In my opinion silver beet is the ultimate filler. It's ideal for filling up tummies by bulking out dishes like stews, quiches or lasagnes. It's the perfect plant for filling empty pots or tight spots in your garden, such as in between slower growing veges like cauliflower and broccoli. And it's full of vitamins. If there were a prize for the ultimate filler, silver beet would beat out the competition.

If I haven't confused you too much and you're still keen to plant this easy to grow vegetable, you can get your seedlings from your local supermarket or Bunnings. Or order them online without even having to leave your home.

When you've got your seedlings look for a well-drained spot to grow them and mix in some compost. If your soil is a little sluggish mound it up before you plant.

As I said before, silver beet grows well in pots so don't feel restricted to your garden. And, for that matter, don't even feel restricted to silver beet. Coloured beet looks great in pots and is particularly suited to them because it likes full sun and is not quite as frost hardy as regular silver beet. Just remember to use a good quality potting mix to ensure your seedlings get a good kick-start.

If you've recently planted seedlings such as broccoli or cabbage, which take a while to mature, try growing your silverbeet in between the rows. Your beet won't impinge on your existing plants because it will grow up rather than out and will be ready to harvest earlier.

Once you've found the perfect spot to plant, simply dig a little hole and place the seedling inside and then plant each one around 20cm apart.

Depending on the condition of your soil your silver beet will be ready to harvest in around eight to 12 weeks. If your soil is well composted and free draining you'll be looking at more like eight weeks.

Lastly, watch out for snails and keep them away with some quash or our tried and true beer bait.