful, just dig a hole, plop the seedling in and firm around (minding that you don't break the stem).

3. Plants that HATE root disturbance

Some plants will sulk for weeks if you so much as breath on their roots. If I'm honest, it would probably be better to sow these varieties directly into the soil - everyone would be happier. But no-one's perfect and if you find yourself in the position of planting these fussy little creatures, then do it carefully - don't even be tempted to whisper a parting 'good luck' - they'll hate you for it. Nigella, sweet peas and to a lesser extent peas, french beans and courgettes/squash all come into this group.

After you've planted, don't forget to water them in (unless some very substantial rain is forecast). Watering them settles the soil around their roots and gets them off a roaring start.

- Ellen