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 Sweet Peas Cupani's Original
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, seeds can be planted in fall to form strong root systems, then overwinter to bloom strongly in spring. Plant 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 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 -
Mounding Nasturtiums Buttercream
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 weather is evenly in the 50°F (10°C) range, 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 creamy flowers will quickly fill garden beds or containers. In mild winter climates, sow seeds again by mid-June for late summer blooms. Leaves and flowers are tasty additions to salads and sandwiches.
Regular price $3.69Sale price $3.69Unit price per -
Heirloom Tomato Brandywine
STARTING SEEDLINGS
Start indoors about 6 to 8 weeks before outdoor night temperatures 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 (24°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, burying stems up to base of leaves. Maintain at 70°F (21°C). Feed with half-strength fertilizer every 2 weeks until nights reach 55°F (13°C), then 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 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, juicy-sweet tomatoes are hard to resist straight out of the garden. Cut into thick slices and serve drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with fresh chopped basil or dill for an irresistible summer treat.Regular price $4.89Sale price $4.89Unit price per -
Heirloom Pole Beans Rich 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 1½ 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 Butterfly Herbs Smokey Bronze Fennel
TO PLANT DIRECTLY IN THE GARDEN
In spring when danger of hard frost is past, sow seeds 1 inch apart in finely worked, well drained, fertile soil in full sun. Cover 1/2 inch deep, firm soil and keep seed bed moist. Germination takes 2 to 3 weeks. After seedlings are well established, carefully thin or transplant 1 foot apart to allow plants room to mature.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Sow thinly 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 3 to 4 inches tall, acclimate gradually to outdoor conditions before carefully transplanting as above.
GROWING NOTES
Plant in very well-drained soil and keep a close eye on young seedlings, which grow slowly at first – their unusual bronze color can make them easy to weed out by accident! A prime butterfly plant, the copper-bronze fronds of Smokey Bronze fennel send up tall branching stalks crowned by intricate yellow flowers that provide valuable nectar and pollen to ladybugs, lacewings and other beneficial insects. Bronze fennel’s deep colored foliage provides a beautiful contrast to the green foliage and bright hot colors of summer annuals like cosmos, zinnias and sunflowers.
Regular price $3.69Sale price $3.69Unit price per -
Heirloom Sweet Peas Watermelon
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 Kale Lacinato "Dinosaur"
TO START SEEDS DIRECTLY IN THE GARDEN
As soon as ground can be worked in spring, plant in well-drained, fertile garden soil in full sun. Sow seeds 2 in. apart in rows 12 in. apart. Cover 1/2 inch deep. Keep soil evenly moist. When seedlings are 3 in. tall, thin to 10-12 in. apart. Sow again in late summer.
TO START INDOORS
Sow seeds 2 in. apart and 1/2 in. deep in a container of seed starting mix. Keep moist and provide a strong light source until seedlings reach 3 to 4 in. tall, then plant outdoors 10 to 12 in. apart.
GROWING NOTES
Kale tastes best in cool weather, so sow spring crops early. A late summer-sown crop will yield through fall and winter except in the coldest climates. Frost actually enhances kale leaf 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 with stems removed and leaves cut in very thin strips for fresh salads with nuts and fruit. Braise with garlic and olive oil in traditional Mediterranean style. Enjoy in hearty winter soups, stews and sautés. Pull and discard once plants begin to bloom as flowering plants get tough and bitter.
Regular price $4.89Sale price $4.89Unit price per -
Hummingbird's Choice Color Fountains Cleome
ANNUAL
Summer/fall bloom
Frost tenderTO START OUTDOORS
In spring when all danger of frost is past and weather is warm and settled, sow seeds in a well-worked, fertile seed bed in full sun. Space seeds 2 to 3 inches apart in rows 12 inches apart, cover about 1/8 inch deep and firm soil gently. Keep soil evenly moist while awaiting germination in 12 to 28 days.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Four to five weeks before last frost date, sow seeds 1/8 inch deep and 2 to 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 outdoors. Seeds germinate best when day and night temperatures vary 10 to 20°. Thin or transplant seedlings 12 to 14 inches apart to give the large plants room to mature.
GROWING NOTES
Tall old-fashioned Cleome is perfect to plant at the back of the border or in a cut flower garden combined with phlox, asters, snapdragons, cosmos or zinnias. Keep young plants well watered and weeded, and they will mature to handle dry heat or humid weather well and bloom all summer long.
Regular price $2.99Sale price $2.99Unit price per -
Heirloom Sweet Peas Spencer Ruffled
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; 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 Tomatoes Summer Feast
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 aged manure or compost. 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
Pick these tempting old fashioned tomatoes fully ripe and eat promptly as they don't hold well after harvest. For a summer feast, show off their delicious flavors and gorgeous colors by slicing all three onto a big platter to surround with sprigs of fresh basil and top with a sprinkle of fruity olive oil.
Regular price $3.99Sale price $3.99Unit price per -
Magic Beanstalk Scarlet Runner Bean
ANNUAL VINE
Summer/fall bloom with edible pods and seeds
Frost tenderEASIEST TO START DIRECTLY IN THE GARDEN
In late spring once weather is warm and settled and nights stay above 50°F (10°C), plant seeds in a sunny spot. Erect well-anchored supports at planting time to support the rapidly growing vines. Poke seeds in 1 inch deep and 3 in. apart and firm soil over them. If training bean vines up poles, plant 4 or 5 beans several inches from each pole, or plant seeds 3 to 4 inches apart along a fence or trellis. Keep soil evenly moist while awaiting germination in 5 to 10 days.
THIN OR TRANSPLANT
Beans don’t transplant well, so we advise sowing seeds where they are to grow. Thin seedlings to 6 inches apart.
GROWING NOTES
Always wait until weather is warm before planting seeds so beans will germinate and grow well. Keep bean vines well watered. In very hot climates, beans will flower but not set pods until weather moderates in fall. Both the crispy bean flavored blossoms and the flat green pods are deliciously edible; let some of the pretty purple and black beans mature in their pods to use for tasty dry bean recipes.Regular price $3.99Sale price $3.99Unit price per -
California Poppies Dancing Ballerinas
ANNUAL
Spring/Summer/Fall 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 no more than 1/4 inch deep, and firm soil gently. Keep soil moist as seedlings emerge. If seedlings come up very thickly, thin poppies early but delay final thinning until seedlings are well established in spring. Space seedlings, 4-6 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 brighter and longer if regularly watered and are kept well weeded. 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 Sweet Peas Saltwater Taffy Swirls
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 winters, where ground does not freeze, sweet peas can be planted in fall. Seedlings will form strong root systems, then overwinter to bloom vigorously in spring. Plant sweet pea seeds 1 inch deep and 2 to 3 inches apart. When seedlings are 2 inches tall, thin to 4-5 inches apart to allow plants room to mature.
GROWING NOTES
Sweet peas bloom best when they flower before the weather gets too hot, so if spring planting, sow as early as possible, especially in regions where summer heat comes on fast. Anchor climbing supports well as these vines will grow dense and heavy with bloom. Protect seedlings from birds, slugs and snails. Mulch and keep well watered for best flower production. For longest bloom, remove faded blossoms regularly.Regular price $3.69Sale price $3.69Unit price per -
Heirloom Herbs Garlic Chives
PERENNIAL
Spring/summer/fall harvest
Frost hardyTO PLANT DIRECTLY 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 slender, straight leaves.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
In early spring, sow seed thinly in a container of seed starting mix and cover 1/2 Inch deep. Keep evenly moist as seedlings slowly emerge and provide a good light source. Gradually acclimate to outdoor conditions before transplanting clusters of 7 to 10 seedlings, planting each cluster 8 inches apart.
GROWING NOTES
Garlic chives grow slowly at first, but soon mature into sturdy bright green mounds crowned with pretty white edible blossoms. 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.Regular price $4.89Sale price $4.89Unit price per -
Heirloom Sweet Peas Royal Wedding
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 winters, where ground does not freeze, sweet peas can be planted in fall. Seedlings will form strong root systems, then overwinter to bloom vigorously in spring. Plant sweet pea seeds 1 inch deep and 2 to 3 inches apart. When seedlings are 2 inches tall, thin to 4 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 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 Italian Eggplant Violetta Lunga
BEST TO START INDOORS
In early spring, start indoors about 2 months 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 a container of seed starting mix. Keep moist and warm 80-85°F (27-30°C) and provide a strong light source until 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 2 weeks until weather is warm enough to gradually acclimate seedlings to outdoor conditions. Transplant 2 feet apart into rich soil in full sun.
GROWING NOTES
Don’t transplant these heat-lovers outdoors until nights stay securely above 55°F (13°C). Prepare soil well with aged manure or compost. Plant only robust seedlings with well-developed roots and mulch well. Fertilize plants regularly, at least monthly, throughout the growing season.
HARVEST AND USE
Pick when fruits have sized up and are firm fleshed and glossy. Slice and quickly sauté, or cut in half lengthwise, brush with good olive oil and a little chopped garlic, and then roast or grill until soft and succulent. Serve sprinkled with fresh chopped herbs like basil, dill or thyme and grated fresh Parmesan.
Regular price $4.89Sale price $4.89Unit price per -
Kabocha Winter Squash Kurin
BEST TO START OUTDOORS
Long keeping winter squash needs full sun, rich fertile soil and warm temperatures. Wait to plant until nights are comfortably above 50°F (10°C) both day and night. Sow groups of 2 to 3 seeds 2 ft. apart and 1 in. deep in rows 4 ft. apart. Thin to 1 strong seedling per group to give vines room to ramble or climb. Or make slightly mounded hills 2 to 3 ft. across and 6 ft. apart and plant 4 to 5 seeds in each hill. When seedlings have several sets of leaves, thin to the strongest 3 seedlings per hill.
GROWING NOTES
Protect young seedlings from marauding birds by covering with plastic berry baskets at sowing time, removing before plants get crowded. To save space,vines can be trained up fences, trellises or tepees.
HARVEST AND USE
Winter squashes need to mature properly, so don’t harvest until vines have died back and squashes’ exterior rinds are fully dark green and tough enough to resist piercing with a fingernail. Then cut squashes from vines, leaving a good stem handle. Cure in the sun for about 10 days, before storing in a cool dry place where they will keep for months. To prepare, cut squash in half and bake until tender. Flesh is tender, nutty, sweet and totally delicious.
Regular price $4.99Sale price $4.99Unit price per -
Heirloom Scabiosa Dark Night
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 strong, sturdy seedlings into fertile garden soil, spacing 12-15 inches apart in full sun.
TO START SEEDS OUTDOORS
Sow seeds in a well-drained, prepared 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 sturdy seedlings to 12-15 inches apart.
GROWING NOTES
Plant in early spring to get sturdy plants that will flower throughout the summer and fall. Curving wiry stems are part of this plant's character; support them for best flowering displays.
Cut often for bouquets and to produce more blossoms. In mild winter areas, they are a short-lived perennial and will overwinter to bloom a second season.
Regular price $4.69Sale price $4.69Unit price perNew -
Heirloom Dwarf Zinnias Thumbelina Mix
ANNUAL
Summer/fall bloom
Frost tenderEASIEST TO PLANT OUTDOORS
After danger of frost is past, sow seeds in full sun in well-worked soil. For container sowing, use fresh potting mix. Space seeds 2 inches apart, cover about 1/2 inch deep and gently firm soil. Keep soil evenly moist while awaiting germination. When seedlings are several inches tall, thin to final spacing: For Containers, space plants 4 inches apart; In Garden Beds, space 8 inches apart.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Several weeks before last frost date, sow seeds 1/2 inch deep and 2 inches apart in a container of seed starting mix. Keep warm and moist and provide a strong light source until ready to plant outdoors. Transplant carefully before plants get too large.
CONTAINER GROWING
Use containers a minimum of 12 inches in diameter and 12 inches deep. Fill with well moistened, fresh potting mix.
GROWING NOTES
These carefree 12 to 16 inch tall zinnias perform well in hot and sunny conditions. Thin young seedlings to final spacing before too large. Water regularly and consistently. Support plants’ rapid growth by feeding with an all-purpose fertilizer every few weeks. Remove spent flowers often to encourage new blooms.Regular price $3.39Sale price $3.39Unit price per -
Heirloom Mesclun Lettuces Five Variety Blend
START SEEDS OUTDOORS
In early spring, sow seeds in finely worked soil in full sun. Shake seeds from the palm of your hand, broadcasting them about a half inch apart over the entire seedbed or in wide rows, and cover lightly and evenly with 1/4 inch of fine soil. Firm soil gently and water in with a fine spray. Keep seedbed evenly moist. Make small successive sowings until summer weather turns hot for a constant supply. Plant again in late summer for fall harvesting. Or, space seedlings 8 to 10 inches apart and let them mature to full size heads.
GROWING NOTES
Lettuce thrives in mild weather with consistent moisture. To extend the sowing season into hot weather, sow in light shade or erect a canopy of loosely woven shade cloth over the lettuce bed. Birds are often attracted to tender young seedlings so protect them if necessary.
HARVEST AND USE
To harvest by the “cut and come again” method, wait until plants are 4 or 5 inches tall. Cut as much as you need, using scissors to shear off a patch of leaves 1 to 2 inches above the soil level. Water well and fertilize lightly and plants will regrow for several more cuttings. Dress with extra virgin olive oil and a mild fruit or balsamic vinegar to enjoy the sweet flavors and juicy textures of these delicate young leaves at their best.
Regular price $4.89Sale price $4.89Unit price per -
Heirloom Radishes German Giant
START SEEDS OUTDOORS
In early spring as soon as ground can be worked, sow radish seeds in well-worked, fertile soil in full sun. Plant seeds 1/2 inch deep and 1 inch apart, in wide rows 6 inches apart. Keep soil evenly moist and well weeded. If first sowing comes up unevenly, replant right away. Sow again in late summer for a fall crop.
GROWING NOTES
Sow this quick cool season crop wherever you intend to plant heat lovers later. Radishes thrive with crisp flesh and mild flavor when given consistent moisture. Sow small amounts a week apart to mature in warm but not hot weather. Thin quick-growing seedlings early to 2 inches apart so roots have room to size up. Protect radishes with floating row covers if marauding birds or flea beetles that chew holes in the leaves are a problem.
HARVEST AND USE
Pull young round roots at large marble size. If weather turns hot, harvest, cut off tops and store in fridge. Radishes’ flavor is mildest in cool weather, spicier in hot conditions. Picked young and tender, radishes make crispy snacks and add appealing color and crunch to green salads. Delicious sliced and used for dipping with hummus or other creamy spreads.
Regular price $4.89Sale price $4.89Unit price per -
Vietnamese Heirloom Bac Lieu Cilantro
ANNUAL
Spring/summer/fall harvest
Can handle light frostsEASIEST TO START OUTDOORS
Vietnamese Cilantro doesn’t transplant well; plant seeds directly in the garden. For continuous harvests, start in early spring and make successive sowings every few weeks until summer heat comes on strong. Sow again in cooler fall weather, especially in mild winter areas. Sow seeds in well-drained fertile soil 1 to 2 in. apart in rows 8 in. apart in full sun. Cover 1/4 inch deep and firm soil over seeds. Keep evenly moist as seedlings emerge. Thin seedlings 3 to 4 in. apart before plants get crowded.
GROWING NOTES
Vietnamese cilantro leafs out and flowers quickly as plants mature; lushest, leafy growth is in cooler temperatures of spring and fall. Plants thrive when well watered and thinned early so they have room to grow. If hot weather arrives early, plant in a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade. The lacy flowers of these plants attract beneficial insects and pollinating bees.
HARVEST AND USE
Vietnamese cilantro produces rosettes of leaves low on plants with more finely cut, serrated leaves towards the top. Harvest & use entire plant, including stems, leaves & even young flowers. Traditionally, Vietnamese cilantro is offered on a plate in the center of the table, so diners can help themselves. This delicious edible garnish & flavoring tastes similar to a delicate regular cilantro, but with an additional delicious hint of citrus spice.Regular price $3.69Sale price $3.69Unit price per -
Kitchen Herbs Fine Leaf Chives
PERENNIAL
Spring/summer/fall harvest
Frost hardyTO PLANT OUTDOORS
In the cool weather of early spring, 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 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 in. 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 blossoms 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 $2.99Sale price $2.99Unit price per -
Heirloom Italian Zucchini Ortolana di Faenza
START SEEDS OUTDOORS
Zucchinis need full sun, rich fertile soil and warm temperatures. Plant only when spring weather is warm and night temperatures stay above 50°F (10°C). Sow groups of 2 to 3 seeds,1 inch deep, every 2 feet, in rows 3 feet apart. Thin to leave only 1 seedling every 2 feet. Or, plant in slightly mounded hills, 2 feet in diameter, sowing 5 or 6 seeds in each hill. Thin hill-planted seedlings to 2 or 3 strongest plants.
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. Be sure to thin properly — you will have more productive, disease-free plants if seedlings have enough room to mature.
HARVEST AND USE
Harvest zucchini when no more than 5 to 6 inches long for best flavor. Frequent harvesting keeps plants producing tasty new fruits instead of maturing fat, tough, huge ones. Steam, stir-fry or grill sliced zucchinis and sprinkle with fresh parsley, dill, basil or thyme. Try the tasty blossoms sautéed or stuffed and baked. Heap a platter with spears of baby zucchinis to serve with your favorite dip for appetizers or snacks.Regular price $4.89Sale price $4.89Unit price per
