Great in Containers

Heirloom Miniature Roses Angel Wings

PERENNIAL

Perennial
Summer/Fall Bloom
Very Hardy USDA Zones 4-9

START EARLY INDOORS

In spring, 6 weeks before last expected frost date, sow seeds 2 inches apart in a container of seed starting mix and cover 1/4 inch deep. Keep cool, between 60-70°F (16-27°C) and moist and provide a strong light source until ready to plant out. Rose seeds germinate slowly, so be patient. Once seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant into individual pots. Feed seedlings every 2 weeks with half-strength fertilizer. When 3 to 4 inches tall, gradually acclimate seedlings to outdoor conditions and plant out in full sun.

THIN OR TRANSPLANT

Space seedlings 18 inches apart so plants can mature and spread.

GROWING NOTES

Set young seedlings out into rich, well-drained fertile soil or plant in large containers to grow into charming patio shrubs. Plants may flower sparsely their first summer, then begin to bloom in earnest their second and third seasons. They mature at 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 feet tall and are covered with sprays of delicate pastel blossoms all summer long. Keep faded flowers cut off and fertilize regularly for new beautiful garden displays and dainty little nosegay bouquets.

$4.99

Heirloom Pansies Victorian Posy

PERENNIAL GROWN AS ANNUAL

Spring bloom
Can handle frost

BEST TO START SEEDS EARLY

In Mild Winter Climates, start seeds in late summer to have plants large enough to successfully overwinter and bloom in early spring.

In Cold Winter Climates, start early indoors about 2 1/2 months before last spring frost. Sow seeds in a container of seed starting mix 1 inch apart and cover very lightly. Keep evenly moist and cool 55-60°(13-16°C), providing a strong light source. When seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant 2 inches apart into a deeper container(s) and grow to 2 to 3 inches tall. Gradually acclimate seedlings to outdoor conditions before transplanting 4 to 5 inches apart in a sunny spot.

THIN OR TRANSPLANT

Space seedlings 4 to 5 inches apart.

GROWING NOTES

Pansies will bloom longest and make largest flowers when weather is cool. In mild winter areas, late summer sowings will begin to bloom in very early spring or even late winter. Keep faded blossoms removed to prolong flowering.

$4.39

Fragrant Stock Ten Week Perfume

HARDY ANNUAL

Spring/summer bloom
Can handle light frost

TO START OUTDOORS

Sow seeds in a well-drained, finely textured garden bed in full sun as early in spring as soil can be worked. In mild climate areas, seeds are best sown in early fall for spring bloom. Space seeds 2 to 3 inches apart and cover 1/4 inch deep. Keep seed bed moist until seedlings emerge in 7 to 10 days. Weed carefully and keep well watered.

TO START EARLY INDOORS

Start seed indoors in a flat or container of seed starting mix, 6 to 8 weeks before last expected hard freeze. Sow seed thinly, cover 1/4 inch deep, and keep moist but not soggy until germination takes place in 7 to 14 days. Provide a strong light source as soon as seedlings emerge. Seedlings grow quickly and require even moisture at their earliest stages: overwatering encourages “damping off,” or rotting at the soil level.

THIN OR TRANSPLANT

Space seedlings 10 inches apart when seedlings are large enough to handle.

GROWING NOTES

This early blooming, branching variety produces an abundance of richly scented flowers for indoor bouquets. In the garden, stock’s heavy trusses of bloom are beautiful in beds, borders and containers.

$2.99

Kitchen Herbs Heirloom Spearmint

PERENNIAL

Spring/Summer/Fall harvest
Frost hardy to zone 4

TO START EARLY INDOORS

In early spring, 4 to 6 weeks before last frost, start seeds in a container of moistened soil mix. Sow thinly, but do not cover. Provide a good light source until ready to transplant when seedlings are large enough to handle.

BEST GROWN IN CONTAINERS

Grow only in containers because mint spreads rampantly by underground runners, quickly becoming a nuisance in the garden. When warm spring weather arrives, sow seeds thinly (but do not cover) in containers of pre-moistened new soil mix in full sun. Keep evenly moist but not soggy.

When several inches tall, thin or transplant seedlings 6 to 8 inches apart in pots at least 16 inches across and 12 inches deep.

GROWING NOTES

Mint is long-lived and gets overcrowded easily. Divide plants into 4 quarters every spring, replanting 1 quarter of the original clump into a pot of fresh soil mix. Replant extra clumps in new pots or give away. See “How To Divide Spearmint Plants” video on our website.

HARVEST AND USE

Harvest frequently to encourage new growth. Snip sprigs of leaves in the morning when the aromatic oils are strongest. Use in drinks and sprinkle chopped mint over green and fresh fruit salads. Air dry by hanging branches in a warm, well-ventilated area, then package airtight.

$3.99

Hummingbird Salvia Coral Nymph

TENDER PERENNIAL/ GROWN AS ANNUAL

Summer/fall bloom
Frost tender

FOR BEST RESULTS START EARLY INDOORS

Start seeds indoors 4 to 6 weeks before last expected frost date. Sow seeds 1 inch apart in a container of seed starting mix and cover very lightly. Keep moist but not soggy and provide a strong light source. When seedlings are large enough to handle, acclimate gradually to outdoor conditions. Transplant 8 inches apart in garden beds once night temperatures are above 50°F (10°C).

For Container Growing: Plant 4 seedlings per 20 inch pot; 3 plants per 16 inch pot; or 1 plant per 8 inch pot.

TO GROW OUTDOORS

Sow in a well-worked seed bed or in containers in full sun when all danger of frost is past and weather is warm and settled. Space seeds 4 inches apart, cover very lightly. Keep soil evenly moist while awaiting germination in 10 to 14 days. Thin to 8 inches apart so seedlings have room to grow and mature.

GROWING NOTES

This improved Dutch cultivar is compact, growing in graceful sprays just 2 feet tall. Plants grow quickly and bloom early to flower all summer long. Hummingbirds simply adore Coral Nymph’s nectar rich flowers and visit them constantly. Plants handle a wide range of conditions.

$4.69

Butterfly Phlox Dutch Tapestry

ANNUAL

Summer/fall bloom
Frost tender

TO START OUTDOORS

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 10 inches apart, cover about 1/4 inch deep and gently firm soil. Keep soil evenly moist while awaiting germination in 10 to 15 days.

TO START EARLY INDOORS

Three to four weeks before last expected frost, sow seeds 1 inch apart in seed starting mix and cover lightly. Keep warm and moist and provide a strong light source until seedlings are well established. Transplant after gradually acclimating to outdoor conditions.

THIN OR TRANSPLANT

Space seedlings 6 inches apart when large enough to handle.

GROWING NOTES

Phlox grows easily in ordinary garden soil in full sun. If sown in place, thin plants before they get crowded; adequate spacing and regular even watering help keep them productive and disease free. Seedlings grow somewhat slowly at first, but once established, make sturdy, long-blooming garden performers that tolerate hot weather and attract butterflies and other pollinators all season.

$2.99

Heirloom Sweet Parsley Triple Curled

BIENNIAL, GROWN AS ANNUAL

Spring/summer/fall harvest
Frost hardy

TO PLANT DIRECTLY IN THE GARDEN

In spring when weather is settled but still cool, sow seeds 1 to 2 inches apart into well-worked fertile soil in full sun and cover 1/4 inch deep. If climate is very hot, plant in a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade. Parsley germinates unevenly over several weeks; be patient and keep moist.

TO START EARLY 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 about 2 inches tall after acclimating to outdoor conditions.

THIN OR TRANSPLANT

Space 4 to 6 inches apart when seedlings have several sets of leaves. Feed monthly for best results.

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 monthly with a high nitrogen source for best leafy growth.

$4.89

Kneehigh Sunflowers Music Box

ANNUAL

Summer/fall bloom
Frost tender

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 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.

$4.69

Container Sunflowers Junior

ANNUAL

Summer/fall bloom
Frost tender

PLANT 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.

$4.39

Heirloom Butterfly Salvia Marble Arch

ANNUAL

Summer/fall bloom
Frost tender

TO START DIRECTLY IN THE GARDEN

Sow seeds in a well-worked seed bed in full sun when all danger of frost is past and weather is warm and settled. Space seeds 4 to 5 inches apart in rows 12 inches apart, cover about 1/2 inch deep and gently firm soil. Keep soil evenly moist while awaiting germination in 10 to 20 days.

TO START EARLY INDOORS

Five to six weeks before last frost date, sow seeds 1/2 inch deep and 2 inches apart in a container of seed starting mix. Keep moist and provide a strong light source until seedlings are ready to plant in the garden. Acclimate seedlings gradually to outdoor conditions when night temperatures are regularly above 50°F (10°C). Space seedlings 10 to 12 inches apart in the garden.

GROWING NOTES

This improved variety shows its three lovely shades at the same time and the pretty floral top bracts get larger and more colorful over time. Use cut blooming branches to add texture, color and form to fresh summer bouquets. Stems of Marble Arch will also retain their colors well for everlasting arrangements; simply hang small bunches upside down indoors in a place with good air circulation until dry to the touch.

$2.99

Windowbox Sweet Peas Color Palette Cupid

ANNUAL

Spring/summer bloom
Frost tolerant

EASIEST TO START OUTDOORS

Sow seeds directly in deep containers at least 12 inches in diameter, or rectangular window-boxes at least 6-8 inches deep once danger of hard frost is over. Sweet peas grow best in cool weather and can handle light frosts. In mild winter areas, plant in fall weather to overwinter for spring bloom. Always fill planting containers with well moistened, good quality, fresh potting soil before planting seeds 1 inch deep and 2 to 3 inches apart.

THIN OR TRANSPLANT

Space seedlings 3 to 4 inches apart when they are 2 inches tall, allowing room for plants to mature, but leaving 5 to 6 plants in a 12 inch diameter container.

GROWING NOTES

Sweet peas bloom best before the weather gets too hot. When seedlings have 3 to 4 sets of leaves, pinch off top set to encourage branching for a bushy full plant. Young plants will grow 8 to 10 inches tall, then cascade over the sides of containers. It’s critical to keep your container sweet peas well-watered and remember to fertilize them regularly every two weeks with liquid fertilizer solution. Protect plants from slugs and snails. For longest bloom, remove faded blossoms regularly.

$3.69

Container Sweet Peas Electric Blue

ANNUAL CLIMBING VINE

Spring/summer bloom
Frost tolerant

EASIEST TO START OUTDOORS

Sweet peas need well-drained soil. Dig deeply and enrich with aged manure or compost. Sow seeds 1 inch deep and 3 inches apart in full sun as soon as ground can be worked in early spring. Erect a sturdy support for the short vines before planting.

In mild winter areas, where the ground doesn’t freeze, plant in fall; seeds will germinate and form strong root systems, then overwinter to bloom strongly in spring.

For container planting, use containers at least 12 inches in diameter filled with well moistened potting soil. Plant seeds 1 inch deep and 3 inches apart. In summer heat, container sweet peas do best in a spot with afternoon shade. When plants have 3 or 4 sets of leaves pinch them back so just 2 sets remain. This encourages full, bushy growth.

GROWING NOTES

Sweet peas bloom best before the weather gets too hot, so if spring planting, sow as soon as ground can be worked. Be sure to protect seedlings from their most common predators: birds, slugs and snails, especially if fall planting. Mulch, keep well watered and feed plants regularly. Container grown sweet peas should be fertilized every 2 weeks for best bloom.

$3.69

Windowbox Tomatoes Litt'l Bites Cherry

STARTING SEEDLINGS

In early spring, start indoors about 6 weeks before night temperatures are reliably in the 50-55°F (10-13°C). Sow seeds 1/4 in. deep and 1 in. apart in a container of seed starting mix. Keep moist but not soggy, and very warm, 80°F (27°C). Provide a strong light source until seedlings are ready to plant outside. When seedlings are 2 in. tall, transplant into individual 4-in. pots. Maintain at 70°F (21°C). Feed with half-strength fertilizer every 2 weeks until ready to plant. When night temperatures are reliably in the 55°F (13°C) range, gradually acclimate to outdoor conditions.

Container Growing: Transplant one seedling per pot or basket that is at least 16 in. in diameter and 16 in. high. Container tomatoes need a location with at least 6 hours of sun per day. Use fresh potting mix to prevent soil borne disease. Mulch plants well and water regularly: in hot weather, pots may need water daily. Fertilize every other week with a low nitrogen fertilizer for strong plants and good yields.

HARVEST AND USE

Litt’l Bites plants cascade attractively from their containers and are soon covered with tasty little cherry tomatoes. Pick and enjoy these cute little baby tomatoes frequently when red ripe to encourage the most production. For best flavor don’t store Litt’l Bites in the fridge.

$4.99

Heirloom Butterfly Zinnias Persian Carpet

ANNUAL

Summer/fall bloom
Frost tender

TO 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.

$2.99

Container Zinnias Pixie Sunshine

ANNUAL

Summer/fall bloom
Frost tender

EASIEST TO PLANT OUTDOORS

After danger of frost is past, sow seeds in full sun in well-worked soil. For container sowing, use fresh potting mix. Space seeds 2-3 inches apart, cover about 1/2 inch deep and gently firm soil. Keep soil evenly moist while awaiting germination. When seedlings are several inches tall, thin to final spacing: For Containers, 5 to 6 plants per 12 inch pot; In Garden Beds, space 8 inches apart.

TO START EARLY INDOORS

Several weeks before last frost date, sow seeds 1/2 inch deep and 2 inches apart in a container of seed starting mix. Keep warm and moist and provide a strong light source until ready to plant outdoors. Transplant carefully before plants get too large. Space plants carefully, so roots have room to grow and spread.

GROWING NOTES

For container planting, use pots at least 12 inches in diameter and 12 inches deep. These carefree 8 to 12 inch tall zinnias perform well in hot and sunny conditions. Water regularly and consistently. Support plants’ rapid growth by feeding with a well-balanced fertilizer every few weeks. Thin young seedlings to final spacing before too large. Remove spent flowers often to encourage new blooms.

$3.39

Container Lettuce Garden Babies Butterhead

START SEEDS OUTDOORS

In cool spring weather, start seeds in in full sun. Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep and 1 inch apart in fertile, well-drained soil mix. After the seedlings germinate and begin to grow, it's important to thin the young plants so they have room to mature. Thin seedlings when they are 1 to 2 inches tall to a final spacing of about 4 to 5 inches apart. 5 to 7 plants can grow to maturity in a 12 to 15 inch container or 3 plants in an 8-inch pot.

GROWING NOTES

Lettuce thrives in cool conditions with consistent moisture. Be sure to thin properly and keep evenly moist for sweet tasting, full heads. For a constant supply, make several sowings a few weeks apart until summer weather turns hot. Plant again in late summer for fall harvest. In hot weather, give lettuce some afternoon shade to extend harvest season and check water daily. Keep soil evenly moist and feed with liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks. Consider transplanting lettuce seedlings around the edges of a big pot containing a young tomato or pepper plant. The lettuces will be ready to eat just as the bigger plant grows larger and needs the space.

HARVEST AND USE

Savor young thinnings in your first spring salads. Then harvest plants by cutting mature heads when they feel firm and well-filled out. Pull over-mature plants if they begin to elongate (“bolt”) in hot weather, as leaves turn bitter at this stage.

$2.99

Heirloom Mesclun Lettuces Five Variety Blend

START SEEDS OUTDOORS

In early spring, sow seeds in finely worked soil in full sun. Shake seeds from the palm of your hand, broadcasting them about a half inch apart over the entire seedbed or in wide rows, and cover lightly and evenly with 1/4 inch of fine soil. Firm soil gently and water in with a fine spray. Keep seedbed evenly moist. Make small successive sowings until summer weather turns hot for a constant supply. Plant again in late summer for fall harvesting. Or, space seedlings 8 to 10 inches apart and let them mature to full size heads.

GROWING NOTES

Lettuce thrives in mild weather with consistent moisture. To extend the sowing season into hot weather, sow in light shade or erect a canopy of loosely woven shade cloth over the lettuce bed. Birds are often attracted to tender young seedlings so protect them if necessary.

HARVEST AND USE

To harvest by the “cut and come again” method, wait until plants are 4 or 5 inches tall. Cut as much as you need, using scissors to shear off a patch of leaves 1 to 2 inches above the soil level. Water well and fertilize lightly and plants will regrow for several more cuttings. Dress with extra virgin olive oil and a mild fruit or balsamic vinegar to enjoy the sweet flavors and juicy textures of these delicate young leaves at their best.

$4.89

Heirloom Cutting Lettuce Red Deer Tongue

START SEEDS OUTDOORS

In cool early spring weather, sow seeds in finely worked soil in full sun. Sow seeds about 1 inch apart over the entire seedbed or in wide rows, then cover lightly and evenly with 1/4 inch of fine soil. Firm soil gently and water with a fine spray. Keep seedbed evenly moist. Plant again as weather cools in late summer for fall salads.

GROWING NOTES

Thin seedlings to stand about 6 inches apart so they have room to grow and mature. Heirloom Red Deer Tongue grows and tastes best grown in mild spring or cooler fall weather with consistent moisture. To extend the sowing season slightly, sow in light shade or erect a canopy of loosely woven shade cloth over the bed. Birds are often attracted to tender young seedlings, so protect them with netting if necessary.

HARVEST AND USE

To harvest, wait until the plants form open, loose heads with leaves about 6 inches tall. Use scissors to cut leaves about 1 to 2 inches above the soil level. Water well and fertilize lightly and if weather is still cool, plants will re-grow tasty leaves for another cutting. These tasty, deep red leaves show off in the salad bowl and add interest to any sandwich. Hot summer temperatures turn this heirloom lettuce bitter; plant and harvest in cooler weather.

$3.39

Heirloom Cutting Lettuce Flashy Trout Back

START SEEDS OUTDOORS

In cool early spring weather, start seeds in finely worked soil in full sun. Sow 1/4 inch deep and 2 inches apart in rows 6 to 8 inches apart and cover lightly. Tend carefully and keep evenly moist. Gradually thin out extra seedlings, leaving remaining plants standing 10 to 12 inches apart so lettuces have room to size up and fully mature into leafy butterhead rosettes. For a constant supply, make several sowings a few weeks apart until summer weather turns hot. Plant again in late summer for fall harvest.

GROWING NOTES

Lettuce thrives in cool conditions with consistent moisture. Weed, water and be sure to thin carefully to proper spacing so plants have room to mature. If birds are attracted to young seedlings, cover with floating row covers or netting. Make a shade structure in hotter climates to extend the growing season.

HARVEST AND USE

Savor young thinnings in your first spring salads. Then harvest plants by cutting mature heads when they feel firm and well-filled out. Be sure to thin properly and keep evenly moist for sweet tasting, full heads. Pull and discard or compost over-mature plants if they begin to elongate (“bolt”) in hot weather as leaves turn bitter at this stage.

$4.89

Heirloom Edible Flowers Grandma's Johnny Jump Ups

PERENNIAL GROWN AS ANNUAL

Spring bloom
Can handle frost

BEST TO PLANT DIRECTLY IN THE GARDEN

In Mild Winter Climates, sow seeds in fall and they will form deep roots over winter for a long spring bloom.

In Cold Winter Areas, sow in spring as soon as soil can be worked.

Violas can handle light frosts and bloom best when they get a good start in cool spring weather. Sow seeds 1 inch apart in well-drained soil in full sun. Cover 1/4 inch deep, firm soil and keep seed bed moist. Be patient; germination takes 14 to 21 days. When large enough to handle, thin or transplant seedlings to 4 to 5 inches apart.

To Start Early Indoors: Sow seeds 1 inch apart in seed starting mix, 8 to 10 weeks before last frost. Cover 1/4 inch deep, keep moist & provide a good light source until ready to plant outside when weather warms up. Transplant 4 to 5 inches apart when large enough to handle.

GROWING NOTES

These carefree plants are covered with cheerful flowers throughout spring & early summer. After initial flowering, cut plants back to several inches tall for another flush of bloom if the weather is not too hot. In milder climates, Johnny Jump Ups will self sow readily & come back each season. The dainty edible blossoms taste of wintergreen. They make great garnishes & are also perfect for candying.

$3.39

Baby Leaf Lettuce Heirloom Cutting Mix

START SEEDS OUTDOORS

In early spring, sow seeds in finely worked soil in full sun. Shake seeds from the palm of your hand, broadcasting them about a half inch apart over the entire seedbed or in wide rows, and cover lightly and evenly with 1⁄4 inch of fine soil. Firm soil gently and water in with a fine spray. Keep seedbed evenly moist. Make small successive sowings until summer weather turns hot for a constant supply. Plant again in late summer for fall harvesting. Or, space seedlings 8 to 10 inches apart and let them mature to full size heads.

GROWING NOTES

Lettuce thrives in mild weather with consistent moisture. To extend the sowing season into hot weather, erect a canopy of loosely woven shade cloth over the lettuce bed. Birds are often attracted to tender young seedlings so protect them if necessary.

HARVEST AND USE

To harvest by the “cut and come again” method, wait until plants are 4 or 5 inches tall. Cut as much as you need, using scissors to shear off a patch of leaves 1 to 2 inches above the soil level. Water well and fertilize lightly and plants will regrow for several more cuttings. Dress with extra virgin olive oil and a mild fruit or balsamic vinegar to enjoy the sweet flavors and juicy textures of these delicate young leaves at their best.

$4.39

Heirloom Baby Salads Italian Misticanza

START SEEDS OUTDOORS

In early spring or in midsummer for fall harvests, sow seeds in finely worked soil in full sun. Shake seeds from the palm of your hand, broadcasting them about a half inch apart over the entire seedbed or in wide rows, and cover lightly and evenly with 1/4 inch of fine soil. Firm soil gently and water in with a fine spray. Keep seedbed evenly moist.

GROWING NOTES

This full flavored Italian salad mix thrives in mild weather with consistent moisture. To extend the sowing season into hot weather, sow in light shade or erect a canopy of loosely woven shade cloth over the seed bed. Birds are often attracted to tender young seedlings so protect them if necessary.

HARVEST AND USE

To harvest by the “cut and come again” method, wait until plants are 4 or 5 inches tall. Cut as much as you need, using scissors to shear off a patch of leaves 1 to 2 inches above the soil level. Water well and fertilize lightly and plants will regrow for several more cuttings. Dress with a simple vinaigrette that has a touch of honey added to set off the complex full flavors of this piquant mix. Misticanza has sharp tangy components, so if it tastes too strong-flavored for diners’ palates, add additional lettuces to mellow the mix.

$3.39

Heirloom Romaine Lettuce Jericho

START SEEDS OUTDOORS

In cool early spring weather, start seeds in finely worked soil in full sun. Sow 1/4 inch deep and 2 inches apart in rows 6 to 8 inches apart and cover lightly. Tend carefully and keep evenly moist. Gradually thin out extra seedlings, leaving remaining plants standing 12 inches apart so lettuces have room to size up and fully mature into big butterhead rosettes. For a constant supply, make several sowings a few weeks apart until summer weather turns hot. Plant again in late summer for fall harvest.

GROWING NOTES

Lettuce thrives in cool conditions with consistent moisture. Weed, water and be sure to thin carefully to proper spacing for best quality heavy heads. If birds are attracted to young seedlings, cover with floating row covers or netting. Make a shade structure in hotter climates to extend the growing season.

HARVEST AND USE

Savor young thinnings in your first spring salads. Then harvest plants by cutting mature heads when they feel firm and well-filled out. Be sure to thin properly and keep evenly moist for sweet tasting, full heads. Pull and discard or compost over-mature plants if they begin to elongate (“bolt”) in hot weather as leaves turn bitter at this stage.

$4.89

Heirloom Container Lettuce Jade Gem

START SEEDS OUTDOORS

In cool spring weather, start seeds in full sun. Sow seeds ¼ inch deep and 1 inch apart in fertile, well-drained soil. Keep evenly moist but not soggy. As seedlings begin to grow, it’s critical to thin out young plants to a final spacing of 8 inches apart so they have room to mature to large, leafy rosettes (extra seedlings will transplant easily to grow elsewhere). Container Growing: Plan on 5 to 7 full heads in a 16 to 18 inch pot or a 9 x 12 inch windowbox; 3 full heads in an 8 inch pot.

GROWING NOTES

Lettuce thrives in cool conditions. Carefully thin and keep evenly moist for sweet tasting, full heads. For a constant supply, make several sowings a few weeks apart until summer heat comes on. In hot weather, give lettuce some afternoon shade and check water daily. Feed with liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks. Sow more seed in late summer for delicious fall harvests.

HARVEST AND USE

Use these little beauties in containers or as an edible garden accent or border. Or transplant seedlings around edges of a big pot holding a young tomato or pepper plant, then harvest when the bigger plants need the space. Savor young thinnings in your first spring salads. Harvest mature little heads when they are solid and well-filled out. Pull over-mature plants if they begin to elongate (“bolt”) in hot weather.

$4.89

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