Questions

Gerry, I really miss you off the radio, but it's great to be able to ask you questions directly. I have so many.....I planted potatoes on 9 Mar. The British Queens which are described as 2nd Early are flowering, ahead of the Duke of York, which are supposed to be early. Is this alright? And when should they be ready for harvesting? (my wife is dying to get her teeth into some New Potatoes).

I am trying to grow vegetables with children at primary school. We had some sucess last year with lettuce and potatoes. I am finding it difficult to find suitable crops that will be ready for harvest before the end of June when the summer term ends. Can you suggest any crops that might be suitable for growing outdoors for an early harvest.

What causes a plant (chard, lettuce) to bolt? Or: how to prevent that?

I want to grow my own mushrooms. Can you tell me what i need and i how i can start? I want to grow field mushrooms or chestnut mushrooms.

I recent bought a thyme plant from a local food store. The plant has very soft stems and is not very woody. My question is if I plant this thyme out will it get that bit more woody? Should I harden the plant off first before setting it outside?

From a friend, I got what was called a 'Spinach Tree', no further info was given. Any idea, what kind of plant/care/use?