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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Heirloom Morning Glory Mailbox Mix
ANNUAL VINE
Summer/fall bloom
Frost tenderTO START OUTDOORS
In late spring, once weather is warm and settled and nights stay above 55°F (13°C), plant seeds in a sunny spot in ordinary garden soil 2 to 3 inches apart and 1/2 inch deep. Firm soil over seeds. When seedlings are several inches tall, thin to 6 to 8 inches apart.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Sow indoors 4 or 5 weeks before last expected frost in individual pots of seed starting mix. Cover 1/2 inch deep and keep warm and moist. Provide a strong light source until seedlings are ready to plant outdoors. Plant out only when nights reach 55°F (13°C). Transplant seedlings 6 to 8 inches apart, taking care to avoid disturbing roots as much as possible.
GROWING NOTES
Morning glory seeds have a very hard outer shell. To improve and significantly hasten their germination rate, it is worth the extra effort to use a nail clipper and nick each one just enough to break the seed shell so soil moisture can enter more easily. Alternatively, you can rough these hard-skinned seeds with a file. At planting time, erect well-anchored supports at least 8 feet tall. Morning glories bloom abundantly beginning in mid to late summer once days begin to shorten.
Regular price $2.99Sale price $2.99Unit price per -
Heirloom Flowering Vine Fragrant Moonflower
ANNUAL VINE
Summer/fall bloom
Frost tenderTO START OUTDOORS
In late spring once weather is warm and settled and nights stay above 50°F (10°C), sow in a sunny spot in ordinary garden soil 6 inches apart and 1 inch deep. Firm soil over seeds.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Sow indoors 2 to 3 weeks before last expected frost in individual pots of seed starting mix. Cover 1 inch deep and keep warm and moist. Provide a strong light source until seedlings are ready for outdoor planting. Transplant very carefully once nights stay above 50°F (10°C) and before seedlings get too crowded.
THIN OR TRANSPLANT
Space seedlings 10 to 12 inches apart. Be careful not to disturb delicate roots.
GROWING NOTES
To speed germination, nick the edge of each seed with a nail clipper, or soak for no longer than 8 hours in tepid water. Plant immediately after soaking. Erect well-anchored supports at least 8 feet tall at planting time; strong netting, a wood or wire fence or a sturdy trellis serve well to hold these vigorous climbers. Moonflowers need a long warm growing season. Combine with dawn-blooming morning glories for a spectacular late summer display both night and day.
Regular price $2.99Sale price $2.99Unit price per -
Rainbow Nasturtiums Whirlybird Mix
ANNUAL
Spring/summer/fall bloom
Frost tenderEASY TO START OUTDOORS
Sow seeds in spring once all danger of frost is over in full sun (or part shade in hot climates). Nasturtiums need no added fertilizer in most soils. Poke seeds into well-worked soil about 1 inch deep and 3 to 4 inches apart. Press soil firmly over the seeds and keep moist. When seedlings are large enough to handle, thin to 10 inches apart as mounding plants need ample room to grow.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Sow 2 seeds each in individual 4-inch pots of well-drained seed starting mix 3 weeks before last expected frost date. Cover 1 inch deep. Provide a strong light source. When seedlings have several sets of leaves, pinch out the weaker seedling, leaving 1 per pot. When night temps are above 50°F (10°C) gradually acclimate to outdoor conditions. Transplant seedlings into the garden 10 inches apart in full sun.
GROWING NOTES
These mounding nasturtiums are reliable and easy to tuck into any well-drained spot. They are a perfect disguise to cover fading bulb foliage in late spring. Their softly draping leaves and wonderfully colored flowers will quickly fill garden beds or containers. Nasturtium leaves and edible flowers add zest to salads and sandwiches.
Regular price $3.99Sale price $3.99Unit price per -
Hummingbird Cerinthe Pride of Gibraltar
HARDY ANNUAL
Summer/fall bloom
TO START OUTDOORS
In spring, once all danger of frost is past, sow seed directly where plants are to grow in ordinary well-drained soil in full sun. In mild climates, Cerinthe can also be sown in fall for spring blooms. Poke the large seeds into the soil about 3⁄4 inch deep and 4 to 6 inches apart and firm soil gently over them.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Start seeds indoors in 4 inch pots about 4 to 6 weeks before last frost date. Keep moist, but not soggy and provide a strong light source. Once seedlings are 4 to 6 inches tall, acclimate to outdoor conditions and transplant into a sunny spot, in well-drained garden soil. Thin or transplant seedlings 8 to 12 inches apart. Avoid disturbing seedling roots.
GROWING NOTES
Cerinthe prefers full sun, but can take dappled shade, although plants will be more rangy in habit. Be patient; plants are undistinguished until they come into bloom. By late spring, the dramatic blue bracts will turn more purple at the tips, then the clusters of purple bells trimmed with a white edge unfurl. Grow near pastel cleome or cosmos for an exciting color contrast.
Regular price $4.69Sale price $4.69Unit price per -
Hummingbird Nasturtiums Creamsicle
ANNUAL
Spring/summer/fall bloom
Frost tenderEASY TO START OUTDOORS
Sow seeds in spring once all danger of frost is over in full sun or part shade in hot climates. Nasturtiums will grow and flower readily with no added fertilizer in most soils. Poke seeds into well-worked soil about 1 inch deep and 3 to 4 inches apart. Press soil firmly over the seeds and keep moist. When seedlings are large enough to handle, thin to 10-12 inches apart so plants will have ample room to grow.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Sow 2 seeds each in individual 4 inch pots of well-drained seed starting mix 3 weeks before last expected frost date. Cover 1 inch deep. Provide a strong light source. When seedlings have several sets of leaves pinch out the weaker seedling, leaving 1 per pot. When night temps are above 50°F (10°C) gradually acclimate to outdoor conditions. Transplant seedlings into the garden 10 inches apart in full sun.
GROWING NOTES
These mounding nasturtiums are reliable and easy to tuck into any well-drained spot. They are a perfect disguise to cover fading bulb foliage in late spring. Their softly draping leaves and wonderfully colored flowers will quickly fill and gladden garden beds or containers. Both leaves and flowers are tasty, spicy-sweet additions to salads and sandwiches.
Regular price $3.99Sale price $3.99Unit price per -
Bonus Pack A Rainbow of California Poppies
START SEED DIRECTLY IN THE GARDEN
Sow seeds directly in fine textured, well drained soil in full sun as early in spring as the ground can be worked. Plant as early as possible in spring, as poppies can handle light frost and bloom best and longest when plants get a good start in cool weather.
Except in very poor soil, these California poppies will flower readily with no added fertilizer.
Sprinkle seeds thinly, cover or rake in lightly, 1/4 inch deep, and firm soil gently. Be sure to keep the soil moist while awaiting germination and when seedlings are small. For best results, thin well-established seedlings to a final spacing of 6 to 8 inches apart so plants have room to grow, develop and bloom.
In Mild Winter Climates, where ground does not freeze hard, poppies can also be sown in late fall to over-winter for spring bloom. Be sure to protect fall-grown seedlings from slugs, snails and marauding birds.
GROWING NOTES
When mature, poppy plants can handle dry conditions, but will thrive and always bloom much longer if watered regularly. Poppies are lovely cut flowers if brought indoors just as buds begin to open. At season's end, allow spent flowers to form pods and drop seed if you want poppies to self-sow.
Regular price $9.99Sale price $9.99Unit price per -
California Poppies Dusky Rose
PERENNIAL/GROWN AS ANNUAL
Spring/Summer bloom
Can handle light frostBEST TO START DIRECTLY IN THE GARDEN
Sow seeds directly into a finely textured, well drained garden bed in full sun as early in spring as the ground can be worked. Plant as early as possible in spring, as poppies can handle light frost and bloom best and longest when plants get a good start in cool weather. In mild winter climates, poppies can also be sown in late fall to overwinter for spring bloom. Except in very poor soil, these California poppies will grow and flower readily with no added fertilizer. Space seeds 2 or 3 inches apart, cover 1/4 inch deep, and firm soil gently. Keep soil moist as seedlings emerge. Weed young seedlings carefully. If seedlings come up very thickly, thin poppies early but delay final thinning until seedlings are well established in spring. Final spacing should be 6 inches apart as plants need room to grow, develop and bloom.
GROWING NOTES
When mature, poppy plants can handle dry conditions, but they will always bloom longer if regularly watered. Poppies are pretty cut flowers if brought indoors just as buds begin to open. Prolong bloom by removing spent flowers. At season’s end, allow spent flowers to form pods and drop seed if you want poppies to self-sow.
Regular price $3.39Sale price $3.39Unit price per -
Kitchen Herbs Italian 'Gigante' Parsley
BIENNIAL, GROWN AS ANNUAL
Spring/summer/fall harvest
Frost hardyEASIEST TO START OUTDOORS
Start parsley in spring when weather is settled but still cool and/or in late summer in mild winter climates. Plant in full sun or half-day sun if climate is very hot. Sow seeds 1-2 inches apart into a well-worked fertile seed bed. Cover 1/4 inch deep. Parsley germinates unevenly over several weeks; be patient and keep seed bed evenly moist. Using synthetic row covers to hold moisture during germination is helpful; remove when seedlings are well established.
TO PLANT INDOORS
Sow parsley seeds in early spring in a container of seed starting mix. Cover 1/4 inch deep, and keep container moist but not soggy until seedlings emerge. Provide a good light source. Feed seedlings frequently until ready to transplant when several inches tall.
THIN OR TRANSPLANT
Space 3 to 4 inches apart when seedlings large enough to handle.
GROWING NOTES
Parsley needs rich moist soil and ample spacing for lush harvests. Thin early and keep well weeded and watered. Begin to harvest sparingly once plants have 8 to 10 leaves. Fertilize frequently with a high nitrogen source.Regular price $2.99Sale price $2.99Unit price per -
Heirloom Culinary Chives
PERENNIAL
Spring/summer/fall harvest
Frost hardyTO PLANT OUTDOORS
In cool spring weather, sow clusters of 7 to 10 seeds about 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 clusters of seedlings have very slender grass-like leaves that mature into mounds.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
In early spring, sow 7 to 10 seeds in individual containers of 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 clusters of seedlings when 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
Chives bear lilac-pink clover-like flowers in late spring and summer. After bloom finishes, cut entire plant back to 2 inches to encourage regrowth of tender new leaves. Given plenty of moisture and a location out of fierce sun, chives are hardy, self-sufficient plants. lilac-pink clover-like flowers in late spring and summer. After bloom finishes, cut entire plant back to 2 inches to encourage regrowth of tender new leaves. Given plenty of moisture and a location out of fierce sun, chives are hardy, self sufficient plants.Regular price $4.89Sale price $4.89Unit price per -
Shirley Poppies Angels' Choir
ANNUAL
Spring/summer bloom
Frost hardyBEST TO START DIRECTLY IN THE GARDEN
Sow seeds directly into a finely textured garden bed in full sun as early in spring as ground can be worked. To help space the fine seeds, mix with dry sand before sowing. Cover very lightly with fine soil and keep seed bed moist as seedlings emerge over 7 to 21 days.
THIN OR TRANSPLANT
Poppies do not transplant well so we advise sowing the seeds directly in the garden. To get good garden performance, be sure to thin crowded seedlings early; final plant spacing should be 6 to 8 inches apart, so plants have room to grow, mature and bloom.
GROWING NOTES
Plant as early as possible in spring, as poppies can handle frost and bloom best and longest when plants get a good start in cool weather. In mild winter climates, sow seed in late fall to overwinter for spring bloom. Weed and water young seedlings carefully. Mature plants can handle dry conditions but appreciate regular water in hot summer locations. Poppies make good cut flowers if cut just as buds begin to open. Allow spent flowers to form pods and drop seed if you want flowers to self-sow for next season’s bloom.Regular price $3.99Sale price $3.99Unit price per -
Pollinator Herbs Root Beer Hyssop
FROST TENDER PERENNIAL
Spring to fall bloom
Frost tenderTO START EARLY INDOORS
Sow seeds 1 inch apart in a container of well-drained seed starting mix 4 to 6 weeks before last expected frost date. Cover 1/4 inch deep, keep moist and provide a strong light source until ready to go outside. Transplant into individual containers once seedlings have 2 to 3 sets of true leaves. Transplant into garden once weather warms up after gradually acclimating seedlings to outdoor conditions.
TO PLANT OUTDOORS
Sow seeds directly into well-worked garden soil in full sun once all danger of frost is past. Space seeds 3 inches apart and cover about 1/4 inch deep. Keep soil evenly moist while awaiting germination in 10 to 14 days. See final spacing below.
PLANT SPACING
When well established, thin or transplant seedlings 9 to 12 inches apart so plants have room to mature. You can transplant extra seedlings when thinning.
GROWING NOTES
Throughout summer, multiple purple-blue flower spikes attract myriads of honeybees, butterflies and other important garden pollinators. Cut spent spikes to encourage reblooming all season. Use the sweet licorice scented leaves in Asian style stirfries and add to herbal teas. Plants will overwinter in mild climates.Regular price $3.69Sale price $3.69Unit price per -
Butterfly Cosmos Little Ladybirds
ANNUAL
Summer/fall bloom
Frost tenderTO PLANT OUTDOORS
Sow seeds directly into well worked garden soil in full sun once all danger of frost is past. Space seeds 2 to 3 inches apart and cover about 1/4 inch deep. Seedlings will emerge in 5 to 10 days. Keep well weeded and watered.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Sow seeds 1 inch apart in a container of seed starting mix, 4 to 6 weeks before last expected frost. Cover 1/4 inch deep, keep moist and provide a good light source. Plant outdoors once weather warms up after gradually acclimating seedlings to outdoor conditions. Thin or transplant 5 to 6 inches apart when seedlings are large enough to handle.
GROWING NOTES
Little Ladybirds are quick to bloom, carefree and non-fussy. Use instead of marigolds in sunny borders, or to line a garden path. The brilliant warm colors and clean fern-like foliage combine beautifully with other heat-tolerant flowers. Feed and water regularly especially if planting in patio pots.
Regular price $2.99Sale price $2.99Unit price per -
Chinese Delphiniums Heirloom Blue Mirror
PERENNIAL/ BLOOMS FIRST YEAR
Summer/fall bloom
Hardy to Zone 3START EARLY INDOORS
In spring, 8 to 10 weeks before last expected frost, sow seeds 1 inch apart in a container of seed starting mix. Cover 1/4 inch deep, keep moist and provide a strong light source until seedlings are ready to plant outdoors. Feed seedlings every 2 weeks with half-strength fertilizer. Once large enough to handle, transplant seedlings 3 inches apart into deeper containers so root systems have room to develop. When plants are 3 to 4 inches tall, gradually acclimate to outdoor conditions and transplant 10 to 12 inches apart into a sunny garden spot with well-drained soil.
GROWING NOTES
Sow Blue Mirror in early spring for mid-summer flowers the first year, late spring bloom in subsequent years. Plants can handle more summer heat than the traditional delphinium varieties. Patrol for snails and slugs on new leaves and shoots. When each flush of flower finishes, cut stalks back to plant base to encourage reblooming. Water well and fertilize regularly throughout the growing season. Plants will die back and go dormant in winter. Leave dead foliage until early spring so you know where plants are, but cut the dead branches off at first signs of new spring growth.
Regular price $4.69Sale price $4.69Unit price per -
California Poppies Copper Pot
PERENNIAL/GROWN AS ANNUAL
Spring/Summer bloom
Can handle light frostBEST TO START DIRECTLY IN THE GARDEN
Sow seeds directly into a finely textured, well drained garden bed in full sun as early in spring as the ground can be worked. Plant as early as possible in spring, as poppies can handle light frost and bloom best and longest when plants get a good start in cool weather. In mild winter climates, Poppies can also be sown in late fall to overwinter for spring bloom. Except in very poor soil, these California poppies will grow and flower readily with no added fertilizer. Space seeds several inches apart, cover 1/4 inch deep, and firm soil gently. Keep soil moist as seedlings emerge. Weed young seedlings carefully. If seedlings come up very thickly, thin poppies early but delay final thinning until seedlings are well established in spring. Final spacing should be 6 inches apart as plants need room to grow and bloom.
GROWING NOTES
When mature, poppy plants can handle dry conditions, but they will always bloom longer if regularly watered. Poppies are pretty cut flowers if brought indoors just as buds begin to open. At season’s end, allow spent flowers to form pods and drop seed if you want poppies to self-sow for next year's spring flowers.
Regular price $3.99Sale price $3.99Unit price per -
Heirloom Butterfly Zinnias Polar Bear
ANNUAL
Summer/fall bloom
Frost tenderTO START DIRECTLY IN THE GARDEN
Sow seeds in well-worked soil in full sun when danger of frost is past and weather is warm and above 50°F (10°C) both day and night. Space seeds 2 to 3 inches apart in rows 12 inches apart, cover about 1/2 inch deep and gently firm soil. Keep soil evenly moist while awaiting germination.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Four weeks before last frost date, sow seeds 1/2 inch deep and 3 inches apart in a container of seed starting mix. Keep warm and moist and provide a strong light source until seedlings are ready to plant outside when temperatures rise above 50°F (10°C) day and night.
THIN OR TRANSPLANT
Space seedlings 8 to 12 inches apart when large enough to handle so plants have good air circulation and enough elbow room to grow and bloom freely.
GROWING NOTES
Zinnias can grow in ordinary garden soil in full sun. For large, abundant flowers, thin before seedlings get crowded. Adequate spacing and regular, even watering discourages mildew and keeps zinnias productive.
Pick just as blossoms begin opening and petals are tight. Cut long stems well back into the plant to keep plants branching low and producing best blooms for summer long bouquets.
Regular price $2.99Sale price $2.99Unit price per -
Container/Pollinator Salvia Bee Heaven
TENDER PERENNIAL GROWN AS ANNUAL
Summer/Fall bloom
Frost tenderTO START EARLY INDOORS
Start seeds indoors 4 to 6 weeks before last 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 about 2 to 3 inches tall, and night temperatures are above 50°F (10°C), acclimate to outdoor conditions and plant 8 inches apart.
TO START DIRECTLY OUTDOORS
Sow in well-worked beds or in containers in full sun only after night temperatures reach 50°F (10°C). Plant seeds 4 inches apart and cover very lightly. Keep soil evenly moist. Thin seedlings to 8 inches apart so plants have room to mature.
CONTAINER PLANTING
Plant 4 seedlings in a 20 inch pot; 3 in a 16 inch pot, and 1 seedling in an 8 inch pot.
GROWING NOTES
Plants grow quickly to 12-18 inches tall and bloom all summer long Honey Bees, hummingbirds, butterflies, and many other pollinators constantly visit these nectar-rich flowers.
Regular price $4.69Sale price $4.69Unit price per -
Heirloom Pole Beans Kentucky Wonder
START SEEDS OUTDOORS
In late spring, once night temperatures stay securely above 55°F(13°C), plant seeds in well-worked, fertile soil in full sun. Erect strong stakes, tripod poles or trellis, at planting time to support vines. Plant 1 inch deep and 4 inches apart along a trellis; around tripods or stakes, plant 4 to 6 seeds about 4 inches from each pole, thinning seedlings to 3 best plants per pole.
GROWING NOTES
Beans are an easy and reliable crop, but don’t plant seeds too early; cold conditions prevent good germination. If first sowing comes up unevenly, replant right away; new seedlings will catch up quickly. Birds are attracted to young seedlings; watch carefully and protect with netting if necessary. Avoid harvesting beans in wet conditions.
HARVEST AND USE
For the best yields, pick beans frequently, at least every 2 or 3 days. These tasty beans are delicious freshly harvested and the more pods you pick, the more plants will produce. Enjoy quickly steamed just until tender-crisp, then toss with a little sweet butter and a sprinkling of fresh tarragon or dill.
Regular price $4.89Sale price $4.89Unit price per -
Heirloom Climbing Summer Squash Trombetta di Albenga
START SEEDS OUTDOORS
Squash needs full sun, rich fertile soil and warm temperatures. Plant only when spring weather is warm and settled and night temperatures stay above 55°F (13°C). Train vigorous Trombetta vines up 6 to 8 foot stakes or a fence or trellis where they will make a lush leafy arbor or canopy and save garden space. Plant in full sun, sowing groups of 2-3 seeds 1 inch deep and 4 inches from vertical supports. Thin to the strongest seedling for each pole or to 12 inches apart along a fence.
GROWING NOTES
Amend soil well before sowing with lots of aged manure or compost. Protect young seedlings from marauding birds by covering with plastic berry baskets at planting time, removing when plants get crowded. Thin properly to get best quality fruits and highest yield. As young plants grow, tie them to supports.
HARVEST AND USE
Softly curved, lime-green Trombetta squashes are best harvested no longer than 10 to 12 inches long and as thick around as cucumbers. Sauté or stuff them, or use in any of your favorite summer squash recipes. Cook until just tender to enjoy their fine flavor and texture.Regular price $3.69Sale price $3.69Unit price per -
Bonus Pack An Heirloom Sunflower Forest
ANNUAL
Spring/summer bloom
Frost tenderEASIEST TO PLANT OUTDOORS
Plant in full sun in good garden soil only when weather is warm and settled, all danger of frost is past and both days and nights are evenly in the 50°F (10°C) range. Poke individual seeds into well-worked soil about 1/2 in. deep, 4 to 5 in. apart. Press the soil firmly over the seeds and keep the seedbed evenly moist until seedlings emerge in 8 to 10 days.
Important: when the seedlings are well-established, carefully thin them to a final spacing of 1 foot apart; this way they will have enough room to develop sturdy stalks that won’t blow over and big clusters of flowers. Any extra seedlings you need to remove can be transplanted elsewhere in the garden or potted up and given to friends.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Several weeks before last frost date, sow seeds 1/2 inch deep in individual pots of well-drained seed starting mix. Keep moist and provide a strong light source until seedlings are well established and ready to plant outside. Transplant carefully, disturbing the roots as little as possible. Space seedlings 1 foot apart so plants will have room to grow and mature.
GROWING NOTES
Growing these colorful sunflowers for pollinators and bouquets is both easy and rewarding. Make several sowings several weeks apart and you’ll have a succession of flowers in full bloom. Keep soil moist and well weeded. Protect very young seedlings from bird predation by covering the bed with bird netting held tautly well above seedlings by supports. Or use plastic berry baskets, removing before plants get crowded.
Regular price $8.99Sale price $8.99Unit price per -
Heirloom Hollyhocks Black Watchman
BIENNIAL
Summer/fall bloom
Frost hardyEASIEST TO START DIRECTLY IN THE GARDEN
Plant seeds in full sun in ordinary garden soil in spring after danger of frost is past. Poke seeds into well-worked soil about 1/2 inch deep, 6 to 8 inches apart. Keep moist until germination in 7 to 14 days.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Start seeds indoors about 8 weeks before last expected frost date. Sow 2 inches apart and 1/2 inch deep in flats or individual containers of seed starting mix. Provide a strong light source and keep mix evenly moist to await germination in 7 to 14 days. When seedlings are 3 to 4 inches tall, transplant 18 to 24 inches apart after gradually acclimating to outdoor conditions. Thin or transplant seedlings 18 to 24 inches apart so plants have ample room to mature.
GROWING NOTES
Black Watchman may bloom the first year from seed if planted early in spring. Planted later, it will bloom the following summer. After blossoms fade, cut off the spent flower stalks just above the ground. Fertilize well and continue to water plants as needed, then roots will push another flush of enchanting flower spires to open in fall.
Regular price $3.69Sale price $3.69Unit price per -
Hummingbird Favorites Heirloom Cardinal Climber
ANNUAL VINE
Summer/fall bloom
Frost tenderTO START OUTDOORS
In spring, wait until temperatures are above 50°F (10°C) both day and night before planting seeds in full sun in ordinary garden soil 4 to 6 inches apart and 1/2 inch deep. Firm soil over seeds and keep evenly moist but not soggy.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Sow seeds indoors 4 or 5 weeks before last expected frost in individual 4 inch pots of seed starting mix. Cover 1/2 inch deep and keep warm and moist. After seedlings have several leaves, thin to the strongest seedling per pot. Provide a strong light source until seedlings are ready to plant outdoors. When spring weather has warmed, acclimate seedlings to outdoor conditions before planting outdoors. Thin or transplant seedlings 10 to 12 inches apart and several inches from supports when large enough to handle. Avoid disturbing roots.
GROWING NOTES
Be sure to erect well-anchored, sturdy supports at least 8 feet tall at planting time; strong netting, a fence or a strong trellis is needed to hold these vigorous and rapid climbers that bloom at midsummer. Note: seeds are poisonous; keep from kids and pets.
Regular price $2.99Sale price $2.99Unit price per -
Shelling Peas Sabre
START SEEDS OUTDOORS
In early to mid-spring, plant peas in full sun in well-worked, fertile soil. Sow seeds 1 inch deep and 2 to 3 inches apart in wide rows or bands 3 inches across, and 2 feet apart. Provide supports at planting time; vines grow 2 1/2 to 3 feet tall. Protect seedlings 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 come up evenly, replant right away; new seedlings will catch up quickly. Sow again for a fall crop about 2 1/2 months before first expected fall frost.
HARVEST AND USE
Harvest only when peas are well developed in their pods. Crack open the pods by pushing on the edge of the pod to open, then scoop out the delectable peas. When garden fresh, peas really are at their most delicious simply eaten raw right from their pods–kids especially love them! Or briefly steam the shelled peas just until tender, then serve with a dollop of butter or sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped fresh mint, dill or lemon thyme.
GROWING NOTES
Provide netting, trellis or short stakes at planting time to support these heavy bearing vines for easy picking. Turn a sprinkling of bone meal and wood ash into the soil before planting. Keep pea vines well weeded and watered and mulch to conserve moisture. Water at the base of the plants to avoid mildew.Regular price $2.99Sale price $2.99Unit price per -
Heirloom Nasturtiums Alaska Mix
ANNUAL
Spring/summer/fall bloom
Frost tenderEASY TO START OUTDOORS
Sow seeds in spring once all danger of frost is over in full sun (or part shade in hot climates). Nasturtiums need no added fertilizer in most soils. Poke seeds into well-worked soil about 1 inch deep and 3 to 4 inches apart. Press soil firmly over the seeds and keep moist. When seedlings are large enough to handle, thin to 10 inches apart as mounding plants need ample room.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Sow 2 seeds each in individual 4 inch pots of well-drained seed starting mix 3 weeks before last expected frost date. Cover 1 inch deep. Provide a strong light source. When seedlings have several sets of leaves pinch out the weaker seedling, leaving 1 per pot. When night temperatures reach 50ºF (10ºC), gradually acclimate to outdoors. Transplant seedlings into the garden 10 inches apart in full sun.
GROWING NOTES
These old-fashioned nasturtiums with handsome variegated leaves are easy to grow in any well-drained soil. Alaska’s softly mounding foliage and bright flowers will quickly fill garden beds and make a showy accent in planters or patio pots. Thinned to proper 10 inch spacing, they are a perfect disguise to cover fading bulb foliage in late spring.
Regular price $3.69Sale price $3.69Unit price per -
Farmers Market Lettuce Blend Sweet Greens & Reds
START SEEDS OUTDOORS
In cool early spring weather, sow seeds in finely worked soil in full sun. Shake seeds from the palm of your hand, broadcasting them about 1/2 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 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.
GROWING NOTES
Mixed lettuces thrive 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 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 lettuce 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 enjoy the sweet flavor and juicy texture of these delicate young leaves at their best.
Regular price $2.99Sale price $2.99Unit price per
