One of the most colourful, easiest and versatile leaves to grow. Ideal for tender baby leaf in patio pots or as mature plants in the vegetable garden. Outdoor sowing: April-July, sow thinly in a prepared seed bed in rows 40cm (16in) apart. Cover lightly with 1.5cm (half-inch) of fine soil, firm gently and keep moist. Seedlings usually appear in 14-21 days. When large enough thin to 15cm (6in) apart. Keep moist and weed free. If grown for baby leaves no thinning out is required. Harvest from July to November.