Field horticulture

Although many are hardy and suited to the English climate, they still need looking after and plants need to be fed, watered and sprayed to protect them from pests and diseases, before harvesting.

Key crops include a family called brassicas – think cabbages, cauliflowers and brussel sprouts - which are planted and harvested at different times of the year.

Special techniques

Another popular group are root vegetables, such as carrots and parsnips. Thanks to a technique called strawing, where a thick layer of straw is laid over the top of plants to protect them from frost, many can now be grown all year round.

Other field crops include alliums like leeks, garlic and onions, which are generally harvested in late summer, although new improved storage methods mean they're another English crop which is always on shop shelves.