Attracts Hummingbirds
Enjoy the Iridescent Beauty of Hummingbirds
These explosive bursts of color can be seen easily from the air and provide convenient nectar sources for your intended visitors.
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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 -
Heirloom Flowering Vines Cathedral Bells
TENDER PERENNIAL VINE
Summer/fall bloom
Usually grown as annualFOR BEST RESULTS
Sow seed indoors in a warm place 6 to 8 weeks before night temperatures are reliably in the 50°F (10°C) range. Plant 2 seeds per individual 4 inch pot of seed starting mix. Maintain at 70-80°F (21-27°C). Keep moist but not soggy. Germination takes 10 to 21 days. Thin to strongest seedling per pot. Provide a strong light source until ready to go outside. When weather has warmed evenly, acclimate to outdoor conditions and carefully transplant 1 foot apart and 3 inches from supports.
TO START OUTDOORS
Seed can be sown outdoors once nights are reliably above 50° but only in areas with a long warm season. Plant in full sun 4 to 6 inches apart, ½ inch deep and 3 inches from supports. Firm soil well over seeds. When seedlings are well established, thin to stand 1 foot apart, so these vigorous vines have ample room to grow.
GROWING NOTES
Cathedral Bells need full sun and moist, well-drained soil. They bloom mid to late summer. Provide climbing vines with well-anchored supports at least 10 feet tall; use a sturdy trellis or arbor, or a wood or wire fence. Stems cling by branched tendrils that grow on the end of each leaf stalk.
Regular price $3.99Sale price $3.99Unit 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 -
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 -
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 -
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 -
Rainbow Nasturtiums Whirlybird Mix
ANNUAL
Spring/summer/fall bloom
Frost tenderEASY TO START OUTDOORS
Sow seeds in spring once all danger of frost is over in full sun (or part shade in hot climates). Nasturtiums need no added fertilizer in most soils. Poke seeds into well-worked soil about 1 inch deep and 3 to 4 inches apart. Press soil firmly over the seeds and keep moist. When seedlings are large enough to handle, thin to 10 inches apart as mounding plants need ample room to grow.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Sow 2 seeds each in individual 4-inch pots of well-drained seed starting mix 3 weeks before last expected frost date. Cover 1 inch deep. Provide a strong light source. When seedlings have several sets of leaves, pinch out the weaker seedling, leaving 1 per pot. When night temps are above 50°F (10°C) gradually acclimate to outdoor conditions. Transplant seedlings into the garden 10 inches apart in full sun.
GROWING NOTES
These mounding nasturtiums are reliable and easy to tuck into any well-drained spot. They are a perfect disguise to cover fading bulb foliage in late spring. Their softly draping leaves and wonderfully colored flowers will quickly fill garden beds or containers. Nasturtium leaves and edible flowers add zest to salads and sandwiches.
Regular price $3.99Sale price $3.99Unit price per -
Heirloom Morning Glory Mailbox Mix
ANNUAL VINE
Summer/fall bloom
Frost tenderTO START OUTDOORS
In late spring, once weather is warm and settled and nights stay above 55°F (13°C), plant seeds in a sunny spot in ordinary garden soil 2 to 3 inches apart and 1/2 inch deep. Firm soil over seeds. When seedlings are several inches tall, thin to 6 to 8 inches apart.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Sow indoors 4 or 5 weeks before last expected frost in individual pots of seed starting mix. Cover 1/2 inch deep and keep warm and moist. Provide a strong light source until seedlings are ready to plant outdoors. Plant out only when nights reach 55°F (13°C). Transplant seedlings 6 to 8 inches apart, taking care to avoid disturbing roots as much as possible.
GROWING NOTES
Morning glory seeds have a very hard outer shell. To improve and significantly hasten their germination rate, it is worth the extra effort to use a nail clipper and nick each one just enough to break the seed shell so soil moisture can enter more easily. Alternatively, you can rough these hard-skinned seeds with a file. At planting time, erect well-anchored supports at least 8 feet tall. Morning glories bloom abundantly beginning in mid to late summer once days begin to shorten.
Regular price $2.99Sale price $2.99Unit 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 -
Hummingbird Foxgloves Carousel Mix
PERENNIAL
Late Spring/Summer bloom
Frost hardy USDA zones 4–9
START EARLY INDOORSSow seeds as thinly as possible in a container of seed starting mix. Cover 1⁄8 inch deep with mix, keep moist and between 60-70°F (16-21°C). Provide a strong light source until ready to plant into the garden.
Feed every 2 weeks with half-strength fertilizer. Once seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant 2 to 3 inches apart into individual pots. When plants are 3 to 4 inches tall, gradually acclimate to outdoor conditions and plant out in well-drained soil. Can also be planted in early/mid summer for bloom the following spring.
THIN OR TRANSPLANT
Space seedlings 12-15 inches apart so the plants have enough elbow room.
GROWING NOTES
Deer resistant foxgloves do well in light shade, dappled sunlight all day or full morning sun. They appreciate rich fertile soil and consistent moisture. In mild summer areas, they can handle full sun all day. Cut the softly colored spires of bloom often for lavish bouquets.
Encourage repeat bloom and flowering side shoots by cutting spent flower stalks at plant bases. Plants also self sow readily. A favorite of hummingbirds, butterflies and bumblebees!
Caution: Toxic if eaten.
Regular price $3.39Sale price $3.39Unit 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 -
Heirloom Zinnias Green Envy
ANNUAL
Summer/fall bloom
Frost tenderEASY TO 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 ½ 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 to12 inches apart when large enough to handle so plants have good air circulation and enough elbow room to grow and bloom freely.
GROWING NOTES
Zinnias can grow in ordinary garden soil in full sun. For large, abundant flowers, thin before seedlings get crowded. Adequate spacing and regular, even watering discourages mildew and keeps zinnias productive.
Pick just as blossoms begin opening and petals are tight. 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 -
Hummingbird's Choice Color Fountains Cleome
ANNUAL
Summer/fall bloom
Frost tenderTO START OUTDOORS
In spring when all danger of frost is past and weather is warm and settled, sow seeds in a well-worked, fertile seed bed in full sun. Space seeds 2 to 3 inches apart in rows 12 inches apart, cover about 1/8 inch deep and firm soil gently. Keep soil evenly moist while awaiting germination in 12 to 28 days.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Four to five weeks before last frost date, sow seeds 1/8 inch deep and 2 to 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 outdoors. Seeds germinate best when day and night temperatures vary 10 to 20°. Thin or transplant seedlings 12 to 14 inches apart to give the large plants room to mature.
GROWING NOTES
Tall old-fashioned Cleome is perfect to plant at the back of the border or in a cut flower garden combined with phlox, asters, snapdragons, cosmos or zinnias. Keep young plants well watered and weeded, and they will mature to handle dry heat or humid weather well and bloom all summer long.
Regular price $2.99Sale price $2.99Unit 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 -
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 -
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 -
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 -
Kneehigh Sunflowers Music Box
ANNUAL
Summer/fall bloom
Frost tenderTO PLANT OUTDOORS
Plant in full sun in good garden soil when weather is warm and settled both day and night and all danger of frost is past. Poke seeds into well-worked soil 1/2 inch deep and 4 to 5 inches apart. Press soil firmly over seeds and keep moist until germination in 8 to 10 days.
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 ready to plant outside only when night temperatures have reached 50-55°F (10-13°C). Transplant carefully into the garden in full sun, disturbing the roots as little as possible.
THIN OR TRANSPLANT
Space seedlings 12 inches apart so plants have ample room to grow.
GROWING NOTES
With its short 2 1/2 foot stature and abundant lively flowers, multi-branching Music Box is an easy and reliable flower for cheerful summer color. Make several sowings 3 weeks apart to have a succession of flowers. Keep soil moist and well weeded and protect seedlings from birds with netting or plastic berry baskets, removing when crowded.Regular price $4.69Sale price $4.69Unit price per -
Ornamental Sunflowers Sun Samba
ANNUAL
Summer/fall bloom
Frost tenderEASIEST TO PLANT OUTDOORS
Plant in full sun in good garden soil when weather is warm and settled both day and night and all danger of frost is past. 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.
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 ready to plant outside. Transplant carefully, disturbing the roots as little as possible.
THIN OR TRANSPLANT
Space seedlings 12 to 15 inches apart when seedlings are large enough to handle so plants will have ample room to grow.
GROWING NOTES
Growing these colorful flowers is easy and rewarding. Make several sowings 3 weeks apart to have a succession of flowers in full bloom. Keep soil moist and well weeded and protect seedlings from birds with netting or plastic berry baskets, removing before plants get crowded. Be sure to thin properly when seedlings are about 3 inches tall.Regular price $3.99Sale price $3.99Unit price per -
Heirloom Summer Garden Dancing, Joyous Sunflowers
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 the planting area by removing all weeds, grass, large clumps and stones. 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 1/2-1 inch of soil, then use planting mix or compost to cover any exposed seed mix. Water thoroughly with a gentle mist.
Keep weeded and watered; protect tiny seedlings from birds by using netting or ribbons of shiny, reflective flash tape at planting time. When 3-4 inches tall, remove covering and thin seedlings to 10-12 inches apart. This spacing is critical for sturdy, windproof plants with good root systems and large flowers.
HARVEST AND USE
For bouquets, cut when flowers just begin to open. Many diverse pollinators will busily visit the florets in each flower head and seeds will begin to mature. When the center disk florets have dried, birds will happily snack on ripening seed heads.
Harvest for winter feeding by covering ripening heads with paper bags until kernels are plump and hard shelled. Cut entire heads; store until cool and dry, then remove seeds. Store in closed containers to feed as needed.
Regular price $16.95Sale price $16.95Unit price per -
Bonus Pack Seeds for A Butterfly Garden
TWO DESIGN IDEAS
Plant your butterfly garden in a rectangular bed or border with tall, medium and low flowers from back to front, OR in a circle with tall flowers in the center, surrounded by the middle and then lower growing varieties.
For the back of the border in dramatic rows, OR planted in a circle garden as a central spiral, tall, branching Crimson Queen sunflowers offer both a convenient meal and a windscreen for your winged visitors.
At mid-level, Purity Cosmos' abundant snow-satiny white flowers with sunny centers dance and sway all summer, a magnet for air-waltzing butterflies.
At front of the border OR around the outer edge of the circle, low-growing Persian Carpet zinnias offer a beautiful tapestry of warm shades and provide nectar for many species.
CREATING BUTTERFLY HABITATButterflies are attracted to blossom shapes and colors, so it's important to plant in mass blocks instead of a few isolated plants here and there. Planting these flowers behind each other produces an ideal combination of different flowers at varying heights, offering your visitors a choice of where to feed and rest.
These flowers provide flower nectar for nourishment and fuel butterflies need for flying. Flowers unique personal attributes of color, scent and shape lure butterflies and ensure pollination. With each sip from the heart of a blossom, tiny grains of pollen gather on the butterfly’s body and then it helps to pollinate the garden as it flutters among flowers.
Sunny days in the garden are synonymous with a busy freeway of flying butterflies. The sun warms their wing muscles, enabling them to dart, soar and fly seeking nectar and pollinating your sun loving flowers. On gusty summer days, the taller cosmos and sunflowers offer comfortable protection from the wind. Offer butterflies a convenient drinking spot with a shallow bird bath or decorative stone water container.
Regular price $8.99Sale price $8.99Unit price per -
Climbing Nasturtiums Moonlight
ANNUAL VINE
Spring/summer/fall bloom
Frost tenderEASY TO START OUTDOORS
Sow seeds in spring once all danger of frost is over in full sun (or part shade in hot climates). Nasturtiums need no added fertilizer in most soils. Poke seeds into well-worked soil about 1 inch deep and 3 to 4 inches apart. Press soil firmly over the seeds and keep moist. When seedlings are large enough to handle, thin 10 inches apart so plants will have ample room to grow.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Sow 2 seeds each in individual 4-inch pots of well-drained seed starting mix 3 weeks before last expected frost date. Cover 1 inch deep. Provide a strong light source. When seedlings have several sets of leaves, pinch out the weaker seedling leaving 1 per pot. After outdoor temperatures are evenly above 50°F (10°C) gradually acclimate to outdoor conditions. Transplant seedlings into the garden 10 to 12 inches apart in full sun.
GROWING NOTES
Climbing nasturtiums are very reliable and easy to grow in any well-drained soil. Help them to twine up their supports, then they’ll climb easily and bloom nonstop. Do not let plants dry out during blooming season. You can also plant Moonlight to tumble along the ground.
Regular price $3.99Sale price $3.99Unit price per -
Mounding Nasturtiums Buttercream
ANNUAL
Spring/summer/fall bloom
Frost tenderEASY TO START OUTDOORS
Sow seeds in spring once all danger of frost is over in full sun (or part shade in hot climates). Nasturtiums need no added fertilizer in most soils. Poke seeds into well-worked soil about 1 inch deep and 3 to 4 inches apart. Press soil firmly over the seeds and keep moist. When seedlings are large enough to handle, thin to 10 inches apart as mounding plants need ample room to grow.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Sow 2 seeds each in individual 4-inch pots of well-drained seed starting mix 3 weeks before last expected frost date. Cover 1 inch deep. Provide a strong light source. When seedlings have several sets of leaves pinch out the weaker seedling, leaving 1 per pot. When weather is evenly in the 50°F (10°C) range, gradually acclimate to outdoor conditions. Transplant seedlings into the garden 10 inches apart in full sun.
GROWING NOTES
These mounding nasturtiums are reliable and easy to tuck into any well-drained spot. They are a perfect disguise to cover fading bulb foliage in late spring. Their softly draping leaves and creamy flowers will quickly fill garden beds or containers. In mild winter climates, sow seeds again by mid-June for late summer blooms. Leaves and flowers are tasty additions to salads and sandwiches.
Regular price $3.69Sale price $3.69Unit price per
