Sowing – Sow March to april. Sow seed 1cm (½ inch) deep, in pots of moist seed compost. Place in a propagator or warm place, and keep at a constant temperature of between 20-25C (68-77F). After sowing, do not exclude light as this helps germination. Keep the surface of the compost moist but not waterlogged; germination will usually take 7 to 21 days. When at the 2 leaf stage, transplant seedlings on into 13cm (5 inch) pots and grow on in well-lit conditions.

Can also be sown direct outdoors once the soil has warmed.

Growing – Gradually acclimatise young plants to outdoor conditions for 1 to 15 days before planting out after all risk of frost, 6cm (24 inches) apart.

Aftercare – For best results, provide a deep, rich, well-drained soil in full sun. Dry fruits fully in a cool, airy position before painting the skins.

Flowers – Summer

Harvest – September, October