For our urban allotment fans, we once again get down to work and concentrate on our private crops, after passing a few months of low activity and having picked the cabbages, cauliflowers and radishes we planted in September and October. February is a month to return to activity because the days are longer and we must not be complacent since the second month of the year in Menorca usually presents us with the coldest temperatures and this means we must protect the allotment.
Firstly we must prepare the soil for the next sowing, which means mixing the substratum and adding fertiliser.In terms of choosing seeds, we can start by sowing garlic, celery, courgette, beans, sunflower, turnip and potato. We can also start sowing tomatoes. Careful with the seed boxes in the open air: they will need protection from harsh weather.
What we advise against in February is transplanting directly into the ground because the temperature may damage the plant. This is only possible if you have a conditioned greenhouse.
Finally, during February we can sow basil in a seed box to be transplanted in April. Basil needs humidity and sun, is a good mosquito and plant parasite repellent, and can also be added to many dishes. In fact, our tip is to always have aromatic plants in the urban allotment because they attract pollinators and act as plague repellents. They will also provide us with aromas and very useful natural medicinal remedies for winter colds.
