Veggie Egg Muffin Batch (12)

Spinach

• Sow spinach seeds directly into moist, rich soil in early spring and again in late summer for a fall crop.
• Plant in a location that receives full sun in cooler weather or partial shade as temperatures rise to prevent bolting.
• Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during germination, but avoid overwatering.

Red Pepper

• Start pepper seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost, transplanting outside when all danger of frost has passed and soil is warm.
• Provide full sun, at least 6-8 hours daily, and consistent moisture for optimal fruit production.
• Support taller pepper plants with stakes or cages to prevent branches from breaking under the weight of the fruit.

Cherry Tomatoes

• Plant cherry tomatoes in full sun (6-8 hours daily) in rich, well-drained soil after all danger of frost has passed.
• Provide strong support like stakes, cages, or trellises early on, as these plants can become quite tall and heavy.
• Water deeply and consistently at the base of the plant to encourage strong root growth and prevent cracking.

Red Onion

• Plant onion sets or seedlings in early spring in well-drained soil and full sun.
• Space onions 4-6 inches apart in rows to allow bulbs to develop properly, or grow in containers at least 10 inches deep.
• Ensure consistent moisture, especially during bulb formation, and keep the bed weed-free.

• Spray spinach plants with a strong stream of water to dislodge aphids, or use insecticidal soap for persistent infestations.

• Hand-pick tomato hornworms from cherry tomato plants and inspect leaves regularly for signs of feeding.

• Use floating row covers over young pepper plants to protect them from flea beetles and other early pests.

• Plant marigolds or dill nearby as companion plants to deter common onion pests like thrips.

Spinach

• Harvest spinach leaves when they are young and tender, about 3-6 inches long, using a cut-and-come-again method.
• Cut outer leaves first, leaving the inner leaves to continue growing, or harvest the entire plant by cutting at the base.

Red Pepper

• Harvest red peppers when they have reached their full size and turned a deep red colour, indicating peak ripeness and sweetness.
• Cut the stem cleanly with a sharp knife or pruners, leaving a small piece of stem attached to the fruit.

Cherry Tomatoes

• Pick cherry tomatoes when they are fully coloured, firm, and easily detach from the vine.
• Harvest frequently to encourage more fruit production and prevent overripe tomatoes from cracking or falling.

Red Onion

• Harvest red onions when their tops start to yellow and fall over, typically in mid to late summer.
• Loosen the soil around the bulbs and gently pull them, then cure in a warm, dry, well-ventilated area for 1-2 weeks before storing.