My family has made a practice of planting Irish potatoes in the fall rather than in the early spring. We tried it both ways for many years and our conclusions are that, season after season, fall planting seems to work better for us.

Here's an illustration: last spring we dutifully planted our potatoes in March, which is about as early as we can work the land successfully. We planted the spuds six inches deep, and then we waited.And waited. And waited.In April the first signs of growth appeared, and in the cool spring the plants grew, barely noticeably. When the really warm days of May arrived the potato plants put on a growth spurt that was truly gratifying.

Continued @ BackwoodsHome.com

This chart applies to the UK but there can be large variations between areas. Generally the south is earlier than the north. Each year is different as well. The art is to judge when the time is right for your area and the weather. Not easy!!

Continued @ Allotment.org.uk

When you buy seeds in the UK they will have a 'use by' date on the packet. Often they will be in a sealed foil packet within the main packet. This excludes air and light which keeps the seed fresh.

Unfortunately many seeds are supplied in quantities way beyond that required for the average garden or allotment for one year.

Continued @ allotment.org.uk

Note : this page is from a North Carolina website so you need to take into account local seasons

Basil (Ocimum basilicum L. and its varieties) is a popular herb known for its flavorful foliage. The fresh or dried leaves add a distinctive flavor to many foods, such as Italian style tomato sauces, pesto sauce and salad dressing. The essential oils and oleo-resins may be extracted from leaves and flowers and used for flavoring in liqueurs and for fragrance in perfumes and soaps.

Continued @ ncsu.edu