I'm looking to surprise my close friend from the Philippines with some homegrown vegetables that remind her of home. I'm particularly interested in which Filipino vegetables or fruits can be successfully grown from seeds here in the UK. I've got a greenhouse and all the necessary supplies, so I'm ready to get started! Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!
3 Answers
What part of the UK are you located in? My mom's successfully grown bottle gourd in the east where it’s warmer, but if you're in a cooler area, it might be more challenging. Bitter melon is another option, though it's easier to find in Asian supermarkets.
Lemongrass is a fantastic choice! It does take a while to grow from seed, but if you can find a clump at a garden center, it can spread and be divided easily as it matures. Plus, it’s pricey in stores and makes a great addition to roast chicken recipes. Also, consider growing the long variety of aubergine, like Violet Knight. For annuals, Bitter Gourd is a solid option; you can grow them just like courgettes!
This is amazing, honestly thank you so much! I'll definitely do some more research on this.
Have you thought about growing taro (colocasia esculenta)? It resembles potatoes in flavor and is known as 'gabi' in the Philippines, often used in dishes like sinigang. Plus, it has beautiful large tropical leaves that can really enhance your garden!
Yes, I've seen people grow taro in the UK! It's a great idea because those leaves are stunning.
I'm in the North West coastal area. My greenhouse gets great heat, so I'm eager to try more tropical plants. Thanks for the tips!