Flat Leaf Italian Parsley Seed

Flat Leaf Italian Parsley seed produces large flavorful dark green leaves that are used in salad dressings, meat dishes, soups, and more. Flat Leaf Italian Parsley has a flavor that is much more pronounced than that of the more familiar curled type. This variety can be allowed to reseed for continuous growth. Suggested Planting Requirements: Parsley enjoys a pH level of 6.0-7.0. Even moisture is important and compost or mulch will help ensure even moisture. Parsley is a fan of phosphate, so adding an organic fertilizing like a bone meal is optimal. In general, parsley is not a fussy plant. If left to reseed in the garden, you will enjoy parsley year after year. Beneficial insects also love the flowers of parsley. Growing Recommendations: This full sun annual can be germinated indoors before the soil has warmed. For Southern California growers, parsley can be grown year-round in mild areas. Harvesting & Storing: Harvest before flowers for optimal flavor. You can cut single stocks of parsley or use the cut and come again method. This method slows the flowering process. Learn about it here in our YouTube video. Soil Temperature: 45-85°F Planting Depth: 1/4" Days to Germination: 7-10 Days to Maturity: 35-50+ Height at Maturity: 12”-18” Lighting R equirements: Part Shade to Full Sun Spacing: Broadcast Petroselinum crispum Package Weight: 1 gram Sows about a 40' row taking into account thinning. Shop all our herbs here!

Organic Rainbow Chard Seeds

Rainbow Chard is a favorite of children and adults! Packed full of vitamins and nutrients, colorful Rainbow Chard plants are as beautiful as they are nutritious. Grown on our farm for years, these productive and hearty plants show disease resistance and can perennialize in cooler coastal areas. Planting by Zones Zones 9-10 Chard is a cool season crop that thrives in cool and moist environments; in many parts of Zones 9 and 10, it can be grown year round. Zones 2-8 Sow in early March or 10–12 weeks before transplanting outdoors. Planting Chard Seeds In Zones 9 and 10, begin seeds in starter pots or direct sow in the garden. If you direct sow, be sure to keep the garden soil moist the whole time the seed is germinating. In the warm weather of Zones 9 and 10, it may be easier to start by seed in a cool and protected area. When planting, place seeds on top of moist high-quality seed starting soil and cover with 1/2” of finely sifted soil. Follow the same planting steps to direct sow. Fertilize regularly with an organic liquid fertilizer once the seedlings have germinated and have a first set of true leaves . Growing Chard Once your seedlings are 7-8 weeks old, or 5-6” tall and stocky, you can plant them in the garden. Chard is an upright plant that needs appropriate spacing. Space at least 12” apart for full plant development. If the winter remains hot, use shade cloth or row cover for protection. Growing Chard in Containers Chard is an excellent container crop. Make sure your container is at least 20” deep. Keep in mind containers will dry out faster because they have more surface area and less soil to hold onto moisture. Mulch heavily on the top layer of soil in the pot to keep the soil from drying out or heating up too much. Harvesting Chard Harvest at any length. Baby chard can be harvested for use in salads and as fresh greens. Larger leaves are tasty in soups, stir-fries, and more. Use chard like any dark leafy green. Southern California Pro-tips Can be grown year round in areas of Zones 9 and 10 but production may decrease drastically in warmer months. Mulch heavily around your plants to ensure the soil does not dry out or heat up too much. During our hottest months August, September, and October, plants can suffer from the heat. Using shade cloth can help protect the plants from extreme heat. In particularly warm winters, shade cloth may be needed all season long. Companion Flowers/Crops Chard grows great between Cole crops like broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower. Good companion flowers are cosmos , gaillardia , and borage. Additional Learning Resources New to starting crops from seeds? Please watch our Seed Starting Presentation to learn the basics! Learn about growing all our crops on our YouTube page ! Having pest issues? Check out in-depth information for garden pests at the UC Integrated Pest Management site.

Organic Lacinato Kale Seeds

Lacinato, sometimes called dinosaur kale, is the most popular variety of kale. It is often used to make kale chips and is great in salads or cooked dishes. This variety is very prolific and one plant can give you kale all season long. Planting by Zones Zones 9-10 Kale is a cool season plant that does best in cool temperatures. It is happiest in winter and early spring during the seasonal rains but can be grown year round in mild areas. Kale can be easily direct-seeded or transplanted out. Zones 2-8 Plant from early spring until about 3 months prior to the first fall frost. Crop protection like row covers can extend the growing season. Planting Kale Kale is easy to plant directly in the soil or into starter pots and transplanted out. To direct sow, plant seeds in well-worked soil that has been deeply watered and is debris-free. Cover with 1/4” of finely sifted soil. If you are planting seeds in starter pots, plant into thoroughly moist high-quality seed starting soil. Place seeds on the top of the soil and cover with 1/4” of finely sifted soil. Once your kale has germinated and the first set of true leaves show, fertilize with an organic liquid fertilizer. When the plants are 3-4” tall you can plant them out into the garden. Growing Kale Grow in full sun during the cooler part of the year. In warmer months, kale can take some shade. If the weather is particularly hot, you can use shade cloth to protect the crop. Kale is easy to grow and does not suffer from many pest or disease issues. Plant with adequate spacing to ensure good airflow around the plants. This will help with aphids and whiteflies. Harvesting Kale Harvest at any point that the leaves are worth eating. In Zones 9 and 10 they can grow very tall because of our long growing season. Growing Kale in Containers Kale is a great container crop. Make sure your container is at least 20” deep. Keep in mind containers will dry out faster because they have more surface area and less soil to hold onto moisture. Mulch heavily on the top layer of soil in the pot to keep the soil from drying out or heating up too much. Southern California Pro-tips In areas of Zones 9 and 10, kale can grow year round but will be less productive and tasty during the hot months. Mulch heavily around your plants to ensure the soil does not dry out or heat up too much. Spray plants with a hard jet of water to remove any aphids you find. Check the underside of leaves! Companion Flowers/Crops Since kale is a long term crop, plant in an area of your garden where you can enjoy tons of flowers around it. We love planting with nasturtium , alyssum , borage , and cosmos . Additional Learning Resources New to starting crops from seeds? Please watch our Seed Starting Presentation to learn the basics! Learn about growing all our crops on our YouTube page ! Having pest issues? Check out in-depth information for pests that can be an issue for kale at the UC Integrated Pest Management site .

Organic Honey Dew Melon Seeds

Honey Dew Melons are delicious and lightly sweet. This honeydew makes a beautiful addition to your fruit salad. A great keeper that gets incredibly sweet while resting in your fridge or on your countertop. Planting by Zones Zones 9-10 Melon is a warm season crop that does best when planted in warm soil in a full sun location. Melon plants will decline in productivity as the days get colder and shorter. In Zones 9 and 10, seeds can be started as early as April if they are protected from the cold. This may mean starting them in the protection of a greenhouse or indoors if your area still gets cold temperatures. By late April it is possible to plant directly into soils that are at least 60°F. Zones 2-8 Sow seeds in starter pots with a heating pad 3-4 weeks before planting out. Harden off plants 6-7 days prior to planting them out into a frost-free garden. Planting Honey Dew Melon Seeds Melon seeds can be direct sown into warm soil or planted in starter pots and planted out into the spring garden. Plant melon seeds 1” deep into well-worked soil, watering deeply at the time of planting or prior. If you are starting seeds in starter pots or trays, plant the seeds 1” deep into pre-moistened high-quality seed starting mix. Once the seedlings have germinated and have a first set of true leaves be sure to fertilize regularly with an organic liquid fertilizer. Growing Honey Dew Melon You can plant your seedlings in the garden once they are 3-4 weeks old. Do not let your melon plants get root bound, as this will greatly stunt their growth. Melons need adequate spacing to be happy. Refer to specific spacing for the crop being planted. A granular organic fertilizer added to the planting area is a good idea if your garden has poor nutrient content or if you are growing in a new raised bed. Good moisture in the soil is needed. In Zones 9 and 10, this may mean watering by hand often or providing regular irrigation. DO NOT water overhead as this promotes foliar diseases. Be on the lookout for powdery mildew which is common in Zone 9 and 10 gardens. Read more about powdery mildew here . Growing Honey Dew Melon in Containers If planting in containers, make sure your container is at least 20” deep. Keep in mind containers will dry out faster because they have more surface area and less soil to hold onto moisture. Mulch heavily on the top layer of soil in the pot to keep the soil from drying out or heating up too much. One plant per container is usually all that can fit. Keep in mind, the most prolific melon crop will need multiple plants for good pollination. Harvesting Melon Melons are best harvested at peak ripeness. This is typically when they have turned their appropriate color and when the small tendril next to the melon has shriveled. The BEST way to know when to pick your melons is to mark your calendar for the appropriate days to maturity and begin checking on those dates. Southern California Pro-tips Mulch heavily around your plants to ensure the soil does not dry out or heat up too much. During our hottest months of August, September, and October, plants can suffer from the heat. Using shade cloth can help protect the plants from extreme heat. Do not overhead water. Companion Flowers/Crops Melon plants need good pollination to ensure that you have ample fruit set. To accomplish this, we highly encourage you to plant more than one plant and to plant flowers that will bring pollinators. Cosmos , zinnias , and sunflowers are excellent warm season flowers to accompany your melon plants. Additional Learning Resources New to starting crops from seeds? Please watch our Seed Starting Presentation to learn the basics! Learn about growing all our crops on our YouTube page ! Having pest issues? Check out in-depth information for pests that can be an issue to melons at the UC Integrated Pest Management site .

Landreth's Stringless Bush Bean Seeds

Landreth's Stringless bean seeds have been around since 1885 and for good reason! A prolific and meaty variety of bush bean with exceptional production and disease resistance. Landreth's Stringless bean seeds produce beans that do not have the "string" that is common to bush beans. This makes the preparation of the beans a bit easier even though we have fond memories of "stringing beans" with grandma. Planting by Zones Zones 9-10 Bush beans are best sown directly into the soil after the soil has warmed to at least 70°F. This is typically in late April or May. Bush beans, like all plants in the legume family, fix nitrogen in the soil. Zones 2-8 Bush beans should be direct sown when the soil is at least 70 degrees. Planting Bush Bean Seeds Plant bush bean seeds 1” deep into well-worked and thoroughly watered garden soil. Beans should be planted in a full sun location. Fertilize regularly with an organic liquid fertilizer once the seedlings have germinated and have their first set of true leaves . Beans can be planted as close to 7” apart. Growing Bush Bean Bush beans are incredibly easy to grow and are great for gardens with little space. They do well in raised beds, in ground, and planted in containers. Keep weed-free by pulling any weeds that may compete with your bush bean crop. Succession Planting Bush Bean If you enjoy large amounts of bush beans, succession planting is a good idea. Start a new round of seeds every 10 days. Growing Bush Bean in Containers Bush beans are an excellent container variety. If you are planting bush beans in containers, make sure your container is at least 10” deep. Keep in mind containers will dry out faster because they have more surface area and less soil to hold onto moisture. Harvesting Bush Bean The key to happy bush beans is to harvest often. The more you harvest, the more beans you will get. Make sure you harvest your beans at the optimal size for fresh eating. If you wish to grow the beans for dry beans, simply let the beans dry on the vine and harvest for dry bean use. Any bean can be used as a fresh bean when it is young, and a dry bean when it is dry. Southern California Pro-tips In areas of Zones 9 and 10, bush bean is a very easy crop to grow. Mulch heavily around your bush bean plants to ensure the soil does not dry out or heat up too much. During our hottest months of August, September, and October, plants can suffer from the heat. During this time using shade cloth can help protect the plants from extreme heat. Do not overhead water as this promotes disease. Companion Flowers/Crops Bush beans are small plants, so do not plant tall flowering plants or veggies in a direction that will shade your bush beans. Additional Learning Resources New to starting crops from seeds? Please watch our Seed Starting Presentation to learn the basics! Learn about growing all our crops on our YouTube page ! Having pest issues? Check out in-depth information for pests that can be an issue to bush beans at the UC Integrated Pest Management site .

Organic Mizuna Mustard Green Seeds

Mizuna is a classic mustard with a flavor similar to arugula. Planting by Zones Zones 9-10 Mustard greens are cool season crops that do best in cool temperatures. In Zones 9 and 10 they are happiest during winter and early spring, with seasonal rains. They can also be grown year round in mild areas. Row cover and shade cloth can extend the growing season. Mustard greens can be easily direct-seeded or transplanted out. Zones 2-8 Sow seeds early in spring to late summer. Row cover can extend the growing season. Planting Mustard Greens Mustard greens are easy to plant directly in the soil or into starter pots and transplanted out. To direct sow, plant seeds in debris-free, well-worked soil that has been deeply watered. Cover with 1/4” of finely sifted soil. If using starter pots, plant seeds into thoroughly moist high-quality seed starting soil. Place seeds on the top of the soil and cover with 1/4” of finely sifted soil. Once your mustard greens have germinated and a first set of true leaves show, fertilize with an organic liquid fertilizer. When the plants are 3-4” tall you can plant them out into the garden. If you are planting out during a warm spell or during the warm season, crop protection like shade cloth may be necessary. Growing Mustard Greens Grow in full sun during the cooler part of the year. In warmer months mustard greens can take some shade. Use shade cloth to protect the crop if the weather is particularly hot. Mustard greens require good soil moisture. For Zones 9 and 10, this may mean hand watering daily or providing regular irrigation. Mustard greens are easy to grow and do not suffer from many pest or disease issues. Plant with adequate spacing to ensure good airflow around the plants. This will help with aphids and whiteflies. Please see the UC IPM link below if you experience pest issues. Harvesting Mustard Greens Mustard greens can be harvested at any point they are worth eating. Simply strip the greens leaves from the plants and consume raw or cooked. Growing Mustard Greens in Containers Mustard greens are a great container crop. Make sure your container is at least 20” deep. Keep in mind containers will dry out faster because they have more surface area and less soil to hold onto moisture. Mulch heavily on the top layer of soil in the pot to keep the soil from drying out or heating up too much. Southern California Pro-tips In areas of Zones 9 and 10, mustard greens can grow year round but they will be less productive and tasty during the hot months. Mulch heavily around your plants to ensure the soil does not dry out or heat up too much. Protect plants during heat spells with shade cloth or row cover. Companion Flowers/Crops Mustard greens enjoy the company of flowers! Grow alyssum , nasturtium , and gaillardia around your plants for beauty and to attract beneficial insects. Additional Learning Resources New to starting crops from seeds? Please watch our Seed Starting Presentation to learn the basics! Learn about growing all our crops on our YouTube page ! Having pest issues? Check out in-depth information for pests that can be an issue to mustard greens at the UC Integrated Pest Management site .

Alyssum is a beautiful low-growing plant has tiny white flowers with a sweet scent. Great as a border plant, this adorable plant will happily re-seed and spread throughout the garden. It's a no-fuss ornamental that is often the first to bloom in a winter/spring garden. It can thrive in a range of conditions from the full sun on the coast to partial shade inland. Typically an annual in harsher climates, in southern California and mild winter areas, will perennialize. Seed pack contents: .25G Sows about 11’ Botanical name: Lobularia maritima Planting by Zones Zones 9-10 Alyssum grows incredibly easily in the mild climates of Zones 9 and 10. It’s best to plant seeds in the fall to let them overwinter and be well established by spring. Alyssum plants enjoy cool temperatures and ample moisture. They do well in container arrangements and can be moved to partial shade during the warmer months. Zones 3-8 Alyssum is a quickly growing bedding plant that can be sown indoors 4-5 weeks before the last frost and transplanted out after the danger of frost is gone. Planting Alyssum Seeds Alyssum can be direct sown or transplanted. Because alyssum seeds are so small, transplanting is sometimes the better option. Plant seeds on top of well-moistened quality seed starting soil and cover with ¼” of finely sifted soil. Keep soil moist until germination. The same directions can be followed if you are direct sowing. Growing Alyssum Alyssum can be grown in so many areas of the garden! We love to plant it at the end of our veggie garden rows, in planter boxes, in pots, and even in hanging pots! Alyssum is a quickly growing, trouble-free plant that smells wonderful. It adds color and beauty to any garden space. Growing Alyssum in Containers If you are planting Alyssum in containers, make sure your container is at least 10” deep. Keep in mind containers will dry out faster because they have more surface area and less soil to hold onto moisture. Alyssum can be squeezed in with other plants to make stunning container arrangements. Harvesting Alyssum Flowers Alyssum flowers are beautiful but are best left on the plant for pollinators to enjoy. Southern California Pro-tips In areas of Zones 9 and 10 with mild winters, you can plant Alyssum in the fall to grow through the winter and bloom in the spring. Often times it will reseed happily and spread throughout the garden. Mulch heavily around the plants to keep soil moist and cool. Companion Flowers/Crops Alyssum is one of the best companion flowers for vegetable gardens. It does not disturb other plants and can fit into tiny places. If we could, we would have it growing everywhere! Shop all our flowers here. Additional Learning Resources New to starting crops from seeds? Please watch our Seed Starting Presentation to learn the basics! Learn about growing all our crops on our YouTube page ! Having pest issues? Check out the in depth information at the UC Integrated Pest Management site.

Morning Glory, Color Mix

Morning glory plants are wonderful and aggressive in mild climates. Growing extremely quickly they can fill in fences and lattices in no time with massive amounts of blooms. Beautiful blooms are purple, blue, and combinations of both. Hummingbirds and pollinators love the large blooms and can be seen frequenting them. Suggested Planting Requirements: Typically grown in the spring of mild winter areas, morning glory plants will perennialize in most places where hard frost do not kill them. We suggest because of their aggressive nature that you do not plant in an area where they need to be contained. They make wonderful decorative statements on fences, mailboxes, or other standing objects. Growing Recommendations: Morning glory plants can be grown in relatively poor soil and are drought tolerant. They will bloom more and look more attractive if they are given some organic material and frequently deadheaded. Soil Temperature: 65-85°F Planting Depth: 1/2" Days to Germination: 7-21+ Days to Maturity: 80+ Height at Maturity: 12'+ Lighting Requirements: Full Sun Spacing: 12-18" Ipomoea purpurea Package Weight: .5 gram

Gaillardia, Blanket Flower

Gaillardias are wonderful plants that produce a massive amount of starry blooms in variations of colors. Planting Gaillardia in the garden will add a kaleidoscope of color that bees and beneficial insects will love. Gaillardia grows in low mounds on the ground and can be planted in your perennial bed for lasting color. Gaillardia can be quite a drought tolerant but benefits from some irrigation in very dry areas. Seeds can be sown 6-8 weeks before the last frost in your area if you have a frost. For mild winter areas, you can plant seeds in pots in the early spring to be transplanted out when the soil warms up mid-spring. Where to grow: This perennial plant should be given an adequate spacing of at least 12" but is not fussy about the soil conditions. Adding organic matter and mulch is always helpful to have thriving plants. Since it is low-growing, plant in the front of your flower bed or on the edges where it will not get shaded out from taller plants. Attracts: Attracts hummingbirds, butterflies, honey bees, and beneficial insects. Soil: Adaptable to various soil types, but needs good drainage and can benefit from a bit of bloom fertilizer. Shop all our flowers here! Planting Depth: 1/4" Days to Germination: 7-14+ Days to Maturity: 50-65+ Height at Maturity: 12”-24”’ Lighting R equirements: Full Sun Spacing: 16”-24” Gaillardia aristata Package Weight: 1 gram

Tropical Milkweed, Bloodflower

Tropical milkweed, sometimes called bloodflower, is an eye-catching plant that produces bright flowers of red, orange, and yellow. This plant provides a valuable source of nutrition for monarch butterflies and their caterpillars. Plant bloodflower in your garden and you are sure to see the amazing yellow and black striped caterpillars (larvae) that are the first stages of the monarch butterfly. Monarchs will lay eggs on the milkweed plant in March and April. Once the eggs hatch the caterpillars will consume huge portions of the plant as they prepare to turn into the monarch butterfly. Tropical milkweed is the cousin of the butterfly weed and will easily reseed in mild winter areas. This plant is very drought tolerant and an essential for butterfly gardens. Where to grow: Seeds can be direct sown or transplanted in the spring. Milkweed transplants very well. Plant directly in the ground when the soil is at least 65 degrees. Milkweed is a great plant in naturalistic or wildflower gardens. Blooms begin in early spring and will continue well into the fall. In tropical areas, this annual will be perennial. Attracts: Attracts hummingbirds, butterflies, honey bees, and beneficial insects. Soil: Adaptable to various soil types and drought tolerant. Planting Depth: 1/4" Days to Germination: 7-14+ Days to Maturity: 65+ Height at Maturity: 12”-24”’ Lighting R equirements: Full Sun Spacing: 16”-24” Asclepias curassavica Package Weight: .25 gram

Four O'Clock Color Blast

Four O'Clocks are named for their trumpet-shaped flowers that open in the late afternoon. An extremely easy plant to grow, the blooms on one plant range from purple to yellow and every color in between. Delightfully fragrant flowers are drought tolerant and can reseed and become perennials in mild winter areas. The busy plant can be grown against walls or in the back of flower gardens. Where to grow: Seeds can be direct sown or transplanted in the spring. Four O'Clocks transplant very well. Plant directly in the ground when the soil is at least 65 degrees. Four O'Clocks are a great plant in naturalistic or wildflower gardens. Blooms begin in early spring and will continue well into the fall. In tropical areas, this annual will be perennial. Attracts: Attracts hummingbirds, butterflies, honey bees, and beneficial insects. Soil: Adaptable to various soil types and drought tolerant. Planting Depth: 1/4" Days to Germination: 7-14+ Days to Maturity: 65+ Height at Maturity: 12”-24”’ Lighting R equirements: Full Sun Spacing: 16”-24” Mirabilis Jalapa Package Weight: .25 gram

Ethiopian Kale ORGANIC

Ethiopian Kale is a dark leafy green that outcompetes kale in every way! Ethiopian Kale is tastier, less prone to insect damage, and grows great in Southern California and beyond. It's actually a type of mustard green, but do not let that fool you. The flavor is superb! It's mild and tender making it great for salads, sauteing, soups, just about anything. We were gifted this variety from our great friends over at Redwood Seeds. What a gift it turned out to be. We love this plant! It actually has less oxalic acid than spinach and has almost none of the "bitter" flavor that causes growers to not like kale and similar greens. It's super easy to grow and thrives in the warm winters of southern California Planting by Zones Zones 9-10 Kale is a cool season plant that does best in cool temperatures. It is happiest in winter and early spring during the seasonal rains but can be grown year round in mild areas. Kale can be easily direct-seeded or transplanted out. Zones 2-8 Plant from early spring until about 3 months prior to the first fall frost. Crop protection like row covers can extend the growing season. Planting Kale Kale is easy to plant directly in the soil or into starter pots and transplanted out. To direct sow, plant seeds in well-worked soil that has been deeply watered and is debris-free. Cover with 1/4” of finely sifted soil. If you are planting seeds in starter pots, plant into thoroughly moist high-quality seed starting soil. Place seeds on the top of the soil and cover with 1/4” of finely sifted soil. Once your kale has germinated and the first set of true leaves show, fertilize with an organic liquid fertilizer. When the plants are 3-4” tall you can plant them out into the garden. Growing Kale Grow in full sun during the cooler part of the year. In warmer months, kale can take some shade. If the weather is particularly hot, you can use shade cloth to protect the crop. Kale is easy to grow and does not suffer from many pest or disease issues. Plant with adequate spacing to ensure good airflow around the plants. This will help with aphids and whiteflies. Harvesting Kale Harvest at any point that the leaves are worth eating. In Zones 9 and 10 they can grow very tall because of our long growing season. Growing Kale in Containers Kale is a great container crop. Make sure your container is at least 20” deep. Keep in mind containers will dry out faster because they have more surface area and less soil to hold onto moisture. Mulch heavily on the top layer of soil in the pot to keep the soil from drying out or heating up too much. Southern California Pro-tips In areas of Zones 9 and 10, kale can grow year round but will be less productive and tasty during the hot months. Mulch heavily around your plants to ensure the soil does not dry out or heat up too much. Spray plants with a hard jet of water to remove any aphids you find. Check the underside of leaves! Companion Flowers/Crops Since kale is a long term crop, plant in an area of your garden where you can enjoy tons of flowers around it. We love planting with nasturtium , alyssum , borage , and cosmos . Additional Learning Resources New to starting crops from seeds? Please watch our Seed Starting Presentation to learn the basics! Learn about growing all our crops on our YouTube page ! Having pest issues? Check out in-depth information for pests that can be an issue for kale at the UC Integrated Pest Management site .

Nasturtium Seeds, Dwarf Jewel Mix

This well-known nasturtium is prized for it's a compact growing habit. Unlike the wild nasturtium that grows unruly in the canyons of Southern California, this plant is neat and compact with a sweet fragrance. This easy to grow flower is a must-have in the veggie garden! They are beautiful and beneficial. Nasturtiums are easy to grow by directly sowing them in the ground. They require little care but are best when grown in the cooler months with ample moisture. Flowers and leaves are edible. They have a similar flavor as arugula. Recommended Growing Requirements: This plant can be grown in very poor soil during cool temperatures. Regular watering will keep the nasturtium producing. Harvesting and Storage: Nasturtium is part of the mustard family. Its flowers and leaves are known for their spicy, peppery flavor. Simply pull flowers to add to salads and more. Leaves may be harvested for salads, pesto, dips, or even used in place of grape leaves for stuffed rolls similar to Greek dolmas. Young green nasturtiums seeds may be harvested and pickled like capers. Soil Temperature: 40-75 Planting Depth: 1/2" Days to Germination: 7-10+ Days to Maturity: 30-45+ Height at Maturity: NA Lighting Requirements: Full Sun Tropaeolum majus Package Weight: 2.5 gram [fusion_youtube id="https://youtu.be/jt-fbfqJDr8" alignment="" width="" height="" autoplay="false" api_params="&rel=0" hide_on_mobile="small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility" class="" css_id=""][/fusion_youtube] Shop all our flowers here!

Long Purple Eggplant Seeds

Long Purple Eggplant is richer and milder than most, pleasing the pickiest of eggplant lovers! This Italian heirloom is long and slender in shape. Fewer seeds and thin skin make this eggplant variety ideal for cooking. Planting by Zones Zones 9-10 Eggplant grows well in our long warm season. Often times it can be grown year round. This process is called perennialization . It happens when a typically annual plant grows year round in mild weather. In Zones 9 and 10, you can grow eggplant year-round but productivity will greatly diminish in cool temperatures and when days are shorter. As a grower, you should make the decision to pull plants if they are not producing at a healthy rate, if they are diseased, or if you need the space for more seasonal vegetables. In Zones 9 and 10, seeds can be started as early as February if they are protected from the cold. Do not let your seedlings get root bound in the containers. All seeds of the Solanaceae family enjoy warm temperatures to germinate. Using a heating pad can greatly increase the germination rate and speed. Zones 2-8 Sow seeds in starter pots with a heating pad 5-6 weeks before the last frost. Transplant out after the danger of frost is gone. Eggplants cannot tolerate cold temperatures; they are typically the last plant to get transplanted out. Planting Eggplant Seeds Seeds are easy to start with some key knowledge. Be aware that eggplant germinates very slowly in cold soil. If you are starting your seeds early in the season, you may want to use a heating mat to ensure the soil is warm enough for quick germination. Soil temperature should be 75-90°F. When starting seeds in starter pots, place the seeds on top of moist high-quality seed starting soil and cover with 1/4” finely sifted soil. If you plan on direct sowing your eggplant (not recommended) you will follow the same directions as starting them in seed starter pots or plug trays. Once the seedlings have germinated and have a first set of true leaves be sure to fertilize regularly with an organic liquid fertilizer. Growing Eggplant Once your seedlings are 7-8 weeks old, or 5-6” tall and stocky, you can plant them in the garden. Eggplants can be overloaded with fruit, causing the plant to fall to the ground. Minor support may be needed on large eggplant varieties like our Black Beauty . A granular organic fertilizer added to the planting area is a good idea if your garden has poor nutrient content or if you are growing in a new raised bed. Good moisture in the soil is needed. In Zones 9 and 10, this may mean watering by hand often or regular irrigation. Growing Eggplant in Containers If planting in containers, make sure your container is at least 20” deep. Keep in mind containers will dry out faster because they have more surface area and less soil to hold onto moisture. Mulch heavily on the top layer of soil in the pot to keep the soil from drying out or heating up too much. Harvesting Eggplant Eggplant are best harvested at peek ripeness. This is typically when they have turned their appropriate color. As fruits mature on the plant they can become bitter and fibrous. Harvest when fruits are smaller and more tender. Southern California Pro-tips In areas of Zones 9 and 10, can be grown year round but may decrease drastically in production. Mulch heavily around your plants to ensure the soil does not dry out or heat up too much. During our hottest months August, September, and October, plants can suffer from the heat. During this time using shade cloth can help protect the plants from extreme heat. Companion Flowers/Crops Eggplant can get very large. For this reason we recommend planting low lying companion plants. Flowers like alyssum and nasturtium look beautiful with eggplants. Sunflowers can also be grown on the north side of eggplants giving a spectacular display. Additional Learning Resources New to starting crops from seeds? Please watch our Seed Starting Presentation to learn the basics! Learn about growing all our crops on our YouTube page ! Having pest issues? Check out in-depth information for pests that can be an issue for eggplant at the UC Integrated Pest Management site . [fusion_youtube id="https://youtu.be/OkDVtEnTLV8" alignment="" width="" height="" autoplay="false" api_params="&rel=0" hide_on_mobile="small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility" class="" css_id=""][/fusion_youtube]

We trialed these Tokyo onions on our farm during the fall/winter of 2018 and were wonderfully surprised! They grew quickly to a stunning size of 2"-3" in diameter. Great mild flavor. The bunching onion is one of the most important types of onions in Asia and has been grown in China for thousands of years. A versatile and mild flavor makes it a great accompaniment to any dish. You can grow them in a pot or on a balcony. They do really well when interplanted with other cool-season crops like cabbages or broccoli. We keep ours in the ground until we use the last of them in mid-summer after our salsa season! Tokyo onions are grown as green onions or shallots. Planting by Zones Zones 9-10 Onions are a cool season crop in Zones 9 and 10. Plant them in the fall through late spring. Zones 2-8 Start seeds 5-8 weeks before the last frost and plant out when the threat of frost is gone. Planting Tokyo Onion Seeds In Zones 9 and 10, direct sow or transplant out your onion seeds. To direct sow, plant seeds in well-worked soil that has been deeply watered and is debris-free. Cover with 1/4” of finely sifted soil. If you are planting seeds in starter pots, plant seeds into thoroughly moist high-quality seed starting soil. Place seeds on the top of the soil and cover with 1/4” of finely sifted soil. Once your seeds have germinated and are 1-2” tall, fertilize with an organic liquid fertilizer. When the plants are 3-4” tall you can plant them out into the garden. Green onions should be spaced at least 3” apart. Bulbing onions should be spaced at least 5” apart. Choosing Onion Varieties The most common mistake gardeners make with growing onions is they can’t get their onions to bulb. The most common reason why is because they planted a variety that is not appropriate for their region. Bulbing onions are daylight sensitive and you must grow the right kind in your area for success. Here are the 3 kinds of onions. Short Day Onions: 10-12 hours of sunlight required to form bulbs. Intermediate Day Onions: 12-14 hours of sunlight required to form bulbs. Long Day Onions: 14-16 hours of sunlight required to form bulbs. Those of us south of San Fransisco should grow short day onions. There are lots of different varieties of onion available in seed. We specialize in short day onions for southern growers. Gold Coin onion is a tasty cipollini style onion that does really well in Southern California. Red Burgundy is a classic red onion for southern states. Red Rock is a high-quality specialty red onion that does exceptionally well in southern states. For those in the north we have tons of green onions and shallot style onions that can be grown during any frost-free time of the year. Our Torpedo onion creates beautiful red shallots that are mild and tasty. They can be planted in spring for an early summer harvest. Then, of course, there are standard favorite varieties of onions like Tokyo and Evergreen bunching onions. Growing Toyko Onions Onions are easy to grow! They should be planted in an area of the garden that is out of the way. Particularly if you are growing bulbing onions which can take more than 165 days to mature. Mulching heavily around your plants will help with weed suppression and moisture retention. Harvesting Onions Green onions can be harvested at any stage that they look appealing. Simply pull them out of the ground. For bulbing onions, take care not to harvest too early. Wait until fall when the tops brown and fall over, that will be a signal of being ready for harvest. Growing Onion in Containers Onions are a great plant for a container. Make sure your container is at least 10” deep for green onions and 20” deep for bulbing onions. Keep in mind containers will dry out faster because they have more surface area and less soil to hold onto moisture. Mulch heavily on the top layer of soil in the pot to keep the soil from drying out or heating up too much. Southern California Pro-tips Mulch heavily around your plants to ensure the soil does not dry out or heat. Companion Flowers/Crops Bulbing onions in particular are a long-term crop and should be planted in an area where other crops can be planted between or with them. We like growing our onions next to quick growing crops like radishes , lettuces , and beets . We harvest those crops 3-4 times before the onions are ready. Additional Learning Resources New to starting crops from seeds? Please watch our Seed Starting Presentation to learn the basics! Learn about growing all our crops on our YouTube page ! Having pest issues? Check out in-depth information of pests that can be an issue for onions at the UC Integrated Pest Management site .

Summer Savory seeds produce a hearty annual herb that adds a kick and spice to many dishes. When people ask how we make our amazing savory soup stocks and other dishes, the answer is always herbs! Our favorite? Savory! This herb has a complex flavor that adds savory and spicy hints to any meal. Summer Savory is also essential in Herbes de Provence. Summer Savory seeds are very small and require light to germinate. Use finely sifted soil to cover them. Suggested Planting Requirements: Starting seed inside or in starter pots is recommended to reduce competition with weeds. You may also direct sow. Seeds are very small and need light for germination. For the best germination, cover seeds lightly with a very thin later of finely sifted soil. Growing Recommendations: If direct sowing you can plant seeds in freshly worked soil. The top 1" of soil should be soft and finely raked. For best germination, cover seeds with finely sifted soil or potting mix and then press down gently to keep the tiny seeds in place. Seeds must stay moist to terminate. After seeds have germinated and are about 2" tall, space them to at least 6" apart to produce happy healthy plants. If you are transplanting savory, simply transplant with a minimum spacing of 6" to a full sun spot in the garden during mild weather or a dappled shade spot during hot weather. Harvesting & Storage: Harvest savory when leaves are big enough for your needs. Savory also looks great in rock gardens and is very ornamental. You can add savory to any dish but we love to add it to bean recipes, cabbage soup, and sauces. When the plant gets a bit lanky, simply cut back the herb. You can dry the herb and add to spices mixes and rubs. Learn more about cooking with summer savory here! Plant your Summe Savory with other herbs. Shop our herb seeds here! Soil Temperature: 65-70°F Planting Depth: 8” Days to Germination: 5-13 Days to Maturity: 70 Height at Maturity: 5-7” Lighting Requirements: Full Sun Spacing: 1-2” S atureja hortensis Package Weight: .25 grams Sows about 100 feet taking into account thinning.

Sharlyn is a specialty melon and a favorite of growers up and down the west coast of America—and for good reason! A honeydew and cantaloupe flavor combination, Sharlyn melon actually changes flavors as it ripens! In the young stage, its green flesh is similar to honeydew. But after a week of ripening off the vine, intense tropical flavors condense making you feel like you are in a tropical paradise when you eat this melon! Hints of coconut, pineapple, and floral aromas make the Sharlyn melon stand out from the rest. Fruits are 4-8 pounds, oblong, and orange with netting. Planting by Zones Zones 9-10 Melon is a warm season crop that does best when planted in warm soil in a full sun location. Melon plants will decline in productivity as the days get colder and shorter. In Zones 9 and 10, seeds can be started as early as April if they are protected from the cold. This may mean starting them in the protection of a greenhouse or indoors if your area still gets cold temperatures. By late April it is possible to plant directly into soils that are at least 60°F. Zones 2-8 Sow seeds in starter pots with a heating pad 3-4 weeks before planting out. Harden off plants 6-7 days prior to planting them out into a frost-free garden. Planting Melon Seeds Melon seeds can be direct sown into warm soil or planted in starter pots and planted out into the spring garden. Plant melon seeds 1” deep into well-worked soil, watering deeply at the time of planting or prior. If you are starting seeds in starter pots or trays, plant the seeds 1” deep into pre-moistened high-quality seed starting mix. Once the seedlings have germinated and have a first set of true leaves be sure to fertilize regularly with an organic liquid fertilizer. Growing Melon You can plant your seedlings in the garden once they are 3-4 weeks old. Do not let your melon plants get root bound, as this will greatly stunt their growth. Melons need adequate spacing to be happy. Refer to specific spacing for the crop being planted. A granular organic fertilizer added to the planting area is a good idea if your garden has poor nutrient content or if you are growing in a new raised bed. Good moisture in the soil is needed. In Zones 9 and 10, this may mean watering by hand often or providing regular irrigation. DO NOT water overhead as this promotes foliar diseases. Be on the lookout for powdery mildew which is common in Zone 9 and 10 gardens. Read more about powdery mildew here . Growing Melon in Containers If planting in containers, make sure your container is at least 20” deep. Keep in mind containers will dry out faster because they have more surface area and less soil to hold onto moisture. Mulch heavily on the top layer of soil in the pot to keep the soil from drying out or heating up too much. One plant per container is usually all that can fit. Keep in mind, the most prolific melon crop will need multiple plants for good pollination. Harvesting Melon Melons are best harvested at peak ripeness. This is typically when they have turned their appropriate color and when the small tendril next to the melon has shriveled. The BEST way to know when to pick your melons is to mark your calendar for the appropriate days to maturity and begin checking on those dates. Southern California Pro-tips Mulch heavily around your plants to ensure the soil does not dry out or heat up too much. During our hottest months of August, September, and October, plants can suffer from the heat. Using shade cloth can help protect the plants from extreme heat. Do not overhead water. Companion Flowers/Crops Melon plants need good pollination to ensure that you have ample fruit set. To accomplish this, we highly encourage you to plant more than one plant and to plant flowers that will bring pollinators. Cosmos , zinnias , and sunflowers are excellent warm season flowers to accompany your melon plants. Additional Learning Resources New to starting crops from seeds? Please watch our Seed Starting Presentation to learn the basics! Learn about growing all our crops on our YouTube page ! Having pest issues? Check out in-depth information for pests that can be an issue to melons at the UC Integrated Pest Management site .

Cocozelle Summer Squash Seeds

Cocozelle summer squash produces a finely textured summer squash that is dark green with light green stripes. Cocozelle summer squash produces good yields on a bush type plant, great for small space growing! Similar to a zucchini. Planting by Zones Zones 9-10 Squash should be grown in the warm season when soils are at least 70°F. Zones 2-8 Direct seed in the spring once soils have warmed. Planting Squash In Zones 9 and 10, you can direct seed or transplant out your squash. We recommend direct seeding into freshly irrigated soils. To direct sow, plant seeds in debris-free, well-worked soil that has been deeply watered. Cover with 1” of finely sifted soil. If you are planting seeds in starter pots, plant seeds into thoroughly moist high-quality seed starting soil. Place seeds on top of the soil and cover with 1” of finely sifted soil. Once your squash has germinated and the first set of true leaves show, fertilize with an organic liquid fertilizer. When the plants are 3-4” tall you can plant them out into the garden. Space at least 12” apart. Growing Squash Squash should be planted into deeply irrigated, fertile soil. In Zones 9 and 10, adding tons of compost will help create a healthy soil structure and keep soil moistures in. Mulching heavily around your plants will also help with weed suppression and moisture retention. Pollination is key to producing squash. You should hand pollinate your squash if you doubt you have good pollination. Harvesting Squash Squash are best harvested at peek ripeness. There are two ways to know that your fruit is ready, this is by knowing what kind of squash you are growing. Summer Squash is eaten when it is young and tender. You want to be able to pierce the flesh of the squash with your nail. These are crops like zucchini and scallop squashes among others. Winter Squash is a squash that will mature with a hard outside and can keep for several months through the winter. Hence the name! These squash you want to fully mature on the vine. Growing Squash in Containers Squash plants like to grow across the ground but alternatively can be grown up a trellis if hanging fruit are supported. If growing in a container, make sure your container is at least 20” deep. Keep in mind containers will dry out faster because they have more surface area and less soil to hold onto moisture. Mulch heavily on the top layer of soil in the pot to keep the soil from drying out or heating up too much. Southern California Pro-tips Mulch heavily around your squash plants to ensure the soil does not dry out or overheat. Do not overhead water as this promotes foliar diseases. Grow at least two squash plants to ensure good pollination. Companion Flowers/Crops Squash are aggressively growing plants that look wonderful with cosmos , zinnias , and sunflowers . Additional Learning Resources New to starting crops from seeds? Please watch our Seed Starting Presentation to learn the basics! Learn about growing all our crops on our YouTube page ! Having pest issues? Check out in-depth information for pests that can be an issue to squash at the UC Integrated Pest Management site .

Red Giant Mustard Seeds

Red Giant Mustard seeds produce purple-tinted greens that are nutritious and provide a bounty of mildly spicy greens for the garden. Red Giant Mustard produces large leaves and huge amounts of greens to be eaten all season long. Great in stir-fries! Planting by Zones Zones 9-10 Mustard greens are cool season crops that do best in cool temperatures. In Zones 9 and 10 they are happiest during winter and early spring, with seasonal rains. They can also be grown year round in mild areas. Row cover and shade cloth can extend the growing season. Mustard greens can be easily direct-seeded or transplanted out. Zones 2-8 Sow seeds early in spring to late summer. Row cover can extend the growing season. Planting Mustard Greens Mustard greens are easy to plant directly in the soil or into starter pots and transplanted out. To direct sow, plant seeds in debris-free, well-worked soil that has been deeply watered. Cover with 1/4” of finely sifted soil. If using starter pots, plant seeds into thoroughly moist high-quality seed starting soil. Place seeds on the top of the soil and cover with 1/4” of finely sifted soil. Once your mustard greens have germinated and a first set of true leaves show, fertilize with an organic liquid fertilizer. When the plants are 3-4” tall you can plant them out into the garden. If you are planting out during a warm spell or during the warm season, crop protection like shade cloth may be necessary. Growing Mustard Greens Grow in full sun during the cooler part of the year. In warmer months mustard greens can take some shade. Use shade cloth to protect the crop if the weather is particularly hot. Mustard greens require good soil moisture. For Zones 9 and 10, this may mean hand watering daily or providing regular irrigation. Mustard greens are easy to grow and do not suffer from many pest or disease issues. Plant with adequate spacing to ensure good airflow around the plants. This will help with aphids and whiteflies. Please see the UC IPM link below if you experience pest issues. Harvesting Mustard Greens Mustard greens can be harvested at any point they are worth eating. Simply strip the greens leaves from the plants and consume raw or cooked. Growing Mustard Greens in Containers Mustard greens are a great container crop. Make sure your container is at least 20” deep. Keep in mind containers will dry out faster because they have more surface area and less soil to hold onto moisture. Mulch heavily on the top layer of soil in the pot to keep the soil from drying out or heating up too much. Southern California Pro-tips In areas of Zones 9 and 10, mustard greens can grow year round but they will be less productive and tasty during the hot months. Mulch heavily around your plants to ensure the soil does not dry out or heat up too much. Protect plants during heat spells with shade cloth or row cover. Companion Flowers/Crops Mustard greens enjoy the company of flowers! Grow alyssum , nasturtium , and gaillardia around your plants for beauty and to attract beneficial insects. Additional Learning Resources New to starting crops from seeds? Please watch our Seed Starting Presentation to learn the basics! Learn about growing all our crops on our YouTube page ! Having pest issues? Check out in-depth information for pests that can be an issue to mustard greens at the UC Integrated Pest Management site .

Chantenay Carrot Seed

Chantenay carrots are ideal for those growing in heavy soil or shallow containers. The stubby roots penetrate hard soils with a root length of only about 5-6" long. They are amazingly sweet and great for juicing, canning, or freezing. An essential carrot for urban gardeners and those growing in containers. Seed pack contents: .25G Sows about a 28’ row Botanical name: Daucus carota var. sativus Planting by Zones Zones 9-10 Carrots can be grown year-round in mild areas of Zones 9 and 10. Although they can be a fussy crop to get used to planting, once you become familiar with their requirements you will plant them often. Zones 2-8 Direct seed in the spring after the danger of frost is gone. Planting Carrot Seeds Carrots, as with all vegetable seed crops, require moisture to germinate. For even and fast germination the soil must be moist the whole time the seed is germinating. For areas of the southwest, this can be difficult. We recommend direct sowing your seeds into well-worked soil that has ample amounts of compost mixed in. Compost helps to retain moisture in the soil. We recommend if you are planting in raised beds or containers that you THOROUGHLY water all the way through the container or raised bed prior to planting. Plant carrot seeds into well-worked and finely raked soil. Planting into a shallow furrow made with a rake or your hands is best. Place seeds in the furrow and lightly mist the seed. Do not water with a hard spray, as this may displace the seeds and cover them with too much soil. Cover the seed with ¼” of finely sifted soil. Carrots can be slow to germinate. Check for moisture in your soil often, as you don’t want them to dry out during germination. Growing Carrots Once your carrot seeds have germinated, it is critical that you thin them. If you fail to thin your carrot seeds, you will end up with spindly carrots that are likely to break when you try to pull them from the ground. Growing Carrots in Containers If you are planting Carrots in containers, make sure your container is at least 10” deep. Keep in mind containers will dry out faster because they have more surface area and less soil to hold onto moisture. Harvesting Carrots Carrots can be harvested at any stage that they are worth eating. You can harvest baby carrots early, which will help thin the crop, making room for the others to get bigger. Southern California Pro-tips In areas of Zones 9 and 10, moisture in the soil is the most crucial factor in successfully starting your carrot seeds. Keep soil moist the whole time the seeds are germinating. Shade cloth can be very helpful if you are starting seed in a warm climate. If you are planting in raised beds or containers, make sure you water DEEPLY, prior to planting. Companion Flowers/Crops Carrots grow well with other vegetable crops and flowers. We like to grow carrots next to our lettuces during the fall and winter seasons. Alyssum looks beautiful in a carrot bed! Shop all our flowers here. Additional Learning Resources New to starting crops from seeds? Please watch our Seed Starting Presentation to learn the basics! Learn about growing all our crops on our YouTube page ! Having pest issues? Check out in-depth information for pests that can be an issue to carrots at the UC Integrated Pest Management site .

Nasturtium Seeds, Empress of India

Nasturtium seeds are so easy to grow! This unique plant variety called, Empress of India, has a deep crimson color and dark round leaves. Create beautiful garden spaces and planters with this exotic and easy to grow flower. Nasturtiums are a must-have in the veggie garden! They are beautiful and beneficial. These plants are easy to grow by directly sowing them in the ground. They require little care but are happiest when grown in the cooler months with ample moisture. Flowers and leaves are edible. They have a similar flavor to arugula. Recommended Growing Requirements: This plant can be grown in very poor soil during cool temperatures. Growing Requirements: Regular watering will keep the nasturtium producing. Harvesting and Storage: Nasturtium is part of the mustard family. Its flowers and leaves are known for their spicy, peppery flavor. Simply pull flowers to add to salads and more. Leaves may be harvested for salads, pesto, dips, or even used in place of grape leaves for stuffed rolls similar to Greek dolmas. Young green seeds may be harvested and pickled like capers. A recipe link is below! Soil Temperature: 65 Planting Depth: 1/2" Days to Germination: 7-10+ Days to Maturity: 55+ Height at Maturity: NA Lighting Requirements: Full Sun Tropaeolum majus Package Weight: 2.5 gram https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7VSEZgVnh6M Shop all our flowers here! Did you know you can make Nasturtium capers? Here is a recipe!

Organic Roquette Arugula Seeds

Roquette Arugula is an easy crop and can be grown in containers. This spicy green is not fussy. In many areas of zones 9 and 10, it can be grown almost year round! Harvest your arugula regularly to enjoy the best flavor. Zones 9-10 Arugula is a cool season plant that does best in cool temperatures. For Zones 9 and 10, arugula is happiest in the the winter and early spring with seasonal rains but can be grown year round in mild areas. Row cover and shade cloth can extend the growing season for arugula. Arugula can be easily direct seeded or transplanted out. Arugula will not germinate well in high temperatures. Zones 2-8 Seeds germinate at low temperatures of 40°F but do not germinate well in temperatures over 75 degrees. Start seeds indoors 3-4 weeks before the last frost. In areas with mild winters, arugula can overwinter with some crop protection. Planting Arugula Arugula is easy to plant directly in the soil or into starter pots to be transplanted out. If you are direct sowing seeds, plant in well-worked soil that has been deeply watered and is debris free. You can freely broadcast seed over the planting area. Cover with 1/4” of finely sifted soil. If you are planting seeds in starter pots, plant seeds into throughly moist high quality seed starting soil. Place seeds on the top of the soil and then cover with 1/4” of finely sifted soil. Once your arugula has germinated, and the first set of true leaves show, fertilize with an organic liquid fertilizer. When the plants are 3-4” tall you can plant them out into the garden. If you are planting arugula plants out during a warm spell or during the warm season, crop protection like shade cloth may be necessary. Thin arugula plants to give each plant about 3” of space. The thinned plants can be transplanted to another area of the garden. Growing Arugula Grow arugula in full sun during the cooler part of the year. In warmer months, arugula can take some shade. If the weather is particularly hot, you can use shade cloth to protect the crop. Arugula requires good soil moisture. For Zones 9 and 10 this may mean hand watering daily or irrigating regularly. Arugula is an easy to grow crop and does not suffer from many pest or disease issues. Plant your arugula with adequate spacing to ensure good airflow around the plants. This will help with aphids and whiteflies. If you do experience issues with arugula pests, see the UC IPM link below. Harvesting Arugula Arugula is a great crop to use with the cut and come again method. When the arugula has reached a good harvest size of 4-6” you can simple cut it down to 2” and let it regrow. This method will also slow the flowering of arugula since you are harvesting the main stalk, and reducing its ability to go to flower. Harvest often for the healthiest plants. Growing Arugula in Containers Arugula is a great container crop. Make sure your container is at least 10” deep. Keep in mind containers will dry out faster because they have more surface area and less soil to hold onto moisture. Mulch heavily on the top layer of soil in the pot to keep the soil from drying out or heating up too much. Southern California Pro-tips In areas of Zones 9 and 10, arugula can grow year round but will be less productive and tasty during the hot months. Mulch heavily around your arugula plants to ensure the soil does not dry out or heat up too much. Protect arugula during heat spells with shade cloth or row cover. Companion Flowers/Crops Arugula looks beautiful planted with gaillardia , nasturtium , borage , and alyssum . Additional Learning Resources New to starting crops from seeds? Please watch our Seed Starting Presentation to learn the basics! Learn about growing all our crops on our YouTube page ! Having pest issues? Check out in depth information for pests that can be an issue to arugula at the UC Integrated Pest Management site .

Our Sweet Basil is delicate and delightful basil that grows almost year-round in mild climates. Great for making a mild pesto! Pinch off flowers to keep the plant in a vegetative state and get the most foliage you can! Once it has gone to flower, let the beneficial insects enjoy it. Planting by Zones Zones 9-10 Basil is a tasty warm season crop that can grow from early spring until late fall. Zones 2-8 Sow seeds 4-6 weeks before the last frost. Planting Basil Seeds Basil seeds can be direct sown or transplanted. Regardless of how you begin, seeds should be planted into well-worked moist soil that is free of debris. Basil seeds are small and should be covered with finely sifted soil for the best results. If you are starting Basil in starter pots to transplant out, plant seeds on the top of moist high-quality seed starting soil and cover with 1/4” of finely sifted soil. If you are direct sowing the seeds, make sure you sow them in thoroughly moistened soil. Basil thrives in full sun locations. Follow the same directions as above. Seeds must remain moist to germinate evenly and quickly. Once the seedlings have germinated and have a first set of true leaves be sure to fertilize regularly with an organic liquid fertilizer. Thin and space Basil plants to at least 8” apart. Growing Basil Basil is incredibly easy to grow. Plant your transplants out in the garden when they are 4-5” tall. Make sure you space them at least 4” apart. If you direct sow your seeds, thin accordingly. The thinned plants can be transplanted to another area of the garden. Keep your plants weed-free by pulling any weeds that may compete with your Basil. Succession Planting Basil If you enjoy large amounts of Basil, succession planting is a good idea. Start a new round of seeds every 14 days. Growing Basil in Containers Basil is an excellent container crop. If you are planting Basil in containers, make sure your container is at least 10” deep. Keep in mind containers will dry out faster because they have more surface area and less soil to hold onto moisture. Harvesting Basil The key to happy Basil is to use it! Trimming Basil back often will slow its desire to go to flower. Harvest Basil often by cutting the top 1/4” of the plant. Southern California Pro-tips In areas of Zones 9 and 10, Basil is a very easy crop that will give you delicious foliage well into the fall. Prune heavily in late summer to get another flush of foliage in the fall. Mulch heavily around your Basil plants to ensure the soil does not dry out or heat up too much. Compost added to the soil at the time of planting will help retain moisture in the soil during hot, dry weather. During our hottest months of August, September and October, plants can suffer from the heat. During this time using shade cloth can help protect the plants from extreme heat. Companion Flowers/Crops Basil is an herb that is also very ornamental when it goes to flower. Interplanting Basil with your flowers is a great way to utilize space and create a beautiful and edible garden. Basil looks particularly beautiful planted with alyssum and nasturtium . Basil may be interplanted with tomato and cucumber crops. Additional Learning Resources New to starting crops from seeds? Please watch our Seed Starting Presentation to learn the basics! Learn about growing all our crops on our YouTube page ! Having pest issues? Check out the in depth information for pests that can be an issue for Basil at the UC Integrated Pest Management site .

Organic Gourmet Mesclun Mix Seeds

This tasty Mesclun Mix looks great in both the garden and in the salad bowl. A mix of kales, mustards, and spicy lettuces; it grows best in cool weather in full sun, or in the shade in warmer climates. Planting by Zones Zones 9-10 Lettuce is a cool season crop that does best in cool temperatures. In Zones 9 and 10 it is happiest during winter and early spring with seasonal rains, but can also be grown year round in mild areas. Row cover and shade cloth can extend the growing season. Lettuce can be easily direct-seeded or transplanted out. Seeds do not germinate well in high temperatures. Zones 2-8 Start seeds indoors 3-4 weeks before the last frost. Seeds germinate well at low temperatures of around 40°F but do not germinate well in temperatures over 75 degrees. Planting Mesclun Mix Lettuce Lettuce is easy to plant directly in the soil or into starter pots and transplanted out. To direct sow, plant seeds in well-worked soil that has been deeply watered and is debris-free. Cover with 1/4” of finely sifted soil. If using starter pots, plant seeds into thoroughly moist high-quality seed starting soil. Place seeds on the top of the soil and cover with 1/4” of finely sifted soil. Once your lettuce has germinated and the first set of true leaves show, fertilize with an organic liquid fertilizer. When the plants are 3-4” tall you can plant them out into the garden. If you are planting lettuce plants out during a warm spell or during the warm season, crop protection like shade cloth may be necessary. Growing Mesclun Mix Lettuce Grow in full sun during the cooler part of the year. In warmer months, lettuce can take some shade. If the weather is particularly hot, you can use shade cloth to protect the crop. Lettuce requires good soil moisture. For Zones 9 and 10, this may mean hand watering daily or regular irrigation. Lettuce is easy to grow and does not suffer from many pest or disease issues. Plant with adequate spacing to ensure good airflow around the plants. This will help with aphids and whiteflies. If you do have pest issues, please see the UC IPM link below. Harvesting Lettuce Lettuce can be harvested at any point that it is worth eating. Depending on the variety of lettuce being grown, you will either harvest the whole head or cut the lettuce 2” above the ground and let it regrow. This is known as a cut and come again crop. There are at least five distinct types of lettuce. Loose leaf lettuce is harvested as a cut and come again crop. Crisp-head or iceberg lettuce grows a central head that is generally harvested whole. Romaine lettuce grows a central head that is generally harvested whole. Bib lettuce grows a central head that is generally harvested whole. Growing Lettuce in Containers Lettuce is a great container crop. Make sure your container is at least 20” deep. Keep in mind containers will dry out faster because they have more surface area and less soil to hold onto moisture. Mulch heavily on the top layer of soil in the pot to keep the soil from drying out or heating up too much. Southern California Pro-tips In areas of Zones 9 and 10, lettuce can grow year round but will be less productive and tasty during the hot months. Mulch heavily around your plants to ensure the soil does not dry out or heat up too much. Protect lettuce during heat spells with shade cloth or row cover. Companion Flowers/Crops Lettuce enjoys the company of flowers! Grow alyssum, nasturtium and gaillardia around your lettuce plant both for beauty and to being beneficial insects. Additional Learning Resources New to starting crops from seeds? Please watch our Seed Starting Presentation to learn the basics! Learn about growing all our crops on our YouTube page ! Having pest issues? Check out in-depth information for pests that can be an issue for lettuce at the UC Integrated Pest Management site .

Cucumber, National Pickling

National Pickling cucumber is a flavorful variety that produces loads of cucumbers for you to enjoy! This cucumber is grown for pickle lovers with high yield and early fruits. Dark green fruit can be picked from small to the largest at 5”-6” inches. Resistant to scab and cucumber mosaic virus. Planting by Zones Zones 9-10 Cucumbers are easily direct sown or transplanted. This warm season crop should be grown when soils are at a minimum temperature of 70°F. Zones 2-8 Start 3-4 weeks before transplanting. Soil should be warm and overnight temperatures should not drop below 60 degrees for the happiest plants. Planting Cucumber Seeds Seeds are very easy to direct sow. For Zones 9 and 10, sow seeds in deeply irrigated soils to guarantee even and quick germination. Plant seeds 6” apart. Fertilize regularly with an organic liquid fertilizer once seedlings have germinated and are about 4” tall . Transplant out when plants are 5-6” tall and healthy. Space at least 6” apart. Succession planting Cucumber Plant every 21 days for continuous crop to harvest. Growing Cucumber Cucumbers enjoy warm temperatures, good fertility, and consistent moisture. For Zones 9 and 10, this means watering often or running irrigation. DO NOT overhead water as this promotes disease. Water at the base of the plant. Side-dress with a granular organic fertilizer if you believe your soil has low fertility. With the exception of some bush varieties, you will need a trellis for support. If you are limited on space, use our Tomahook system to maximize space and keep your garden area tidy. Practicing good garden hygiene will prevent diseases. Growing Cucumber in Containers Cucumber can be planted in a container but should be planted in a large container with good soil. Cucumbers need regular moisture to be happy and containers dry out very quickly in the heat of Zones 9 and 10. Be sure to mulch heavily and add compost to your container to retain moisture between waterings. Harvesting Cucumber Harvest small for maximum production and best flavor. This is about 15-18 days after pollination. Check your plants every 2-3 days for more cucumbers. There is always one hiding! Leaving several ripe cucumbers on the plant will take away the energy needed to develop more fruit. Southern California Pro-tips Succession plant several times throughout the warm season in areas of Zones 9 and 10 to enjoy a large harvest. Companion Flowers/Crops Plants like alyssum and gaillardia look stunning planted with trellised vines. Additional Learning Resources Learn about using Tomahooks from our friends over at Nature is Always Right . Shop Tomahooks here . New to starting crops from seeds? Please watch our Seed Starting Presentation to learn the basics! Learn about growing all our crops on our YouTube page ! Having pest issues? Check out in-depth information for pests that can be an issue to cucumber at the UC Integrated Pest Management site . [fusion_youtube id="https://youtu.be/cLNli85bc00" alignment="" width="" height="" autoplay="false" api_params="&rel=0" hide_on_mobile="small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility" class="" css_id=""][/fusion_youtube]