Outdoors: Sow thinly, March-July, where they are to crop, 2.5cm (1") deep, directly into finely-prepared, well-drained, fertile soil, which has already been watered. Allow 40cm (16") between rows. Early sowings may benefit from cloche protection. Seedlings usually appear in 7-21 days. Water well until plants are established. Thin out to 15cm (6") apart. 1 or 2 further sowings will ensure a continuous supply of leaves. Harvest: June-October. Pick a few leaves at a time, without stripping plants. Give cloche protection from October onwards to encourage cropping into the winter months.