Tatsoi, a resilient leafy green which is exceptionally hardy, capable of enduring temperatures as low as minus 10 degrees Celsius, and has been observed to thrive and be harvested even beneath a blanket of snow! This versatile substitute for spinach yields ample fresh greens during the winter season and, indeed, over a large portion of the year.

This crop will often grow better in autumn than in the spring, and is a great choice for making use or your greenhouse or polytunnel all year round.

Direct sow Tatsoi seeds outdoors from April to September into well prepared, fertile, moist soil in sun or semi shade. Sow seeds thinly in drills 30cm apart in soil which has been raked to a fine tilth, cover lightly. We recommend watering the drill before sowing the seed to prevent washing away the seed with a first heavy watering. When seedlings large enough to handle, thin out to 30cm apart and as with all brassicas cover with a protective netting or fleece to prevent attack from birds and insects.

Alternatively, sow indoors in large trays or pots in October, November, February and March for harvests through the winter and in early Spring. You can use cloches to aid germination and speed up growth in cooler months, although this isn't actually necessary – Tatsoi is hardy and grows well without protection.