Skip to main content
Top of the crops
MAT COWARD gives his pick of the best seeds for January
White Peacock kale

MOST growers reckon that tomatoes raised in a greenhouse don’t have quite the flavour of those grown outside. Despite this, a lot of people have more or less given up outdoor toms because they’re so susceptible to blight, a common disease which can ruin the entire crop. 

If that’s you, you’ll be glad to hear of a new cultivar called Oh Happy Day, available from Plants of Distinction (01449-721720; www.plantsofdistinction.co.uk). 

In trials it’s been found to be the last variety to succumb to late blight, meaning it’s got an excellent chance of ripening its fruit before the plant topples over. The flavour is said to be a pleasing balance of sweet and acid.

The 95th Anniversary Appeal
Support the Morning Star
You have reached the free limit.
Subscribe to continue reading.
Similar stories
Bryn Glas and Pilleth Church on the right - the Wellingtonia trees half way up the slope mark the rectangular burial ground   Pic: Ian Paterson/CC
Borderlands A Country Diary September 11 2026 / 10 September 2026
10 September 2026

In June 1402 Owain Glyndwr defeats the English in a battle of Bryn Glas, a fact not introduced to the school curriculum in Wales until 2022. MARK SEDDON revisits the battlefield

Kew Gardens
Gardening / 7 August 2026
7 August 2026

MAT COWARD says the heatwave is a testing time for gardeners — but he has some tips

Savoy Italian cabbage. Photo: Goldlocki/CC
Gardening / 2 January 2026
2 January 2026

MAT COWARD takes a look at some of the options for keen gardeners as we enter 2026

(L to R) Flowering parsnip in its second year; Oven baked parsnip with honey and mustard / Pics (L to R): Pic: Skogkatten/CC Takeaway/CC
Gardening / 6 December 2025
6 December 2025

Commiserations if you failed this year, MAT COWARD offers six points which, if followed religiously, will ensure you succeed next year