Attracts Butterflies
Enjoy Enchanting "Flowers of the Air"
These blossom shapes and colors will bring butterflies to the garden all summer long to feed, rest and roost.
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Ornamental Sunflowers Royal Flush
ANNUAL
Summer/fall bloom
Frost tenderEASIEST TO PLANT OUTDOORS
Plant in full sun in good garden soil when weather is warm and settled, all danger of frost is past and both days and nights are evenly in the 50°F (10°C) range. Poke seeds into well-worked soil about 1/2 inch deep, 4 to 5 inches apart. Press soil firmly over seeds and keep moist until seedlings emerge in 8 to 10 days. When seedlings are large enough to handle, thin seedlings to final spacing of 1 foot apart so these tall plants will have ample room to grow. Extra thinned seedlings can be transplanted easily.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Several weeks before last frost date, sow seeds 1/2 inch deep in individual pots of well-drained seed starting mix. Keep moist and provide a strong light source until seedlings are well established and ready to plant outside. Transplant carefully, disturbing the roots as little as possible. Space seedlings 1 foot apart so plants will have room to mature.
GROWING NOTES
These handsome branching flowers are easy and rewarding to grow. Make several sowings a few weeks apart to have a succession of flowers in full bloom. Keep soil moist and well-weeded. Protect very young seedlings from birds with netting or plastic berry baskets, removing before plants get crowded.Regular price $4.39Sale price $4.39Unit price per -
Cactus Zinnias Heirloom Raggedy Anne
ANNUAL
Summer/fall bloom
Frost tenderTO START DIRECTLY IN THE GARDEN
Sow seeds in a well-worked seedbed in full sun when danger of frost is past and weather is warm and settled. Space seeds 2 to 3 inches apart in rows 12 inches apart, cover about 1/2 inch deep and gently firm soil. Keep soil evenly moist while awaiting germination.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
One month before last frost date, sow seeds 1/2 inch deep and 3 inches apart in a container of seed starting mix. Keep moist and provide a strong light source until seedlings are ready to plant out. Gradually acclimate to outdoor conditions before transplanting.
THIN OR TRANSPLANT
Space seedlings 10 to 12 inches apart to give plants room to mature.
GROWING NOTES
Zinnias grow effortlessly in ordinary garden soil in full sun. For large and abundant flowers, thin before seedlings get crowded; adequate spacing and regular even watering will ensure free flowering and discourage mildew. Pick flowers often by cutting long stems well back into the plant to keep them branching from below and producing best blooms for bright summer-long bouquets.Regular price $2.99Sale price $2.99Unit price per -
Honey-Scented Alyssum Summer Romance
HARDY ANNUAL
Spring/summer bloom
Can handle frostEASIEST TO PLANT DIRECTLY IN THE GARDEN
Plant in early spring in well-worked soil in a sunny spot. Sow 1/2 inch apart and barely cover. Keep evenly moist while awaiting germination. Seedlings will create a carpet of fine textured leaves, followed by a blanket of soft, airy flowers.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Sow indoors 3 to 4 weeks before last frost in a large seed flat. Broadcast seeds 1/2 to 1 inch apart. To transplant, separate clusters of 4 to 5 seedlings and plant each cluster 3 to 5 inches apart.
GROWING NOTES
Given ordinary garden soil and even moisture, alyssum grows easily and blooms profusely just 6 to 8 weeks from sowing. Plants stay compact and don't get rangy. After the first flush of intense flowering is over, cut plants back halfway to re-bloom abundantly. In mild winter areas, sow alyssum in the fall around bulbs, in containers or to cover bare areas. Plants overwinter to bloom all spring in a pretty carpet of pastel shades.
Regular price $3.69Sale price $3.69Unit price per -
Hummingbird Favorites Heirloom Cardinal Climber
ANNUAL VINE
Summer/fall bloom
Frost tenderTO START OUTDOORS
In spring, wait until temperatures are above 50°F (10°C) both day and night before planting seeds in full sun in ordinary garden soil 4 to 6 inches apart and 1/2 inch deep. Firm soil over seeds and keep evenly moist but not soggy.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Sow seeds indoors 4 or 5 weeks before last expected frost in individual 4 inch pots of seed starting mix. Cover 1/2 inch deep and keep warm and moist. After seedlings have several leaves, thin to the strongest seedling per pot. Provide a strong light source until seedlings are ready to plant outdoors. When spring weather has warmed, acclimate seedlings to outdoor conditions before planting outdoors. Thin or transplant seedlings 10 to 12 inches apart and several inches from supports when large enough to handle. Avoid disturbing roots.
GROWING NOTES
Be sure to erect well-anchored, sturdy supports at least 8 feet tall at planting time; strong netting, a fence or a strong trellis is needed to hold these vigorous and rapid climbers that bloom at midsummer. Note: seeds are poisonous; keep from kids and pets.
Regular price $2.99Sale price $2.99Unit price per -
Kitchen Herbs Blue Borage
HARDY ANNUAL
Spring/summer/fall harvest
Can handle light frostEASIEST TO START OUTDOORS
Sow seeds in spring once weather has settled, 1/2 inch deep and 6 inches apart, in full sun. Keep seedbed evenly moist until germination occurs in 10 to 14 days. When the seedlings are well established, thin the plants to stand about 12 to 18 inches apart to give bushy plants room to mature. Borage will self-sow freely in the garden and can grow in poor soils. Seedlings do not transplant well because plants have a long, fragile tap root.
GROWING NOTES
Borage flowers have a delicate cucumber-like flavor and are pretty, edible garnishes for both green and fruit salads and cool summer drinks. Freeze the sky-blue flowers inside ice cubes to accent herbal iced teas and festive punch, or candy them for decorations. Children love the star-shaped flowers on birthday cakes or just picked fresh and eaten off the plant.
In traditional herbal lore, borage was thought to lift the spirits and inspire courage. Enjoy these cheering plants all summer long.
Regular price $2.99Sale price $2.99Unit price per -
Heirloom Cutting Zinnias Bling Bling
ANNUAL
Summer/fall bloom
Frost tenderTO START DIRECTLY IN THE GARDEN
Sow seeds in well-worked soil in full sun when danger of frost is past and weather is warm and above 50°F (10°C) both day and night. Space seeds 2 to 3 inches apart in rows 12 inches apart, cover about 1/2 inch deep and gently firm soil. Keep soil evenly moist while awaiting germination.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Four weeks before last frost date, sow seeds 1/2 inch deep and 3 inches apart in a container of seed starting mix. Keep warm and moist and provide a strong light source until seedlings are ready to plant outside when temperatures rise above 50°F (10°C) day and night.
THIN OR TRANSPLANT
Space seedlings 8 to 10 inches apart when large enough to handle in order to give plants room to mature and provide good air circulation.
GROWING NOTES
Zinnias grow readily in ordinary garden soil in full sun. For large and abundant flowers, thin before seedlings get crowded; adequate spacing and regular, even watering helps keep zinnias productive and discourages mildew. Pick when flower blossoms first open and petals are tight for longest vase life. Cut long stems well back into the plant to keep plants branching low and producing best blooms for summer long bouquets.Regular price $3.39Sale price $3.39Unit price per -
California Poppies Dusky Rose
PERENNIAL/GROWN AS ANNUAL
Spring/Summer bloom
Can handle light frostBEST TO START DIRECTLY IN THE GARDEN
Sow seeds directly into a finely textured, well drained garden bed in full sun as early in spring as the ground can be worked. Plant as early as possible in spring, as poppies can handle light frost and bloom best and longest when plants get a good start in cool weather. In mild winter climates, poppies can also be sown in late fall to overwinter for spring bloom. Except in very poor soil, these California poppies will grow and flower readily with no added fertilizer. Space seeds 2 or 3 inches apart, cover 1/4 inch deep, and firm soil gently. Keep soil moist as seedlings emerge. Weed young seedlings carefully. If seedlings come up very thickly, thin poppies early but delay final thinning until seedlings are well established in spring. Final spacing should be 6 inches apart as plants need room to grow, develop and bloom.
GROWING NOTES
When mature, poppy plants can handle dry conditions, but they will always bloom longer if regularly watered. Poppies are pretty cut flowers if brought indoors just as buds begin to open. Prolong bloom by removing spent flowers. At season’s end, allow spent flowers to form pods and drop seed if you want poppies to self-sow.
Regular price $3.39Sale price $3.39Unit price per -
Container Sunflowers Junior
ANNUAL
Summer/fall bloom
Frost tenderPLANT DIRECTLY IN THE GARDEN OR CONTAINER
Plant in full sun in good garden soil when all danger of frost is past and weather is above 50°F (10°C) both day and night. Sow seeds into well-worked soil ½ inch deep and 4 to 5 inches apart. Press soil firmly over seeds and keep moist. When seedlings are 2 to 3 inches thin to 8 inches apart.
For container planting, sow directly into pots filled with well moistened, good quality potting mix. Thin seedlings to no more than 1 plant per 8 inch pot, or 3 plants per 12 inch in diameter and 12 to 18 inch deep pot. For larger planters, space plants 6 inches apart. Extra seedlings can be potted up for more containers, gifts or plant into the garden.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Several weeks before last frost date, sow seeds 1/2 inch deep in individual 3 to 4 inch pots of well-drained soil mix. Keep moist, feed every 10 days and provide a strong light source until ready to plant outside, when nights are regularly above 50°F (10°C).
GROWING NOTES
Make several sowings, three weeks apart, to have a succession of bright summer flowers. Protect young seedlings from marauding birds with netting or plastic berry baskets, removing before plants get crowded. When 3 inches tall, carefully thin seedlings to proper spacing so they have room to grow and mature.Regular price $4.39Sale price $4.39Unit price per -
Kitchen Herbs Italian 'Gigante' Parsley
BIENNIAL, GROWN AS ANNUAL
Spring/summer/fall harvest
Frost hardyEASIEST TO START OUTDOORS
Start parsley in spring when weather is settled but still cool and/or in late summer in mild winter climates. Plant in full sun or half-day sun if climate is very hot. Sow seeds 1-2 inches apart into a well-worked fertile seed bed. Cover 1/4 inch deep. Parsley germinates unevenly over several weeks; be patient and keep seed bed evenly moist. Using synthetic row covers to hold moisture during germination is helpful; remove when seedlings are well established.
TO PLANT INDOORS
Sow parsley seeds in early spring in a container of seed starting mix. Cover 1/4 inch deep, and keep container moist but not soggy until seedlings emerge. Provide a good light source. Feed seedlings frequently until ready to transplant when several inches tall.
THIN OR TRANSPLANT
Space 3 to 4 inches apart when seedlings large enough to handle.
GROWING NOTES
Parsley needs rich moist soil and ample spacing for lush harvests. Thin early and keep well weeded and watered. Begin to harvest sparingly once plants have 8 to 10 leaves. Fertilize frequently with a high nitrogen source.Regular price $2.99Sale price $2.99Unit price per -
Heirloom Cornflowers Velvet Dawn
HARDY ANNUAL
Spring/summer bloom
Can handle light frostTO START OUTDOORS
Sow seeds in a finely textured garden bed in full sun as soon as soil can be worked. In mild winter areas, where the ground doesn’t freeze, plant in fall for next spring’s bloom. Space seeds 1 to 2 inches apart and cover ½ inch deep. Keep seed bed moist until seedlings emerge in 7 to 10 days. Weed and water carefully. Thin seedlings to 6 to 8 inches apart.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Sow seeds 1 to 2 inches apart in a container of seed starting mix, 2 or 3 weeks before last expected frost. Cover 1/2 inch deep, keep moist and provide a good light source until seedlings are transplanted outside. Plant 6 to 8 inches apart into fertile garden soil in full sun when plants are 3 to 4 inches tall. Seedlings grow quickly; plant out before the roots get crowded.
GROWING NOTES
In mild winter areas the best Cornflowers (aka Bachelor Buttons) result from seeds sown in fall to bloom the next spring. In cold winter areas where ground freezes, plant in early spring to get sturdy plants that will flower for many weeks if faded blossoms are removed.
Regular price $3.39Sale price $3.39Unit price per -
Heirloom Hollyhocks Black Watchman
BIENNIAL
Summer/fall bloom
Frost hardyEASIEST TO START DIRECTLY IN THE GARDEN
Plant seeds in full sun in ordinary garden soil in spring after danger of frost is past. Poke seeds into well-worked soil about 1/2 inch deep, 6 to 8 inches apart. Keep moist until germination in 7 to 14 days.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Start seeds indoors about 8 weeks before last expected frost date. Sow 2 inches apart and 1/2 inch deep in flats or individual containers of seed starting mix. Provide a strong light source and keep mix evenly moist to await germination in 7 to 14 days. When seedlings are 3 to 4 inches tall, transplant 18 to 24 inches apart after gradually acclimating to outdoor conditions. Thin or transplant seedlings 18 to 24 inches apart so plants have ample room to mature.
GROWING NOTES
Black Watchman may bloom the first year from seed if planted early in spring. Planted later, it will bloom the following summer. After blossoms fade, cut off the spent flower stalks just above the ground. Fertilize well and continue to water plants as needed, then roots will push another flush of enchanting flower spires to open in fall.
Regular price $3.69Sale price $3.69Unit price per -
Heirloom Flowering Vine Purple Hyacinth Bean
ANNUAL VINE
Summer/fall bloom
Frost tenderTO START DIRECTLY IN THE GARDEN
In late spring once weather is warm and settled and nights stay above 50°F (10°C), plant seeds in a sunny spot in ordinary garden soil 6 inches apart and 1 inch deep. Firm soil over seeds. Keep seedlings well weeded and watered.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Sow indoors 4 weeks before last expected frost in individual pots of seed starting mix. Cover 1 inch deep and keep warm and moist as seedlings emerge over 7 to 10 days. Provide a strong light source until seedlings are ready to plant outdoors.
Transplant very carefully once nights stay above 50°F (10°C) before plants get too crowded. Space seedlings 6 to 8 inches apart. Avoid disturbing roots as much as possible when transplanting.
GROWING NOTES
Erect heavy netting, a strong trellis or a sturdy open wood or wire fence 8 to 10 feet tall at planting time to support these warm weather climbers. Guide the first young tendrils to twine onto supports. Combine with morning glories or climbing nasturtiums for a glorious summer display of flowers and pretty pods.
Regular price $3.99Sale price $3.99Unit price per -
Hummingbird Cerinthe Pride of Gibraltar
HARDY ANNUAL
Summer/fall bloom
TO START OUTDOORS
In spring, once all danger of frost is past, sow seed directly where plants are to grow in ordinary well-drained soil in full sun. In mild climates, Cerinthe can also be sown in fall for spring blooms. Poke the large seeds into the soil about 3⁄4 inch deep and 4 to 6 inches apart and firm soil gently over them.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Start seeds indoors in 4 inch pots about 4 to 6 weeks before last frost date. Keep moist, but not soggy and provide a strong light source. Once seedlings are 4 to 6 inches tall, acclimate to outdoor conditions and transplant into a sunny spot, in well-drained garden soil. Thin or transplant seedlings 8 to 12 inches apart. Avoid disturbing seedling roots.
GROWING NOTES
Cerinthe prefers full sun, but can take dappled shade, although plants will be more rangy in habit. Be patient; plants are undistinguished until they come into bloom. By late spring, the dramatic blue bracts will turn more purple at the tips, then the clusters of purple bells trimmed with a white edge unfurl. Grow near pastel cleome or cosmos for an exciting color contrast.
Regular price $4.69Sale price $4.69Unit price per -
Heirloom Butterfly Zinnias Persian Carpet
ANNUAL
Summer/fall bloom
Frost tenderTO START DIRECTLY IN THE GARDEN
Sow seeds in well-worked soil in full sun when danger of frost is past and temperatures are above 50°F (10°C) both day and night. Space seeds 2 to 3 inches apart in rows 12 inches apart, cover about 1/2 inch deep and gently firm soil. Keep evenly moist while awaiting germination.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Four weeks before last frost date, sow seeds 1/2 inch deep and 3 inches apart in containers of seed starting mix. Keep warm and moist and provide a strong light source. Feed with 1/2 strength fertilizer every 2 weeks. Just as soon as seedlings have several sets of true leaves, plant outdoors when temperatures stay above 50°F (10°C) at night.
THIN OR TRANSPLANT
Space seedlings 8 to 10 inches apart when large enough to handle to provide good air circulation and give plants room to mature.
GROWING NOTES
Zinnias grow readily in ordinary garden soil in full sun. Be sure to thin before seedlings get crowded; adequate spacing and regular even watering help keep zinnias productive and disease free. Grow colorful Persian Carpet in beds or borders, or combine with white alyssum, dwarf marigolds, petunias and salvia for season-long bloom in terracotta pots and color bowls.Regular price $2.99Sale price $2.99Unit price per -
Cutting Zinnias Raspberry Sorbet
ANNUAL
Summer/Fall bloom
Frost tenderTO START DIRECTLY INTHE GARDEN
Sow seeds in well-worked soil in full sun when danger of frost is past and weather is warm and above 50°F (10°C) both day and night. Space seeds 2 to 3 inches apart in rows 12 inches apart, cover about 1/2 inch deep and gently firm soil. Keep soil evenly moist while awaiting germination.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Four weeks before last frost date, sow seeds 1/2 inch deep and 3 inches apart in a container of seed starting mix. Keep warm and moist and provide a strong light source until seedlings are ready to plant outside only when temperatures rise above 50°F (10°C) both day and night.
THIN OR TRANSPLANT
Space seedlings 8 to 12 inches apart when large enough to handle, giving these large framed plants room to mature and providing good air circulation.
GROWING NOTES
Zinnias grow readily in ordinary garden soil in full sun. For abundant and healthy flowers, thin before seedlings get crowded; adequate spacing and regular, consistent watering helps keep zinnias un-stressed and productive and discourages mildew. For long-lived bouquets, cut flowers in the morning when blossoms first open and petals are tight. Cut long stems well back into the plant to keep plants branching low and producing abundant blooms to attract butterflies and other pollinators.Regular price $3.39Sale price $3.39Unit price per -
California Poppies Copper Pot
PERENNIAL/GROWN AS ANNUAL
Spring/Summer bloom
Can handle light frostBEST TO START DIRECTLY IN THE GARDEN
Sow seeds directly into a finely textured, well drained garden bed in full sun as early in spring as the ground can be worked. Plant as early as possible in spring, as poppies can handle light frost and bloom best and longest when plants get a good start in cool weather. In mild winter climates, Poppies can also be sown in late fall to overwinter for spring bloom. Except in very poor soil, these California poppies will grow and flower readily with no added fertilizer. Space seeds several inches apart, cover 1/4 inch deep, and firm soil gently. Keep soil moist as seedlings emerge. Weed young seedlings carefully. If seedlings come up very thickly, thin poppies early but delay final thinning until seedlings are well established in spring. Final spacing should be 6 inches apart as plants need room to grow and bloom.
GROWING NOTES
When mature, poppy plants can handle dry conditions, but they will always bloom longer if regularly watered. Poppies are pretty cut flowers if brought indoors just as buds begin to open. At season’s end, allow spent flowers to form pods and drop seed if you want poppies to self-sow for next year's spring flowers.
Regular price $3.99Sale price $3.99Unit price per -
Heirloom Culinary Sage
BEST TO START EARLY INDOORS
In early spring, sow seed 1 inch apart in a container of seed starting mix and cover 1/4 inch deep. Keep evenly moist as seedlings emerge and provide a strong light source until ready to plant outdoors. Transplant 12 to 18 inches apart when seedlings are about 2 or 3 inches tall after gradually acclimating plants to outdoor conditions.
TO PLANT OUTDOORS
Sow seeds 1 inch apart in well drained fertile soil in full sun in spring once weather is warm and settled. Cover 1/4 inch deep, firm soil over seeds and keep seedbed evenly moist. Germination takes 2 to 3 weeks. After seedlings are well established, thin or transplant 12 to 18 inches apart.
GROWING NOTES
Sage plants are resilient and drought tolerant once established. Cut leafy sprigs once plants are well filled out. After flowers stop blooming, cut them well down the branch to encourage more leaf growth. Add a small pinch of crushed fresh sage to vegetables, casseroles, pork, poultry stuffing and cheese dishes. Combine fresh sage with chopped parsley to mellow its pungency. To dry, hang leafy branches upside down in a cool airy place.Regular price $4.89Sale price $4.89Unit price per -
Butterfly Flowers Swallowtail Fennel
PERENNIAL
USDA zone 5-9
TO PLANT DIRECTLY IN THE GARDEN
In spring when danger of hard frost is past, sow seeds 1 inch apart in finely worked, well-drained, fertile soil in full sun. Cover 1/2 inch deep, firm soil and keep seed bed moist. Germination takes 2 to 3 weeks. After seedlings are well established, carefully thin or transplant 1 1/2 feet apart to allow plants room to mature.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Sow thinly in a container of seed starting mix, 4 to 6 weeks before last expected frost. Keep warm and evenly moist, and provide a good light source. When seedlings are 3 to 4 inches tall, acclimate gradually to outdoor conditions before carefully transplanting as above.
GROWING NOTES
Plant in very well-drained soil. Seedlings grow slowly at first; watch out for them closely as their bronze color makes them easy weed out by accident.
The branching feathery fronds crowned by intricate yellow flowers provide valuable nectar and pollen to a wide range of butterflies, ladybugs, lacewings and other beneficial insects. Colorful blue-green, and copper-bronze foliage is a beautiful contrast with the green foliage and bright colors of summer annuals.
Regular price $3.69Sale price $3.69Unit price per -
Pollinator Sunflowers Lemon Queen
ANNUAL
Summer/fall bloom
Frost tenderEASIEST TO DIRECTLY PLANT OUTDOORS
Plant in full sun in good garden soil only when weather is warm and settled, all danger of frost is past and both days and nights are evenly in the 50°F (10°C) range. Poke individual seeds into well-worked soil about 1/2 in. deep, 4 to 5 in. apart. Press the soil firmly over the seeds and keep the seedbed evenly moist until seedlings emerge in 8 to 10 days.
Important: when the seedlings are well-established, carefully thin them to a final spacing of 1 foot apart; this way they will have enough room to develop sturdy stalks that won’t blow over and big clusters of flowers. Any extra seedlings you remove can be transplanted elsewhere in the garden or potted up and given to friends.
GROWING NOTES
Growing these colorful sunflowers for pollinators and bouquets is both easy and rewarding. Make several sowings several weeks apart and you’ll have a succession of flowers in full bloom. Keep soil moist and well weeded and protect very young seedlings from birds with bird netting held tautly above the seedbed with supports, or use plastic berry baskets, removing baskets before plants get crowded.Regular price $3.39Sale price $3.39Unit price per -
Rainbow Plume Celosia Hippie Tie Dye
ANNUAL
Summer/fall color
Frost tenderBEST TO START EARLY INDOORS
Six weeks before last expected frost date, sow seeds 1 inch apart in a container of seed starting mix. Cover very lightly, no more than 1/8 inch. Keep warm and moist and provide a strong light source until seedlings are ready to plant out in the garden. Feed every 2 weeks with half-strength fertilizer.
Seedlings are ready to transplant when they are large enough to handle and night temperatures are evenly in the 50°F (10°C) range. Gradually acclimate seedlings to outdoor conditions, then plant in full sun 6 to 8 inches apart in rich, fertile soil.
TO START OUTDOORS
Sow seeds in a well-drained, finely textured seed bed in full sun when weather is warm and nights are above 50°F (10°C). Space seeds 2 to 3 inches apart and cover very lightly, then gently firm soil. Keep soil evenly moist while awaiting germination When seedlings are large enough to handle, thin or transplant 6-8 inches apart in full sun.
GROWING NOTES
Seedlings grow slowly at first, then vigorously by midsummer. Good drainage is essential. The dramatic plumes in their eye-catching color collage bloom hard and last all summer. Cut for colorful bouquets or hang bunches upside down inside to air dry as “everlasting” flowers.Regular price $4.99Sale price $4.99Unit price per -
Heirloom Rainbow Flowers Colorful, Carefree Zinnias
NOTE
Seeds in this canister are packed with a larger quantity of organic rice hulls to help space them. Before opening, shake canister thoroughly to mix.
HOW TO PLANT AND GROW
When spring weather is warm and settled, and nights are reliably above 50°F (10°C), prepare planting area by removing all weeds, grass, stones and large clumps. Loosen the top 2 inches of soil with a digging fork or shovel, then smooth with a flat rake.
Scatter mix thinly and evenly. Using your rake, work to cover the seeds with 1/2 inch of soil, then use planting mix or compost to cover any exposed seed mix. Water thoroughly with a gentle mist.
Protect tiny seedlings from birds by using netting or ribbons of shiny, reflective flash tape at planting time. Keep weeded and watered; when 3 inches tall, remove covering and thin seedlings to 8-10 inches apart for good air circulation and enough elbow room to grow, branch and bloom freely.
HARVEST AND USE
For bouquets, pick just as flowers open, cutting long stems well back into the plant to keep them branching. Butterflies, bees, and other native pollinators will seek out and work these pretty flowers that provide them with nectar, pollen and shelter.
Zinnias are carefree and long-lasting, but will thrive and bloom longer with proper thinning, regular watering and several applications of organic fertilizer over their long flowering season.
Regular price $16.95Sale price $16.95Unit price per -
Windowbox Lobelia Blue Heaven
ANNUAL
Spring/summer/fall bloom
Frost tenderBEST TO START SEEDS EARLY INDOORS
In early spring, about 6 weeks before last spring frost, sow these tiny seeds thinly in a container of seed starting mix, but do not cover seeds, just press lightly into the soil and gently mist to keep moist until germination. Keep evenly moist and about 65-75°F (18-24°C). Provide a strong light source. When seedlings are large enough to handle and night temps reach 50°F (10°C), gradually acclimate to outdoor conditions. Transplant in little clumps of 4 to 5 seedlings about 5 inches apart in well-drained soil in sun or part shade.
Container Growing: Transplant seedlings into pots or baskets that are at least 10 to 12 inches across and 10 to 12 inches tall. Fill with moistened fresh potting mix, then transplant small clumps of 4 to 5 seedlings several inches apart and water gently. Be sure to keep Lobelia in containers well watered and feed with all-purpose fertilizer every few weeks for continual profuse bloom. Shear spent flowers back for reblooming.
GROWING NOTES
Whether used as a gorgeous groundcover color accent or for a trailing window box or patio container display, this lovely Lobelia will bloom longest if it has rich, moist soil, so don’t forget to water regularly as needed and fertilize frequently.
Regular price $3.39Sale price $3.39Unit price per -
Heirloom Zinnias Cut and Come Again
ANNUAL
Summer/fall bloom
Frost tenderTO START DIRECTLY IN THE GARDEN
Sow seeds in a well-worked seed bed in full sun when danger of frost is past and weather is warm and above 50°F (10°C) both day and night. Space seeds 3 inches apart in rows 12 inches apart, cover about 1/2 inch deep and gently firm soil. Keep soil evenly moist while awaiting germination.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Four to five weeks before last frost date, sow seeds 1/2 inch deep and 3 inches apart in a container of seed starting mix. Keep warm and moist and provide a strong light source until seedlings are ready to plant outside when temperatures rise above 50°F (10°C) day and night.
THIN OR TRANSPLANT
Space seedlings 12 inches apart when large enough to handle to give plants room to mature and provide good air circulation.
GROWING NOTES
Zinnias grow readily in ordinary garden soil in full sun. For large and abundant flowers, thin before seedlings get crowded; adequate spacing and regular, even watering helps keep zinnias productive and discourages mildew. Pick when flower blossoms first open and petals are tight for longest vase life. Cut long stems well back into the plant to keep plants branching low and producing best blooms for summer long bouquets.Regular price $2.99Sale price $2.99Unit price per -
Butterfly Flowers Flashback Calendula
HARDY ANNUAL
Spring/fall bloom
Takes light frostTO START OUTDOORS
Calendulas bloom best in cool weather, so plant in early spring. Sow seeds 1 inch apart in well-drained soil in full sun. Cover 1/2 inch deep, firm soil and keep seed bed moist. Germination takes 1 to 2 weeks. After seedlings are well established, thin or transplant 8 inches apart to allow for good air circulation and discourage mildew. Calendulas can be sown again in midsummer for fall bloom.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
In early spring, sow seeds 1 inch apart in a container of seed starting mix and cover 1/2 inch deep. Keep evenly moist as seedlings emerge and provide a good light source until ready to plant outdoors. Transplant when seedlings are about 2 to 3 inches tall after gradually acclimating plants to outdoor conditions. Thin or transplant seedlings 8 inches apart for best performance.
GROWING NOTES
Plant when weather is cool to get sturdy plants that bloom for many weeks if faded flowers are removed. Grow this quick-flowering, easy annual along with snapdragons, cornflowers and pansies for late spring bloom. In mild climates, sow again in late summer for winter or very early spring flowers.
Regular price $2.99Sale price $2.99Unit price per
