Amaranthus tricolor, commonly known as Joseph's Coat, is a vibrant and visually striking flowering plant that is often utilized in ornamental gardening. This species is characterized by its broad, colorful leaves that can display a range of hues including red, yellow, and green. The plant typically reaches a height of 2 to 4 feet and can spread up to 3 feet wide, making it a prominent feature in garden landscapes.

One of the notable aspects of Amaranthus tricolor is its adaptability to various soil types. It thrives in well-drained soils and can tolerate poor soil conditions, which makes it an excellent choice for gardeners looking to enhance their landscapes with minimal maintenance. The plant prefers full sun exposure, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight each day to achieve optimal growth and color vibrancy.

In terms of cultivation, Amaranthus tricolor is relatively easy to grow from seeds. The seeds should be sown directly into the garden after the last frost date, as the plant is sensitive to cold temperatures. Germination typically occurs within 7 to 14 days under suitable conditions. Once established, the plant is drought-tolerant, requiring watering only during prolonged dry spells.

From a nutritional perspective, Amaranthus tricolor is not only ornamental but also edible. The young leaves can be harvested and consumed in salads or cooked as a green vegetable, providing a source of vitamins A and C, as well as essential minerals. This dual-purpose nature enhances its appeal for gardeners interested in both aesthetics and food production.

Furthermore, Amaranthus tricolor attracts beneficial insects, such as pollinators, which can enhance the overall health of the garden ecosystem. The flowers, which are small and clustered, bloom throughout the summer and into the fall, providing a continuous source of color and attracting various species of bees and butterflies.

In conclusion, Amaranthus tricolor is a versatile and attractive addition to any garden. Its vibrant foliage, ease of cultivation, and nutritional benefits make it a valuable choice for both ornamental and edible gardening. Gardeners should consider incorporating this plant into their landscapes to enjoy its beauty and contributions to biodiversity.

Health Benefits of Amaranth

Do you have grey hair? Amaranth helps to prevent premature graying, mainly due to the minerals it contains. It helps to lower bad cholesterol and also can reduce inflammation and ease pain.   Especially important for people suffering from diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.  Great for tackling high blood pressure and may even help prevent cancer.  Don't forget it is a wonderful source of protein.  

Ways to Consume Amaranth

Amaranth is a lot like quinoa as far as being a "protein packed" seed.  You can roast, pop, or boil these seeds.  Use as a breakfast cereal, or combine it with other grains.  Amaranth is a wonderful soup thickener because of it's gelatinous quality when cooked.  Cook the leaves of the Amaranth plant, similar to how you would cook/use spinach leaves. 

See Amaranth Recipes & Growing Tips on our Pinterest Board

Marvel of Four Seasons lettuce plant, also known as Lactuca sativa, is a popular variety of lettuce that is highly sought after by gardeners and salad enthusiasts. This unique lettuce variety is known for its beautiful red and green leaves, making it a visually appealing addition to any garden or salad bowl.

Marvel of Four Seasons lettuce is a cool-season crop that thrives in mild climates and can be grown in both spring and fall. It is a loose-leaf lettuce variety, which means that the leaves grow in a loose, open head rather than forming a tight, compact head like other lettuce varieties.

One of the key features of Marvel of Four Seasons lettuce is its exceptional taste. The leaves have a delicate, buttery flavor with a slight hint of bitterness, making it a versatile ingredient in salads, sandwiches, and wraps. Its crisp texture adds a refreshing crunch to any dish.

Growing Marvel of Four Seasons lettuce is relatively easy, making it a great choice for both beginner and experienced gardeners. It prefers well-drained soil and requires regular watering to keep the soil moist. This lettuce variety can be grown in containers, raised beds, or directly in the ground.

When planting Marvel of Four Seasons lettuce, it is important to sow the seeds thinly and cover them with a thin layer of soil. The seeds should be spaced about 6 inches apart to allow room for the plants to grow. It is recommended to provide the plants with partial shade to protect them from excessive heat.

Harvesting Marvel of Four Seasons lettuce is a rewarding experience. The leaves can be harvested individually as needed or the entire plant can be harvested at once. To harvest the leaves, simply cut them off at the base using a sharp knife or scissors. The plant will continue to produce new leaves, allowing for multiple harvests throughout the growing season.

Marvel of Four Seasons lettuce is not only a delicious and visually appealing addition to your garden, but it is also packed with nutritional benefits. It is a good source of vitamins A and K, as well as folate and fiber. Adding this lettuce variety to your diet can contribute to a healthy and balanced lifestyle.

Whether you are a seasoned gardener or just starting out, Marvel of Four Seasons lettuce is a fantastic choice for your garden. Its beautiful appearance, delicious taste, and nutritional benefits make it a must-have for any lettuce lover. Start growing your own Marvel of Four Seasons lettuce today and enjoy the satisfaction of harvesting your own fresh, homegrown lettuce.

Click here for our complete Lettuce grow guide

The Solar Yellow Carrot (Daucus carota) is a sunny yellow carrot with a crispy crunch and a flavor slightly sweeter than the orange ones. Grows 7" long with a tapered root. Harvest sooner for small carrots. Half-hardy to frost and light freezes. 

• Sweet and crunchy
• Size: 7" long
• Days to germinate (sprout): 7-21 days
• Days to maturity: 75-80

Good companion plants: Broccoli, Cauliflower, Chives, Lettuce, Onion, Parsley, Peas, Rosemary, Sage, Thyme, Tomato

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Depth to plant seeds: .25" deep
  
• Spacing between plants: 2" apart
• Spacing between rows: 18"-24" apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 7-21 days
• Germination soil temps: 65F-85F
• Soil needs: 6.0-6.8 pH
• Sun needs: Full sun
• Hardiness: Half-hardy to frost and light freezes
• Planting season: Spring, fall
• # of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 16 plants per sq. ft.
• Days to maturity: 70-75 days

Chocolate Cherry

• These tomatillo seeds will produce delicious 3-5 ounce fruits.
  
  
• Tomatillo is popularly used to make salsas.
  
  
• Days to Maturity | 85 days

• These tomatillo seeds will produce delicious 3-5 ounce fruits.
  
  
• Tomatillo is popularly used to make salsas.
  
  
• Days to Maturity | 85 days

• These tomatillo seeds will produce delicious 3-5 ounce fruits.
  
  
• Tomatillo is popularly used to make salsas.
  
  
• Days to Maturity | 85 days

Monstrous Viroflay spinach is a variety of spinach known for its large, dark green leaves and delicious flavor. It is a popular choice among gardeners and spinach enthusiasts due to its impressive size and nutritional value.

This variety of spinach is named after the town of Viroflay in France, where it was first cultivated. It is known for its vigorous growth and ability to produce abundant harvests.

Monstrous Viroflay spinach is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron, calcium, and fiber. It is a nutrient-dense leafy green that can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes, including salads, sautés, and smoothies.

One of the key features of Monstrous Viroflay spinach is its size. The leaves can grow up to 10 inches long, making them perfect for salads or as a side dish. The large leaves also make it easier to harvest and prepare the spinach.

When growing Monstrous Viroflay spinach, it is important to provide it with well-drained soil and ample sunlight. This variety thrives in cool weather and can be planted in early spring or late summer for a fall harvest.

Monstrous Viroflay spinach is a versatile and nutritious addition to any garden or kitchen. Its impressive size, delicious taste, and health benefits make it a favorite among spinach lovers.

• How to Grow | Spinach is very hardy and can tolerate cold — in fact, it thrives in cold weather.  Spinach grows really well during winter months in the South.  Spinach also grows well in early spring and late summer in the North. These seeds should be planted about four weeks before your area's average date of last frost.
  
  
• Days to Maturity | 45 days

The Big Rainbow Tomato is a popular ribbed beefsteak variety that produces 1-2 lb fruits. A favorite among gardeners for its marbled palette of orange, red, and yellow skin coloring that continues through to the flesh. Taming all that wildness is a little pot of gold flavor that is well-balanced between acidic and sweet. Heavy producer, so stake well.

• High yields
• Extra large fruit
• Well-balanced flavor
• Hearty slicer

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Solanum lycopersicum
• Growth type: Indeterminate, trellis support, regular pruning
• Tomato size: Large (1-2 lbs.)
• Depth to plant seeds: .25" deep
• Spacing between plants: 24"-36" apart
• Spacing between rows: 36"-48" apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 7-14 days
• Germination soil temps: 75F-95F
• Soil needs: 6.0-6.5 pH
• Sun needs: Full sun
• Frost hardy: No
• Planting season: Spring, summer
• # of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 1 plant per 3 sq. ft.
• Days to maturity: 85-95 days

Click here to view our full Tomato grow guide

Good companion plants: Basil, Borage, Onion, Parsley, Pepper

Carrot gets its characteristic and bright orange colour from β-carotene, which is metabolised into vitamin A in humans when bile salts are present in the intestines. Carrots are also rich in dietary fibre, antioxidants, and minerals.


 

• The Pacific Giant pumpkin has been known to grow easily over 350 pounds!  
  
  - It's best to plant 4 to 5 seeds per hill with hills at least 8 feet apart.
  
  
• How to Grow Super Giant MEGA Pumpkins
  
  
• Days to Maturity | 120 days

Additional Details

Looking to have the largest homegrown pumpkin of all your neighbors? Try growing the Pacific Giant, Pumpkin! They are easy to establish & produce fruit of enormous size! (think 350+ lbs.) They have a pale orange skin and a deep orange flesh. Make sure you leave plenty of room for this variety to sprawl. Vines can reach lengths up to 25 feet long. Considering the size of this variety, they are fairly quick to reach maturity at around 120 days.  

The Marion Tomato is the perfect tomato for Southern gardens—tolerant of heat and humidity, resistant to cracking and disease, producing gobs of scarlet globes that ripen mid-season, and with just enough sweetness and acidity to know you’re eating the perfect tomato. A great-tasting and versatile fruit for sauce and paste or salt and pepper.

• Heat tolerant
• Early producer
• High yields
• Good for Southern gardens

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Solanum lycopersicum
• Growth type: Indeterminate, trellis support, regular pruning 
• Tomato size: Medium
• Depth to plant seeds: .25" deep
• Spacing between plants: 24" apart
• Spacing between rows: 36"-48" apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 7-14 days
• Germination soil temps: 75F-95F
• Soil needs: 6.0-6.5 pH
• Sun needs: Full sun
• Frost hardy: No
• Planting season: Spring, summer
• # of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 1 plant per 2 sq. ft.
• Days to maturity: 75-80 days

Click here to view our full Tomato grow guide

Good companion plants: Basil, Borage, Onion, Parsley, Pepper

• The Tatsoi mustard produces dark green spoon shaped leaves
  
  
• Popular oriental green
  
  
• Excellent for hydroponic systems
  
  
• Highly resistant to cold and grows well during the winter months
  
  
• Days to Maturity | 55 days
  
  
• Click here for complete Mustard grow guide

Additional Details

Mustard is high in Vitamin A, B, and C. Mustard greens are very popular in the southern U.S. where they are generally slow-cooked with ham hocks or other smoked-pork products. Asian cuisines generally use mustard greens pickled or stir-fried.

Roman Chamomile, also called English Chamomile, has been cultivated as a medicinal herb since Medieval times. This hardy, aromatic, mat-forming groundcover perennial in the daisy family produces small white flowers with large yellow solid cone centers and aromatic, fern-like foliage. Easily spreads through both reseeding and creeping roots, and can become invasive. Use it to fill in space between stones or pavers, or create a fragrant, low-maintenance “chamomile lawn” like the royals do at Buckingham Palace. Both the apple-scented flowers and stems are used fresh or dried, and steeped into a calming herbal tea sipped before beddy-bye time.

Apple fragrance
Grows 3"-6" tall
Can be invasive
Good for containers

As a companion plant, it attracts pollinators and beneficial insects; repels cabbage moths, cabbage white fly, cabbage worms, cucumber beetles, and mosquitoes; and is said to increase the fragrance and flavor of aromatic herbs such as basil, mint, oregano, rosemary, sage, and thyme.

German Chamomile has many of the same uses as Roman Chamomile, but it’s a tall, bushy annual with more, but smaller flowers. You can determine which type of Chamomile you have if you cut open the yellow center of the flower. German has hollow centers while Roman has solid ones.

As a medicinal herb, Chamomile has been used internally to treat allergies, anxiety, arthritis, asthma, colds, colic, cough, flatulence, gum disease, headache, indigestion, inflammation, insomnia, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), menstrual cramps, morning sickness, stress, nervousness, restlessness, and stomach upset, and externally to treat burns, earache, hemorrhoids, mouth sores, skin problems, sunburns, teething pain, tired eyes, toothache, and wounds.

⚠️ Medicinal properties are presented as information only, and are not a recommendation or prescription for use. Consult a medical professional before using any herb medicinally.

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Chamaemelum nobile
• Life cycle: Herbaceous perennial
• Hardiness zones: 4-9
• Planting season: Spring, summer, fall
• Days to maturity: 60-65 days
• Depth to plant seeds: Lightly cover - seeds need light to germinate
• Days to germinate (sprout): 7-14 days
• Germination soil temps: 55F-70F
• Spacing between plants: 6"-9" apart
• Spacing between rows: 18"-24" apart
• # of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 4 plants per sq. ft.
• Soil types: Sandy, loamy, silty, chalky, shallow, poor, rich, moist, well-drained
• Soil pH: 5.5-7.5
• Sun needs: Full sun, part shade
• Water needs: Low - do not overwater
• Cold stratify: No
• Frost tolerant: Yes
• Heat tolerant: No
• Drought tolerant: Yes
• Deer resistant: Yes
• Culinary use: No
• Medicinal use: Yes

Good companion plants: Basil, Bean, Broccoli, Brussels Sprouts, Cabbage, Carrot, Cauliflower, Chives, Collards, Cucumber, Fava Bean, Garlic, Hyssop, Kale, Lavender, Marigold, Mint, Mustard, Onion, Oregano, Pepper, Parsley, Rosemary, Soybean, Sage, Thyme, Squash, Tomato, Zucchini

More facts about Chamomile:

• Chamomile helps combat headaches, toothaches, and earaches.
  
• Sometimes known as "the plant doctor", because it is thought to help the growth and health of many other plants, especially ones that produce essential oils.
• Thought to increase production of those oils, making certain herbs, like mints (spearmint, sage, oregano) and basil stronger in scent and flavor.
  
• Can be taken as a herbal tea, two teaspoons of dried flower per cup of tea, which should be steeped for ten to fifteen minutes while covered to avoid evaporation of the volatile oils. 

See Chamomile Recipes & Growing Tips on our Pinterest Board

• Shungiku, Edible Chrysanthemum is a very versatile asian green
  
  
• Known as Shungiku, Edible Chrysanthemum, Garland Chrysanthemum, Chop Suey Greens and many other names
  
  
• This is a salad green that can be grown in winter and again in spring
  
  
• The flowers of Shungiku can be dried and stored to be used for tea. Often considered a substitute for Chamomile - with its soothing and stomach quieting properties

• Days to Maturity | 30 - 50 days
  
  

Can a tomato be a celebrity? Ask the San Marzano Tomato—if you can get past its bodyguards. One commercial grower proclaims it the “gold standard for taste.” Martha Stewart devoted an entire blog post to it. Certified tomatoes from Italy are regulated. It even has its own Wikipedia page. But at the end of the day, it’s still just a tomato. One that’s longer and thinner than other plum/paste tomatoes, with exceptional tomato flavor, meaty and thin skinned for slicing, few seeds and fleshy for saucing, and very high yields. We’ve joined the fan club. How about you?

• Sweet, intense flavor
• Very high yields
• Compact plant
• Good fresh or cooked

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Solanum lycopersicum
• Growth type: Indeterminate, trellis support, regular pruning 
• Tomato size: Medium
• Depth to plant seeds: .25" deep
• Spacing between plants: 24" apart
• Spacing between rows: 36"-48" apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 7-14 days
• Germination soil temps: 75F-95F
• Soil needs: 6.0-6.5 pH
• Sun needs: Full sun
• Frost hardy: No
• Planting season: Spring, summer
• # of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 1 plant per 2 sq. ft.
• Days to maturity: 75-90 days

Click here to view our full Tomato grow guide

Good companion plants: Basil, Borage, Onion, Parsley, Pepper

Catnip is not the most beautiful plant you can grow, but it’s quite useful. The small spikes of white speckled flowers attract pollinators and beneficial insects to the vegetable garden. And the same compound that sends cats flying to the moon also sends mosquitoes flying away. Also repels ants, aphids, cabbage moths, cabbage white butterfly, cabbage worms, potato beetles, cucumber beetles, flea beetles, Japanese beetles, mice, roaches, slugs, squash bugs, voles, and weevils, which makes it a great companion for just about everyone (except Parsley). Reseeds easily and can become invasive. Use the minty leaves to flavor tea, pasta, vegetables, soups, and sauces.

 
As a medicinal herb, Catnip has been used internally to treat anxiety, colds, cough, fever, insomnia, nervousness, restlessness, sore throat, and upset stomach, and externally to treat black eyes and other bruises.

⚠️ Medicinal properties are presented as information only, and are not a recommendation or prescription for use. Consult a medical professional before using any herb medicinally.

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Nepeta cataria
• Life cycle: Herbaceous perennial
• Hardiness zones: 3-9
• Planting season: Spring, fall
• Days to maturity: 75-85 days; can begin harvesting when 6" tall
• Depth to plant seeds: 1/4" deep
• Days to germinate (sprout): 7-14 days
• Germination soil temps: 60F-70F
• Spacing between plants: 18"-24" apart
• Spacing between rows: 24"-36" apart
• # of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 1 plant per 2 sq. ft.
• Soil types: Sandy, loamy, silty, rocky, poor, rich, dry, moist, well-drained
• Soil pH: 6.0-7.8
• Sun needs: Full sun, part shade
• Water needs: Low
• Cold stratify: Yes
• Frost tolerant: Yes
• Heat tolerant: No
• Drought tolerant: Yes
• Deer resistant: Yes
• Cat resistant: No
• Culinary use: Yes
• Medicinal use: Yes

Good companion plants: Bean, Beet, Broccoli, Brussels Sprouts, Cabbage, Carrot, Cauliflower, Collards, Cucumber, Eggplant, Fava Bean, Hyssop, Kale, Kohlrabi, Lavender, Lettuce, Mustard, Potato, Pumpkin, Radish, Rutabaga, Soybean, Strawberry, Squash, Tomato, Turnip, Zucchini

More facts about Catnip:

• Nepeta cataria. Perennial.
• Classic aromatic scent that is proven to attract cats. They absolutely love to roll around in it.
• Plant produces flavorful leaves that can be used in many culinary dishes and teas.
• Said to have medicinal properties to relieve cold and flu symptoms.
• Catnip is also a VERY effective mosquito repellent.
• According to ScienceDaily.com, nepetalactone, the essential oil in catnip that gives the plant its characteristic odor, is about ten times more effective at repelling mosquitoes than DEET — the compound used in most commercial insect repellents.
• Simply grow catnip near the backyard or patio of your house.
  
  

The Chocolate Bell Pepper is a fun one to grow. While the skin is maturing from green to brown, the inside is ripening from green to red, so you’re in for a surprise color combo with each one you snip off the vine. Crunchy and sweet with no heat. Ripens early, too. Pair with Chocolate Cherry Tomatoes on a bed of Red Romaine Lettuce for a delightful dark salad.

• High yields
• Early producer
• Harvest any color
• Sweet and crunchy

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Capsicum annuum
• Pepper size: Medium
• Plant support: Tomato cage or stake
• Depth to plant seeds: .25" deep
• Spacing between plants: 18"-24" apart
• Spacing between rows: 24"-36" apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 7-21 days
• Germination soil temps: 75F-85F
• Soil needs: 6.0-7.0 pH
• Sun needs: Full sun
• Frost hardy: No
• Planting season: Spring, summer
• # of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 1 plant per 2 sq. ft.
• Days to maturity: 65-80 days

Good companion plants: Basil, Carrot, Cucumber, Eggplant, Okra, Rosemary, Sage, Squash, Tomato

• Plant produces good yields of beautiful rich chocolate-brown sweet bell pepper
• Excellent for salads, stuffing, or cooking
• Very easy to grow
• Grows well in containers and tight spaces
• A must for the gourmet home gardener

The Delicious Tomato has been known to produce huge 2-3 lb beefsteak tomatoes. This delightful slicer is solid, meaty, and juicy with a small seed core. No surprise that one of these grew to 7 lb, 12 oz, and held a 28-year world record for largest tomato. The typical size is 1-2 lbs, but stake well in case a record breaker grows on one of your vines.

• Extra large fruit
• Juicy and meaty
• Small seed core
• Delicious flavor

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Solanum lycopersicum
• Growth type: Indeterminate, trellis support, regular pruning 
• Tomato size: Large to Extra-Large
• Depth to plant seeds: .25" deep
• Spacing between plants: 24"-36" apart
• Spacing between rows: 36"-48" apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 7-14 days
• Germination soil temps: 75F-95F
• Soil needs: 6.0-6.5 pH
• Sun needs: Full sun
• Frost hardy: No
• Planting season: Spring, summer
• # of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 1 plant per 3 sq. ft.
• Days to maturity: 75-80 days

Click here to view our full Tomato grow guide

Good companion plants: Basil, Borage, Onion, Parsley, Pepper

The Tiny Tim Tomato could not be more adorable. This dwarf variety grows to only about 12"-18", and thrives in the coziness of a small pot or window box, even indoors in a sunny spot. At 1", the adorable red fruit is smaller than a cherry tomato, so you can get more in a handful. It doesn’t even take much time to produce an adorable harvest—only about 45 days. And the flavor. A little sweet, a little tart. Just so very adorable.

• Early producer
• Sweet, tart flavor
• Good for small spaces
• Good for containers

SEED PLANTING INFO

• Botanical name: Solanum lycopersicum
• Growth type: Determinate, tomato cage support, no pruning 
• Tomato size: Small
• Depth to plant seeds: 1/8" deep
• Spacing between plants: 6"-12" apart
• Spacing between rows: 24"-36" apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 7-14 days
• Germination soil temps: 75F-95F
• Soil needs: 6.0-6.5 pH
• Sun needs: Full sun
• Frost hardy: No
• Planting season: Spring, summer
• # of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 4 plants per sq. ft.
• Days to maturity: 45 days

Click here to view our full Tomato grow guide

Good companion plants: Basil, Borage, Onion, Parsley, Pepper

The Roma Tomato is the quintessential plum/paste tomato. Light on seeds and juice, it has thick fruit walls and dense flesh that holds onto seasonings and spices. Ever so good cooked into a thick sauce or paste, canned, or pureed. Compact plants produce meaty, egg-shaped fruits that are sweet and tangy. Skip the flavorless ones at the grocery store and grow your own Romas this summer.

• Plum/paste tomato
• Sweet, tangy flavor
• Small seed core
• Not juicy
• Good for containers

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Solanum lycopersicum
• Growth type: Determinate, tomato cage support, no pruning
• Tomato size: Medium
• Depth to plant seeds: .25" deep
• Spacing between plants: 24" apart
• Spacing between rows: 36"-48" apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 7-14 days
• Germination soil temps: 75F-95F
• Soil needs: 6.0-6.5 pH
• Sun needs: Full sun
• Frost hardy: No
• Planting season: Spring, summer
• # of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 1 plant per 2 sq. ft.
• Days to maturity: 75-85 days

Click here to view our full Tomato grow guide

Good companion plants: Basil, Borage, Onion, Parsley, Pepper

If you have any interest in a beefsteak slicer with rich, sweet, old-fashioned tomato flavor, consider an investment in the Mortgage Lifter Tomato. With no fixed rate on this indeterminate vine, it pays you on time with high yields of jumbo 1-2 lb fruits, dark pink with lightly ribbed shoulders.

Fun fact: The quirky name comes from a man who sold enough of this tomato to pay off his house!

• Rich, sweet flavor
• Small seed core
• Low acidity
• Good fresh or cooked

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Solanum lycopersicum
• Growth type: Indeterminate, trellis support, regular pruning 
• Tomato size: Large (1-2 lbs.)
• Depth to plant seeds: .25" deep
• Spacing between plants: 24"-36" apart
• Spacing between rows: 36"-48" apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 7-14 days
• Germination soil temps: 75F-95F
• Soil needs: 6.0-6.5 pH
• Sun needs: Full sun
• Frost hardy: No
• Planting season: Spring, summer
• # of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 1 plant per 3 sq. ft.
• Days to maturity: 85-95 days

Click here to view our full Tomato grow guide

Good companion plants: Basil, Borage, Onion, Parsley, Pepper

The Heritage Rainbow Mix produces good yields of great tasting beefsteak heirloom tomatoes. Includes a mix of heirloom tomato varieties in various colors, shapes, and sizes. 

• Extremely popular
• Chosen for their wide range of bright rainbow-like colors
• Flavors range from mild to sweet to tangy

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Solanum lycopersicum
• Growth type: Indeterminate, trellis support, regular pruning
• Tomato size: Large (1-2 lbs.)
• Depth to plant seeds: .25" deep
• Spacing between plants: 24"-36" apart
• Spacing between rows: 36"-48" apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 7-14 days
• Germination soil temps: 75F-95F
• Soil needs: 6.0-6.5 pH
• Sun needs: Full sun
• Frost hardy: No
• Planting season: Spring, summer
• # of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 1 plant per 3 sq. ft.
• Days to maturity: 75-85 days

Click here to view our full Tomato grow guide

Good companion plants: Basil, Borage, Onion, Parsley, Pepper

If you’ve ever tasted a super sweet cherry tomato from the store that made you want to grow your own, it was likely a Gardener’s Delight Tomato. This German heirloom, aka Sugar Lump, produces prolific clusters of 6-12 small 1"-2" fruits with firm skin and sweet, sweet summer flavor. It’s also an early delight that ripens in 65 days.

• Super sweet flavor
• Firm skin
• High yields
• Early producer

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Solanum lycopersicum
• Growth type: Indeterminate, trellis support, regular pruning 
• Tomato size: Small (1"-2" round)
• Depth to plant seeds: 1/8" deep
• Spacing between plants: 24" apart
• Spacing between rows: 36"-48" apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 7-14 days
• Germination soil temps: 75F-95F
• Soil needs: 6.0-6.5 pH
• Sun needs: Full sun
• Frost hardy: No
• Planting season: Spring, summer
• # of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 1 plant per 2 sq. ft.
• Days to maturity: 65-70 days

Click here to view our full Tomato grow guide

Good companion plants: Basil, Borage, Onion, Parsley, Pepper

Most tomato varieties don’t like nighttime temps above 75F, but the Floradade Tomato takes no notice. Neither does it concern itself with humidity or daytime temps over 95F. It happily minds its business, producing heavy yields of medium-sized slicers with bright red skin and flesh, and a flavor that’s well-balanced between sweet and acidic. It even ripens the fruits quickly.

• Extremely heat tolerant
• High yields
• Quick to ripen
• Good for Southern gardens

SEED PLANTING INFO

• Botanical name: Solanum lycopersicum
• Growth type: Determinate, tomato cage support, no pruning 
• Tomato size: Medium
• Depth to plant seeds: .25" deep
• Spacing between plants: 24" apart
• Spacing between rows: 36"-48" apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 7-14 days
• Germination soil temps: 75F-95F
• Soil needs: 6.0-6.5 pH
• Sun needs: Full sun
• Frost hardy: No
• Planting season: Spring, summer
• # of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 1 plant per 2 sq. ft.
• Days to maturity: 70-75 days

Click here to view our full Tomato grow guide

Good companion plants: Basil, Borage, Onion, Parsley, Pepper

The Chocolate Cherry Tomato may look a bit like chocolate, but it’s all tomato. A very sweet one. If you want to taste for yourself, get to them before the birds do. Through heat and drought, sturdy vines produce generous clusters of uniform, round, 1" fruit with thin skin. If you’ve ever wished that chocolate would grow on trees, keep wishing.

• Sweet, fresh flavor
• Bird magnets
• High yields
• Heat tolerant

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Solanum lycopersicum
• Growth type: Indeterminate, trellis support, regular pruning 
• Tomato size: Small (1" round)
• Depth to plant seeds: 1/8" deep
• Spacing between plants: 24" apart
• Spacing between rows: 36"-48" apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 7-14 days
• Germination soil temps: 75F-95F
• Soil needs: 6.0-6.5 pH
• Sun needs: Full sun
• Frost hardy: No
• Planting season: Spring, summer
• # of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 1 plant per 2 sq. ft.
• Days to maturity: 75-80 days

Click here to view our full Tomato grow guide

Good companion plants: Basil, Borage, Onion, Parsley, Pepper

With deep purple shoulders and a dusky pink body, the Cherokee Purple Tomato is a stunner in the garden. Slice open this beefsteak to reveal red flesh tinged with purple, brown, and green. Low acidity and sweet, slightly smoky flavor has made this a favorite of tomato lovers for more than 130 years. Will this be the year it becomes your favorite?

• Low acidity
• Sweet, smoky flavor
• Thin skin
• Darkens with direct sun exposure

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Solanum lycopersicum
• Growth type: Indeterminate, trellis support, regular pruning 
• Tomato size: Medium
• Depth to plant seeds: .25" deep
• Spacing between plants: 24" apart
• Spacing between rows: 36"-48" apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 7-14 days
• Germination soil temps: 75F-95F
• Soil needs: 6.0-6.5 pH
• Sun needs: Full sun
• Frost hardy: No
• Planting season: Spring, summer
• # of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 1 plant per 2 sq. ft.
• Days to maturity: 70-80 days

Good companion plants: Basil, Borage, Onion, Parsley, Pepper

The Caribe Tomato doesn’t mind the heat or humidity or drought. Good for Southern gardens. This compact plant is great for growing in containers and tight spaces. 

• Good medium size tomatoes
• Good for growing in containers
• Good for Southern gardens
• Loves heat and humidity

SEED PLANTING INFO

• Botanical name: Solanum lycopersicum
• Growth type: Determinate, tomato cage support, no pruning
• Tomato size: Medium
• Depth to plant seeds: .25" deep
• Spacing between plants: 24" apart
• Spacing between rows: 36"-48" apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 7-14 days
• Germination soil temps: 75F-95F
• Soil needs: 6.0-6.5 pH
• Sun needs: Full sun
• Frost hardy: No
• Planting season: Spring, summer
• # of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 1 plant per 2 sq. ft.
• Days to maturity: 75-85 days

Good companion plants: Basil, Borage, Onion, Parsley, Pepper

The Black Krim Tomato is as unusual as it is flavorful. Hailing from the Black Sea region of Russia, this robust tomato ripens to a unique mix of deep brown shoulders atop smoky red bodies with reddish-green flesh. Reliably produces ½-1lb fruits with a rich, slightly salty flavor. Dress up a sandwich or cook up a Khrenovina sauce.

• Rich, dark coloring
• Rich, salty flavor
• Good fresh or cooked
• Darkens with direct sun exposure

SEED PLANTING INFO

• Botanical name: Solanum lycopersicum
• Growth type: Indeterminate, trellis support, regular pruning
• Tomato size: Medium
• Depth to plant seeds: .25" deep
• Spacing between plants: 24" apart
• Spacing between rows: 36"-48" apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 7-14 days
• Germination soil temps: 75F-95F
• Soil needs: 6.0-6.5 pH
• Sun needs: Full sun
• Frost hardy: No
• Planting season: Spring, summer
• # of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 1 plant per 2 sq. ft.
• Days to maturity: 70-80 days

Click here to view our full Tomato grow guide

Good companion plants: Basil, Borage, Onion, Parsley, Pepper

The Ponderosa Red Beefsteak Tomato produces meaty, bright red fruit with mild, sweet flavor. This low-acid ribbed slicer has very few seeds, so there’s more flesh to savor. Strong vines support heavy production, so stake well. Eat them any way you can think of.

• Old-fashioned tomato flavor
• High yields
• Low acidity
• Good fresh or cooked

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Solanum lycopersicum
• Growth type: Indeterminate, trellis support, regular pruning
• Tomato size: Large
• Depth to plant seeds: .25" deep
• Spacing between plants: 24"-36" apart
• Spacing between rows: 36"-48" apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 7-14 days
• Germination soil temps: 75F-95F
• Soil needs: 6.0-6.5 pH
• Sun needs: Full sun
• Frost hardy: No
• Planting season: Spring, summer
• # of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 1 plant per 3 sq. ft.
• Days to maturity: 75-80 days

Click here to view our full Tomato grow guide

Good companion plants: Basil, Borage, Onion, Parsley, Pepper

• The Verde Tomatillo plant produces medium 3 ounce fruits
  
  
• Tomatillo is popularly used to make salsas
  
  
• Days to Maturity | 85 days

• This Swiss Chard variety produces beautiful and delicious tender pale green stems and dark green leaves with white veins.
  
  - Plant produces good yields of 10" tall leaves
  
  - Excellent for salads and/or steamed with others greens
  
  - A cold and heat tolerant variety
  
  
• Days to Maturity | 60 days

Additional Details

Swiss chard is high in vitamins A, K and C, with a 175g serving containing 214%, 716%, and 53%, respectively, of the recommended daily value. It is also rich in minerals, dietary fiber and protein.

 

• Perfect for low-carb pasta! 
  
• Cut this fruit open and peel away at the flesh to find tender delicate strands of spaghetti squash ready to be enjoyed as a meal with some tomato sauce and parmesan cheese. 
• Grows as a compact vine
• Excellent spaghetti squash with better uniformity, larger yields and richer flavor
• One of the most popular varieties to grow in any-size garden
• The inside of this squash looks like spaghetti pasta and tastes even better
  
• Days to Maturity | 85 days
  

• The Early Summer Crookneck is a popular Heirloom squash variety that grows extremely quickly - only 45 days!
  
• Grows as a compact bush size plant (not as a vine)
  
• Produces delicious and beautiful yellow 8" long fruits with a thin curving neck
  
• Fast-growing summer squash produces large yields
  
• Perfect for growing in small spaces
• Days to Maturity | 45 days

Additional Details

Though considered a vegetable in cooking, botanically speaking, squash is a fruit (being the receptacle for the plant's seeds). Squash can be served fresh (in salads) and cooked (squash stuffed with meat, fried squash, baked squash). 

• The Cocozelle squash is an Italian heirloom bush type zucchini that produces excellent yields of dark green squash with light green stripes
  
• Grows as a compact bush size plant (not as a vine)
  
• Extremely flavorful and tender
  
• Best when harvested at 12" long or smaller
  
• Makes a great variety for slicing, frying, and steaming
  
• Pick the fruits often (when they are young) to have a longer harvest
  
• The Bush type plant is perfect for small gardens and containers
• Days to Maturity | 50 days

Additional Details

Though considered a vegetable in cooking, botanically speaking, squash is a fruit (being the receptacle for the plant's seeds). Squash can be served fresh (in salads) and cooked (squash stuffed with meat, fried squash, baked squash).
 

• Organic.
  
  
• Known as the the famous nutritious Super Green supplement.
  
  - It is even more nutritious in the form of raw juice.
  
  - Ideal for juicing.
  
  - Can be ground up for Barley flour and bread.
  
  - Extremely healthy and nutritious.
  
   
• Days to Harvest | Barley grass will be ready to harvest in appx. 6 to 10 days

Organic

• Alfalfa is one of the healthiest and easiest sprouts you can grow!  
  
  - Extremely high in protein, calcium, plus other minerals and vitamins in the B group, vitamin C, vitamin E, and vitamin K.
  
  - Alfalfa is extremely easy to grow.
  
  - All organic. All natural.
  
  
• If you like Alfalfa sprouts, make sure to check out Red Clover sprouts.
  
  
• Looking for an All-in-1 kit? Check out this All-in-1 Seed Sprouting Kit + Mason Jar.

How to Grow Sprouts

The easiest method is to grow sprouts in a Mason jar. To provide plenty of fresh air, cover the top with the mesh screen.

Step One: Soaking

For a quart-sized jar, put 1 ½ to 2 tablespoons of small seeds (up to 1 cup if using larger seeds like green peas or garbanzo) in the sprouting jar. Cover top of jar with cloth or sprouting lid and rinse the seeds in warm (not hot) water. Drain and refill so that water is about an inch above the seeds. Let the seeds soak 8-12 hours (overnight). Protect from light by covering with a dish towel or placing in a cupboard.

Step Two: Rinsing

Rinse 2 to 3 times per day for 2 to 3 days. After thoroughly draining the rinse water, lay the jar on its side to spread out the seeds. Do not expose to light. After 2 to 3 days the sprouts should be filling up the jar.


Things to Remember:

1. Rinse often (2-3 times/day).

2. Keep them moist, not wet.

3. Keep them at room temperature.

4. Give them air to breathe.

5. Don't grow too many in one container.

6. Keep them in a dark place.

• Bloomsdale Spinach will produce heavy, glossy, dark green leaves
  
  - Excellent flavor
  
  - Extremely easy to grow
  
  
• How to Grow | Spinach is very hardy and can tolerate cold — in fact, it thrives in cold weather.  Spinach grows really well during winter months in the South.  Spinach also grows well in early spring and late summer in the North. These seeds should be planted about four weeks before your area's average date of last frost.
  
  
• Days to Maturity | 45 days

• America Spinach will produce a beautiful dark green plant in only 40 days
  
  - Excellent flavor
  
  - Extremely easy to grow
  
  - Grows best during the cooler months
  
  - Grows really well in containers and other small spaces

• How to Grow | Spinach is very hardy and can tolerate cold — in fact, it thrives in cold weather.  Spinach grows really well during winter months in the South.  Spinach also grows well in early spring and late summer in the North. These seeds should be planted about four weeks before your area's average date of last frost.
  
  
• Days to Maturity | 40 days

• Sage is an aromatic perennial plant that is actually part of the mint family.  The plant produces grayish-green leaves that are used in many popular food dishes, most notably in the preparation of sausages
  
  - Natural mosquito repellent
  
  - The leaves can also be used as a digestive and nerve tonic
  
  - Excellent as a border plant around the garden
  
  - Grows well in containers
  
  - Easy to grow from seed and can be sowed directly in the garden
  
  
• Days to Maturity | 75 days

• Needs full sun to grow well
• It is drought tolerant and rarely, if ever needs to be watered
• Rue has a long history of use as a domestic remedy, being especially valued for its strengthening action on the eyes
• The plant contains flavonoids that reduce capillary fragility, which might explain the plants reputation as an eye strengthener. 
• Days to Maturity | 75 days

• Produces beautiful pink radishes with a white flesh
  
  
• Looks amazing! Great for culinary dishes
  
  
• The white flesh is crisp and mild in flavor
  
  
• Great for selling at farmers markets
  
  
• Unique and rare heirloom radish
  
  
• Grows well in containers and small spaces
  
  
• Days to Maturity | 25-30 days
  
  

Additional Details

Radishes are rich in ascorbic acid, folic acid, and potassium. They are a good source of vitamin B6, riboflavin, magnesium, copper, and calcium. One cup of sliced red radish bulbs provides approximately 20 calories, largely from carbohydrates
 

• The Atlantic Giant pumpkin has been known to grow over 1,500 pounds!  Without special treatment, the Atlantic Giant Pumpkin, can grow up to 200 to 300 pounds - easily
  
  - It's best to plant 4 to 5 seeds per hill with hills at least 8 feet apart
  
  
• Days to Maturity | 120 days
  
  
• How to Grow Super Giant MEGA Pumpkins
  
  

Additional Details

The word pumpkin originates from the word pepon, which is Greek for “large melon". The French adapted this word to pompon, which the British changed to pumpion and later American colonists changed that to the word we use today, "pumpkin".
 

The Tepin Pepper is a tiny treat with a lot of heat. Compact, vigorous plants produce lots of juicy, pea-sized fruits that are hot enough to make a cookie crumble. This is a perennial bush in warmer locations, so if it survives the winter, it will grow back bigger and more productive. Use it to heat up anything from honey to menudo to ice cream.

• High yields
• Perennial
• Slow to germinate
• Good for containers

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Capsicum annuum 
• Pepper size: 1/4"-1/2"
• Scoville heat units (SHU): 50,000-100,000/hot
• Plant support: Tomato cage or stake
• Depth to plant seeds: .25" deep
• Spacing between plants: 24"-36" apart
• Spacing between rows: 36"-48" apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 28-70 days
• Germination soil temps: 75F-85F
• Soil needs: 6.0-7.0 pH
• Sun needs: Full sun
• Frost hardy: Yes
• Planting season: Spring, summer
• # of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 1 plant per 2 sq. ft.
• Days to maturity: 120-200 days

Good companion plants: Basil, Carrot, Cucumber, Eggplant, Okra, Rosemary, Sage, Squash, Tomato

• These Tepin pepper seeds will produces tons of of ¼"  pea-sized hot peppers.
• Extremely hot.  Handle with care
• They will turn from green -> to orange -> to red as they continue to mature
• Some claim this variety to be one of the Hottest Pepper in the World
• It can sometimes take the seeds about 4-10 weeks to germinate - so patience is a virtue with these babies but definitely worth it in the end
• Plant height is approximately 2' - 3'
• Highest germination rates occur during the warmer months - around at 80 F or higher
• Grows extremely well in small to medium sized containers
• If you like hot peppers then this variety is a definite must have

The Serrano Tampiqueño Pepper “from the mountains” of Mexico opens up new vistas of heat and flavor. The prolific plant tolerates heat and drought, pushing out loads of 2"-3" cylindrical fruits with colors that range from from grassy green to fizzy orange to berry red, and are spicy at every mesa. Use to add flavor, heat, and syllables to pizza tampiqueño, salsa tampiqueño, steak tampiqueño, or pickles tampiqueño, or dry them and tampi into a queño.

• Very high yields
• Heat tolerant
• Harvest any color
• Good for containers

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Capsicum annuum 
• Pepper length: 2"-3"
• Scoville heat units (SHU): 10,000-20,000/medium
• Plant support: Tomato cage or stake
• Depth to plant seeds: .25" deep
• Spacing between plants: 18"-24” apart
• Spacing between rows: 24"-36" apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 7-21 days
• Germination soil temps: 75F-85F
• Soil needs: 6.0-7.0 pH
• Sun needs: Full sun
• Frost hardy: No
• Planting season: Spring, summer
• # of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 1 plant per sq. ft.
• Days to maturity: 75-80 days

Good companion plants: Basil, Carrot, Cucumber, Eggplant, Okra, Rosemary, Sage, Squash, Tomato