SOMERSET gardeners interested in growing something new in their vegetables patches this season (summer, 2010) are being invited to try something new this year...sweet potatoes.

Monkton Elm Garden & Pet Centre in Monkton Heathfield between Bridgwater and Taunton is this year stocking the vegetable plants due to customer demand.

Norma Moore, General Manager of the award-winning garden centre, explained: “People are really keen to grow their own fruit and vegetables and are always interested in trying something new. They are also very health conscious.

“Sweet potatoes are supposed to be rich in vitamins A and C. Both are powerful antioxidants that work in the body to remove free radicals, which are chemicals that damage cells.

“They are said to have many other health benefits too including being good for people with stomach ulcers and inflamed conditions of the colon and for diabetics because they help stabilise blood sugar levels.”

A pack of four sweet potato plants costs £6.99.

To find out more, please visit Monkton Elm Garden & Pet Centre, which is located just off the A38 at Monkton Heathfield near Taunton, or call 01823 412381.