GROW YOUR OWNFollow our easy guide for tasty crops with little effort - you'll enjoy a harvest in no time at allGrowing your own veg may seem a bit daunting, especially if you've never done it before, but there's really nothing to worry about. With plenty of foolproof crops to try, and easy ideas to save both time and money, everyone can reap the benefits of a little homegrown produce. It doesn't take any specialist skills and it's great to get all the family involved. The benefits are massive, of course - nothing beats the taste of freshly harvested produce (it's far better than anything you can buy), you can grow treasures that are tricky to pick up in shops and you have the satisfaction of knowing your food has only travelled from plot to plate. So, what are you waiting for? Pick up some seeds or veg plants in-store now, and the delicious bounty will begin in just a few weeks' time! 10 www.dobbies.com spring/summer 2012Veg forbeginnersDon't be put off if you've only got a small patio or balcony, as you can still grow plenty of produce. Most crops will grow well in containers (although choose plastic ones if possible as they retain lots of moisture) with salads, radishes and beans all performing really well. If you're a sucker for new potatoes, look out for special 'potato sacks' - they're just the thing for growing a delicious crop and take up very little space. Save £3 in-store on the Potato Patio Planter (3 pack) pictured above - it's now only £9.99 (was £12.99).Tight  on                  space  ?

spring/summer 2012 www.dobbies.com 11GROW YOUR OWNBeans are one of the easiest veggies to grow and they pump out a seemingly endless crop.1. Make a wigwam of bamboo canes in your border or in a large pot. Sow a bean about 4cm deep at the base of each cane.2. Water the beans well and they should begin to sprout within a few days. Be vigilant for attacking slugs and snails.3. Twine the stems around the canes as they grow - they'll do it by themselves eventually but may need a helping hand to begin with.4. Pick beans when they are ready, keeping on top of harvesting every day. Picking little and often encourages more to grow.How to sow climbing beansISTOCK.COMTrim, blanch and freeze excess beans and keep them for the winter months - it's an easy way to preserve a taste of summer!Top tip