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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Antique Sweet Peas Jewels of Albion
ANNUAL CLIMBING VINE
Spring/summer bloom
Frost tolerantEASIEST TO START OUTDOORS
Sweet peas must have well drained soil, so dig deeply and enrich with aged manure or compost before sowing seeds. Erect a well-anchored trellis, vertical netting or other support for vines before planting. Sow seeds in full sun in cool early spring weather as early as the ground can be worked. In mild winter areas, where the ground does not freeze, plant in fall after Labor Day; seeds will germinate and form strong root systems, then overwinter to bloom strongly in spring. Plant sweet pea seeds 1 inch deep and 2 to 3 inches apart. When seedlings are 2 inches tall, thin them 4 to 5 inches apart, to allow plants room to mature.
GROWING NOTES
Sweet peas bloom best before the weather gets too hot, so if spring planting, sow as soon as ground can be worked. Where summer heat comes on fast, they’ll appreciate a spot with afternoon shade. Anchor supports well as vines will grow heavy with bloom. Protect seedlings from birds, slugs and snails. Mulch and keep well watered. For longest bloom, pick flowers often and keep faded blossoms cut.Regular price $3.99Sale price $3.99Unit price per -
Heirloom Bicolor Tomato Marvel Stripe
STARTING SEEDLINGS
In early spring, start indoors about 6 to 8 weeks before outdoor night temperatures are reliably in the 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°F (27°C). Provide a strong light source until seedlings are ready to plant outside. When seedlings are 2 inches tall, transplant into individual 4 inch pots. Maintain at 70°F (21°C). Feed with half-strength fertilizer every 2 weeks until ready to plant. When nights reach 55°F (13°C), gradually acclimate to outdoor conditions. Plant these vigorous indeterminate climbers 3 feet apart into rich soil in full sun.GROWING NOTES
Prepare soil well with compost and fertilizer. Plant several inches deeper than seedlings were growing in containers. Provide strong stakes or tall wire cages at planting time. Mulch to provide even moisture retention; don't overwater once fruit begins to ripen.HARVEST AND USE
For best flavor, pick fully ripe and don’t store in the refrigerator. These richly colored, meltingly tender tomatoes are hard to resist straight out of the garden. Cut into thick slices and sprinkle with chopped fresh dill or basil, then drizzle with olive oil for an irresistible summer treat.Regular price $4.89Sale price $4.89Unit price per -
Heirloom Italian Sweet Peppers Sunset Mix
STARTING SEEDLINGS
In early spring, start indoors about 2 months before night temperatures stay above 50-55°F (10-13°C). Sow seeds ¼ inch deep and 1 inch apart in a container of seed starting mix. Keep moist but not soggy, and very warm 80-85°F (27-29°C). Provide a strong light source until seedlings are ready to plant outside. When 2 inches tall, transplant into individual 4 inch pots. 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
Don’t transplant outdoors until nights are above 50°F (10°C). Prepare soil well with aged manure or compost. Plant only robust seedlings with well-developed roots. Mulch plants to maintain even soil moisture.
GROWING & HARVEST
Peppers need full sun at least 6 hours per day. Mulch well to maintain even moisture. Fertilize weekly to establish vigorous plants that provide shade and protect fruit from sunburn. Stake or cage plants to keep fruit-laden branches from breaking.
Harvest when fruits are glossy and fully colored up red, orange or gold by cutting, not pulling from plants. Eat fresh, roast or grill or try them Italian style, sautéed with tomatoes, olive oil, garlic and basil, accompanied by good hard cheese and crusty bread.
Regular price $4.89Sale price $4.89Unit price per -
Heirloom Cucumbers Lemon Cucumbers
START SEEDS OUTDOORS
Plant heat-loving cucumbers in full sun only when weather is warm and settled and night temps stay above 50°F (10°C), first amending soil well with aged manure or compost. Sow groups of 2 to 3 seeds, 1 inch deep and 18 inches apart. When the baby seedlings are 2 inches tall, thin out extras, leaving one strong seedling per group. After thinning, provide a 3 to 5 foot strong vertical support or tomato cage around each seedling and train the vines up the supports as they grow. Growing vigorous, heavy-bearing cucumber vines up supports makes it easier to harvest the cucumbers, saves garden space, and helps prevent disease.
GROWING NOTES
Protect seedlings from marauding birds with plastic berry baskets, removing before plants get crowded. Shallow-rooted cucumbers need adequate and consistent moisture to produce sweet tasting, nicely formed cucumbers. Avoid overly wet or dry periods for good quality fruits.
HARVEST AND USE
For best quality, sweet tasting fruits, be sure to pick young lemon cucumbers when they are still pale green with just a hint of lemon color on their skins. Bright yellow fruits are pretty but overmature and they will have tough skins and seeds. Enjoy the freshly picked, lemon-shaped cucumbers still warm from the sun as snacks and in salads. These old-fashioned cucumbers also make fine tasting pickles, both sweet and dill.
Regular price $2.99Sale price $2.99Unit price per -
Florist’s Zinnias Blue Ribbon Bouquet
ANNUAL
Summer/fall bloom
Frost tenderTO START DIRECTLY IN THE GARDEN
Sow seeds in a well-worked seed bed in full sun when danger of frost is past and nighttime temperatures are reliably above 50°F (10°C). Space seeds 3 inches apart in rows 12 inches apart, cover about 1/2 inch deep and gently firm soil. Keep soil evenly moist while awaiting germination.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Four to five weeks before last frost date, sow seeds ½ inch deep and 3 inches apart in a container of seed starting mix. Keep warm and moist and provide a strong light source until seedlings are ready to plant outside when nighttime temperatures are reliably above 50°F (10°C).
THIN OR TRANSPLANT
Space seedlings 12 inches apart when large enough to handle to give plants room to mature and provide good air circulation.
GROWING NOTES
Zinnias grow readily in ordinary garden soil in full sun. For large and abundant flowers, thin before seedlings get crowded; adequate spacing and regular, even watering helps keep zinnias productive and discourages mildew. Pick when flower blossoms first open and petals are tight for longest vase life. Cut long stems well back into the plant to keep plants branching low and producing best blooms for summer long bouquets.Regular price $2.99Sale price $2.99Unit price per -
Heirloom Herbs Munstead English Lavender
BEST TO PLANT INDOORS
In early spring, sow lavender seeds in a container of seed starting mix, cover very lightly and keep at 60-70°F (16-21°C). Keep container moist but not soggy until seedlings slowly emerge over 14 to 28 days, providing a good light source. When seedlings have several sets of leaves, transplant into individual 4 inch pots. Plant outside in a well-drained sunny spot when plants are 2 to 3 inches tall after gradually acclimating to outdoor conditions.
TO START IN THE GARDEN
Sow directly into a well-worked, finely textured garden bed in full sun when weather is warm and settled. Cover very lightly. Lavender germinates slowly and unevenly; keep seed bed evenly moist and well weeded.
THIN OR TRANSPLANT
Space seedlings 12 to 18 inches apart when large enough to handle.
GROWING NOTES
Given excellent drainage, this hardy lavender is perennial to zone 5. Plants flower lightly the first season and come into full bloom by their second summer. After blooming season, prune and shape the plants while cutting off spent flower stalks. Bonemeal is a good soil amendment for lavender.Regular price $3.39Sale price $3.39Unit price per -
Heirloom Culinary Sage
BEST TO START EARLY INDOORS
In early spring, sow seed 1 inch apart in a container of seed starting mix and cover 1/4 inch deep. Keep evenly moist as seedlings emerge and provide a strong light source until ready to plant outdoors. Transplant 12 to 18 inches apart when seedlings are about 2 or 3 inches tall after gradually acclimating plants to outdoor conditions.
TO PLANT OUTDOORS
Sow seeds 1 inch apart in well drained fertile soil in full sun in spring once weather is warm and settled. Cover 1/4 inch deep, firm soil over seeds and keep seedbed evenly moist. Germination takes 2 to 3 weeks. After seedlings are well established, thin or transplant 12 to 18 inches apart.
GROWING NOTES
Sage plants are resilient and drought tolerant once established. Cut leafy sprigs once plants are well filled out. After flowers stop blooming, cut them well down the branch to encourage more leaf growth. Add a small pinch of crushed fresh sage to vegetables, casseroles, pork, poultry stuffing and cheese dishes. Combine fresh sage with chopped parsley to mellow its pungency. To dry, hang leafy branches upside down in a cool airy place.Regular price $4.89Sale price $4.89Unit price per -
Mexican Tomatillos Two Color Fiesta
BEST TO START INDOORS
In early spring, start indoors about 6 weeks before outdoor night temperatures are reliably in the 50-55°F (10-13°C) range. Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep and 1 inch apart in containers of seed starting mix. Keep moist but not soggy and very warm 75-80°F (24-27°C). Provide a strong light source until seedlings are ready to plant outside. When seedlings are 2 inches tall, transplant into 4 inch individual pots. Maintain at 70-75°F (21- 24°C). Feed with half-strength fertilizer every 2 weeks until weather is warm enough to gradually acclimate seedlings to outdoor conditions. Transplant 3 feet apart into rich soil in full sun once nights stay securely above 55°F (13°C).
GROWING NOTES
Prepare soil well with aged manure or compost. Provide strong stakes or wire cages at planting time, or tomatillos can spread over the ground if you have lots of space; they are vining plants similar to tomato vines. Mulch well to keep fruit clean and conserve moisture; don't overwater once fruits begin to ripen.
HARVEST AND USE
At first, tomatillo fruits look like little green balloons. As the fruit inside sizes up, they resemble cherry tomatoes surrounded by a papery husk. Pick when plump fruits fill out the husks and begin to break open, usually at 1 to 1 1/2 inches, but before fruits begin to turn yellow or soften.
Regular price $3.39Sale price $3.39Unit price per -
Heirloom Cutting Lettuce Flashy Trout Back
START SEEDS OUTDOORS
In cool early spring weather, start seeds in finely worked soil in full sun. Sow 1/4 inch deep and 2 inches apart in rows 6 to 8 inches apart and cover lightly. Tend carefully and keep evenly moist. Gradually thin out extra seedlings, leaving remaining plants standing 10 to 12 inches apart so lettuces have room to size up and fully mature into leafy butterhead rosettes. For a constant supply, make several sowings a few weeks apart until summer weather turns hot. Plant again in late summer for fall harvest.
GROWING NOTES
Lettuce thrives in cool conditions with consistent moisture. Weed, water and be sure to thin carefully to proper spacing so plants have room to mature. If birds are attracted to young seedlings, cover with floating row covers or netting. Make a shade structure in hotter climates to extend the growing season.
HARVEST AND USE
Savor young thinnings in your first spring salads. Then harvest plants by cutting mature heads when they feel firm and well-filled out. Be sure to thin properly and keep evenly moist for sweet tasting, full heads. Pull and discard or compost over-mature plants if they begin to elongate (“bolt”) in hot weather as leaves turn bitter at this stage.
Regular price $4.89Sale price $4.89Unit price per -
Love in a Mist Mulberry Rose Nigella
HARDY ANNUAL
Spring/summer bloom
Can handle light frostEASIEST TO PLANT DIRECTLY IN THE GARDEN
Sow seeds directly into a finely textured, well-drained garden bed as early in spring as the ground can be worked. In mild climates, sow in cool fall weather for spring bloom. Space seeds 2 to 3 inches apart in rows 6 inches apart and cover 1/4 inch deep. Or broadcast thinly in a garden bed and cover 1/4 inch deep. Weed young seedlings carefully and thin before they get too crowded. Thin or transplant seedlings 4 to 5 inches apart.
GROWING NOTES
Make several successive sowings in early spring to enjoy these carefree old-fashioned flowers throughout spring and early summer. Their delicate blossoms make sweet little bouquets. As flowers fade, cut the decorative seed pods before they mature and split. Hang upside down in bundles out of direct sun to dry for winter bouquets and arrangements. Let some seedpods mature on the plants to spill seed and these graceful flowers will come up year after year.
Regular price $3.39Sale price $3.39Unit price per -
Heirloom White Nigella Bridal Veil
HARDY ANNUAL
Spring/summer bloom
Can handle light frostEASIEST TO PLANT DIRECTLY IN THE GARDEN
Sow seeds directly into a finely textured, well-drained garden bed as early in spring as the ground can be worked. Space seeds 2 inches apart, in rows 6 inches apart. Cover seed very lightly, about 1/4 inch deep. Or broadcast seeds evenly over the seed bed and cover very lightly. Keep evenly moist while awaiting germination. Thin seedlings to stand 6 inches apart so plants have room to grow and mature. In mild winter climates, Nigella can be sown in early spring and also be sown again in cool fall weather to overwinter for spring bloom.
GROWING NOTES
Make several successive sowings from early spring through early summer and you'll have these carefree specialty flowers blooming all season long. As flowers fade, cut stems of the decorative seedpods. Hang carefully upside down in bundles out of the direct sun to easily dry for everlasting arrangements. Let some seedpods mature and stay on the plants to spill seed and these graceful flowers will come up year after year.
Regular price $3.69Sale price $3.69Unit price per -
Heirloom Butterfly Zinnias Persian Carpet
ANNUAL
Summer/fall bloom
Frost tenderTO START DIRECTLY IN THE GARDEN
Sow seeds in well-worked soil in full sun when danger of frost is past and temperatures are above 50°F (10°C) both day and night. Space seeds 2 to 3 inches apart in rows 12 inches apart, cover about 1/2 inch deep and gently firm soil. Keep evenly moist while awaiting germination.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Four weeks before last frost date, sow seeds 1/2 inch deep and 3 inches apart in containers of seed starting mix. Keep warm and moist and provide a strong light source. Feed with 1/2 strength fertilizer every 2 weeks. Just as soon as seedlings have several sets of true leaves, plant outdoors when temperatures stay above 50°F (10°C) at night.
THIN OR TRANSPLANT
Space seedlings 8 to 10 inches apart when large enough to handle to provide good air circulation and give plants room to mature.
GROWING NOTES
Zinnias grow readily in ordinary garden soil in full sun. Be sure to thin before seedlings get crowded; adequate spacing and regular even watering help keep zinnias productive and disease free. Grow colorful Persian Carpet in beds or borders, or combine with white alyssum, dwarf marigolds, petunias and salvia for season-long bloom in terracotta pots and color bowls.Regular price $2.99Sale price $2.99Unit price per -
Heirloom Chile Peppers Classic Jalapeño
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 $4.89Sale price $4.89Unit price per -
Heirloom Chinese Cucumber Suyo Long
START SEEDS OUTDOORS
Plant heat loving cucumbers only when weather is warm and settled and night temperatures stay above 50° F (10° C). Amend soil well with aged manure or compost. Sow in groups of 2 to 3 seeds 18 in. apart and 1 inch deep.
When seedlings are 2 in. tall, thin out extras, leaving one strong seedling per group. After thinning, put 4–5 ft. vertical supports or individual tomato cages around each seedling and train vines up supports as they grow. This method makes it easier to harvest straight fruits, saves garden space, and helps prevent further disease.
GROWING NOTES
Protect seedlings from marauding birds with plastic berry baskets, removing before plants get crowded. Shallow-rooted vines need adequate and consistent moisture to produce sweet tasting, nicely formed cucumbers. Avoid overly wet or dry periods for good quality fruits.
HARVEST AND USE
Cut rather than pull fruits from vines before seeds are large inside. Harvest every few days for longest fruit production. These juicy tender cucumbers need no peeling. Slice and enjoy for refreshing snacks, in salads and sandwiches. Eat cucumbers within a day or two of picking for best taste and quality.
Regular price $4.89Sale price $4.89Unit price per -
Heirloom Cornflowers Velvet Dawn
HARDY ANNUAL
Spring/summer bloom
Can handle light frostTO START OUTDOORS
Sow seeds in a finely textured garden bed in full sun as soon as soil can be worked. In mild winter areas, where the ground doesn’t freeze, plant in fall for next spring’s bloom. Space seeds 1 to 2 inches apart and cover ½ inch deep. Keep seed bed moist until seedlings emerge in 7 to 10 days. Weed and water carefully. Thin seedlings to 6 to 8 inches apart.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Sow seeds 1 to 2 inches apart in a container of seed starting mix, 2 or 3 weeks before last expected frost. Cover 1/2 inch deep, keep moist and provide a good light source until seedlings are transplanted outside. Plant 6 to 8 inches apart into fertile garden soil in full sun when plants are 3 to 4 inches tall. Seedlings grow quickly; plant out before the roots get crowded.
GROWING NOTES
In mild winter areas the best Cornflowers (aka Bachelor Buttons) result from seeds sown in fall to bloom the next spring. In cold winter areas where ground freezes, plant in early spring to get sturdy plants that will flower for many weeks if faded blossoms are removed.
Regular price $3.39Sale price $3.39Unit price per -
Butterfly Coreopsis Incredible
ANNUAL
Summer/fall bloom
Frost tenderTO START OUTDOORS
Plant after frost danger is over and night temperatures are evenly above 50°F (10°C). Sow seeds in a well-worked seedbed in full sun, 2 in. apart, with rows 12 in. apart. Cover very lightly and gently firm soil. Keep soil evenly moist; germination takes 10-15 days.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
3-4 weeks before last expected frost, sow seeds 1 in. apart in seed starting mix and cover very lightly. Keep warm and moist and provide a strong light source until seedlings are well established. Transplant after gradually acclimating to outdoor conditions.
THIN OR TRANSPLANT
Space seedlings 10 in. apart when large enough to handle.
GROWING NOTES
Coreopsis grows easily in ordinary garden soil in full sun. Be sure to thin seedlings before they get crowded. Incredible grows 2 to 2 1/2 ft. tall and these sturdy, long blooming garden performers and can tolerate hot and dry weather. Pick these decorative flowers often for lovely country style bouquets. Coreopsis are deer resistant and blossoms provide ample food and nectar for butterflies, bees and many other pollinators. After bloom is over, their seed heads provide nutritious food for hungry songbirds.
Regular price $3.99Sale price $3.99Unit price per -
California Poppies Buttercream
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 3-4 inches apart as plants need room to develop and bloom.
GROWING NOTES
When mature, poppy plants can handle dry conditions but they will always bloom longer if watered regularly. 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 their seed if you want poppies to self-sow.Regular price $3.39Sale price $3.39Unit price per -
Pole Filet Beans French Gold
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. Or grow around tripods or stakes, planting 4 to 6 seeds about 4 inches from each pole, then 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. Filet beans are meant to be eaten when pods are slender, so harvest early, when still pencil-thin. These gourmet beans taste best freshly picked and quickly steamed or sautéed. For a beautiful and delicious. salad, blanch beans and toss them with an herbed vinaigrette, then combine with greens and Italian parsley.
Regular price $4.89Sale price $4.89Unit price per -
Heirloom Bells of Ireland Antique Apple Green
ANNUAL
Summer/fall bloom
BEST TO START DIRECTLY IN THE GARDEN
In spring when all danger of frost is over, sow seeds 2 inches apart in a finely textured garden bed in full sun. Cover 1/2 inch deep and keep soil moist. Be patient; germination can be gradual over 10 to 20 days. Weed and water young seedlings carefully and thin before they get too crowded.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Start seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before last spring frost date. Sow seeds 2 inches apart in individual pots of seed starting mix. Cover 1/2 inch deep, keep evenly moist and provide a strong light source until seedlings are ready to plant outside. Once all danger of frost is past, gradually acclimate to outdoor conditions. Avoid disturbing roots when transplanting. Thin or transplant seedlings 10 to 12 inches apart when 3 to 4 inches tall.
GROWING NOTES
Thin as directed for best performance. Cut flowers for fresh bouquets when the shell-like cups are open as far up the stem as possible but before the bottom ones turn brown. To air dry, cut once shells have opened all along stems, then hang bunches upside down indoors in a place with good air circulation.
Regular price $3.39Sale price $3.39Unit price per -
Heirloom Beets Traditional Chioggia
START SEEDS DIRECTLY OUTDOORS
In early spring, when danger of hard frost is over, sow seeds in well-worked, fertile soil in full sun. Sow seeds 1 inch apart and 1/2 inch deep in rows 8-10 inches apart, or broadcast thinly for bed planting. Firming soil well over these irregularly shaped seeds will ensure best germination. If first sowing comes up unevenly, sow more seeds as seedlings will catch up fast. When large enough to handle, carefully thin seedlings to 3 to 4 inches apart so growing beets have room to size up.
GROWING NOTES
For best quality, tender roots, sow seeds before midsummer heat and again in late summer to early fall — in cold climates, allow at least 10 weeks before fall frosts. Keep soil evenly moist throughout the season. Be sure to thin seedlings several times when plants are small, as beets grow best if given enough room.
HARVEST AND USE
After thinning seedlings, use tender young tops for nutritious, flavorful steamed greens. Harvest baby beets at 1 to 2 inches in diameter, or let roots grow as large as desired. Garden fresh beets cook quickly. They are delicious steamed, boiled or baked whole in their skins like potatoes, then peeled for concentrated flavor. Chioggia beets are especially mild and sweet tasting.
Regular price $4.89Sale price $4.89Unit price per -
Heirloom Mina Lobata Exotic Love Vine
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), plant seeds in a sunny spot in ordinary garden soil 6 inches apart and 1/2 inch deep. Firm soil over seeds.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Sow indoors 5 to 6 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 for outdoor planting. Transplant very carefully once nights stay above 50°F (10°C). Thin or transplant seedlings 10 to 12 inches apart. Do not disturb delicate roots.
GROWING NOTES
To speed germination, soak seeds 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 that bloom hard from midsummer.
Regular price $3.39Sale price $3.39Unit 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.
Regular price $4.89Sale price $4.89Unit price per -
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.
Regular price $4.39Sale price $4.39Unit price per -
Heirloom Cucumbers Sweet Armenian
START SEEDS OUTDOORS
Plant heat-loving cucumbers only when weather is warm and night temperatures stay above 50° F (10° C). Amend soil well with age manure or compost. Sow groups of 2 to 3 seeds, 1 inch deep and 18 inches apart. When the baby seedlings are 2 inches long, thin out extras, leaving one strong seedling per group.
After thinning, provide a 3 to 5 foot strong vertical support or individual tomato cage around each seedling and train the vines up the supports as they grow. Growing vines up supports or in cages makes cucumbers easier to harvest, saves space, and promotes good air circulation.
GROWING NOTES
Protect seedlings from marauding birds with plastic berry baskets, removing before plants get crowded. Shallow-rooted cucumbers need adequate and consistent moisture to produce sweet tasting, nicely formed cucumbers. Avoid overly wet or dry periods for good quality fruits.
HARVEST AND USE
Armenians are heavy-yielding and can take both heat and humidity. For best quality, pick Armenians up to 12 inches long but before seeds get large.
Cut rather than pull cucumbers from vines. Armenians need no peeling; just slice thinly to show off their decorative edges, and enjoy in salads. Or cut in 2 inch pieces, halve, and scoop out flesh to make little scalloped cups to fill with tabouli, couscous or tuna, chicken or shrimp salad.
Regular price $2.99Sale price $2.99Unit price per
