Sprouts - You either love them or hate them but you can't get away from them. Sprouts are the most popular winter vegetable in the UK despite the bad press they often receive.
Facts about Sprouts
Over two thirds of the sprouts consumed in the UK are devoured outside of the Christmas period. The British also eat more sprouts than any other European country. Sprouts are extremely good for us. There are more than 100 different varieties of sprouts and some of the key breeders are based here in the UK. The volume of spouts grown each year in the UK is the equivalent to over 3000 football pitches.
Poinsettia Euphorbia pulcherrima
Poinsettias originate from Mexico and are one of the most popular Christmas houseplants. Every year over eight million plants are sold in the UK. During November and December they produce fantastic flowers. The UK has some of Europe’s largest poinsettia producers. A lot of planning goes into the marketing of the UK poinsettia and this often starts at Christmas. It is when the growers look at trialling new varieties and making sure that the plants fit in with the latest trends. Research is key and often grower swill do their market research at trade shows, looking at department store displays, interior design and even the catwalk.
There are over 150 different varieties of poinsettia in a variety of colours but red seems to be most festive and popular in the UK. Poinsettia plants get sown in July ready for sale during the festive season. Problems that poinsettia can encounter include Grey Mould. This occurs when plants are overwatered. They can also be attacked by common insect pests such as the Scale insect and glasshouse mealy bugs.
Poinsettia are tropical plants and therefore do not like draughts and cold windowsills.
Crop Health Services
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