As summer draws to a close, not only is it the time to harvest seeds, it is also the ideal time to sow seeds as the soil is beautifully warm. By sowing now, either direct into a prepared space in the garden or into a pot, which is positioned against south facing wall or in a cold green house, you will have herbs that you can harvest throughout the winter months that will help you transform a meal into a feast .
One of the best is Parsley, both Curly, Petroselinum crispum and Flat leaved French, Petroselinum cripsum French.
By sowing now it will germinate in approximately 10-14 days. The seedlings will not be hassled by carrot fly and, once established, the plants will withstand frosts. After a frost they do look rather sad, but very quickly they perk back ready for use in the kitchen.
Another indispensable herb is Winter Purslane, Miner’s Lettuce, Claytonia perfoliata. This is a wonderful cut and come again herb that adds fresh succulent leaves to salads throughout the winter months.
September is also an ideal month for sowing Chervil, Anthriscus cerefolium. This will also produce an abundant crop for use through the winter months. In temperatures below -8c it is advisable to cover in a cloche.
Some seeds are far better sown fresh because, if delayed until the spring, they will need ‘stratification’, frost, or putting in the fridge to trigger germination. Angleica, Angleica archangelica, is one of these herbs.
If the fresh seed is sown now, into a seed tray or pots, it will take only 14-21 days to germinate and the seedlings will withstand all the vagaries of the weather, but will need protecting from ‘Denis’, our blackbird, and the pesky mice.
‘If you think in terms of a year, plant a seed; if in terms of ten years, plant trees; if in terms of 100 years, teach the people.’ Confucius
***END OF SEASON HERB PLANT SALE ***SEPTEMBER 20th &21st 10am – 4pm. Herb Teas, Tea, Coffee and home made cakes available.
Jekka's Herb Farm 
I’ve added winter purslane seeds to my shopping list, have been meaning to grow it and so glad to hear that it’s not too late to sow. Thanks lots!
It really is a treasure in winter, so glad to hear that you are giving it a go.
Reblogged this on Old School Garden.
Many thanks.
You’re very welcome, a helpful article 🙂
can you help me out with how best to harvest seeds drom a little almost black petunia….. and verbeenas I dont want to lose this years really lovely turnout… thannku
Sorry for the delay. I have been off having an operation. RE seeds it is when the casing changes colour this varies according to species, it is also when the casing opens and the seeds begin to drop. Harvest on a dry day! Good luck.
I mean what stage of colour are the seeds/pods meant to be at