Great in Containers
Great In Containers
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Cut & Come Again Lettuces Renee's Baby Leaf 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 seed bed evenly moist. Make small successive sowings until summer weather turns hot for a constant supply. Plant again in late summer for ample fall harvesting.
GROWING NOTES
This baby leaf blend 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 to set off the wonderful colors, diverse fresh flavors and delicate textures of this delicious salad mix.
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Heirloom Italian Kale Tuscan Baby Leaf
BEST TO START DIRECTLY OUTDOORS
Beginning in early spring, sow seeds in finely worked soil in full sun. Shake seeds loosely from your hand, broadcasting about 1 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, then keep seedbed evenly moist. Make successive sowings every 3 weeks until summer weather turns really hot for a constant supply. Plant again in late summer for fall harvesting.
GROWING NOTES
For best flavor, kale needs consistent moisture and mild weather conditions. Birds love tender young kale seedlings, so protect them as necessary with netting or floating row covers. This attractive edible will also grow well in pots at least 18 to 20 inches across to snip as needed for salads or stir-fry.
HARVEST AND USE
To harvest by the “cut and come again” method: when plants are 4 to 5 inches tall, cut as much as you need, by using scissors to shear off leaves 1 to 2 inches above the soil level. Water well and fertilize lightly and plants will regrow for several more cuttings. These tasty and highly nutritious leaves are delicious used as fresh salads, especially with a handful of chopped nuts and fruit like apples or pears. Or stir-fry very quickly for healthy quick greens.
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Easy To Grow Collection The Container Herb Garden
Having an abundance of fresh herbs at your fingertips is a delicious luxury and growing our Container Herb Garden means you will have all their aromas and flavors available to enjoy everyday. These herbs are all easy to grow kitchen essentials; they also make lovely ornamental plants and have flowers that attract pollinators. The varieties in this collection are specially chosen to grow well in containers, pots or window boxes. The back of each packet has complete growing instructions and our "how-to" guide is also included to ensure success for anyone new to growing in containers.Includes Five Packets Of The Best Varieties For Growing Your Own Delicious Fresh Herbs In Pots, Containers Or Window Boxes.
Slow Bolt Cilantro: The spicy green leaves of this cilantro are essential for Mexican and Asian dishes and brighten up everyday cooking. Our variety holds its leaves longer than others.
Profumo di Genova Basil: This imported Italian basil offers long luscious harvests of big glossy leaves with an intense basil aroma and especially rich flavor. Exquisite with tomatoes and perfect for cooking all summer long.
Fine Leaf Chives: These succulent and tender chives keep their slender, flat shape and don't get coarse or tough all season. Their pretty and edible lilac-pink blossoms have a mild, sweet flavor.
Dukat Dill: This heirloom variety, originally from Denmark, is known for its abundance of finely cut green leaves that can be used fresh longer than other varieties. Wonderful fresh in salads and with cooked vegetables or use with poultry, in potato salad and for making pickles.
Italian Parsley: The handsome plants of this imported heirloom have large, shiny flat leaves that are known for an exceptionally mellow sweet flavor. Wonderful fresh in salads and sandwiches and absolutely delicious in soups, casseroles and stews.
Special Feature: Two Page Guide To Container Gardening
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Hanging Basket Nasturtiums Little Firebirds
ANNUAL
Spring/summer/fall bloom
Frost tenderEASY TO START OUTDOORS
In spring once all danger of frost is over, sow seeds in full sun (or part shade in hot climates). Nasturtiums need no added fertilizer. Poke seeds into well worked garden soil 1 in. deep and 3 to 4 in. apart. Press soil firmly over seeds and keep moist. When seedlings are several inches tall, thin to 6 in. apart, so plants can spread.
Container planting: use pots or baskets a minimum of 8-10 in. deep and 12 to 15 in. across, filled with fresh potting mix. Poke seeds in 1 in. deep and 1 1/2 in. apart. When seedlings are established, thin to 3 in. apart, so plants can spread.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Three weeks before last expected frost date, poke 2 seeds one inch deep into individual 4 in. pots of seed starting mix. Provide a strong light source. When seedlings have several sets of leaves, pinch out the weaker seedling, leaving 1 per pot. When weather reaches 50°F (10°C). both night and day, acclimate to outdoor conditions. Transplant seedlings 6 in. apart in full sun. See Container Planting for suggested pot sizes.
GROWING NOTES
These lovely nasturtiums with handsome variegated leaves are easy to grow in any well-drained soil, They will quickly fill garden beds, planters or hanging baskets.
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Chantenay Carrots Short Stuff
START SEEDS OUTDOORS
In spring once danger of hard frost is past, sow seeds in full sun in finely worked, fertile soil. Sow 1/4 inch deep and 1/2 inch apart in rows 8 inches apart, or broadcast seeds thinly in beds and cover lightly.
Keep seed bed evenly moist as carrots can be slow to germinate, emerging over 10 to 21 days. If first sowing comes up unevenly, replant right away as seedlings catch up quickly. Thin young carrots several times so seedlings are 2 to 3 inches apart and have room to size up.
GROWING NOTES
Carrots like well worked soil and need consistent moisture to grow well. If your soil tends to dry out, cover seedbed with floating row covers to help retain moisture during the germination period. Keep carrots well weeded throughout the growing season. Plant again 3 months before first expected fall frost for a late crop.
HARVEST AND USE
Let carrots size up to 4 to 5 inches long before pulling for best sweet flavor. Enjoy raw, sliced up as tasty fresh snacks, or sauté, steam, stirfry or braise. Cut in chunks and toss with oil, then roast until tender and sprinkle with fresh herbs, just before serving.
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Easy To Grow Collection The Container Kitchen Garden
Includes Five Carefully Chosen Individual Seed Packets For Your Own Tasty Vegetables In Pots, Containers Or Windowboxes
- Super Bush Container Tomatoes: red and juicy, sweet rich flavor
- Romeo Round Container Carrots: cute and crunchy-sweet
- Garden Babies Container Lettuce: tender and pretty mini-butterheads
- Pot of Gold Chard: beautiful golden stalks and green leaves
- Cameo Container Basil: intensely perfumed true Italian basil
- Special Feature: Two Page Guide To Container Gardening. Enjoy a beautiful container garden featuring fast growing, great tasting vegetables in a wonderful range of colors.
Our Collection includes five individual seed packets of varieties developed especially for growing in pots for a delicious and ornamental kitchen garden whose fresh healthy harvests will add savor and excitement to everyday meals. You will find our packet backs offer clear and complete growing instructions for each variety, ensuring success for anyone new to growing from seed, as well as harvest tips and cooking ideas. Also included is our “how-to” guide for container gardening covering the basic gardening information needed for rewarding and bountiful harvests.
Super Bush Container Tomatoes
Perfect for pots, these full-sized tomatoes grow on dwarf 2 1/2 to 3 foot tall plants. The luscious round red fruits are full of juicy-sweet, rich tomato flavor.
Romeo Round Container CarrotsPetite ball-shaped carrots with smooth skins that need no peeling. Bred in France for great flavor and crunchy texture.
Pot Of Gold ChardReliable and highly ornamental, these vigorous vase-shaped plants have crunchy golden stems contrasting with rich green leaves. Produces abundant harvests to enjoy all season long.
Cameo Container BasilFrom our best Italian breeder. Easy growing and aromatic, “Cameo” has closely packed, fragrant big leaves on compact plants that grow about 8 inches tall. Perfect for fresh pesto and seasoning summer dishes.
Garden Babies Container LettuceDelicious and weather tolerant, these cute baby lettuces form compact 6 inch heads with soft folded leaves, a lovely buttery texture and absolutely outstanding sweet taste.
Regular price $16.95Sale price $16.95Unit price / per -
Cherry Tomato Trio Triple Treats
STARTING SEEDLINGS
Start indoors about 6 to 8 weeks before outdoor night temps are in the 50-55°F (10-13°C) range. Sow seeds ¼ inch deep and 1 inch 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 they are 2 inches tall, transplant into 4 inch pots, burying stems up to base of leaves. Maintain around 70°F (21°C). Feed with half-strength fertilizer every 2 weeks until weather is warm enough to gradually acclimate seedlings to outdoor conditions. Transplant these vigorous indeterminate climbers 3 feet apart into rich soil in full sun.
GROWING NOTES
Prepare soil well with aged manure or compost. Plant tomatoes several inches deeper than they were growing in pots. Provide strong stakes or tall wire cages at planting time as plants grow tall with heavy fruit loads. Mulch to provide the even moisture that prevents cracking. Don’t overwater once fruit begins to ripen.
HARVEST AND USE
Harvest when fully colored up to enjoy as sweet snacks, in salads or quickly sautéed in olive oil with fresh herbs.
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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 -
Rainbow Jalapeño Chiles Spice Trio
STARTING SEEDLINGS
In early spring, start indoors about 2 months before night temperatures stay reliably 55°F (13°C). Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep and 1 inch apart in a container of seed starting mix. Keep moist but not soggy, and very warm 80-85°F (27-30°C). Provide a strong light source until seedlings are ready to plant outside.
When seedlings are 2 inches tall, transplant into deeper individual containers. Maintain at 70-75°F (21-24°C). Feed with half-strength fertilizer every week until weather is warm enough to gradually acclimate seedlings to outdoor conditions. Transplant 1 1/2 feet apart into rich soil in full sun.
GROWING NOTES
Jalapeños need warm conditions. Don’t transplant outdoors until night temperatures stay securely above 55°F (13°C). Prepare soil well with aged manure or compost. Plant only robust seedlings with well-developed roots. Mulch plants to maintain even soil moisture. Keep well weeded, watered and fertilized.
HARVEST AND USE
To harvest, cut rather than pull fruits from plants when fully colored up either bright red, rich orange or golden-yellow. These eye-catching, spicy baby jalapenos have thick juicy flesh. Slice and pickle them for zesty condiments, use for delicious rainbow salsas, fajitas or for cheese stuffed “poppers.”Regular price $4.89Sale price $4.89Unit price / per -
Ornamental Edibles Bicolored Shiso
ANNUAL
Summer/fall harvest
Heat-loving, frost tenderTO PLANT DIRECTLY INTO THE GARDEN
When late spring weather has thoroughly warmed up, sow seeds 1 inch apart in well worked fertile soil in full sun. Cover 1/4 inch deep, firm soil and keep seedbed moist. Germination takes 1 to 2 weeks. After seedlings are well established, thin or transplant 8 inches apart to allow plants room to mature.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Sow seeds 1 inch apart 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 large enough to handle and night temperatures are solidly above 50°F (10°C ), acclimate gradually to outdoor conditions before planting in the garden 8 inches apart.
GROWING NOTES
Remember— it is critical to plant Shiso in the garden only after day and nights are solidly above 50°F (10°C). Pinch off growing tips when plants are 6 to 8 inches tall to encourage branching. Harvest sprays of leaves by cutting stems just above two new sprouting lateral branches to get lush regrowth.
NOTE: Can self-sow aggressively. Keep plants from spreading by cutting spent flowers so they don't drop seeds. Do not plant near natural areas.
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Pelargonium Fancy Pants
PERENNIAL
Spring/summer/fall bloom
Frost tenderBEST TO START SEEDS EARLY INDOORS
In early spring, 8 to 10 weeks before last expected frost, sow seeds 1 inch apart in a container of seed starting mix. Cover lightly, no more than 1/4 inch deep, keep moist and about 65-75°F (18-24°C). Provide a strong light source until ready to plant outdoors. Feed seedlings every 2 weeks with half-strength liquid fertilizer. Once large enough to handle, move seedlings into individual 3-4 inch containers to develop root systems. When weather is above 55°F (13°C) night and day, acclimate 3-4 inch long seedlings outdoors, then transplant into final containers.
CONTAINER GROWING
Choose hanging baskets, pots or windowboxes at least 12-15 inches in diameter and 8-10 inches deep. Fill with well moistened fresh potting mix. Transplant well developed seedlings into containers, spacing them 4 inches apart. Gently water after planting. Keep containers in a filtered sun location or a spot with afternoon shade.
GROWING NOTES
Keep Pelargoniums well watered all summer and mulch pots well to retain soil moisture. Feed them with good all-purpose fertilizer twice a month according to package directions. Remove spent flowers and seedpods to encourage reblooming.
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Hanging Basket Snap Peas Snack Hero
START SEEDS OUTDOORS
In early to mid-spring, plant peas in full sun in well-worked, fertile soil. Sow 1 inch deep and 3 inches apart. Protect from marauding birds with netting or floating row covers if necessary. Wet, cold early spring weather may affect germination, so if first sowing doesn’t germinate evenly, replant right away: new seedlings catch up quickly. Sow again for a fall crop, several months before fall frosts.
CONTAINERS, BASKETS AND WINDOW BOXES
Plant in containers at least 15-18 inches in diameter and 7-10 inches deep. When seedlings are 2-3 inches long, thin to 3 inches apart, so each little vine has growing room. Mulch to conserve moisture. Feed with all-purpose fertilizer every 2-3 weeks. If it gets hot, check and water containers daily; otherwise, water when the top inch of soil is dry. Water at base of the plants to avoid mildew.
HARVEST AND USE
Harvest only when peas are mature and rounded in the thick-walled, juicy pods for the best developed flavor. Savor their sweet crunch fresh (kids especially love them!) as a snack or slice into salads. To cook quickly, pull strings from pods and sauté in a little oil just until pods turn a deeper green color.
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Hummingbird Salvia Firelight Mix
TENDER PERENNIAL
Grown As Annual
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.
TO START DIRECTLY OUTDOORS
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.
GROWING NOTES
Firelight’s bright blossoms in three complementary shades will glow in garden beds or as container flowers. Use these warm colors to advantage in summer bouquets to add texture, color and form. You’ll find our Firelight Salvia is a low-maintenance plant, but removing spent flower heads will encourage more extended flowering.
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Mini Pak Choi Green Jewel
TO START OUTDOORS
In very early spring as soon as ground can be worked, prepare a well-drained, fertile garden bed in full sun. Sow seeds 2 inches apart in rows spaced 6 to 8 inches apart. Cover 1/4 inch deep and keep soil evenly moist to ensure good germination. Sow again in late summer for another fast growing crop.
TO START INDOORS
Sow seeds in a container of seed starting mix 2 inches apart and cover 1/4 inch deep. Keep moist and provide a strong light source until seedlings are about 3 inches tall and ready to plant in the garden.
THIN OR TRANSPLANT
Space seedlings 3-4 inches apart to give plants room to mature.
GROWING NOTES
Pak Choi thrives in rich soil and cool growing conditions. Be sure to thin seedlings and keep well weeded and watered for best tasting crunchy heads. Feed 2 or 3 times during the growing season with fish emulsion or another high nitrogen fertilizer.
HARVEST AND USE
Harvest these plump minis when heads are solid and well filled out. Cut in half and sauté briefly, until just tender, then finish with a little soy sauce and toasted sesame oil. Or enjoy their mild sweet crunch in any stirfry, but don’t overcook. Mini Pak Choi is succulent, crunchy- sweet and mild tasting, and chock full of vitamins.
Regular price $3.69Sale price $3.69Unit price / per -
Container Chile Peppers Early Flame Jalapeños
STARTING SEEDLINGS
Start indoors 8 weeks before outdoor night temperatures reach 55°F (13°C). Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep and 1 inch 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 ready to plant outdoors. When seedlings are several inches tall, transplant into 4 inch pots. Keep warm; 70°F (21°C). Feed with half-strength liquid fertilizer.
When nights reach 55°F (13°C), acclimate seedlings to outdoor conditions. If planting in garden beds, space 2 feet apart in rich soil in full sun.
CONTAINER GROWING
Transplant each well-developed seedling into a container about 15 inches tall and deep. Use fresh potting mix to prevent soil borne diseases. Fertilize 2 times per month with all-purpose fertilizer for best plants and bigger yields. Check often and water regularly; plants usually require daily watering in hot summer weather.
GROWING NOTES
Peppers need full sun at least 6 hours per day. Mulch well to maintain even moisture. Provide short stakes or cages to support the heavy sets of ripening fruit. Keep growing plants well watered and fed.
HARVEST AND USE
To harvest, cut rather than pull fruits from plants when deep glossy green or colored up red. Enjoy Jalapeños in sandwiches, fresh salsas, sauces, fajitas and marinades. They are delicious sliced and quickly pickled or stuffed with cheese and baked.Regular price $4.99Sale price $4.99Unit price / per -
Edible Container Flowers Hestia Dwarf Runner Beans
ANNUAL VINE
Summer/fall bloom with edible pods and seeds
Frost tenderSTART SEEDS OUTDOORS
In spring, be very sure to wait until weather is warm and settled and night temperatures stay above 55°F (13°C), before planting well-worked, fertile soil in full sun. For bed planting, poke seeds in 1 inch deep and 4 inches apart in rows 1 1/2 feet apart.
FOR CONTAINER PLANTING
Choose big pots at least 18 inches tall and 16-20 inches in diameter. Fill pots with fresh, moistened, good-quality potting mix. Sow seeds 3-4 inches apart. Keep soil evenly moist while awaiting germination in 7-10 days. Sow again in different pots a few weeks later for a longer season of bloom.
GROWING NOTES
Protect young seedlings from marauding birds by covering with plastic berry baskets at planting time, removing when plants get crowded. Feed plants once a month with all-purpose fertilizer. Hestia’s blossoms are edible; enjoy as garnishes or or tasty salad additions. At the end of blooming season, let some flowers mature into bean pods and allow beans to completely dry in their pods to harvest and use for dried bean recipes.Regular price $4.39Sale price $4.39Unit price / per -
Dwarf Strawflower Rainbow Bouquet
ANNUAL
Summer/fall bloom
Can handle light frostSTARTING EARLY INDOORS
Start in spring 6 weeks before last expected frost. Sow seeds very thinly in a container of seed starting mix and cover very lightly. Keep evenly moist but not soggy, providing a strong light source. When seedlings are several inches tall, transplant 2 inches apart into a deeper containers. Once weather is settled and warm, acclimate to outdoor conditions before planting in the garden.
TO START EARLY OUTDOORS
Once all danger of frost is past, sow seeds 1 inch apart in containers of fresh potting mix, or broadcast thinly in fertile, well drained garden beds. Cover ¼ inch deep and keep evenly moist. When seedlings are several inches tall, thin to 6-8 inches apart so plants have room to branch and grow.
In Containers: Use containers 16-18 inches deep and wide filled with fresh potting soil. Sow seeds 1 inch apart, 1/4 inch deep. When several inches tall, thin or transplant seedlings 5 inches apart. Feed container plants monthly with all-purpose flower fertilizer.
GROWING NOTES
For fresh flowers, cut stems at desired length before the flower centers are fully open. To air dry for “everlastings,” simply remove leaves and hang upside down in bundles in a cool airy spot out of the sun. Dried Strawflowers cure quickly and last almost indefinitely.Regular price $3.69Sale price $3.69Unit price / per -
Container Cucumber Bush Slicer
START SEEDS OUTDOORS
Plant heat loving cucumbers only when spring weather is warmed and night temperatures are consistently above 55°F (13°C). Amend soil well with aged manure or compost. Sow seeds 1 inch deep and 4 inches apart in slightly mounded hills that are 3 feet apart, sowing 4 or 5 seeds in each hill. Thin to the 3 strongest seedlings in each hill so plants have room to grow and mature.
FOR CONTAINERS
Sow seed directly into containers 4 inches from edges. When plants are 3 to 4 inches tall, thin carefully to strongest seedlings. Final spacing should be one plant per pot 12 inches deep and 12 inches across or 2 plants in a larger container at least 18 inches across. For larger planters, grow plants at final spacing of 8 to10 inches apart.
GROWING NOTES
Protect seedlings from marauding birds with plastic berry baskets, removing before plants get crowded. Feed every other week. A good mulch will aid shallow rooted cucumber plants, which require ample and consistent moisture in hot dry weather. Avoid overly wet or dry periods for good quality fruit. In hot dry weather, check and water plants in containers daily.
HARVEST AND USE
Keep all mature cucumbers picked; fruits left on vines will signal the plant to stop producing. Cut rather than pull fruits from vines. Slice them up for refreshing snacks, salads and sandwiches. Eat within a day or two of picking for best taste and quality.
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Heirloom Dwarf Zinnias Thumbelina Mix
ANNUAL
Summer/fall bloom
Frost tenderEASIEST 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 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, space plants 4 inches apart; 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.
CONTAINER GROWING
Use containers a minimum of 12 inches in diameter and 12 inches deep. Fill with well moistened, fresh potting mix.
GROWING NOTES
These carefree 12 to 16 inch tall zinnias perform well in hot and sunny conditions. Thin young seedlings to final spacing before too large. Water regularly and consistently. Support plants’ rapid growth by feeding with an all-purpose fertilizer every few weeks. Remove spent flowers often to encourage new blooms.Regular price $3.39Sale price $3.39Unit price / per -
Specialty Eggplants Italian Trio
BEST TO START INDOORS
In early spring, start indoors about 2 months before outdoor night temperatures are reliably in the 50 (10°C) range. Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep and 1 inch apart in a container of seed starting mix. Keep moist and warm and provide a strong light source until seedlings are ready to plant outside. When seedlings are 2 inches tall, transplant into deeper individual containers. Maintain at 70 to 75° (21-24°C). Feed with half-strength fertilizer every 2 weeks until weather is warm enough to gradually acclimate seedlings to outdoor conditions. Transplant 2 feet apart into rich soil in full sun.
GROWING NOTES
Don’t transplant these heat-lovers outdoors until night temperatures stay securely above 55° (13°C). Prepare soil well with aged manure or compost. Plant only robust seedlings with well-developed roots and mulch well. Fertilize plants regularly throughout the season.
HARVEST AND USE
Pick when fruits have sized up and are firm fleshed and glossy. Slice 1/2 inch thick, brush with olive oil and broil until tender. Then layer with a rich tomato sauce, fresh herbs and several cheeses to make Eggplant Parmesan. Bake whole in a hot oven, then scoop out flesh and mash with garlic, olive oil, lemon juice and chopped parsley for a savory dip to serve on toasted pita bread.
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Heirloom Lettuce Baby Oakleaf
START SEEDS OUTDOORS
In cool spring weather, start seeds in full sun. Sow seeds 1/4 nch deep and 1 inch apart in fertile, well-drained soil. When seedlings are several inches tall, thin to a final spacing of 4-5 inches apart. Extra seedlings can easily be transplanted elsewhere.
Container Spacing: Grow 3 plants in an 8 inch pot, or 7 to 8 plants in a 12 to 15 inch diameter container.
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.
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Bonus Pack Wheatgrass For Juicing
GROW IN POTS INDOORS OR OUT
Wheatgrass can be grown indoors year round; it prefers temperatures between 65-75° F (18 to 24° C) or or grow outdoors in pots after spring weather is warm, and nights are over 50° F (10° C). This generous packet provides more than enough seed for 6 separate sowings in 6 inch pots. Disinfect pots before use by soaking in a solution of 1 part bleach and 9 parts water for 30 minutes and air dry.
GROWING AND HARVESTING
Fill a 6 inch in diameter or larger pot (that has a drainage hole) with moistened organic planting mix. Sprinkle seeds evenly over the surface about 1/4 inch apart. Cover 1/2 inch deep with planting mix. Water gently but thoroughly. Check often; keep moist but not soggy. Keep pot in bright light or full sun. Harvest by cutting with scissors when wheatgrass is 4 to 6 inches tall, about 10 to 14 days after sowing. Wheatgrass grows back for a second harvest, but the second harvest will be weaker.
For a constant supply, sow more seeds in a new pot weekly, always using fresh soil mix. Harvest and use pots of grass in succession. After the second harvest in each pot, discard and start again with more seeds and fresh soil mix. (Each sowing uses up the available nutrients in soil mix so discard and use fresh mix) A 6 inch pot of wheatgrass will yield about 5 to 6 ounces of fresh juice.
HOW TO USE
Wheatgrass must be consumed as juice. If you want to juice regularly, we recommend buying a specialized wheatgrass juicer, which makes juicing easy and produces a superior product. A lesser, but passable alternative is to put a handful of cut wheatgrass in a blender with a cup of water, blend until liquefied and carefully strain out pulp from the juice. Drink immediately or keep refrigerated and drink soon: juice loses quality and nutrient value quickly. Drink 1 ounce of wheatgrass juice per day for general health.
Regular price $6.99Sale price $6.99Unit price / per -
Container Chard Pot of Gold
EASIEST TO START OUTDOORS
For container sowing, use pots at least 12 inches in diameter and 12 inches deep and start with fresh potting mix. Plant seed in spring, after danger of frost is over, and/or again in mid-summer for fall harvests. Sow seed 1/2 inch deep and 1 inch apart in full sun. Keep evenly moist.
When seedlings are several inches tall, gradually thin to 8 inches apart in containers and use the delicious thinnings for early greens. Be sure to thin seedlings well so the large, vase-shaped plants have room to mature. If planting in garden beds, thin seedlings to stand 12 inches apart.
GROWING NOTES
Easy to grow chard can be grown year-round in mild winter areas. It prefers full sun, but will tolerate afternoon shade. Water regularly, checking containers daily in hot weather. Feed these fast-growing, productive plants weekly with a good high-nitrogen fertilizer. Watch for snails and slugs.
HARVEST AND USE
Begin harvesting when plants are well established and have 6 to 8 stalks. Both the crunchy succulent stalks and leaves make great eating. Break stems off at the base of the plant, always leaving at least 3 to 4 stalks to allow for regrowth. Chard is delicious sautéed, steamed, braised or stirfried. It pairs beautifully with the flavors of olive oil, garlic and lemon.
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Personal Size Watermelons Mini Love
START SEEDS OUTDOORS
Plant heat loving watermelons only when spring weather is warmed and night temperatures are consistently above 55°F (13°C). Amend soil well with aged manure or compost. Sow seeds 1 inch deep and 4 inches apart in slightly mounded hills that are 3 feet apart, sowing 4 or 5 seeds in each hill. Thin to the three strongest seedlings in each hill so plants have room to grow and mature. Or, grow 1 plant per foot in rows.
FOR CONTAINERSSow directly into containers at least 18 inches wide and 12 inches deep. Sow 2 seeds in the center of the pot, then thin to just 1 strong seedling per pot. For larger containers, grow plants at final spacing of 8-10 inches apart.
GROWING NOTESProtect seedlings from marauding birds with plastic berry baskets, removing before plants get crowded. Feed container plants every other week with a liquid, all-purpose fertilizer. A good mulch will aid shallow rooted watermelon plants, which require ample and consistent moisture in hot dry weather. Avoid overly wet or dry periods for good quality fruit. In hot dry weather, check and water plants in containers daily.
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