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Important planting note:  When your bulbs arrive they should appear to be quite dry. DO NOT WET THEM NOR STICK THEIR ROOTS IN WATER. Unpack them and store them in a cool, dry place until it is time to plant. Do not worry that your bulbs are dry. They will "shoot" new roots and new, green tops as soon as they are planted.

ⓘ How to Plant, Grow, and Harvest Organic Bulb Onions

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The Crego Mix Aster (Callistephus chinensis) is a showy collection of full 4" flower heads with delicate curled petals in multiple pastel hues of red, white, pink, and purple. Also called China Aster, it resembles the Chrysanthemum and grows 2'-3' tall. A soft accent in the garden or as a cut flower.

• Life cycle: Annual
• Bloom season: Summer, fall
• Attracts: Bees, butterflies, and other pollinators
• Flower meaning: Afterthought, daintiness, elegance, love of variety, patience

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Callistephus chinensis
• Hardiness zones: 2-11
• Planting season: Spring
• Days to maturity: 90-120
• Cold stratify: No
• Depth to plant seeds: Lightly cover - seeds need light to germinate
• Spacing between plants: 8"-12" apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 14-21 days
• Germination soil temps: 70F-75F
• Soil types: Loamy, well-drained
• Soil pH: 5.5-7.5
• Water needs: Average
• Sun needs: Full sun, part shade
• Frost tolerant: No
• Drought tolerant: No
• Deer resistant: Yes

The Aster, particularly the Single Mix China variety, is a popular choice among gardeners due to its vibrant colors and adaptability to various growing conditions. This perennial plant belongs to the Asteraceae family, which is known for its diverse range of flowering species. Asters are native to Europe, Asia, and North America, and they thrive in temperate climates.

One of the notable characteristics of the Aster, Single Mix China, is its ability to produce an array of colors, including shades of pink, purple, blue, and white. These flowers typically bloom from late summer to early fall, providing a crucial source of nectar for pollinators such as bees and butterflies during a time when many other plants have finished flowering. In fact, studies have shown that Asters can attract up to 50% more pollinators compared to other flowering plants in the same environment.

The growth habit of the Aster, Single Mix China, is upright, reaching heights of approximately 1 to 3 feet, depending on the specific cultivar and growing conditions. The plant prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a range of pH levels, although it thrives best in slightly acidic to neutral soils (pH 6.0 to 7.0). Asters are also known for their drought resistance once established, requiring minimal watering, which makes them an excellent choice for sustainable gardening practices.

In terms of care, Asters benefit from regular deadheading, which encourages further blooming and prevents the plant from becoming leggy. Fertilization is generally not necessary; however, a balanced, slow-release fertilizer can be applied in early spring to promote healthy growth. Furthermore, Asters are relatively pest-resistant, although they may occasionally attract aphids or spider mites. Integrated pest management strategies, such as introducing beneficial insects, can effectively control these pests without the need for chemical interventions.

When planting Aster, Single Mix China, it is advisable to space the plants approximately 12 to 18 inches apart to allow for adequate air circulation and to minimize the risk of fungal diseases. This spacing also promotes healthy growth and ensures that each plant has sufficient access to sunlight. Asters thrive in full sun to partial shade, with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day being ideal for optimal flowering.

In summary, the Aster, Single Mix China flowers are an excellent addition to any garden, providing not only aesthetic appeal but also ecological benefits. Their resilience, vibrant colors, and ability to attract pollinators make them a valuable choice for both novice and experienced gardeners alike. By understanding the specific needs and characteristics of this plant, gardeners can successfully cultivate Asters and enjoy their beauty for many seasons to come.

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Callistephus chinensis
• Hardiness zones: 2-11
• Planting season: Spring
• Days to maturity: 90-120
• Cold stratify: No
• Depth to plant seeds: Lightly cover - seeds need light to germinate
• Spacing between plants: 8"-12" apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 14-21 days
• Germination soil temps: 70F-75F
• Soil types: Loamy, well-drained
• Soil pH: 5.5-7.5
• Water needs: Average
• Sun needs: Full sun, part shade
• Frost tolerant: No
• Drought tolerant: No
• Deer resistant: Yes

If you enjoy going to Japanese restaurants or eating sushi, then you have probably eaten these beans cooked fresh or as tofu. The Midori Giant Edamame Soy Bean produces high yields of large 3" pods, with flavor best described as sweet, nutty, and buttery. You can cook the beans in their pods or shell them and use them fresh in any recipe.

• Easy to grow
• Large, high-yielding pods and beans
• Sweet flavor
• Grown just like green beans

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Glycine max
• Depth to plant seeds: 1" deep
• Spacing between plants: 3"-4" apart
• Spacing between rows: 18"-24" apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 5-10 days
• Germination soil temps: 65F-90F
• Soil needs: 5.5-7.5 pH
• Sun needs: Full sun
• Frost hardy: No
• Planting season: Spring, summer, fall
• # of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 4-6 plants per sq. ft.
• Days to maturity: 80-95 days

Good companion plants: Cucumber, Pea, Rosemary, Thyme, Tomato

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The Harvester Bush Bean grows high off the ground for easy picking. It has excellent flavor from pods that can grow up to 6" long. And you can be enjoying the juicy crunchiness in only 55 days. What’s not to like about this easy string bean?

• Easy to grow
• High yielding
• Easy to harvest
• Long, flavorful pods

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Phaseolus vulgaris
• Depth to plant seeds: 1" deep
• Spacing between plants: 4" apart
• Spacing between rows: 18"-24" apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 5-10 days
• Germination soil temps: 70F-85F
• Soil needs: 6.0-7.0 pH
• Sun needs: Full sun
• Frost hardy: No
• Planting season: Spring, summer, fall
• # of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 4 plants per sq. ft.
• Days to maturity: 50-55 days

Good companion plants: Cucumber, Pea, Rosemary, Thyme, Tomato

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The Slenderette Bush Bean is a sleek French-type green bean. A vigorous grower that produces high yields of slim 5" long stringless pods on a compact plant. This sweet, juicy, tender, crunchy bean would taste great in a European thin/thick bean salad served alongside wider Roma II Italian beans.

• Easy to grow
• Stringless variety
  
• Sweet, juicy, tender, and crunchy
• High yields

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Phaseolus vulgaris
  
• Depth to plant seeds: 1" deep
• Spacing between plants: 4" apart
• Spacing between rows: 18"-24" apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 5-10 days
• Germination soil temps: 70F-85F
• Soil needs: 6.0-7.0 pH
• Sun needs: Full sun
  
• Frost hardy: No
• Planting season: Spring, summer, fall
  
• # of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 4 plants per sq. ft.
• Days to maturity: 50-55 days

Click here to view our full Bean grow guide

Good companion plants: Cucumber, Pea, Rosemary, Thyme, Tomato

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Not only does the Tongue of Fire Bush Bean have one of the best names for a vegetable, this Italian heirloom bean produces beautiful, flavorful wide cranberry streaked pods. Originally collected in Tierra del Fuego on the tip of South America, it produces 6"-7" long pods on a compact plant. Eat it young as a green bean, shell it when it matures, or let it dry and cook the large beans as you would kidney beans.

• Easy to grow
• High yielding
• Beautiful and delicious
• 6"-7" long pods

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Phaseolus vulgaris
  
• Depth to plant seeds: 1" deep
  
• Spacing between plants: 4" apart
  
• Spacing between rows: 18"-24" apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 5-10 days
  
• Germination soil temps: 70F-85F
• Soil needs: 6.0-7.0 pH
• Sun needs: Full sun
  
• Frost hardy: No
• Planting season: Spring, summer, fall
  
• # of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 4 plants per sq. ft.
  
• Days to maturity: 55-90 days
  

Click here to view our full Bean grow guide

Good companion plants: Cucumber, Pea, Rosemary, Thyme, Tomato

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The Top Crop Bush Bean lives up to its name. This All-American Selections (AAS) winner produces high yields high up on a tall plant for easy harvesting. The 6"-7" pods are smooth, round, straight, and stringless, and they mature early in about 50 days. Also add heat tolerant to the list.

• Easy to grow
• Easy to harvest
• Heat tolerant
• Matures early—50 days

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Phaseolus vulgaris
  
• Depth to plant seeds: 1" deep
  
• Spacing between plants: 4" apart
  
• Spacing between rows: 18"-24" apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 5-10 days
• Germination soil temps: 70F-85F
• Soil needs: 6.0-7.0 pH
• Sun needs: Full sun
• Frost hardy: No
• Planting season: Spring, summer, fall
• # of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 4 plants per sq. ft.
• Days to maturity: 50-55 days

Click here to view our full Bean grow guide

Good companion plants: Cucumber, Pea, Rosemary, Thyme, Tomato

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The Thorogreen Lima Bean is a high-yielding heirloom that loves higher temperatures. Plump, light green pods grow at the top of a compact plant for easy harvesting. Both fresh and dried beans have a smooth, buttery flavor. When eating fresh, be sure to cook them, as raw beans are toxic. This compact bush-type plant spreads wider than green beans, so give them room to grow.

• Easy to grow
• Bush growth habit
• Heat loving
• Early producer

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Phaseolus lunatus
• Depth to plant seeds: 1.5" deep
• Spacing between plants: 6"-8" apart
• Spacing between rows: 24"-30" apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 10-21 days
• Germination soil temps: 70F-90F
• Soil needs: 6.0-7.0 pH
• Sun needs: Full sun
• Frost hardy: No
• Planting season: Spring, summer, fall
• # of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 2-4 plants per sq. ft.
• Days to maturity: 65-75 days

Click here to view our full Bean grow guide

Good companion plants: Cucumber, Pea, Rosemary, Thyme, Tomato

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With a name like King of the Garden Lima Bean, you can expect great things. This pole bean produces prolific yields of 7" pods full of large white lima beans with sweet, smooth flavor. Vines can grow 9'-10' high. Will continue to blossom and produce throughout the hot summer months. Cook them before you eat them fresh, as raw lima beans are toxic.

• Easy to grow
• Prolific producer
• Heat loving
• Sweet flavor

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Phaseolus lunatus
• Depth to plant seeds: 1.5" deep
• Spacing between plants: 4"-5" apart
• Spacing between rows: 24"-30" apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 10-21 days
• Germination soil temps: 70F-90F
• Soil needs: 6.0-7.0 pH
• Sun needs: Full sun
• Frost hardy: No
• Planting season: Spring, summer
• # of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 4-6 plants per sq. ft.
• Days to maturity: 85-95 days

Click here to view our full Bean grow guide

Good companion plants: Cucumber, Pea, Rosemary, Thyme, Tomato

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The Red-Seeded Asparagus Yard-Long Pole Bean says it all—very long asparagus-green and -flavored pods with red beans inside, except it grows to only half its claim. Also called Snake Bean or Chinese Long Bean, but why use half the words, too? Thank goodness it’s stringless, or you’d spend all day stringing pods in the heat that it loves. Vigorous vines can grow to 12'. For best umami flavor, harvest when 8"-12" long and the width of a pencil.

• Easy to grow
• Stringless variety
• Heat loving
• Umami flavor

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Phaseolus vulgaris
• Depth to plant seeds: 1" deep
• Spacing between plants: 5" apart
• Spacing between rows: 18"-24" apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 8-14 days
• Germination soil temps: 70F-90F
• Soil needs: 6.0-7.0 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: 75-85 days

Click here to view our full Bean grow guide

Good companion plants: Cucumber, Pea, Rosemary, Thyme, Tomato

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The Kentucky Wonder White-Seeded Pole Bean is one of the oldest and most widely enjoyed bean varieties ever grown. It produces reliably heavy yields of 6"-8" long green pods with white beans inside. If you prefer brown beans, we sell those too. These stringless beans grow high off the ground for easy harvesting.

• Easy to grow
• Prolific producer
  
• Long pods up to 8"
• Stringless variety

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Phaseolus vulgaris
• Depth to plant seeds: 1" deep
• Spacing between plants: 4" apart
• Spacing between rows: 18"-24" apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 5-10 days
• Germination soil temps: 70F-85F
• Soil needs: 6.0-7.0 pH
• Sun needs: Full sun
• Frost hardy: No
• Planting season: Spring, summer, fall
• # of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 4 plants per sq. ft.
• Days to maturity: 55-60

Click here to view our full Bean grow guide

Good companion plants: Cucumber, Pea, Rosemary, Thyme, Tomato

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The Purple Podded Pole Bean produces a profuse plurality of purely purple pods. View this variety vegetate vigorous verdant vines with violet developments. Stringless shells surround savory seeds.

• Easy to grow
• High yielding
• Long pods up to 7"
• Easy to harvest

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Phaseolus vulgaris
• Depth to plant seeds: 1" deep
• Spacing between plants: 5" apart
• Spacing between rows: 18"-24" apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 8-14 days
• Germination soil temps: 70F-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. 4 plants per sq. ft.
• Days to maturity: 70-75 days

Click here to view our full Bean grow guide

Good companion plants: Cucumber, Pea, Rosemary, Thyme, Tomato

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The Rattlesnake Pole Bean is as delicious as it is beautiful. Long purple-and-green streaked pods dangle from strong 10' vines, with streaked beige beans inside. Like its namesnake, it’s not bothered by heat, humidity, or drought. If you hear it rattle, it has probably dried on the vine. Grow alongside other streaked beans, like Tongue of Fire and Borlotti.

• Easy to grow
• Heat tolerant
• Long pods up to 8"-10”
• Eat fresh or dried

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Phaseolus vulgaris
• Depth to plant seeds: 1" deep
• Spacing between plants: 5" apart
• Spacing between rows: 18"-24" apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 8-14 days
• Germination soil temps: 70F-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. 4 plants per sq. ft.
• Days to maturity: 70-75 days

Click here to view our full Bean grow guide

Good companion plants: Cucumber, Pea, Rosemary, Thyme, Tomato

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The Romano Pole Bean is a traditional Italian heirloom bean enjoyed by generations of gardeners. The vining plant produces high yields of flat, wide, stringless 6" pods that taste best when harvested young. Just a great all-around green bean.

• Easy to grow
• Stringless variety
• Harvest young for best flavor
• Vining plant requires staking

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Phaseolus vulgaris
  
• Depth to plant seeds: 1" deep
• Spacing between plants: 5" apart
• Spacing between rows: 18"-24" apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 8-14 days
• Germination soil temps: 70F-85F
• Soil needs: 6.0-7.0 pH
• Sun needs: Full sun
• Frost hardy: No
• Planting season: Spring, summer, fall
• # of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 4 plants per sq. ft.
• Days to maturity: 65-80 days

Click here to view our full Bean grow guide

Good companion plants: Cucumber, Pea, Rosemary, Thyme, Tomato

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• Easy to grow
• High yields
• Long pods up to 12"
• Eat fresh, shelled, or dried

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Phaseolus coccineus
• Depth to plant seeds: 1" deep
• Spacing between plants: 5" apart
• Spacing between rows: 18"-24" apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 8-14 days
• Germination soil temps: 70F-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. 4 plants per sq. ft.
• Days to maturity: 80-115 days

Click here to view our full Bean grow guide.

Good companion plants: Cucumber, Pea, Rosemary, Thyme, Tomato

The White Emergo Runner Pole Bean twinkles with lots of sweet white flowers, which may be why it’s also known as Sweet White Runner Bean. Vigorous vines can grow to 10' to support long 8"-12" pods with creamy white beans inside. Pick young for snap beans and mature for shell beans, or let them dry for a bean similar to cannellini.

• Easy to grow
• Tasty white beans
• Long pods up to 8"-12”
• Eat fresh, shelled, or dried

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Phaseolus coccineus
• Depth to plant seeds: 1" deep
• Spacing between plants: 5" apart
• Spacing between rows: 18"-24" apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 8-14 days
• Germination soil temps: 70F-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. 4 plants per sq. ft.
• Days to maturity: 80-115 days

Click here to view our full Bean grow guide

Good companion plants: Cucumber, Pea, Rosemary, Thyme, Tomato

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• Old italian heirloom variety that produces excellent yields of beautifully unique green broccoli heads.
  
  - This is a unique Italian variety with better taste and texture than other broccoli.
  
  - It has beautiful apple green spiraling buds and is especially well adapted to the north.
  
  - A heirloom variety from Italy.
  
  
• Days to Maturity | 75 days
  
  
• Broccoli is high in vitamin C, as well as dietary fiber; it also contains multiple nutrients with potent anti-cancer properties, such as diindolylmethane and small amounts of selenium. A single serving provides more than 30 mg of Vitamin C and a half-cup provides 52 mg of Vitamin C.

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.

• Catmint has a long history of use as a household herbal remedy, being employed especially in treating disorders of the digestive system and, as it stimulates sweating, it is useful in reducing fevers
  
  - Catmint is considered to be beneficial in the treatment of fevers and colds
  
  - It is also very useful in the treatment of restlessness and nervousness, being very useful as a mild nervine for children
  
  
• Days to Maturity | 65 days
  
  

Want more? View our entire collection of high-potency Medicinal Herb seed varieties.

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Chicory - Verona Red (100% Heirloom/Non-Hybrid/Non-GMO)

• The Verona Red Chicory produces round and red cabbage like heads. 
  
  - Popular in salads
  
  - Can be cooked as a vegetable
  
  - Grows best during the cooler climates
  
• Day to Maturity | 80 days

Chicory - Witloof (100% Heirloom/Non-Hybrid/Non-GMO)

• Witloof Chicory produces heads that have gorgeous light green leaves. 
  
  - A perfect variety for summer and fall harvest.
  
  - Can be used in salads or as a coffee substitute.
  
• Day to Maturity | 55 days

Additional Details

Chicory is a somewhat woody, perennial herbaceous plant usually with bright blue flowers, rarely white or pink. Various varieties are cultivated for salad leaves, chicons (blanched buds), or for roots which are baked, ground, and used as a coffee substitute and additive. It is also grown as a forage crop for livestock. It lives as a wild plant on roadsides in its native Europe, and in North America and Australia, where it has become naturalized.  Credit: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chicory

• This is the traditional Collard Green variety popularly grown in the south
  
  - These plants produce large yields of dark blue-green cabbage-like leaves
  
  - Tolerates heat, humidity, and poor soil conditions
  
  
• Days to Maturity | 75 day
  
  
• Collards | Plant seeds 3 to 4 weeks before your first frost for Spring harvest. Sow seeds approximately 12" from one another.
  
  Click here for complete Collards grow guide

Additional Details

Collard is widely considered to be a healthy food, collards are good sources of vitamin C and soluble fiber and contain multiple nutrients with potent anti-cancer properties, such as diindolylmethane and sulforaphane.[citation needed] Roughly a quarter pound (approx. 100 g) of cooked collards contains 46 calories.

The Columbine McKana's plant, scientifically known as Aquilegia caerulea, is a perennial flowering plant that belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. This plant is renowned for its distinctive, bell-shaped flowers that come in a variety of colors, including blue, purple, and white. The Columbine McKana's is particularly valued in garden settings for its ornamental appeal and ability to attract pollinators such as bees and hummingbirds.

Typically, the Columbine McKana's plant reaches a height of 12 to 36 inches and has a spread of approximately 12 to 18 inches. It thrives in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 9, making it suitable for a wide range of climates. The plant prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate partial shade, although it flourishes best in full sun conditions. It is important to note that while this plant is relatively low-maintenance, it does require regular watering, especially during dry spells.

One of the key benefits of incorporating Columbine McKana's into a garden is its extended blooming period. The flowers typically appear in late spring to early summer, lasting for several weeks. This not only enhances the visual appeal of the garden but also provides a vital food source for pollinators during their active season. Research indicates that gardens with diverse plant species, including flowering plants like Columbine, can increase pollinator populations by up to 50%.

In terms of propagation, Columbine McKana's can be grown from seeds or divisions. When starting from seeds, it is advisable to sow them in late winter or early spring. The seeds require light for germination, so they should be lightly pressed into the soil rather than covered. Germination typically occurs within 2 to 3 weeks under optimal conditions. For those looking to propagate through divisions, it is best to do so in the fall or early spring when the plant is not actively blooming.

It is also worth mentioning that Columbine McKana's is susceptible to certain pests and diseases, including aphids and powdery mildew. Regular monitoring and appropriate cultural practices, such as ensuring good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering, can mitigate these issues. In cases of severe infestations, organic insecticidal soaps may be employed as a control measure.

In conclusion, the Columbine McKana's plant is an excellent addition to any garden, offering both aesthetic beauty and ecological benefits. By understanding its growth requirements and care, gardeners can successfully cultivate this perennial plant, contributing to a vibrant and sustainable garden ecosystem.

The Yellow Prairie Coneflower (Ratibida columnifera), also called Mexican Hat, is the pure yellow form of the native Prairie Coneflower. Grows 15"-24" tall on slender stems with yellow petals that skirt a tall upright cone. This drought-tolerant droopy petaled daisy loves the heat. A cheerful mid-summer pick-me-up that blooms into fall.

• Life cycle: Perennial
• Bloom season: Spring, summer, fall
• Attracts: Birds, bees, butterflies, beneficial insects, and other pollinators
• Flower meaning: Healing, health, strength

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Ratibida columnifera
• Hardiness zones: 4-9
• Planting season: Spring, fall
• Days to maturity: 2nd year
• Cold stratify: Yes
• Depth to plant seeds: Lightly cover - seeds need light to germinate
• Spacing between plants: 12"-18" apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 7-21 days
• Germination soil temps: 65F-75F
• Soil types: Clay, sandy, loamy, silty, chalky, rocky, dry, moist
• Soil pH: 6.8-7.2
• Water needs: Average
• Sun needs: Full sun
• Frost tolerant: No
• Drought tolerant: Yes
• Deer resistant: Yes

• The Chinese Snake (Curved) cucumber produces fruits that are smooth, dark-green with white spines
  
  - The fruits grow to about 15" to 18" long and curved
  
  - Grows on strong & vigorous vines
  
  
• Days to Maturity | 75 days
  
  
• Cucumber Seeds | Grow cucumbers where a long, warm growing season, minimum 65 days, can be assured. Plant seeds where there is ample space and vines can sprawl, the simplest way is to plant cucumbers in hills.
  
  Click here for complete Cucumber grow guide

The Daisy, specifically the Rudbeckia Hirta, is a perennial plant that is widely appreciated for its vibrant yellow flowers and its ability to thrive in various garden conditions. This species, commonly known as the Black-eyed Susan, belongs to the Asteraceae family and is native to North America. The plant typically reaches a height of 1 to 3 feet and produces flowers that can measure up to 3 inches in diameter.

Rudbeckia Hirta is characterized by its distinctive dark brown or black center, surrounded by bright yellow petals. This striking appearance not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of gardens but also attracts a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies, which are essential for maintaining ecological balance. Studies indicate that plants like Rudbeckia Hirta can increase pollinator activity by up to 50% in garden environments.

In terms of cultivation, Rudbeckia Hirta is known for its resilience and adaptability. It prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade, making it suitable for diverse planting locations. The plant thrives in well-drained soil and can withstand drought conditions once established. It is important to note that while Rudbeckia Hirta is relatively low-maintenance, regular deadheading can promote prolonged blooming periods, extending the flowering season from mid-summer to early fall.

From a horticultural perspective, the Rudbeckia Hirta is often used in mixed borders, wildflower gardens, and as a cut flower in arrangements. Its ability to self-seed allows for natural propagation, contributing to the sustainability of garden ecosystems. However, gardeners should be mindful of its potential to spread, as it can become invasive in certain regions if not managed properly.

In summary, the Daisy (Rudbeckia Hirta) is a valuable addition to any garden, offering both visual appeal and ecological benefits. Its ease of care, coupled with its role in supporting pollinator populations, makes it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced gardeners alike. By incorporating Rudbeckia Hirta into your gardening plans, you can enhance the biodiversity and beauty of your outdoor space.

• Life cycle: Tender perennial
• Bloom season: Summer
• Attracts: Bees, butterflies, and other pollinators
• Flower meaning: Justice

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Rudbeckia hirta
• Hardiness zones: 3-8
• Planting season: Spring, fall
• Days to maturity: 90-120 days
• Cold stratify: Yes
• Depth to plant seeds: Lightly cover - seeds need light to germinate
• Spacing between plants: 12"-18" apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 7-21 days
• Germination soil temps: 70F-75F
• Soil types: Clay, sandy, loamy, moist, well-drained
• Soil pH: 6.8-7.7
• Water needs: Average
• Sun needs: Full sun, part shade
• Frost tolerant: No
• Drought tolerant: Yes
• Deer resistant: Yes

• Taraxacum officinalis. Perennial.
• This strain forms lush heads of leaves that will rival your favorite lettuce. The leaves are tender, fleshy and dark green.
• The plants spread up to 2 ft and the vitamin rich leaves can be eaten raw, boiled, stir fried and used in soup.
• The roots can be eaten raw, cooked or roasted and made into a coffee substitute.
• The flowers can be used to make fritters, tea and dandelion wine.

• Fruits are black and round
  
  
• Excellent flavor and a must -try if you you enjoy eggplant
  
  
• Easy to grow
  
  
• Eggplant Seeds | Start seed indoors to allow at least 10 weeks for young plants to develop. Plant in rows 3 feet apart, with 2 feet between plants.
  
  Click here for complete Eggplant grow guide

• Solanum melongena. Plant produces good yields of tennis ball size bright orange eggplants
  
  - Extremely flavorful
  
  - Easy to grow
  
  - Perfect for stuffings
  
  
• Days to Maturity | 90 days
  
  
• Eggplant Seeds | Start seed indoors to allow at least 10 weeks for young plants to develop. Plant in rows 3 feet apart, with 2 feet between plants.
  
  Click here for complete Eggplant grow guide