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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Scented Sweet Peas Heirloom Painted Lady
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 also be planted in fall to 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 -
Ornamental Edibles Bicolored Shiso
ANNUAL
Summer/fall harvest
Heat-loving, frost tenderTO PLANT DIRECTLY INTO THE GARDEN
When late spring weather has thoroughly warmed up, sow seeds 1 inch apart in well worked fertile soil in full sun. Cover 1/4 inch deep, firm soil and keep seedbed moist. Germination takes 1 to 2 weeks. After seedlings are well established, thin or transplant 8 inches apart to allow plants room to mature.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Sow seeds 1 inch apart in a container of seed starting mix, 4 to 6 weeks before last expected frost. Keep warm and evenly moist, and provide a good light source. When seedlings are large enough to handle and night temperatures are solidly above 50°F (10°C ), acclimate gradually to outdoor conditions before planting in the garden 8 inches apart.
GROWING NOTES
Remember— it is critical to plant Shiso in the garden only after day and nights are solidly above 50°F (10°C). Pinch off growing tips when plants are 6 to 8 inches tall to encourage branching. Harvest sprays of leaves by cutting stems just above two new sprouting lateral branches to get lush regrowth.
NOTE: Can self-sow aggressively. Keep plants from spreading by cutting spent flowers so they don't drop seeds. Do not plant near natural areas.
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Early/Container Tomato Heirloom Stupice
STARTING SEEDLINGS
In early spring, start indoors about 6 to 8 weeks before outdoor night temperatures are 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°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, early bearing vines 3 feet apart into rich soil in full sun.
Grown In Containers: Transplant one seedling per pot; with a minimum size of 18 to 20 inch diameter and 18 inches high. Use fresh potting mix to prevent soil borne disease. Water regularly: in hot weather, pots may need water daily. Fertilize every other week with a low nitrogen fertilizer for strong plants and good yields.
GROWING NOTES
Tomatoes need full sun at least 6 hours every day. Provide strong stakes or wire cages at planting time as plants get heavy with fruit. Mulch plants well to maintain even moisture. Pick fully ripe. Don’t store tomatoes in the fridge.Regular price $4.89Sale price $4.89Unit price per -
Heirloom Double Feverfew White Wonder
PERENNIAL
Summer/fall bloom
Frost hardyTO START EARLY INDOORS
Five or six weeks before last expected frost date, sow seeds as thinly as possible in a container of seed starting mix. Cover lightly, keep warm and moist and provide a strong light source. When large enough to handle, transplant seedlings into a deeper container 2 inches apart so roots have growing room. When seedlings are 2 or 3 inches tall, transplant 10 inches apart after acclimating to outdoor conditions.
TO START OUTDOORS
When danger of frost is past, sow in full sun in well-drained, finely worked garden soil. Space tiny seeds as thinly as possible in rows 10 inches apart, cover about 1/4 inch deep and gently firm soil. Keep soil evenly moist while awaiting germination in 10 to 14 days. Thin before seedlings get crowded to a final spacing of 10 inches apart as plants need room to mature.
GROWING NOTES
These pretty white blossoms showing just a hint of yellow at their centers will add delicacy and freshness to your mixed summer bouquets. Keep spent flowers cut for rebloom all summer. Well-drained soil is important for long-lived feverfew plants.
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Heirloom Flowering Vines Cathedral Bells
TENDER PERENNIAL VINE
Summer/fall bloom
Usually grown as annualFOR BEST RESULTS
Sow seed indoors in a warm place 6 to 8 weeks before night temperatures are reliably in the 50°F (10°C) range. Plant 2 seeds per individual 4 inch pot of seed starting mix. Maintain at 70-80°F (21-27°C). Keep moist but not soggy. Germination takes 10 to 21 days. Thin to strongest seedling per pot. Provide a strong light source until ready to go outside. When weather has warmed evenly, acclimate to outdoor conditions and carefully transplant 1 foot apart and 3 inches from supports.
TO START OUTDOORS
Seed can be sown outdoors once nights are reliably above 50° but only in areas with a long warm season. Plant in full sun 4 to 6 inches apart, ½ inch deep and 3 inches from supports. Firm soil well over seeds. When seedlings are well established, thin to stand 1 foot apart, so these vigorous vines have ample room to grow.
GROWING NOTES
Cathedral Bells need full sun and moist, well-drained soil. They bloom mid to late summer. Provide climbing vines with well-anchored supports at least 10 feet tall; use a sturdy trellis or arbor, or a wood or wire fence. Stems cling by branched tendrils that grow on the end of each leaf stalk.
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Baby Leaf Lettuce Heirloom Cutting Mix
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, 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.
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Heirloom Watermelon Moon & Stars
STARTING SEEDLINGS OUTDOORS
Melons need full sun, rich soil and warm temperatures. Plant only when weather is warm and nights stay above 50°F (10°C). Make slightly rounded hills 2 feet in diameter and 5 feet apart. Sow 5 or 6 seeds 1 inch deep in a small circle in top of each hill. When seedlings have several sets of leaves, be sure to thin them out, leaving only the 3 strongest plants to grow and mature in each hill.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
No more than several weeks before last frost date, sow seeds in individual pots of seed starting mix. Keep warm and moist, and provide a strong light source until weather warms enough to transplant outdoors (see above).
GROWING NOTESAmend soil well with aged manure or compost. If summers are short or cool, put down black plastic to retain heat, then plant into holes made in plastic. Where insects are a problem, cover seedlings with floating row covers to exclude them, removing when plants blossom. Keep young vines well watered and fed, tapering off as fruits ripen up for best sweet flavor.
HARVEST AND USE
Pick melons when the tendril closest to the fruit turns brown, and the light patch on the bottom of the melon changes from cream to tan. Watermelons keep well in the refrigerator, even after being cut open.Regular price $4.89Sale price $4.89Unit price per -
Heirloom Cornflowers 4th Of July Mix
HARDY ANNUA
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 1/2 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.
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Heirloom Herbs Italian Aromatic Sage
PERENNIAL
Spring/summer/fall harvest
Frost hardyBEST 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 leafed 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 $2.99Sale price $2.99Unit price per -
Heirloom Arugula Rustic Style
EASIEST TO START OUTDOORS
Plant seeds in early spring or in late summer for a fall crop. Sow seed as thinly as possible, cover 1/4 inch deep and firm soil gently over seeds. Keep seed-bed evenly moist until seedlings emerge in 1 to 2 weeks.
THIN OR TRANSPLANT
Thin seedlings 5 to 6 inches apart when plants are large enough to handle.
GROWING NOTES
Long lasting rustic arugula stays leafy so you can harvest all season long from the same plants. Harvest individual leaves at 4 to 5 inches long, or cut bunches of young tender leaves as needed. Keep the little yellow blossoms pruned back for best leaf production or use for tangy edible flowers. Rustic will winter over in mild climates but make a fresh sowing each spring for best quality.
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Heirloom Herbs Sweet Green Basil
ANNUAL
Summer/fall harvest
Heat-loving, frost tenderTO PLANT DIRECTLY INTO THE GARDEN
When late spring weather has thoroughly warmed up, sow seeds 1 inch apart in well worked, fertile soil in full sun. Cover 1/4 inch deep, firm soil and keep seed bed moist. Germination takes 1 to 2 weeks. After seedlings are well established, thin or transplant 8 inches apart to allow plants room to mature.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Sow 1 inch apart in seed starting mix, 4 to 6 weeks before last expected frost. Keep warm and moist, and provide a good light source. When seedlings are large enough to handle and nights reach 50°F (10°C), acclimate gradually to outdoor conditions before planting in the garden.
GROWING NOTES
Remember — for success with this easy to grow herb, it is critical to sow or transplant basil into garden beds only when late spring day and nighttime temperatures stay above 50°F (10°C). Harvest sprays of leaves by snipping stems just above two new sprouting lateral branches to encourage lush foliage. Keep flower buds pinched off to extend harvesting and feed regularly to promote new growth.Regular price $2.99Sale price $2.99Unit price per -
Hummingbird Four O’Clocks Scented Peach Sunset
PERENNIAL GROWN AS ANNUAL
Summer/fall bloom
Frost tenderEASIEST TO START OUTDOORS
Plant in full sun in ordinary garden soil when spring weather is warm and settled and all danger of frost is past. Poke seeds into well-worked soil about 1/2 inch deep, 4 to 5 inches apart. Firm soil over seeds. Keep moist until germination in 10 to 12 days.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Seeds can be started indoors about 3 weeks before last expected frost, but since Four O’Clocks grow so quickly, we advise sowing directly into the garden in all but very short summer areas.
THIN OR TRANSPLANT
Thin seedlings to 10 inches apart when they are large enough to handle, so plants have ample room to grow and mature.
GROWING NOTES
Vigorous, free blooming Four O’Clocks grow easily and quickly quickly to fill in borders or open areas. When possible, plant them close by where you walk or sit, so you can enjoy their delicious soft perfume that wafts in the air on sultry warm summer afternoons and evenings.
In Mild Climates, Four O’Clocks self-sow readily, so remove seed pods before seeds fall to the ground if you don’t want plants to spread around the garden.
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Border/Container Dahlias Watercolor Silks
PERENNIAL GROWN AS ANNUAL
Frost tender
Summer/Fall BloomBEST TO START EARLY INDOORS
Sow seeds 2 inches apart in containers of seed starting mix, 4 to 6 weeks before last spring frost. Cover 1/2 inch deep, keep moist and warm and provide a strong light source until ready to plant outdoors. When weather is warm and settled, acclimate seedlings gradually to outdoor conditions. Plant 8 inches apart.
TO START DIRECTLY OUTDOORS
Wait until weather is warm and settled and night temperatures are above 50°F (10°C). Sow groups of 2 to 3 seeds 1/2 inch deep and 8 inches apart in well-worked, fertile soil. Cover lightly and keep soil moist but not soggy while awaiting germination. When well-established, thin carefully, leaving single seedlings 8 inches apart, so plants have room to grow and bloom. Keep well-weeded and evenly watered.
GROWING NOTES
Amend soil with compost or aged manure before planting in full sun. Feed plants monthly. Remove faded flowers to prolong bloom. These dahlias will produce little underground tubers after their first season of bloom; select your favorite blossom colors when in bloom, then multiply those plants by digging up the tubers in late fall to replant the next spring.
To Grow In Containers: Space seedlings 4 to 6 inches apart in containers that are at least 16 inches across and 16 inches tall.
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Heirloom Tomatoes Rainbow’s End
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) range. Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep and 1 inch apart in a container of seed starting mix. Keep moist but not soggy, and very warm, 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 luscious old fashioned tomatoes fully ripe and eat promptly as they don’t hold well after harvest. Show off their 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 -
Old Fashioned Hollyhocks Indian Spring
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 seedlings emerge in 7 to 14 days.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Start seeds indoors about 8 weeks before last expected frost date. Sow two 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 until germination takes place. When seedlings are 3 to 4 inches tall, transplant 12 to 18 inches apart after gradually acclimating to outdoor conditions.
THIN OR TRANSPLANT
Space seedlings 12 to 18 inches apart so plants have ample room to mature.
GROWING NOTES
Indian Spring will 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, and roots will push another flush of enchanting flower spires that will open in fall.
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Heirloom Dry Beans Soup Mix Blend
START SEEDS OUTDOORS
Don’t plant too early; cold conditions prevent good bean germination. In late spring, when nights are securely above 55°F (13°C), sow seeds in well worked, fertile soil in full sun. Poke seeds in 1 inch deep and 4 inches apart in rows 1 1/2 to 2 feet apart.
GROWING NOTES
If first sowing comes up unevenly, replant right away; new seedlings catch up quickly. Bean seedlings are tempting treats to birds; watch carefully and protect with netting if necessary.
HARVEST AND USE
Check out our harvesting video!
When the beans are hard and smooth inside dry and leathery pods, harvest the whole crop at once, or, if frost or excessive rain threatens, pull entire plants and finish drying in a sheltered spot. Shell out the completely dry beans by hand or put whole pods in a pillowcase and whack it on the ground to “spill the beans” from pods. Put cleaned, shelled beans in freezer for 3 to 4 days to eliminate any insects, then store in glass jars in a cool dry place.
Note: freshly grown dry beans will cook faster than store bought ones. Soak overnight first, then cook up with a bay leaf, garlic and savory herbs.
Regular price $4.39Sale price $4.39Unit price per -
Paprika Pepper Hungarian Magyar
STARTING SEEDLINGS
In early spring, start indoors about 6-8 weeks before nights stay reliably 50-55°F (10-13°C). Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep and 1 inch apart in 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 4-inch pots. Keep at 70-75°F (21-24°C). Feed with half-strength fertilizer every week until weather is warm enough to acclimate seedlings to outdoor conditions. Transplant 2 feet apart into rich soil in full sun.
GROWING NOTES
Paprika peppers need warm conditions. Don’t transplant outdoors until nights stay 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
Cut ripe peppers from the plants when completely red. Slit peppers open, discard seeds and cores and slice in several pieces. Dehydrate pieces until very dry and crisp. Then grind or crush into a coarse spice powder and store in glass jars to use and enjoy liberally. Tightly sealed, home-grown paprika spice powder also freezes well, retaining its wonderful rich flavor.
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Heirloom Broccoli Raab Early Rapini
START SEEDS DIRECTLY IN THE GARDEN
In very early spring as soon as ground can be worked, prepare a well-drained, fertile garden bed in full sun. Sow seeds 2 inches apart in rows 6 to 8 inches apart. Cover 1/2inch deep and keep soil evenly moist to ensure good germination. When seedlings are 3 to 4 inches tall, thin to stand 4 to 6 inches apart.
GROWING NOTES
Sow Broccoli Raab in cool early spring weather, about the same time as you plant turnips and radishes. Consistent moisture, early thinning and an adequate supply of nitrogen will encourage the quick growth needed to produce tender juicy shoots with plump buds. Use non-toxic B.T. (Bacillus thuringiensis) products to control caterpillar pests as necessary. Make several sowings a week apart for a continuous harvest. Sow again in late summer for a fall crop.
HARVEST AND USE
Harvest both leaves and flowering stalks at 7 to 8 inches tall, when stalks are still tender and juicy with closed buds. After cutting, water plants and feed with fish emulsion solution to get a second harvest in a few weeks. Enjoy the hearty flavor of these vitamin-rich greens by briefly steaming or prepare traditionally by first blanching them quickly in boiling water and then sautéing them in olive oil with chopped garlic, just until tender.
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Rainbow Jalapeño Chiles Spice Trio
STARTING SEEDLINGS
In early spring, start indoors about 2 months before night temperatures stay reliably 55°F (13°C). Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep and 1 inch apart in a container of seed starting mix. Keep moist but not soggy, and very warm 80-85°F (27-30°C). Provide a strong light source until seedlings are ready to plant outside.
When seedlings are 2 inches tall, transplant into deeper individual containers. Maintain at 70-75°F (21-24°C). Feed with half-strength fertilizer every week until weather is warm enough to gradually acclimate seedlings to outdoor conditions. Transplant 1 1/2 feet apart into rich soil in full sun.
GROWING NOTES
Jalapeños need warm conditions. Don’t transplant outdoors until night temperatures stay securely above 55°F (13°C). Prepare soil well with aged manure or compost. Plant only robust seedlings with well-developed roots. Mulch plants to maintain even soil moisture. Keep well weeded, watered and fertilized.
HARVEST AND USE
To harvest, cut rather than pull fruits from plants when fully colored up either bright red, rich orange or golden-yellow. These eye-catching, spicy baby jalapenos have thick juicy flesh. Slice and pickle them for zesty condiments, use for delicious rainbow salsas, fajitas or for cheese stuffed “poppers.”Regular price $4.89Sale price $4.89Unit price per -
Bush Morning Glory Heirloom Blue Ensign
ANNUAL
Summer/fall bloom
Frost tenderTO PLANT OUTDOORS
Sow seeds 2 inches apart in a well-worked garden bed in full sun once danger of spring frost is past. Cover with 1/2 inch of fine soil and keep seed bed moist while awaiting germination. Keep seedlings well weeded and watered.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Sow seeds 2 inches apart in a container of seed starting mix, 4 to 6 weeks before last expected frost. Cover 1/2 inch deep, keep moist and provide a good light source until seedlings are ready to plant outside. Transplant once weather warms up after gradually acclimating seedlings to outdoor conditions.
THIN OR TRANSPLANT
Space seedlings 6 to 8 inches apart when seedlings are large enough to handle.
GROWING NOTES
Royal Blue Ensign morning glories’ low bush plant habit is convenient and versatile. Grow them in beds or borders, or showcase their glowing color in planters where the striking deep blue will set off the warm yellows and oranges of Ladybird cosmos, dwarf marigolds, or zinnias. If plants get rangy in midsummer, trim them back halfway for another long flush of bloom.
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Italian Heirloom Kale Lacinato
TO START DIRECTLY IN THE GARDEN
As soon as ground can be worked in spring, prepare a well-drained, fertile garden bed in full sun. Sow seeds 2 inches apart in rows 12 to 18 inches apart. Cover 1/2 inch deep and keep soil evenly moist to ensure good germination. Sow again in late summer for another cold-hardy crop.
TO START INDOORS
Sow seeds in a container of seed starting mix 2 inches apart and cover 1/2 inch deep. Keep moist and provide a strong light source until seedlings are 3 to 4 inches tall then plant outdoors. Space 10 to 12 inches apart so plants have room to mature.
GROWING NOTES
Kale tastes best in cool weather so sow spring crops early. A late summer-sown crop will yield through fall and winter except in the coldest climates. Frost actually enhances kale leaves’ color, flavor and sweetness. Mulch to retain moisture in summer and before the ground freezes to protect the roots of fall crops.
HARVEST AND USE
Begin harvesting outer leaves when plants have 6 to 8 leaves. Vitamin-rich kale is delicious in hearty winter soups, stews and sautés; or braise the beautiful leaves with garlic and olive oil in traditional Mediterranean style. Pull and discard once plants begin to bloom since the leaves of flowering stalks get tough and bitter.
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Container Herbs White Ice Lavender
PERENNIAL
Late spring/early summer bloom
Frost hardy to zone 5 (zone 4 with protection)BEST TO PLANT INDOORS
In early spring, sow seeds about 1 inch apart in a container of seed starting mix, cover very lightly and keep at 60-70°F (16-21°C) in a spot with good air circulation. Keep evenly moist but not soggy. Seedlings emerge slowly and unevenly over 18 to 28 days. Provide a good light source.
When seedlings have several sets of leaves, transplant into 4 inch plastic pots. Provide consistent water, but let soil dry out on top between waterings. Feed every few weeks. Plant outside when plants are 2 to 3 inches tall after gradually acclimating to outdoors.
GROWING NOTES
Start these small seeds indoors so you can tend them carefully. When well established, plant seedlings out into pots filled with new potting mix with excellent drainage or in a well-drained, sunny garden spot with good air circulation. Plant one seedling per individual pot at least 8 inches wide and deep or space multiple plants 8 inches apart in larger, deeper containers. Feed monthly during the growing season.
Plants bloom the first season, but come into fullest flower by the second summer. Harvest stems of scented florets just as they start to open and air dry to use as aromatic sachets. At season’s end, shape plants by cutting off spent flower stalks down to top crown of leaves.
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Tapas Peppers Spanish Padron
STARTING & GROWING
In early spring, start indoors 8 to 10 weeks before outdoor night temperatures are in the 55°F (13°C) range. Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep and 1 inch apart in a container of seed starting mix. Keep moist but not soggy, and very warm 75°F (24°C). Provide a strong light source until seedlings are ready to plant outside. When seedlings are 2 to 3 inches tall, transplant 3 inches apart into deeper containers. Maintain at 70°F (21°C). Feed with half-strength liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks. When weather is 55°F (13°C) both day and night, gradually acclimate seedlings to outdoor conditions. Transplant 1 1/2 feet apart into rich soil in full sun. Peppers need full sun at least 6 hours per day. Prepare soil well with aged manure or compost. Plant only robust seedlings with well-developed roots and mulch well to maintain even soil moisture. Water regularly and consistently and fertilize several times a month.
HARVESTING & PREPARING
For traditional Tapas, harvest the abundant little pointed fruits at no more than 2 inches long. At this small size, they are fragrant and flavorful; larger fruits get very spicy. To serve: Sauté the Tapas peppers quickly in a little hot olive oil just until the skins are glossy and slightly charred. To finish, sprinkle with coarse salt and enjoy while still hot. Most Padrons are mild, but occasionally one little pepper will have more spice — this is traditional and even sought after in Spain.Regular price $3.69Sale price $3.69Unit price per -
Heirloom Eggplants Asian Mix
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 throughout the season.
HARVEST AND USE
Pick when fruits have sized up and are firm fleshed and glossy. Slice 1/2 inch thick, brush with olive oil and broil until tender. Then layer with a rich tomato sauce, fresh herbs and several cheeses to make Eggplant Parmesan. Bake whole in a hot oven, then scoop out flesh and mash with garlic, olive oil, lemon juice and chopped parsley for a savory dip to serve on toasted pita bread.
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