• The Yellow Paris is a very large pumpkin
  
  - An old heirloom variety from France
  
  
• Days to Maturity | 100 days

Additional Details

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

 

Asparagus plants are perennials that can easily produce for 20+ years, so give this vegetable a permanent and sunny spot in your garden. To ensure many years of future production, wait until the second year to cut and consume the spears.

⚠️ F1 Hybrid - These crowns are 2-year-old bare roots that are all male, which means possibly higher (3-4 times) yields. The Millennium Asparagus is an F1 hybrid variety developed in Canada.

• Cold hardy, but protect from frost
  
• Easy to care for, once established
• Beautiful fern-like foliage lingers after harvest
• Best adapted to heavier soils
  

CROWN PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Asparagus officinalis
  
• Depth to plant crowns: 6"-8" deep
• Spacing between plants: 14"-18" apart
• Spacing between rows: 4'-5' apart
• Preferred temps: When daytime temps exceed 75F–85F
• Soil needs: 6.0-7.0 pH
• Sun needs: Full sun, partial shade
• Frost hardy: No
• Planting season: Spring, fall
• # of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 1 plant per sq. ft.
• Days to maturity: 730 days

ADDITIONAL PLANT INFORMATION

Health Benefits of Asparagus
Asparagus contains high levels of beta carotene and other vitamins and minerals, and is a great diuretic. Need more fiber? Chew on some asparagus. And if you're looking for help controlling diabetes or preventing kidney stones, plant and eat more asparagus.

Ways to Eat Asparagus
Asparagus is delicious raw or marinated in a little olive oil, lemon juice, and salt. You can also boil, steam, grill, roast, or sauté the spears. Add some asparagus to your other favorite foods such as soups, risottos, lasagnas, and quiches. To preserve your harvest, can up a few jars of pickled asparagus.

How to Plant Garlic

Garlic can be planted in the spring as soon as the ground can be worked, but fall planting is recommended. Bulbs will grow bigger and more flavorful when you plant them in the fall.  

Key Planting Info:

• Break apart cloves from bulb but keep the papery husk on each individual clove.
• Ensure soil is well-drained with plenty of organic matter. Plant in Full Sun.
• Plant 4 inches apart & 2 inches deep, in their upright position (the wide end down and pointed end facing up).
• Come springtime, shoots will begin to emerge.

Click here for a more detailed Garlic Grow Guide ->

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

Additional Details

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

• The True Green Hubbard squash is popular 10 lb long dark bronze-green skinned squash
• Orange/Yellow flesh 
  
• Very sweet and full of flavor - perfect for pies and canning
  
• Ideal for any sized garden and easy to grow
  
• Days to Maturity | 110 days
  
  

Additional Details

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

Some say Purple Passion Asparagus is the best variety. This variety produces beautiful dark purple spears that are sweeter than standard green varieties. Asparagus plants are perennials that can easily produce for 20+ years, so give this vegetable a permanent and sunny spot in your garden. To ensure many years of future production, wait until the second year to cut and consume the spears.

⚠️ F1 Hybrid - These crowns are 2-year-old bare roots that are all male, which means possibly higher (3-4 times) yields. 

• Vigorous grower
• Sweet and tender
• Heat tolerant
• Cold hardy, but protect from frost

CROWN PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Asparagus officinalis
• Depth to plant crowns: 6"-8" deep
• Spacing between plants: 14"-18" apart
• Spacing between rows: 4'-5' apart
• Preferred temps: When daytime temps exceed 75F–85F
• Soil needs: 6.0-7.0 pH
• Sun needs: Full sun, partial shade
• Frost hardy: No
• Planting season: Spring, fall
• # of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 1 plant per sq. ft.
• Days to maturity: 730 days

ADDITIONAL PLANT INFORMATION

Health Benefits of Asparagus
Asparagus contains high levels of beta carotene and other vitamins and minerals, and is a great diuretic. Need more fiber? Chew on some asparagus. And if you're looking for help controlling diabetes or preventing kidney stones, plant and eat more asparagus.

Ways to Eat Asparagus
Asparagus is delicious raw or marinated in a little olive oil, lemon juice, and salt. You can also boil, steam, grill, roast, or sauté the spears. Add some asparagus to your other favorite foods such as soups, risottos, lasagnas, and quiches. To preserve your harvest, can up a few jars of pickled asparagus.

• This popular pea variety is sweet, sugary and tender
• This edible pod snow pea has made its place in home gardens for many years
• These pea pods are some of the biggest ( appx. 4-5")
• Makes for an excellent addition to stir fry
• Big white flowers are an bonus as they quickly turn into tasty peas
• This pea has been so successful it has been considered a commercial variety for generations
• Days to Maturity | 65-70 days

Additional Details

Peas are high in vitamin A, vitamin C, B vitamins and lutein. Dry weight is about one-quarter protein and one-quarter sugar.

• 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

The African Flake Daisy (Dimorphotheca sinuata), also called Cape Marigold, puts out 2"-3" daisy-like flowers in bright, happy colors of orange, white, and yellow around brown-rimmed centers on 8"-16" stems. Whether in the garden or a vase, this day flower closes up its petals at night, reopening the next day. Drought tolerant and blooms early.

• Life cycle: Annual
• Bloom season: Spring, summer, fall
• Attracts: Bees, butterflies, and other pollinators
• Flower meaning: Innocence, new beginnings, purity, true love

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Dimorphotheca sinuata
• Hardiness zones: 2-11
• Planting season: Spring, fall
• Days to maturity: 90 days
• Cold stratify: No
• Depth to plant seeds: Lightly cover - seeds need light to germinate
• Spacing between plants: 8"-12" apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 10-21 days
• Germination soil temps: 65F-75F
• Soil types: Sandy, loamy, well-drained
• Soil pH: 6.5-7.0
• Water needs: Low - prefers dry soil
• Sun needs: Full sun
• Frost tolerant: No
• Drought tolerant: Yes
• Deer resistant: Yes

How to Plant Garlic

Garlic can be planted in the spring as soon as the ground can be worked, but fall planting is recommended. Bulbs will grow bigger and more flavorful when you plant them in the fall.  Plant 6 to 8 weeks before your first hard frost.  In southern areas, February or March can be a better time to plant.

Key Planting Info:

• Break apart cloves from bulb but keep the papery husk on each individual clove.
• Ensure soil is well-drained with plenty of organic matter. Plant in Full Sun.
• Plant 4 inches apart & 2 inches deep, in their upright position (the wide end down and pointed end facing up).
• Come springtime, shoots will begin to emerge.

Click here for a more detailed Garlic Grow Guide ->

The Roma II Bush Bean is an Italian snap bean with flat stringless pods. A tender, meaty bean that retains its fresh flavor when cooked or canned, and is hearty enough to throw on the grill. This high yielder grows tall, making it easy to harvest lots of wide 5"-6" pods.

• Easy to grow
• Tender and flavorful
• Stringless variety
• High yields

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Phaseolus vulgaris
• Depth to plant seeds: 1.25" deep
• Spacing between plants: 5-6" 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: 58-65 days

Click here to view our full Bean grow guide

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

Shop more:  
BUSH BEANS
FAVA & BROAD BEANS
LIMA BEANS
POLE BEANS

How to Plant Garlic

Garlic can be planted in the spring as soon as the ground can be worked, but fall planting is recommended. Bulbs will grow bigger and more flavorful when you plant them in the fall.  Plant 6 to 8 weeks before your first hard frost.  In southern areas, February or March can be a better time to plant.

Key Planting Info:

• Break apart cloves from bulb but keep the papery husk on each individual clove.
• Ensure soil is well-drained with plenty of organic matter. Plant in Full Sun.
• Plant 4 inches apart & 2 inches deep, in their upright position (the wide end down and pointed end facing up).
• Come springtime, shoots will begin to emerge.

Click here for a more detailed Garlic Grow Guide ->

How to Plant Garlic

Garlic can be planted in the spring as soon as the ground can be worked, but fall planting is recommended. Bulbs will grow bigger and more flavorful when you plant them in the fall.  Plant 6 to 8 weeks before your first hard frost.  In southern areas, February or March can be a better time to plant.

Key Planting Info:

• Break apart cloves from bulb but keep the papery husk on each individual clove.
• Ensure soil is well-drained with plenty of organic matter. Plant in Full Sun.
• Plant 4 inches apart & 2 inches deep, in their upright position (the wide end down and pointed end facing up).
• Come springtime, shoots will begin to emerge.

Click here for a more detailed Garlic Grow Guide ->

How to Plant Garlic

Garlic can be planted in the spring as soon as the ground can be worked, but fall planting is recommended. Bulbs will grow bigger and more flavorful when you plant them in the fall.  

Key Planting Info:

• Break apart cloves from bulb but keep the papery husk on each individual clove.
• Ensure soil is well-drained with plenty of organic matter. Plant in Full Sun.
• Plant 4 inches apart & 2 inches deep, in their upright position (the wide end down and pointed end facing up).
• Come springtime, shoots will begin to emerge.

Click here for a more detailed Garlic Grow Guide ->

The Golden Wax Bush Bean is a beautiful buttery treat in the garden. With its long, straight yellow pods, this heavy producing stringless bean is easy to cook or can. Grow these alongside Borlotti Bush Beans and Royal Burgundy Bush Beans for an artistic change from the usual green beans.

• Easy to grow
• Stringless variety
• Produces long 5"-7" pods
• Buttery wax bean flavor

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Phaseolus vulgaris
• Depth to plant seeds: 1" deep
  
• Spacing between plants: 4"-6" apart
• Spacing between rows: 18"-24" apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 10-14 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: 65-75 days

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

Shop more:  
BUSH BEANS
FAVA & BROAD BEANS
LIMA BEANS
POLE BEANS

• The Chicago Warted Hubbard Warted squash is popular green skinned squash with orange flesh
  
• Very sweet and full of flavor - perfect for pies, canning, and processing.
  
• Ideal for any sized garden and easy to grow.
  
• Days to Maturity | 110 days
  
  

Additional Details

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

How to Plant Garlic

Garlic can be planted in the spring as soon as the ground can be worked, but fall planting is recommended. Bulbs will grow bigger and more flavorful when you plant them in the fall.  Plant 6 to 8 weeks before your first hard frost.  In southern areas, February or March can be a better time to plant.

Key Planting Info:

• Break apart cloves from bulb but keep the papery husk on each individual clove.
• Ensure soil is well-drained with plenty of organic matter. Plant in Full Sun.
• Plant 4 inches apart & 2 inches deep, in their upright position (the wide end down and pointed end facing up).
• Come springtime, shoots will begin to emerge.

Click here for a more detailed Garlic Grow Guide ->

• The Cushaw plant produces some of the most beautiful white crookneck squash you've ever seen
  
  - Curved/crook-neck variety
  
  - Grows as a vine (not as a bush)
  
  - Very sweet and full of flavor - perfect for pies and canning
  
  - Ideal for any sized garden and easy to grow
  
  
• Days to Maturity | 100 days

Additional Details

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

The Alaska Early Pea (Pisum sativum), originally named Earliest of All, has a lot of great qualities. As you can guess, it’s one of the earliest to produce in only 55 days. It’s a semi-dwarf frost-tolerant bush variety that grows to only 2'-3' tall and doesn’t require staking. And it produces lots of 2"-3" pods with 5-8 small, plump, smooth, peas inside. Nice flavor that isn’t too sweet. It was renamed in the late 1800s after the steamship Alaska. Can be grown in Alaska, the lower 48, and Hawaii.

• Not too sweet
• Full sun
• High yields
• Early maturity—55 days
• Good for containers

Good companion plants: Bean, Carrot, Cucumber, Parsley, Pepper, Sage, Spinach, Squash, Strawberry, Thyme

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Pisum sativum
• Hardiness zones: 2-11
• Pea type: English/shelling - remove peas from pod before eating
• Growth habit: Bush - no support
• Depth to plant seeds: 1" deep
• Spacing between plants: 2"-3" apart
• Spacing between rows: 18"-24" apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 7-21 days
• Germination soil temps: 40F-85F
• Soil needs: Clay, sandy, loamy, chalky, rich, moist, well-drained
• Soil pH: 5.5-7.0
• Sun needs: Full sun
• Frost tolerant: Yes
• # of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 8 plants per sq. ft.
• Days to maturity: 55-60 days

The Russell Lupine Mix (Lupinus polyphyllus) is an easy-care perennial. It’s in the legume family, so it fixes nitrogen in the soil and is a great companion plant or cover crop for the vegetable garden. Produces upright stalks of pea-sized blossoms in various shades of blue, pink, purple, red, and yellow with contrasting tips. Grows 1'-3' tall on sturdy stems with daisy-like palmate foliage. Gorgeous in a pot or an entire field.

If consumed in large quantities, seeds can be toxic to people, pets, and livestock.

• Life cycle: Perennial
• Bloom season: Spring, summer
• Attracts: Bees, butterflies, and other pollinators
• Flower meaning: Abundance, change, growth

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Lupinus polyphyllus
• Hardiness zones: 3-7
• Planting season: Spring, fall
• Days to maturity: 1st or 2nd year
• Cold stratify: No
• Depth to plant seeds: Lightly cover - seeds need light to germinate
• Spacing between plants: 12"-24" apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 15-75 days
• Germination soil temps: 55-70
• Soil types: Sandy, loamy, moist, well-drained
• Soil pH: 6.0-7.0
• Water needs: Average
• Sun needs: Full sun, part shade
• Frost tolerant: Yes
• Drought tolerant: Yes
• Deer resistant: Yes

The Lacy Phacelia (Phacelia tanacetifolia), also known as Scorpionweed and Purple Tansy, is a fast-growing, drought-tolerant, cold-hardy annual in the borage family. Produces coiled, whiskered lavender-colored blossoms that look similar to a scorpion tail, fiddlehead, or thistle. Grows 2'-3' tall on thin, hairy stems with lacy foliage. Plant a few or a field, or add a bit of wildness to a cut arrangement. An especially great companion plant in the vegetable garden as it’s quick to bloom, attracts bees and hoverflies, and stores nitrogen which also makes it a good cover crop.

• Life cycle: Annual
• Bloom season: Summer
• Attracts: Hummingbirds, bees, butterflies, beneficial insects, and other pollinators
• Flower meaning: Determination, endurance, resistance, strength

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Phacelia tanacetifolia
• Hardiness zones: 3-10
• Planting season: Spring, fall
• Days to maturity: 42-55 days
• Cold stratify: No
• Depth to plant seeds: 1/4" deep
• Spacing between plants: 3"-10" apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 7-21 days
• Germination soil temps: 40F-65F
• Soil types: Sandy, loamy, silty, rocky, chalky, moist, well-drained
• Soil pH: 6.0-8.5
• Water needs: Average
• Sun needs: Full sun
• Frost tolerant: Yes
• Drought tolerant: Yes
• Deer resistant: Yes

The Paris Market Carrot (Daucus carota) is a tender, adorable 2" round carrot with very sweet flavor. Grows well in containers, shallow beds, and rocky soil. Half-hardy to frost and light freezes. Good steamed, roasted, and fresh.

• Very sweet and crunchy
• Size: 2" in diameter
• Days to germinate (sprout): 7-21 days
• Days to maturity: 35 days

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

SEED PLANTING TIPS

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

The Green Arrow Pea (Pisum sativum) is an old English heirloom shelling pea. A semi-dwarf frost-tolerant bush variety that grows to only 2'-3' tall and doesn't require staking. High yields for a compact plant. Produces lots of 4"-5" pods with 9-11 plump, tender, sweet peas inside. Delicious fresh or cooked, if you don’t eat them all before you make it into the house.

• Sweet and tender
• Full sun
• High yields
• Good fresh or cooked
• Good for containers

Good companion plants: Bean, Carrot, Cucumber, Parsley, Pepper, Sage, Spinach, Squash, Strawberry, Thyme

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Hardiness zones: 2-11
• Planting season: Spring
• Pea type: English/shelling - remove peas from pod before eating
• Growth habit: Bush - no support
• Depth to plant seeds: 1" deep
• Spacing between plants: 2"-3" apart
• Spacing between rows: 18"-24" apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 7-21 days
• Germination soil temps: 40F-85F
• Soil needs: Clay, sandy, loamy, chalky, rich, moist, well-drained
• Soil pH: 5.5-7.0
• Sun needs: Full sun
• Frost tolerant: Yes
• # of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 8 plants per sq. ft.
• Days to maturity: 65-70 days

Each shallot can typically yield about 5-10 shallots per harvest.  Best time to plant is usually in the Fall (Sept. - Nov.)

Quick Overview:

• Semi-long with red papery skin
• Pungent flavor
• Creamy inside
• Easy to peel
• Easy to grow
  
• Stores very well
  
• Excellent flavor

How to Plant:

Plant the pointy side of the shallot facing up with no more than 1/4" of soil covering the shallot. Make sure your have 7-8 inches of soil to allow the roots to grow freely.  Space each bulb 10" - 12" apart from each other.

• Just as the name suggests, this style of gourd will produce a gourd that is half yellow and half green in the shape of a small pear.
  
  

How to Plant Garlic

Garlic can be planted in the spring as soon as the ground can be worked, but fall planting is recommended. Bulbs will grow bigger and more flavorful when you plant them in the fall.  Plant 6 to 8 weeks before your first hard frost.  In southern areas, February or March can be a better time to plant.

Key Planting Info:

• Break apart cloves from bulb but keep the papery husk on each individual clove.
• Ensure soil is well-drained with plenty of organic matter. Plant in Full Sun.
• Plant 4 inches apart & 2 inches deep, in their upright position (the wide end down and pointed end facing up).
• Come springtime, shoots will begin to emerge.

Click here for a more detailed Garlic Grow Guide ->

How to Plant Garlic

Garlic can be planted in the spring as soon as the ground can be worked, but fall planting is recommended. Bulbs will grow bigger and more flavorful when you plant them in the fall.  Plant 6 to 8 weeks before your first hard frost.  In southern areas, February or March can be a better time to plant.

Key Planting Info:

• Break apart cloves from bulb but keep the papery husk on each individual clove.
• Ensure soil is well-drained with plenty of organic matter. Plant in Full Sun.
• Plant 4 inches apart & 2 inches deep, in their upright position (the wide end down and pointed end facing up).
• Come springtime, shoots will begin to emerge.

Click here for a more detailed Garlic Grow Guide ->

Green Shiso (Perilla frutescens), also called Perilla Leaf and Japanese Basil, is an herb in the mint family with large, bright green, wrinkled, serrated leaves. Not as spicy as Red Shiso. Used extensively in Japanese cuisine, it has a fresh minty-basil flavor with notes of clove and cumin, and a bitter, astringent finish. Pairs well with fish, rice, noodles, and vegetables, especially cucumbers. Also a medicinal herb with antioxidant, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties. Its rhizome root can become invasive, so best grown in a container.

• Mint-basil-clove-cumin flavor
• Full sun
• Days to germinate (sprout): 7-21 days
• Days to maturity: 80-85 days

Good companion plants: Arugula, Basil, Bok Choy, Parsley, Tomato

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

How to Plant Garlic

Garlic can be planted in the spring as soon as the ground can be worked, but fall planting is recommended. Bulbs will grow bigger and more flavorful when you plant them in the fall.  Plant 6 to 8 weeks before your first hard frost.  In southern areas, February or March can be a better time to plant.

Key Planting Info:

• Break apart cloves from bulb but keep the papery husk on each individual clove.
• Ensure soil is well-drained with plenty of organic matter. Plant in Full Sun.
• Plant 4 inches apart & 2 inches deep, in their upright position (the wide end down and pointed end facing up).
• Come springtime, shoots will begin to emerge.

Click here for a more detailed Garlic Grow Guide ->

Onion sprouts and microgreens are increasingly popular among indoor gardeners due to their rapid growth and nutritional benefits. These small, tender plants are not only easy to cultivate but also provide a fresh addition to various dishes. This guide will provide insights into the process of growing onion sprouts and microgreens indoors, focusing on the necessary conditions, techniques, and benefits.

Onion sprouts typically germinate within 7 to 14 days, making them an excellent choice for those seeking a quick harvest.

Soak the seeds in water for a few hours before planting can enhance germination rates, as it allows the seeds to absorb moisture and initiate the sprouting process.

For indoor cultivation, a shallow tray filled with a growing medium, such as potting soil or coconut coir, is recommended. The medium should be moistened but not overly saturated, as excess water can lead to mold growth. Once the seeds are evenly spread across the surface, a light layer of soil can be added to cover them. Maintaining a consistent moisture level is crucial during the germination phase.

Light is another critical factor in the successful growth of onion sprouts and microgreens. They require approximately 12 to 16 hours of light daily. Natural sunlight is ideal, but if this is not available, using fluorescent or LED grow lights can effectively supplement their needs. Positioning the lights about 2 to 4 inches above the plants will help prevent leggy growth while ensuring adequate light exposure.

Temperature also plays a significant role in the growth of onion sprouts. A range of 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C) is optimal for germination and growth. Monitoring the temperature and adjusting the environment as necessary will promote healthy development. Additionally, good air circulation is essential to prevent fungal diseases, which can be a concern in indoor settings.

Harvesting onion sprouts and microgreens can begin once they reach about 2 to 4 inches in height, typically within 10 to 20 days after planting. Using scissors, cut the sprouts just above the soil line. This method allows for a clean harvest while minimizing damage to the remaining roots, which may allow for a second harvest if conditions are favorable.

Incorporating onion sprouts and microgreens into your diet can provide numerous health benefits. They are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, contributing to overall well-being. Additionally, growing these plants indoors can enhance your culinary experience, providing fresh flavors and textures to salads, sandwiches, and garnishes.

In conclusion, growing onion sprouts and microgreens indoors is a straightforward and rewarding endeavor. With the right conditions and care, you can enjoy a continuous supply of fresh greens, enhancing both your meals and your gardening skills.

How to Plant Garlic

Garlic can be planted in the spring as soon as the ground can be worked, but fall planting is recommended. Bulbs will grow bigger and more flavorful when you plant them in the fall.  Plant 6 to 8 weeks before your first hard frost.  In southern areas, February or March can be a better time to plant.

Key Planting Info:

• Break apart cloves from bulb but keep the papery husk on each individual clove.
• Ensure soil is well-drained with plenty of organic matter. Plant in Full Sun.
• Plant 4 inches apart & 2 inches deep, in their upright position (the wide end down and pointed end facing up).
• Come springtime, shoots will begin to emerge.

Click here for a more detailed Garlic Grow Guide ->

Red Shiso (Perilla frutescens), also called Perilla Leaf and Japanese Basil, is an herb in the mint family with large, deep purple, wrinkled, serrated leaves. Much stronger and spicier than Green Shiso, the crunchy leaves are used mainly in salads, for pickling, and as a natural food coloring. Used extensively in Japanese cuisine, it has a fresh minty-basil flavor with notes of clove and cumin, and a bitter, astringent finish. Pairs well with fish, rice, noodles, and vegetables, especially cucumbers. Also a medicinal herb with antioxidant, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties. Its rhizome root can become invasive, so best grown in a container.

• Mint-basil-clove-cumin flavor
• Full sun
• Days to germinate (sprout): 7-21 days
• Days to maturity: 80-85 days

Good companion plants: Arugula, Basil, Bok Choy, Parsley, Tomato

The Queensland Blue Winter Squash (Cucurbita maxima) is an Australian Blue pumpkin with beautiful blue-green skin, gray foliage, and bright orange flesh that’s fragrant, meaty, and sweet. Deeply ribbed, slightly flattened, and can weigh 8 lbs-20 lbs. Dependable producer with a vining growth habit. Keeps for up to 6 months under proper storage conditions. Great for baking, canning, and roasting.

• Sweet and firm
• High yields
• Dependable producer
• Good keeper

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Cucurbita maxima
• Hardiness zones: 3-11
• Planting season: Spring, summer
• Squash size: Large
• Growth habit: Vine (6'-10' long), trellis support or generous bed/ground space
• Depth to plant seeds: 1" deep
• Spacing between plants: 10'-12' apart
• Spacing between rows: 10'-15' apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 5-10 days
• Germination soil temps: 70F-85F
• Soil needs: Loamy, rich, moist, well-drained
• Soil pH: 6.0-6.8
• Sun needs: Full sun
• Frost tolerant: No
• Days to maturity: 100-120 days

Good companion plants: Bean, Dill, Epazote, Marigold, Pea, Pepper, Sage, Thyme

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

The Arroyo Lupine (Lupinus succulentus) is a fast growing annual. It’s in the legume family, so it fixes nitrogen in the soil and is a great companion plant or cover crop for the vegetable garden. Produces dense spires of bright blue pea-sized blossoms with pink or white tips. Grows 2'-4' tall on sturdy stems with daisy-like palmate foliage. Put a few in a pot or plant in wide bands for a striking effect.

If consumed in large quantities, seeds can be toxic to people, pets, and livestock.

• Life cycle: Annual
• Bloom season: Spring, summer
• Attracts: Hummingbirds, birds, bees, butterflies, and other pollinators
• Flower meaning: Abundance, change, growth

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Lupinus succulentus
• Hardiness zones: 3-7
• Planting season: Spring, fall
• Days to maturity: 1st to 2nd year
• Cold stratify: No
• Depth to plant seeds: Lightly cover - seeds need light to germinate
• Spacing between plants: 12"-24" apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 15-75 days
• Germination soil temps: 55F-70F
• Soil types: Clay, sandy, loamy, rocky, moist, well-drained
• Soil pH: 6.1-7.8
• Water needs: Average
• Sun needs: Full sun, part shade
• Frost tolerant: Yes
• Drought tolerant: Yes
• Deer resistant: Yes

The Hollow Crown Parsnip (Pastinaca sativa) has a 100-year history as a delicious, hardy, versatile root vegetable. This relative to Carrots grows to 10"-12" with a smooth, white, tender root. Eaten raw, it’s nutty and sweet, turning buttery and slightly spicy when cooked. Hardy to frosts and freezes, which sweetens the flavor. Try them roasted or puréed and topped with Parmesan cheese.

• Sweet, nutty flavor
• Tender and buttery
• Sweeter after a frost
• Good fresh and cooked

Good companion plants: Anise, Bush Bean, Garlic, Lettuce, Onion, Oregano, Pea, Radish, Rosemary, Sage, Tomato, Wormwood

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Pastinaca sativa
• Depth to plant seeds: 1/4" deep
• Spacing between plants: 2"-3" apart
• Spacing between rows: 18"-24" apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 10-28 days
• Germination soil temps: 50F-75F
• Soil needs: 6.0-7.0 pH
• Sun needs: Full sun, part shade
• Frost tolerant: Yes
• Planting season: Spring, fall
• # of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 9 plants per sq. ft.
• Days to maturity: 100-120 days

The Purple Haze Carrot (Daucus carota) is dark purple on the outside and bright orange on the inside. Fun when sliced into coins. Grows 6"-8" with tapered roots, good texture, and sweet flavor. Half-hardy to frost and light freezes. Good steamed, roasted, and fresh.

• F1 hybrid
• Sweet and crunchy
• Size: 6"-8" long
• Days to germinate (sprout): 7-21 days
• Days to maturity: 70-75
• Can be harvested sooner for mini sized carrots

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

SEED PLANTING TIPS

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

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

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

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

SEED PLANTING TIPS

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

The Texas Bluebonnet Lupine (Lupinus texensis) is so named because the blossoms resemble the bonnets worn by pioneer women. This low-growing annual is in the legume family, so it fixes nitrogen in the soil and is a great companion plant or cover crop for the vegetable garden. Produces upright spikes of pea-sized blossoms in rich blue with white tips, but can also pop up in shades of white, pink, purple, and maroon (“Aggiebonnet”). Grows 1'-1.5' tall on sturdy stems with daisy-like palmate foliage. Spectacular in a pot or blanketing an entire field. The state flower of Texas.

If consumed in large quantities, seeds can be toxic to people, pets, and livestock.

• Life cycle: Annual
• Bloom season: Spring
• Attracts: Bees, butterflies, and other pollinators
• Flower meaning: Abundance, change, growth

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Lupinus texensis
• Hardiness zones: 3-8
• Planting season: Fall
• Days to maturity: 1st or 2nd year
• Cold stratify: No
• Depth to plant seeds: Lightly cover - seeds need light to germinate
• Spacing between plants: 8"-12" apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 7-30 days
• Germination soil temps: 55F-70F
• Soil types: Clay, sandy, loamy, silty, rocky, chalky, calcareous, dry, well-drained
• Soil pH: 7.5+
• Water needs: Low - do not overwater
• Sun needs: Full sun
• Frost tolerant: Yes
• Drought tolerant: Yes
• Deer resistant: Yes

How to Plant Garlic

Garlic can be planted in the spring as soon as the ground can be worked, but fall planting is recommended. Bulbs will grow bigger and more flavorful when you plant them in the fall.  Plant 6 to 8 weeks before your first hard frost.  In southern areas, February or March can be a better time to plant.

Key Planting Info:

• Break apart cloves from bulb but keep the papery husk on each individual clove.
• Ensure soil is well-drained with plenty of organic matter. Plant in Full Sun.
• Plant 4 inches apart & 2 inches deep, in their upright position (the wide end down and pointed end facing up).
• Come springtime, shoots will begin to emerge.

Click here for a more detailed Garlic Grow Guide ->

The Big Top Horseradish Root (Armoracia rusticana) is known and grown for its large, white tapered root that is often grated to add a tangy, spicy kick to just about anything. Above ground, the gorgeous, robust plant with large, wide, deep green edible leaves can grow 3'-5' tall. A traditional accompaniment to roast beef, but will take your tuna fish sandwich or avocado toast to another level.

*You will receive one live root. Please be prepared to plant it as soon as it arrives. Choose a large pot or a permanent in-ground location for this vigorous perennial that will continue to produce for a lifetime.*

• Easy to grow
• Spicy and tangy
• Perennial
• Edible leaves and roots

Good Companion Plants: Asparagus, Potato, Pumpkin, Rhubarb, Strawberry

• Horseradish is a perennial plant popular around the world today.
• The whole root has almost no odor – but when cut is extremely spicy and aromatic.
  

Root Planting Guide:

• 10" – 12" between plants
• 3’ between rows
• Plant at 45° angle with flat end facing up
• Flat end should be about 1" below soil surface

Irrigation: Keep soil moist throughout the establishment period

Special Considerations: Harvest roots the 2nd fall after planting. If not harvested, divide roots every year or two

The Pink Banana Winter Squash (Cucurbita maxima) is a jumbo cylindrical winter squash that can grow to more than 4' long, 1' in diameter, and 50 lbs!!! Flavor and texture is best when it’s about 30" and 30 lbs, or harvest as a summer squash when 6"-8" long, and a fingernail can pierce the skin. Prolific producer with a vining growth habit. Pinkish orange skin and yellow-orange flesh that is sweet, firm, dry, and not stringy. With a flavor similar to Acorn Squash, it can be used as a substitute. Great for baking, canning, roasting.

• Sweet and firm
• High yields
• JUMBO 30 lbs-50 lbs
• Harvest early for summer squash

Good companion plants: Bean, Dill, Epazote, Marigold, Pea, Pepper, Sage, Thyme

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

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Cucurbita maxima
• Hardiness zones: 3-11
• Planting season: Spring, summer
• Squash size: Ginormous
• Growth habit: Vine (12'-15' long), trellis support or generous bed/ground space
• Depth to plant seeds: 1" deep
• Spacing between plants: 10'-12' apart
• Spacing between rows: 10'-15' apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 5-10 days
• Germination soil temps: 70F-85F
• Soil needs: Loamy, rich, moist, well-drained
• Soil pH: 6.0-6.8
• Sun needs: Full sun
• Frost tolerant: No
• Days to maturity: Appx. 100 days

The Lunar White Carrot (Daucus carota) is a creamy-white carrot with a small core and mild, sweet flavor that grows 8"-12" long. Harvest sooner for smaller carrots. Half-hardy to frost and light freezes. Good steamed, roasted, and fresh.

• Sweet, mild flavor
• Size: 8"-12" long
• Days to germinate (sprout): 7-21 days
• Days to maturity: 70-75
• Can be harvested sooner for mini carrots
  

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

SEED PLANTING TIPS

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