Thompson & Morgan Rocket Astra

British breeding, superseding the popular Skyrocket, giving more rapid emergence and vigorous growth even under poor weather and soil conditions. The serrated leaves have the traditional peppery taste. Excellent bolting tolerance. Its vigour makes Astra suitable to grow in containers in an unheated greenhouse during the winter or indoors all the year round.

How to sow

Sow thinly, 13mm (1/2in) deep in drills 37cm (5in) apart in soil that has been raked to a fine tilth. Can also be sown in pots of good seed compost on the windowsill or in containers on the patio. Sow successionally for fresh leaves virtually all year round.

How to grow

When large enough to handle thin seedlings to 15cm (6in) apart. Pick regularly as tender ‘salad leaves’. Must be kept well watered during hot, dry weather or leaves will be hot and inedible and likely to bolt (run to seed).

Additional information

• Harvesting period: 21 days in optimum periods
• Pack contents (approx.): 400 seeds