Heirloom Selections
Old Varieties with Exceptional Beauty and Flavor
Our heirloom selections have been preserved and kept true to their beloved local history, often exhibiting unusual colors, shapes or flavors.
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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 -
Heirloom Amaranth Cinco De Mayo
ANNUAL
Summer/fall color
Frost tenderEASY TO START OUTDOORS
Sow seeds in full sun in ordinary well-worked garden soil in springtime once night temperatures reach 50°F (10°C). Space tiny seeds as thinly as possible. Cover very lightly with soil and keep moist until seedlings emerge in 7 to 10 days.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Five to six weeks before last frost date, sow seeds 1 inch apart in individual pots or a container of seed starting mix, cover lightly and keep moist. Provide a strong light source until seedlings are ready to plant outside once danger of frost is over. Gradually acclimate to outdoor conditions before transplanting.
THIN OR TRANSPLANT
Final seedling spacing should be 12-18 inches apart, so they have room to grow and mature.
GROWING NOTES
Plants explode with sky rocket colors when they come to maturity in late summer. These easy to grow, dramatic foliage Amaranths prefer a warm, dry location in good garden soil. When established, the tall bushy plants can tolerate drought and need no extra fertilizer, but must have good drainage. For better branching, pinch the main bud when plants are about 18 inches tall.
Regular price $2.99Sale price $2.99Unit price per -
Heirloom Butterfly Scabiosa Grandmother's Pincushion
HARDY ANNUAL
Spring/summer bloom
Can handle light frostFOR BEST RESULTS
Sow seeds 1 to 2 inches apart in a container of seed starting mix, 2 or 3 weeks before last expected frost. Cover 1/4 inch deep, keep moist and provide a good light source until seedlings are ready to transplant. Plant out into fertile garden soil in full sun when plants are 3 to 4 inches tall.
TO START SEEDS OUTDOORS
Sow seeds in a well-drained, deeply worked garden bed in full sun as soon as soil can be worked in spring. Space seeds 8 to 10 inches apart in rows a foot apart and cover 1/4 inch deep. Keep seed bed moist until seedlings emerge in 12 to 15 days. Weed carefully and keep well watered.
THIN OR TRANSPLANT
Space seedlings 12 to 18 in. apart.
GROWING NOTES
Plant in early spring to get sturdy plants that will flower throughout the summer and fall. Curving stems are part of this plant’s character, although our Dutch cultivar is more upright than others. Support growing plants for best display and to make cutting the lovely flowers easier. Cut often for bouquets and to produce more blossoms. In mild winter areas, they are a short-lived perennial and will winter over to bloom a second season.Regular price $4.69Sale price $4.69Unit price per -
Heirloom Pumpkins Rouge Vif d'Etampes
BEST TO START OUTDOORS
Pumpkins need full sun, rich fertile soil and warm temperatures. Plant only when weather is warm and night temperatures stay above 50°F (10°C). Sow groups of 3 seeds 3 feet apart and 1 inch deep in rows 4 feet apart. Thin to 1 strong seedling per group. Or, make circular soil mounds 3 feet across. Plant 6 seeds, 6 inches apart in center of each mound. Thin to the strongest 3 seedlings in each mound, so vigorous vines have room to grow and fruit.
GROWING NOTES
Plant pumpkins where the vigorous vines can sprawl. Protect young seedlings from marauding birds by covering with berry baskets at sowing time, removing before plants get crowded. Give vines ample water and feed several times for best yields.
HARVEST AND USE
These big plump beauties need to mature properly before harvest. Wait to pick until their rinds are fully deep orange and tough enough to resist piercing with a fingernail. Cut from vines, leaving good stem handles. Let cure in the sun for 10 days then store in a cool dry place and they’ll keep for months. Steam or bake the rich orange flesh for baked goods, soups or casseroles. Or hollow out the inside and use the ornamental pumpkin whole as a show-stopping serving dish for soup or stew.Regular price $4.89Sale price $4.89Unit price per -
Heirloom Bush Bean Royalty Purple Pod
START SEEDS OUTDOORS
In spring, once weather is warm and settled and nights stay securely above 55°F (13°C), plant seeds in well-worked, fertile soil in full sun. Poke seeds in 1 inch deep and 4 inches apart in rows 1 1/2 to 2 feet apart. Make additional sowings several weeks apart until the end of June to provide long continued harvests.
GROWING NOTES
Tender crispy garden beans are an easy and reliable crop to grow, but don't plant seeds too early as cold conditions prevent good germination. If first sowing comes up unevenly, replant right away; new seedlings will catch up quickly. Birds are often attracted to young bean seedlings, so watch carefully and protect with netting or floating row covers if necessary. Avoid cultivating plants or picking pods when plants are wet.
HARVEST AND USE
These vigorous plants produce strong harvests. The more you pick, the more the plants will produce, and the nitrogen fixing bacteria on the roots of bean plants actually improves your soil. Sow another crop about three weeks after your first planting and you’ll have a welcome second harvest in late summer. Tasty Royalty Purple Pod bean pods will turn green after a few minutes of cooking.
Regular price $4.89Sale price $4.89Unit price per -
Heirloom Herbs Garlic Chives
PERENNIAL
Spring/summer/fall harvest
Frost hardyTO PLANT OUTDOORS
In the cool weather of early spring, sow clusters of 7 to 10 seeds 8 to 10 inches apart in well-worked, fertile soil in sun or part shade. Cover 1/4 inch deep and press soil firmly over seeds. Keep evenly moist as seeds germinate slowly over several weeks. Emerging seedlings have very slender grass-like leaves that mature into mounds.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
In early spring, sow seed thinly in a container of seed starting mix and cover 1/4 inch deep. Keep evenly moist as seedlings slowly emerge and provide a good light source until ready to plant outdoors. Transplant when seedlings are about 2 to 3 inches tall after gradually acclimating plants to outdoor conditions.
THIN OR TRANSPLANT
Space clusters of 7 to 10 seedlings 8 to 10 inches apart.
GROWING NOTES
Garlic chives grow slowly at first, but soon mature into sturdy bright green mounds crowned with pretty white edible blossoms in late spring and summer. After bloom finishes, shear entire plant back to 4 inches to encourage regrowth of tender new leaves. These hardy, self-sufficient plants are attractive additions to the flower or herb garden.
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Heirloom Herbs French Chervil
ANNUAL
Spring/summer/fall harvest
Takes light frostEASIEST TO START OUTDOORS
Start chervil in early spring when weather is settled but still cool. Plant in filtered sun or light shade if climate is very hot. Sow seeds 1 to 2 inches apart in a well-worked fertile seed bed. Cover very lightly and keep evenly moist while awaiting germination. Sow again for a fall crop when weather cools in late summer or early fall.
THIN OR TRANSPLANT
Thin seedlings to stand 4 inches apart when they are large enough to handle.
GROWING NOTES
Chervil needs rich moist soil and ample moisture for lush growth. Thin early and keep well weeded and watered. Begin to harvest leaves sparingly once plants have 8 to 10 leaves. Fertilize every 2 to 3 weeks with a high nitrogen source or liquid fish emulsion solution. Because chervil goes to seed quickly in hot weather, the best way to have a good supply is to make successive sowings until the weather gets too hot, then plant again as summer begins to cool for fall harvest. Enjoy fresh as chervil does not hold its flavor when dried. Use the leafy sprigs in salads or add to hot dishes at the end of cooking to preserve chervil’s delicate flavor.Regular price $3.39Sale price $3.39Unit price per -
Kitchen Herbs Heirloom Rustic Arugula
HALF-HARDY PERENNIAL
Spring/Summer/Fall harvest
Can handle light frost
EASIEST TO START OUTDOORS
Plant seeds in early spring or in late summer for a fall crop. Sow seed as thinly as possible, cover 1/4 inch deep and firm soil gently over seeds. Keep seedbed evenly moist until seedlings emerge in 7 to 14 days.
THIN OR TRANSPLANT
Thin seedlings 5 to 6 inches apart when plants are large enough to handle.
GROWING NOTES
Long lasting rustic arugula stays leafy so you can harvest all season long from the same plants. Harvest individual leaves at 4 to 5 inches long, or cut bunches of young tender leaves as needed. Keep little yellow blossoms pruned back for best leaf production or use for tangy edible flowers. Rustic Arugula will winter over in mild climate areas, but make a fresh sowing each spring for best quality.Regular price $2.99Sale price $2.99Unit price per -
Heirloom Butterfly Salvia Marble Arch
ANNUAL
Summer/fall bloom
Frost tenderTO 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.Regular price $2.99Sale price $2.99Unit price per -
Heirloom Russian Kale Wild Garden Frills
TO START DIRECTLY IN THE GARDEN
As soon as ground can be worked in spring, prepare a well-drained, fertile garden bed in full sun. Sow seeds 2 inches apart in rows 12 to 18 inches apart. Cover 1/2 inch deep and keep soil evenly moist to ensure good germination. Sow again in late summer for another cold-hardy crop.
TO START INDOORS
Sow seeds in a container of seed starting mix 2 inches apart and cover 1/2 inch deep. Keep moist and provide a strong light source until seedlings are 3 to 4 inches tall then plant outdoors. Space 10 to 12 inches apart so plants have room to mature.
GROWING NOTES
Kale tastes best in cool weather so sow spring crops early. If sown in late summer, kale will yield through fall and winter except in the coldest climates. Frost actually enhances kale leaves’ color, flavor and sweetness. Mulch to retain moisture in summer and before the ground freezes to protect the roots of fall crops.
HARVEST AND USE
Begin harvesting outer leaves when plants have 6 to 8 leaves. Vitamin-rich kale is delicious in hearty winter soups, stews and sautés; or braise the beautiful leaves with garlic and olive oil in traditional Mediterranean style. Pull and discard once plants begin to bloom since the leaves of flowering stalks get tough and bitter.
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Fragrant Wildflowers Heirloom Chocolate Daisy
PERENNIAL
Hardy to Zone 4
Summer Blooming
Frost HardyTO SOW DIRECTLY OUTDOORS
In spring, several weeks after last frost date, sow in a sunny garden spot with excellent drainage. Sow 2 inches apart and cover lightly. Keep moist but not soggy while awaiting germination. When seedlings are well established, thin to 6 inches apart so plants have room to mature.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Start seeds indoors about 6 weeks before night temps are above 50°F (10°C). Sow seeds 2 to 3 apart in a container of seed starting mix and cover very lightly. Keep seedbed moist but not soggy while awaiting germination. When outdoor weather is warm and settled both day and night, plant seedlings 6 inches apart in a sunny, well-drained garden spot.
GROWING NOTES
Chocolate daisies, native to the mesas and plains of the Southwest, thrive in average soil, but require good drainage to thrive; if soil is heavy clay, add organic material to improve drainage before sowing. Plant in large groups in full sun near where you walk for maximum fragrance impact. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage reblooming. Blossoms are a important source of nectar for pollinators and beneficial insects. Plants die to the ground in winter, returning in spring and gaining in size over the seasons.
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Heirloom Tuscan Melon Melone Retato Degli Ortolani
STARTING SEEDLINGS OUTDOORS
Melons need full sun, rich soil and warm temperatures. Plant only when weather is warm and settled and temperatures stay above 50° (10°C). In rows 4 feet apart, sow groups of 2 to 3 seeds every 2 feet. After germination, thin to the strongest seedling per group, so you end up with one plant every 2 feet. Or make slightly mounded hills, 2 feet in diameter and 5 feet apart, sowing 5 or 6 seeds in each hill. Thin to 3 strongest plants.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Several weeks before last frost date, sow seeds in individual pots of seed starting mix. Keep warm and moist, and provide a strong light source until weather warms enough to transplant outdoors.
GROWING NOTES
Amend soil well with aged manure or compost. Where summers are short or cool, lay down black plastic to retain heat, and plant into holes made in plastic. Where insects are a problem, cover seedlings with floating row covers to exclude them, removing when plants blossom. Keep young vines well watered and fed, tapering off as fruits ripen up for best sweet flavor.
HARVEST AND USE
Pick melons when they are fully colored, heavy and fragrant and “slip” or pull easily from the vines. These deeply lobed melons with sweet aromatic flesh are delicious freshly picked and sliced, added to fruit salads or wrapped with prosciutto as a traditional Italian appetizer.
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Heirloom Turnip Purple Top Milan
START SEEDS OUTDOORS
In early spring, as soon as ground can be worked, sow in well worked, fertile soil in full sun. Space seeds 1-2 inches apart in wide rows 6 inches apart. Cover 1/2 inch deep. Keep soil evenly moist and well weeded. Carefully thin seedlings early to stand 4-6 inches apart, giving them room to size up. Provide consistent moisture.
GROWING NOTES
Make a second spring sowing 10 days later, before summer heat. Protect with floating row covers if marauding birds or flea beetles that chew holes in the leaves are a problem. Sow again mid to late summer for fall harvest.
HARVEST AND USE
Begin harvesting when the turnips reach 2 to 3 inches in diameter. If weather turns unexpectedly hot, pull and store the roots in the refrigerator.
Note: Turnips are always spicier when the weather turns hot. Slice and sauté or steam; use in soups and stews, or (and this is our favorite) just cut them in quarters or large chunks, toss with olive oil, then roast in the oven until tender to bring out their natural sugars. Enjoy the tasty, nutritious green tops steamed or quickly braised.
Regular price $4.89Sale price $4.89Unit price per -
Kitchen Herbs Heirloom Salad Leaf Basil
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 weather is warm, acclimate gradually to outdoor conditions before planting in the garden 8 inches apart.
GROWING NOTES
Remember — it is critical to plant basil in the garden only after late spring day and nighttime temperatures stay 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. Keep flower buds pinched off to extend harvesting and feed regularly to promote new growth.Regular price $2.99Sale price $2.99Unit price per -
Heirloom Herbs Amsterdam Seasoning Celery
BIENNIAL, GROWN AS ANNUAL
Spring/summer/fall harvest
Frost HardyTO PLANT DIRECTLY OUTDOORS
Start leaf celery in spring, when weather is settled, but still cool. In mild winter climates, seed can also be started in fall. Plant in full sun or, in hot areas, where plants will get afternoon shade. Sow seeds 1 to 2 inches apart into well worked, fertile soil. Cover 1/4 inch deep. Be patient and be careful to keep seedbed evenly moist while awaiting germination which can be uneven. Thin groups of 3 to 4 seedlings 8 inches apart when several inches tall.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Start in early spring 6 weeks before night temperatures will warm up to 50°F (10°C). Sow seeds 1 to 2 inches apart in a container of seed starting mix. Barely cover. Keep evenly moist but not soggy until germination takes place over 3 weeks.Provide a strong light source as soon as seedlings emerge. Plant out groups of 3 to 4 seedlings when 2 to 3 inches tall, spacing groups 8 inches apart.
GROWING NOTES
Water regularly and fertilize monthly with a high nitrogen source. Seasoning celery forms sprays of attractive leaves rather than thick stalks. Harvest sprays of leaves as needed once plant is well established. Hang leafy bunches upside down in a cool, well ventilated place to easily air dry for future use.Regular price $3.69Sale price $3.69Unit price per -
Early Jalapeño Chile Bubba
STARTING SEEDLINGS
In early spring, start indoors about 2 months before night temperatures stay reliably 50-55°F (10-13°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 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 the plants when deep glossy green or fully colored to red. Enjoy Jalapeños fresh or roast and remove skins. Use freely in all kinds of fresh salsas, sauces, fajitas and marinades. Jalapeños are great pickled or stuffed with cheese for chile “poppers.”Regular price $4.99Sale price $4.99Unit price perNew -
Heirloom Pansies Victorian Posy
PERENNIAL GROWN AS ANNUAL
Spring bloom
Can handle frostBEST 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.
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Heirloom Herbs Sweet Marjoram
PERENNIAL
Spring/summer/fall harvest
Frost hardyTO START INDOORS
Sow seed in early spring in a container of seed starting mix. Press gently into mix, but do not cover. Provide a good light source. Keep evenly moist as seedlings slowly emerge in 12 to 21 days. When seedlings are large enough to handle, acclimate gradually to outdoor conditions. Transplant clusters of 3 to 5 seedlings 8 inches apart in full sun.
TO PLANT DIRECTLY IN THE GARDEN
When warm spring weather arrives, sow in full sun in a well-worked, finely textured soil with good drainage. Sow seed as thinly as possible, but do not cover as seeds need light to germinate. Tend carefully, keeping seedbed evenly moist and well weeded. ThIn to leave clusters of 3-5 seedling 8 inches apart.
GROWING NOTES
Mix tiny seed with dry sand to help space seedlings. Young plants grow slowly at first; a good hot spell encourages strong growth. Pick leaves lightly the first season; wait until the second summer to make bigger harvests. Cut blossom sprays off for best leafy growth. Given good drainage, this carefree Mediterranean native is hardy and long-lived.
Regular price $2.99Sale price $2.99Unit price per -
Heirloom Kitchen Herbs True Greek Oregano
PERENNIAL
Spring/summer/fall harvest
Frost hardyTO START INDOORS
Sow seed in early spring in a container of seed starting mix. Press gently into mix, but do not cover. Provide a good light source. Keep evenly moist as seedlings slowly emerge in 10 to 21 days. When seedlings are large enough to handle, acclimate gradually to outdoor conditions. Transplant clusters of 3 to 5 seedlings 8 to 10 in. apart in full sun.
TO PLANT DIRECTLY IN THE GARDEN
When warm spring weather arrives, sow in full sun in a well-worked, finely textured soil with good drainage. Sow seed as thinly as possible, but do not cover as seeds need light to germinate. Tend carefully, keeping seedbed evenly moist and well weeded.
GROWING NOTES
Mix tiny seed with dry sand to help space seedlings. Young plants grow slowly at first; a good hot spell encourages strong growth. Pick leaves lightly the first season; wait until the second summer to make bigger harvests. Keep white blossoms cut off for best leafy growth. Given good drainage, this carefree Mediterranean native is hardy and long-lived.Regular price $2.99Sale price $2.99Unit price per -
Gourmet Ruby Chard Scarlet Charlotte
START SEEDS OUTDOORS
In early spring when danger of hard frost is over, sow seeds in well-worked, fertile soil in full sun. Sow seeds 1/2 inch deep and 2 inches apart in rows 10 inches apart. Firm soil well over these irregularly shaped seeds to ensure good germination. If first sowing germinates unevenly, plant more seed in the rows as seedlings catch up quickly. Thin when seedlings are large enough to handle, using thinnings as early greens. Final spacing should be 12 to 18 inches apart.
GROWING NOTES
Chard grows well in a wide range of conditions and can take some frost. In mild winter areas, it can be grown year-round. Thin seedlings well so the large 2 foot tall, vase-shaped plants have room to mature.
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. Chop and sauté chard with garlic and olive oil or pair with sautéed mushrooms and onions. Try steamed and topped with a sprinkle of vinegar or fresh lemon juice. Use like spinach in lasagna or minestrone soup.
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Heirloom Sweet Parsley Triple Curled
BIENNIAL, GROWN AS ANNUAL
Spring/summer/fall harvest
Frost hardyTO 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.Regular price $4.89Sale price $4.89Unit price per -
Heirloom Chard Italian Silver Rib
START SEEDS OUTDOORS
In early spring when danger of hard frost is over, sow seeds in well-worked, fertile soil in full sun. Sow seeds 1/2 inch deep and 2 inches apart in rows 10 inches apart, or broadcast very thinly for bed planting. Firm soil well over these irregularly shaped seeds to ensure good germination. If first sowing germinates unevenly, plant more seed in the rows as seedlings catch up quickly. Thin when seedlings are large enough to handle, using thinnings as early greens. Final spacing should be 12 to 18 inches apart so chard plants have room to mature.
GROWING NOTES
Chard grows well in a wide range of conditions and can take some frost. In mild winter areas, it can be grown year round. Thin seedlings well as chard grows into large vase-shaped plants 2 feet tall.
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. Chop and sauté chard with garlic and olive oil or pair with sautéed mushrooms and onions. Try steamed and topped with a sprinkle of vinegar or fresh lemon juice. Use like spinach in lasagna or minestrone soup.
Regular price $2.99Sale price $2.99Unit price per -
Heirloom Oregano White Flowered Greek
TO START INDOORS
In early spring, sow seeds thinly in a container of moistened seed starting mix, but do not cover over; oregano needs light to germinate. Provide a good light source. Keep evenly moist as seedlings slowly emerge over 10 to 21 days.
TO PLANT DIRECTLY IN THE GARDEN
When warm spring weather arrives, sow in full sun in a well-worked, finely textured seedbed with good drainage. Sow thinly, then water very gently for good soil contact, but do not cover seeds. Tend carefully: keep soil evenly moist but not soggy and well weeded.
GROWING NOTES
Mix tiny seeds with dry sand to help space seedlings. Young plants grow slowly at first; a good hot spell encourages strong growth. Pick leaves lightly the first season; wait until the second summer to make bigger harvests, then cut leafy sprays often to enjoy in the kitchen. Given good drainage, this carefree Mediterranean native is hardy and long-lived.
Regular price $4.89Sale price $4.89Unit price per -
Heirloom Tomatoes Camp Joy Cherry
STARTING SEEDLINGS
Start indoors about 8 weeks before outdoor night temperatures are reliably in the 55° (13°C) range. 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, 75°F (24°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.
HARVEST AND USE
Pick fruits when fully colored for best flavor. Enjoy for sweet snacks right out of the garden, in salads or stuffed with herbed cream cheese. For a delicious side dish, briefly sauté Camp Joy Cherries in a garlicky olive oil, then sprinkle with chopped fresh chives and basil.
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.
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