Portobello Mushroom Burgers

Garlic

• Plant individual cloves, pointed end up, in well-drained soil in full sun in autumn or early spring.
• Ensure consistent moisture during bulb development, but reduce watering as harvest approaches.
• Garlic grows well in containers at least 8 inches deep and wide.

Tomato

• Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost, then transplant seedlings into full sun after all danger of frost has passed.
• Provide sturdy support like stakes or cages as the plants grow to prevent sprawling and improve air circulation.
• Water deeply and consistently at the base of the plant to prevent blossom end rot.

Rocket

• Sow seeds directly into rich, well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade, spacing them about 6 inches apart.
• For a continuous supply, sow small batches every 2-3 weeks, especially in cooler weather.
• Rocket prefers cooler temperatures and may bolt (go to seed) quickly in hot summer conditions.

• Hand-pick slugs and snails from rocket leaves in the morning or evening.

• Use row covers to protect young rocket plants from flea beetles, which chew small holes in leaves.

• Inspect tomato plants regularly for aphids and spray them off with a strong jet of water or use insecticidal soap.

Garlic

• Harvest when the lower leaves begin to yellow and dry, but there are still 4-5 green leaves remaining.
• Carefully loosen the soil around the bulb with a fork and pull the garlic gently to avoid bruising.

Tomato

• Pick tomatoes when they are fully colored, firm, and easily detach from the vine with a slight twist.
• If frost is expected, green tomatoes can be picked and ripened indoors at room temperature.

Rocket

• Harvest outer leaves as needed for a cut-and-come-again supply, or cut the whole plant an inch above the soil for a quick regrowth.
• Pick leaves when they are young and tender for the best flavor, as older leaves can become more bitter.