One of the earliest varieties to mature. Little Gem produces small compact plants which are packed with a crisp sweet heart and little outside leaf. Very useful for cloches too.

Sow thinly from spring to mid summer 6mm (¼in) deep in drills 23cm (9in) apart. A moist well drained fertile soil which has had plenty of compost dug in the previous autumn is best. In very hot weather it is best to water the soil before sowing and sow during the early afternoon.

An early spring sowing under cloches will provide a really early crop.

Thin out gradually to 23cm (9in) apart.