Good King Henry Seed

To many people Good King Henry is classed as a weed; historically it was introduced to the UK by the Romans - who recognised its value as a vegetable.

In some parts of the Country it is known as Lincolnshire Spinach or Mercury.

Perennial in habit, the young leaves can be used in exactly the same way as perpetual spinach whilst the juvenile flower buds can be sautéed in butter. But for a real gourmet delight the young shoots can be forced in the spring to produce an Asparagus alternative.

• Sow April onwards in ¼" (6cmm) deep drills 18" (45 cm) apart.
• Thin seedlings to 12" (30 cm) apart.

• Top Tips
• Plants do not transplant well so always sow where you plan to grow.
• Keep well watered and mulch well annually.
• Pick foliage regularly to ensure a constant supply of young leaves and to avoid toughness.
• Similarly trim off flower bud to prevent plants going to seed.