Basil

Overview

Basil is a warm-weather herb grown for its aromatic leaves. Often used as a garnish, it adds delicious flavors to dishes. Basil is a source of Vitamins A, C, and K.

Conditions

For soil, use a potting mix that’s tailored for vegetables and herbs. Basil thrives in warm temperatures, optimum being 70–85°F. For the best quality leaves, provide basil with full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight) and consistent moisture (don’t let the topsoil become dry to the touch).

Planting

Basil can be planted directly outdoors when the ground is warm, or started indoors in starter pots. Use our grow calendar tool to find specific dates for your region! Seeds germinate in 5–10 days. Basil can be planted outdoors directly or started indoors then transplanted:

For planting outdoors, plant seeds 1/4" deep, 2-3 seeds per inch. Firm the soil over the seeds. Thin plants to 4-8" apart for healthy, full plants. 

If starting indoors, plant seeds in starter pots 6 weeks prior to transplanting outdoors. Plant 1/4" deep and keep at 70°F for best germination. Transplant outdoors when seedlings have 3-4 sets of leaves, spacing at 4-8" apart.

Care

After the seedlings have produced their first six leaves, prune (removing a part of a plant to encourage growth) or cut the stem above the second set. This encourages the plants to start branching, resulting in more leaves for harvest. Every time a branch has six to eight leaves, repeat pruning the branches back to their first set of leaves. After about 6 weeks, pinch off the center shoot to prevent early flowering. If flowers do grow, just cut them off. 

Pests and Disease

Basil is not as afflicted with pests and disease as other plants, but it is prone to nutrient deficiencies. There are three reasons why basil yellows: too much water, too little sun, and/or not enough nutrients. If basil leaves are yellowing, temporarily stop watering, move the plant to a sunnier location, and feed it with a balanced organic fertilizer.

Harvest

Begin light harvesting after plants have become established at 6-8” tall. Harvest in the early morning, when leaves are at their juiciest. A full harvest should be completed just before the plants start to flower. Leaves are easily bruised when picking, so handle carefully. The best method for storing basil is freezing in an airtight, resealable plastic bag. Freezing will prevent the plant from losing a good portion of its flavor.

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Basil, Genovese — Large, tender, fragrant leaves; excellent for pesto

Basil, Sweet — Classic basil with sweet leaves adds flavor to sauces and salads

Basil, Dark Opal — Small red/purple leaves make attractive and flavorful garnishes

Basil, Red Rubin — Large, dark purple leaves great for cooking or using as garnish

Borage

Overview

Borage flowers and leaves are edible, with a taste that many compare to a cucumber. It can be eaten raw in salads, mixed into soups and stews or even used as a garnish. It has been used for centuries as a natural medicine to support aid, digestion, and reduce inflamation.

Conditions

Select a sunny location (6+ hours of direct sunlight), with well-drained soil.

Planting

Plant seeds in early spring or late summer (Use our grow calendar tool to find specific planting dates for your region!), outdoors in groups of 2–3, spacing them 12–18 inches apart. Thin to the one strongest seedling per group when plants are a few inches tall.

Care

Maintain consistent soil moisture, avoiding over watering. Borage is a hardy and self-sufficient plant, requiring minimal care. Prune spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming. Borage is a self-seeding annual, so once established, it will often return each year.

Pets and Disease

Borage is not affected by serious pest or disease issues. Look for aphids, slugs, snails, and leaf-mining flies that may damage the foliage. The herb may get powdery mildew once they have flowered.

Harvest

Once borage matures, harvest the leaves and flowers as needed. The plant leaves do not dry well, so use them fresh. Pick the flowers before they have fully bloomed, and when harvesting, remove the leaves and flowers from the plant with your fingers or with scissors.

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Borage, Blue Starflower

Chives

Overview

Chives are cool-season, cold-tolerant perennials. The mild onion flavor of chives is popular on baked potatoes and in salads. 

Conditions

For soil, use a potting mix that’s tailored for vegetables and herbs. For the best quality leaves, provide sun to part shade (3-6 hours of direct sunlight) and consistent moisture (don’t let the topsoil become dry to the touch).
Planting Use our grow calendar tool to find specific dates for your region! Seeds germinate in 7-14 days.

Plant seeds outdoors directly in the garden. In spring, plant seeds 1/4" deep as soon as the soil warms up, about 1-2 seeds per inch. Thin to 2-3 plants every 2-8". Keep free of weeds.

Care

Be mindful when planting this herb, as it will take over your garden if the flowers are allowed to develop fully (the flowers scatter the seeds). However, this plant is easy to dig up and move if it does end up invading other parts of your garden.

Harvest

Individual leaves may be harvested once the plants are established. Be sure to cut the leaves down to the base when harvesting (within 1 to 2 inches of the soil). Chives flower in late spring or early summer. The flowers are edible and taste best just after they have opened—they should look full and bright. Use chives when they’re fresh or frozen (freeze the leaves in an airtight bag). Dried chives lose their flavor.

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Chives, Garlic — thin, flat leaves provide a light burst of garlic flavor

Chamomile

Overview

Chamomile is a gentle and aromatic herb known for its daisy-like flowers, often used in herbal teas and traditional medicine for its calming properties.

Conditions

Chamomile thrives in partial to full sunlight (4–6 hours) and well-drained soil. Enrich the soil with organic compost for best results.

Planting

Plant 2–3 seeds per starter pot indoors 6–8 weeks before transplanting in late spring or early summer. Use our grow calendar tool to find specific planting dates for your region! Thin to the one strongest, and transition outside (harden) for 7 days before transplanting outdoors. Plant with adequate spacing to promote air circulation which helps prevent fungai diseases. Note: do not cover see with soil — they need light to germinate.

Care

Maintain consistent soil moisture, avoiding over watering. Water at the base to avoid wetting the foliage. Apply a layer of organic mulch around the plants to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Prune regulary to encourage bushier growth. Pinch off the tips of the stems when the plant is about 6" tall to promote branching.

Pets and Disease

Chamomile is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but keep an eye out for aphids or spider mites. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can be used for control if needed. Here's a link to our favorite homemade insecticide soap recipe for plants!

Harvest

Harvest flower heads in the morning after the dew has dried, are fully open, but not yet turning brown with scissors or shears. If you intend to use chamomile for teas or other purposes, dry the harvested flowers by spreading them in a single layer in a dry, well-ventilated area. Once dried, store them in airtight glass containers.

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Chamomile, German

Cilantro

Overview

Cilantro is a cool-weather herb that is a flavorsome addition to soups, salads, curries, and other dishes. Cilantro contains vitamins A, C, and K.

Conditions

For soil, use a potting mix that’s tailored for vegetables and herbs. Cilantro thrives in cooler temperatures, optimum being 65-70°F. For the best quality leaves, provide full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight) and consistent moisture (don’t let the topsoil become dry to the touch).

Planting

Use our grow calendar tool to find specific dates for your region! Seeds germinate in 7-10 days. Avoid planting cilantro in the summer heat as high temperatures cause plants to start producing seed too early. This process is called “bolting,” and it causes leaves to turn bitter in flavor.

Plant seeds directly outdoors in spring. Sow 1-2 seeds per inch, 1/4- 1/2" deep in rows 12-18" apart. For leaf harvest, there is no need to thin, as cilantro continues to grow well even when sown thickly. Successive sowings can be done every 2-3 weeks for continual harvest of leaves. It is important to keep the seeds moist during their germination, so remember to water the plants regularly.

Care

When the weather gets warm, the plant will quickly finish its life cycle and send up a long stalk which will produce blossoms and later seeds. Little plants will sprout during the season and the next spring.

Pests and Disease

Clean up debris and any spent plants to avoid fungal wilt and mildew. To control for insects like leafhoppers and aphids, use insecticidal soap spray once they are spotted under leaves.

Harvest

Begin light harvesting after plants have become established. To have a continual harvest throughout the season, harvest leaves, not the entire plant. The large leaves can be cut individually from the plants. The smaller leaves should be cut along with the stem 1-½ to 2 inches above the crown. To store cilantro leaves, you can either freeze or dry them. To freeze, put the leaves in a resealable freezer bag and store them in your freezer. To dry them, hang the plant in a warm place until fully dried, then store the leaves in a resealable bag or container.

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Cilantro/Coriander, Slow Bolting — aromatic, zesty leaves work great as a garnish in many cuisines

Dill

Overview

Dill is a herb that grows tall stalks of feather foliage. Both the leafy greens and seeds of dill are used to flavor, fish, potatoes and pickles. 

Conditions

For soil, use a potting mix that’s tailored for vegetables and herbs. The soil temperature should be between 60 and 70ºF (15 and 21°C) for the best germination results. Make sure to shelter dill from strong winds, as it can be blown over easily. For the best quality leaves, provide full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight) and consistent moisture (don’t let the topsoil become dry to the touch).

Planting

Use our grow calendar tool to find specific dates for your region! Seeds germinate in 10-21 days. Successive sowings can be done every three weeks to harvest fresh greens continuously.

Plant seeds outdoors in spring as soon as the soil has thawed and crumbles. Plant seeds 1/4" deep, 2 seeds per inch. A 12" final spacing produces healthy, full plants.

Dill can be started inside in individual containers or cell trays and transplanted outdoors. Sow 3-5 seeds per pot and thin to 1-2 plants each. Transplant to garden using 12" spacing in rows at least 12" apart. 

Pests and Disease

Leaf spot and occasionally a few other types of fungal leaf and root diseases affect dill. 

Harvest

As soon as the plant has four to five leaves, you can start harvesting. Harvest older leaves first. Pinch off the leaves or cut them off with scissors. If you have a lot of plants, you can take entire stalks. After harvesting the leafy greens, allow the plants to flower to attract beneficial insects.

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Dill, Mammoth — culinary favorite for flavoring pickles and garnishing meals

Fenugreek

Overview

Fenugreek is used as much medicinally as it is used culinarily. It's maple syrup-like flavor enhances curries and other middle Eastern dishes. It was also used traditionally as a dietary supplement for diabetes. In it's powdered form, it can be used as a topical medication for skin wounds.

Conditions

Choose a sunny location (6+ hours of direct sunlight), with well-drained soil.

Planting

Plant seeds directly in the garden bed in early spring or late summer (Use our grow calendar tool to find specific planting dates for your region!) in groups of 2–3. Plant the seeds 1/4 inch deep and space them 2–4 inches apart in rows. Thin to the one strongest seedling per group when plants are a few inches tall.

Care

Keep the soil moist, avoiding over watering. Fenugreek is low-maintenance herb that thrives in various soil conditions and seldom needs fertilization.

Pets and Disease

Keep an eye on aphids which can be controlled by using neem oil or an organic insecticidal soap if there is an infestation. Here's a link to our favorite homemade insecticide soap recipe for plants! Fenugreek can be prone to damping-off, root rot diseases, and cercospora leaf spot.

Harvest

Harvest leaves and seeds as needed when plants are ~10" tall for culinary and medicinal uses. Fenugreek adds unique flavor and nutrition to your dishes, making it a rewarding addition to your garden.

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Fenugreek

Lavender

Overview

Lavender is a bushy, strong-scented perennial. Prized for its fragrance, medicinal properties, and beautiful color, lavender is a valued plant across the world. It also attracts pollinators to the garden. 

Conditions

Plant in a light, well-draining, gravelly soil meant for perennials. For the best quality flowers, provide full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight).

Planting

Use our grow calendar tool to find specific dates for your region! Seeds are extremely difficult to germinate and take roughly 14-28 days. 

Start in containers 8-10 weeks before last frost. Plant seeds on top of the growing medium, gently pressing them in. Do not fully cover, as the seeds require light to germinate. Transplant to individual pots when the plants are large enough to handle. Transplant to the garden in the spring after last frost. Space plants 12-18" apart. 

Care

Prune established plants in the spring when green leaves start to emerge from the base of the plant. Remove approximately one third of the top. In late fall, clip plants back to below the flower stems and add mulch to keep soil temperature higher. In colder growing areas, plants may need extra winter protection.

Pests and Disease

In humid climates, lavender is prone to fungal diseases. Lavender may develop fungal root rot due to excess water (look for yellowing leaves as a sign of overwatering). To prevent fungal disease, do not overwater lavender.

Harvest

If harvesting for cut flowers, harvest flower spikes in the morning on a dry, warm day after half of the flower buds have opened. Cut stems as long as possible. Gather into bundles and dry in a cool, dark place where there is good air circulation. 

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Lavender, English — beautiful blooms & relaxing aromas make this a must for any garden

Lemon Balm

Overview

Crispy, minty, lemon flavor that goes great in cool drinks and salads.

Conditions

Lemon Balm prefers partial shade to full sunlight (4–6 hours) and well-drained soil. Enrich the soil with organic compost for best results.

Planting

Start indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost. Harden off for 7 to 10 days and transplant 12" apart. Harvest leaves as needed or cut entire stalks before flowering. Mature height 18–26"

Care

Maintain consistent soil moisture, avoiding over watering. Water at the base to avoid wetting the foliage. Apply a layer of organic mulch around the plants to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Prune regulary to encourage bushier growth. Pinch off the tips of the stems to encourage branching and prevent it becoming leggy.

Pets and Disease

Lemon Balm is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but keep an eye out for aphids or spider mites. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can be used for control if needed. Here's a link to our favorite homemade insecticide soap recipe for plants!

Harvest

Harvest in the morning when the essential oils that give it flavor are at their highest concentration with clean scissors or sheers and cut the stems just above a set of leaves. To dry, tie the stems together in small bundles and hang them upside down in a cool, dry place. Once dried, store the leaves in airtight glass containers.

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Lemon Balm

Mint

Overview

A classic, refreshing flavor with culinary uses & health benefits.

Conditions

Spearmint thrives in partial to full sunlight and well-drained soil. Ensure that the soil is rich in organic matter.

Planting

Plant 2–3 seeds per starter pot indoors 8–10 weeks before transplanting in the spring or early fall (this allows the plant to establish itself before extremes of summer or winter). Use our grow calendar tool to find specific planting dates for your region! Thin to the one strongest, and transition outside (harden) 7 days before transplanting outdoors into a raised soil bed, leaving 2" of pot exposed.

Care

Keep the soil consistenly moist but not waterlogged. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Mulching around the plants helps keep the soil cool and makes it easier to spot and prevent any stray stems from taking root. Regular pruning will keep your plant bushy and prevent it from becoming too leggy.

Pets and Disease

While spearment is a relatively hardy herb, it can be attacked by aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Address them using organic pest control methods when necessary. Here's a link to our favorite homemade insecticide soap recipe for plants! Powdery Mildew (white substance) on leaves can be avoided by ensuring good air circulation. Rust (orange and brown spots on leaves) can be controlled by removing affected leaves or an organic fungicide if the issue persists. Root rot can be avoided with proper drainage and not overwatering.

Harvest

Aim to harvest before the plant flowers, as the flavor may diminish afterwards and the best time of the day is in the morning when the essential oils that give it flavor are at their highest concentration. To dry, tie the stems together in small bundles and hang them upside down in a cool, dry place. Once dried, store the leaves in airtight containers.

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Mint, Peppermint
Mint, Spearmint

Oregano

Overview

Oregano is a perennial herb. Its taste is zesty and strong and is commonly used in Italian dishes. 

Conditions

Grows best in sandy soils that drain well. For the best quality leaves, provide full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight) and water thoroughly when soil feels dry to the touch.

Planting

Use our grow calendar tool to find specific dates for your region! Seeds germinate in 7-14 days. 

Plant seeds indoors in trays or containers 8-10 weeks before last frost. Sprinkle seeds on top of the soil and push them gently in. Do not cover seeds fully, as they require light to germinate. Keep moist until germination. Transplant to individual containers when seedlings have 4 true leaves, then outdoors to the garden once weather is warm.

Care

When the danger of frost has passed in the spring, transplant outside, spacing plants 12" apart. To keep plants healthy, pinch back new growth, remove any old wood at the end of the winter, and replace the plants every 4 years.

Harvest

Harvest entire stems just as plants are coming into bloom, cutting about 2" above the base of the plant. An established planting can be cut back two to six times during the growing season. 

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Oregano, Italian — flavorful herb with strong aroma used with most Italian cooking

Parsley

Overview

This breath-freshening herb is widely used as a garnish and flavoring in sauces, salads, and especially soups, as it lessens the need for salt. Parsley is a high source of Vitamins C & A and Iron. 

Conditions

For soil, use a potting mix that’s tailored for vegetables and herbs. For the best quality leaves, provide full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight) and consistent moisture (don’t let the topsoil become dry to the touch).

Planting

Use our grow calendar tool to find specific dates for your region! Note - seeds germinate slowly (14-30 days).

Plant seeds indoors in 1" starter cell containers and transplant outdoors after true leaves appear. Seeds usually take at least 3 weeks to germinate and require consistent moisture for reliable germination. For better germination, soak the seeds overnight.

Care

If planted in a well-drained location, it can normally be wintered over (left outside to survive through winter) to produce a crop early the following spring. Mulch (add wood chips to insulate the soil) where temperatures go below 0°F.  Sprinkle compost around the plant or supplement with a balanced fertilizer once or twice during the growing period, if necessary.

Pests and Disease

Parsley may be affected by stem rot, leaf spots, black swallowtail larvae, carrot fly, and celery fly larvae.

Harvest

When the leaf stems have three segments, parsley is ready to be harvested. Clip leaves as needed. To maintain the crispness and appearance of freshly harvested parsley, refrigerate. Parsley can be used either fresh or dried. To dry, wash clipped leaves and spread out shallowly on screens in a warm, airy place. When thoroughly dry, rub and store in jars.

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Italian Large Leaf — huge dark-green leaves & strong stems give great flavor & texture

Rosemary

Overview

An aromatic herb that pairs well with potatoes, meats, and stews

Conditions

Choose a sunny spot (6+ hours of direct sunlight) with well-drained soil.

Planting

Plant young rosemary plants or propagate from cuttings in spring or fall. Use our grow calendar tool to find specific planting dates for your region! Plant 2–3 seeds per starter pot indoors 8–10 weeks before transplating. Thin to the one strongest plant per pot when ~2" tall, and transition outside (harden) for 7 days before outdoor transplant, spacing them 6–8 inches apart. Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid overwatering.

Care

Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry between waterings. Prune to maintain shape and encourage bushy growth. While rosemary is quite hardy, we recommend to protect from harsh winter cold.

Pets and Disease

Rosemary generally has few pest problems, although it can be attacked by aphids, spider mites, mealybugs or scales. Address them using organic pest control methods when necessary. Be vigilant for pests like aphids and use organic pest control methods if needed. Here's a link to our favorite homemade insecticide soap recipe for plants! Root rot and botrytis are the most common disease problems. The biggest cause of plant decline and death is overwatering.

Harvest

Harvest no more than 20% of your plant at any time, allowing the plant to keep an attractive shape. To dry Rosemary, hang up sprigs in a warm, dark, well-ventilated place. When completely dry, strip the whole leaves from the stems and store them in airtight containers.

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Rosemary

Sage

Overview

Sage is an easy-to-grow perennial and wonderful culinary herb that flavors meat and bean dishes (including that Thanksgiving stuffing). 

Conditions

For soil, use a potting mix that’s tailored for vegetables and herbs. 

For the best quality leaves, provide sun to part shade (3-6 hours of direct sunlight daily) and consistent moisture (don’t let the topsoil become dry to the touch).

Planting

Use our grow calendar tool to find specific dates for your region! Seeds germinate in 7-21 days.

Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost. Sow 2-3 seeds 1/4" deep in individual containers, thinning to one plant per container after germination. Transplant outside after the last frost, spacing 12" apart, in rows 18" apart. 

Care

Prune the heavier, woody stems every spring. (It’s best to replace the plants every few years so they remain productive.)

Harvest

Individual leaves may be harvested the first year once plants have become established. In subsequent years, cut stems to within 6" of the base of the plant just as flowers are starting to open. Sage’s flavor is best when fresh, but it can be stored frozen or dried. Sage retains flavor well if stored in the freezer. Freeze leaves or stalks on a tray, then move the leaves into a zippered bag or container. Some cooks prefer to blend the leaves with oil, pack the ground mixture into ice cube trays to freeze, and then transfer the cubes to a container. To dry, hang small bunches of sage upside down in a well-ventilated location out of direct sunlight. When leaves crumble easily, they are ready to be stored in tightly lidded jars. 

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Sage, Common — dusty green leaves with intense flavor; great in roasts & sauces

Thyme

Overview

This classic culinary and ornamental perennial herb is perfect for rock gardens and can be used in teas during the winter to fend off colds. It’s taste has been described as a bit earthy with lemony and minty tones.

Conditions

For soil, use a potting mix that’s tailored for vegetables and herbs. For the best quality leaves, provide full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight). Thyme grows best in light, dry, well-drained soil.

Planting

Use our grow calendar tool to find specific dates for your region! Seeds germinate in 14-21days. 

Start seeds indoors in flats 8-10 weeks before the last frost. Plant seeds on top of the growing medium and cover with a thin layer of soil mix. Keep moist until germination. Transplant to individual containers when plants have 4 true leaves. After the last frost in spring, transplant outside and space 6-8" apart, in rows 12-18" apart. Pinch off growing tips of upright growing varieties to make bushier plants.

Care

If you keep pruning your thyme plant, it will keep growing (and also keep a compact shape). But always leave at least five inches of growth so the plant will continue to thrive. Trim thyme whenever it gets leggy.

Harvest

Harvest thyme just before the plant flowers by cutting off the top five to six inches of growth. Leave the tough, woody parts.

Cut only a few stems the first year in order for the plants to winter over. In subsequent years, harvest just as the flowers start to open by cutting back to within 4-5" above the ground. Thyme will become woody and needs to be divided or replaced after 3-4 years. 

Fresh thyme should be stored refrigerated and wrapped lightly in plastic; it should last one to two weeks. To dry thyme, hang the sprigs in a dark, well-ventilated, warm area. You can also just dry the leaves by placing them on a tray. Once dried, store them in an airtight container. Crush just before using. 

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Thyme, English — aromatic leaves used in natural remedies & many warm recipes

Arugula

Overview

Arugula is a fast-growing, cool-season salad green that adds a tangy, mustard-like flavor to salads. This spicy salad and braising green has been cultivated for more than a century for its cold-hardiness and versatility. Arugula’s savory, nutty flavor spices up fresh salads and stir-fries. Combine it with almonds and olive oil for a gourmet pesto spread. Arugula is an excellent source of Vitamins C and A, as well as calcium and folate.

Conditions

For soil, use a fertile well-draining potting mix that’s tailored for vegetables. For the best quality leaves, provide sun to part shade (3-6 hours of direct sunlight daily) and consistent moisture (don’t let the topsoil become dry to the touch). Arugula prefers cool conditions, so plan to grow in early spring or fall/winter.

Planting

Use our grow calendar tool to find specific dates for your region! Seeds germinate quickly in 5-7 days.

Plant seeds directly outdoors in early spring or fall, spacing 6” apart for full-sized mature greens. For a continual supply, plant every 2-3 weeks throughout the growing season.

Care

Keep soil moist throughout the growth cycle. 

Pests and Disease

Flea beetles can be controlled by covering the crop with floating row covers from the day of sowing. Prevent diseases with crop rotation and sanitation.

Harvest

Arugula can be grown for baby leaves or for mature greens. For baby leaves, clip starting 3-4 weeks after planting. Leaves will continue to grow back (cut-and-come-again). 

For mature greens, harvest leaves when they are about 2-3 inches long. Pull up whole plants or cut individual leaves.

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Arugula, Roquette — tender leaves with a mild, peppery flavor enjoyed fresh or cooked 

Bok Choy

Overview

Bok choy, also known as pak choi, is a popular asian green. Sauté or steam mature stem and leaves. Bok choy is an excellent source of Vitamin C and Vitamin A.

Conditions

For soil, use a fertile well-draining potting mix that’s tailored for vegetables. For the best quality leaves, provide full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight). Bok choy prefers cooler conditions for optimal growth (55-75°F), so plan to grow in early spring or fall/winter.

Planting

Use our grow calendar tool to find specific dates for your region! Seeds germinate in 7-10 days. Plant directly in the garden from early spring through midsummer. In warmer climates, bok choy is well adapted for fall plantings.

Bok choy can be grown for both baby greens as well as mature heads. For baby greens, plant outdoors directly in the garden, sowing densely in 2-4” bands. For full-sized mature heads, plant approximately 15 seeds per foot, thinning to 12” apart as seedlings grow.

Care

Bok choy requires a lot of nutrients from its soil, and it can quickly deplete the soil of nutrients. Prepare the soil in advance by mixing in additional organic matter (manure, compost, etc.). 

Soil should be well-draining: roots that stand in water cause heads to rot.

Pests and Disease

Flea beetles can be controlled by covering with floating row covers from day of sowing.

Harvest

You may begin harvesting bok choy as soon as individual leaves are mature, or you can wait to harvest the entire plant all at once. For individual leaves, carefully pick from the outside. For whole heads, cut off the plant at soil level. Usable smaller leaves may sprout from the remaining crown if it is left in the ground.

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Bok Choy, White Stem — highly nutritious and flavorful leafy green with thick white stems

Cabbage

Overview

A staple crop of northern peoples for many centuries, Cabbage is wonderful in coleslaws, salads, stir fries and sauerkraut. Cabbage is high in vitamin C and several disease-preventing phytochemicals.

Conditions

For soil, use a fertile well-draining potting mix that’s tailored for vegetables. For the best quality leaves, provide full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight). Cabbage prefers cooler conditions for optimal growth (55-75°F), so plan to grow in early spring or fall/winter.

Planting

Use our grow calendar tool to find specific dates for your region! Seeds germinate in 7-10 days. 

Our cabbage varieties can be planted directly in the ground or started indoors and then transplanted to the garden. For planting outdoors, Sow 3-4 seeds 12" apart, 1/2" deep, and thin to one plant in each group after seedlings have sprouted. For transplanting, Plant indoors in starter pots or trays ~4–6 weeks before the desired transplant date. Transition outside (harden) for 7 days before outdoor transplant. Space at least 12” apart for full-sized heads. 

Care

Avoid large changes in growing conditions (amount of water, temperature swings), as this can cause the cabbage heads to split at maturity. If large changes do occur, use a trowel or shovel to carefully dig near the plant to partially sever its root system. This slows the plant’s growth. 

Cabbage requires a lot of nutrients from its soil, and it can quickly deplete the soil of nutrients. Prepare the soil in advance by mixing in additional organic matter (manure, compost, etc.). 

Soil should be well-draining: roots that stand in water cause heads to rot.

Harvest

To harvest, cut each cabbage head at its base with a sharp knife. After harvesting, remove the entire stem and root system from the soil. Remove any yellow leaves (retain loose green leaves; they provide protection in storage) and immediately bring the head indoors or place it in shade. 

To get two crops, cut the cabbage head out of the plant, leaving the outer leaves and roots in the garden. The plant will send up new heads; pinch off those until only four or so smaller heads remain. Harvest when tennis ball-size (perfect for salads!). 

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Cabbage, Golden Acre — compact cabbage with both sweet & spicy flavors when cooked

Kale

Overview

Kale is a cold hardy and prolific producer of nutritious greens. Use baby leaves raw in salads or sauté or steam mature leaves. Kale is a good source of dietary fiber, protein, thiamin, riboflavin, folate, iron, magnesium and phosphorus, and is very rich in vitamins A, C, and B6, calcium, potassium, and copper. 

Conditions

For soil, use a fertile well-draining potting mix that’s tailored for vegetables. Kale thrives in cooler growing temperatures between 55–75°F (ideally 60–70°F), but will still produce good crops under warmer, summer conditions. For the best quality leaves, provide kale with full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight).

Planting

Because Kale prefers cool growing temperatures, it’s recommended to plant seeds outdoors early spring or mid fall once temperatures have dropped. Use our grow calendar tool to find specific dates for your region! Seeds germinate in 5–10 days. Kale can be grown for either baby greens or full-sized plants. For baby leaves, plant 60 seeds/ft. in a 2–4" wide band, ¼" deep. Do not thin, and begin to harvest ~3 weeks after planting. For full-sized leaves, plant 3–4 seeds every 12", ¼” deep. Thin to 1 plant per group. 

Pests and Disease

Kale is not as afflicted with pests as its relatives such as cabbage. Apply row covers at the time of planting to exclude pests from the crop. Control cabbage worms and loopers with natural biological control bacillus thuringiensis (BT) spray.

Harvest

Baby leaves can be harvested starting from 3 weeks after planting. Clip as needed.

For mature leaves, begin harvesting the outermost leaves about 2 months after planting. Start clipping from the base of the plant, but keep at least 4 leaves on the plant to encourage more to grow. Cool weather brings out the sweet, nutty flavor of this highly nutritious green. If you planted Kale in the Fall, harvest after the first cool frost for sweeter leaves. Small, tender leaves can be eaten uncooked and used in salads. Sauté large leaves, but remove the tough ribs before cooking.

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Kale, Dwarf Blue Curled Vates — dwarf, curly kale with dark green leaves (great baby leaf variety); perfect for salads

Kale, Lacinato — crunchy texture and mild/sweet flavor (a.k.a. dinosaur/Tuscan kale); best cooked variety

Lettuce

Overview

Lettuce is a cool weather crop. The essential base for most fresh salads, lettuce comes in a range of greens and reds, as well as different head types that offer contrasting leaf shapes and textures between tender and crispy-crunchy. Lettuce contains substantial amounts of vitamins A, C, and B6, as well as thiamin, riboflavin, calcium, and other minerals.

Conditions

For soil, use a fertile well-draining potting mix that’s tailored for vegetables. Lettuce thrives in cooler growing temperatures between 60–65°F, so it is best grown in the early spring or after the summer heat has passed. For the best quality leaves, provide full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight) without excessive heat.

Planting

Use our grow calendar tool to find specific dates for your region! Seeds germinate in 5-10 days.

Plant seeds every 3 weeks for a continuous supply of fresh lettuce. 

All of our lettuce varieties are recommended for planting directly outdoors in the garden once the soil is warm enough to be worked. Plant 6 seeds per foot, in rows 12-18" apart. Cover seed lightly, about 1/8", and firm soil gently. Thin to one plant every 8-12" for full-size heads. 

For larger head varieties, seeds can be started indoors in small containers or cell trays approximately 4 weeks before the desired transplant date. Transition outside (harden) for 3-5 days before outdoor transplant. Space 8-12” apart for full-sized heads.

For salad mixes or baby leaf growth, plant seeds in dense 2-4” bands, approximately 60 seeds per foot. 

Pests and Disease

Downy Mildew is one of the most serious diseases of lettuce, especially in late summer plantings. Disease pressure for this and other lettuce diseases may be mitigated by increasing row spacing, orienting rows for optimum air flow, using drip irrigation, and practicing crop rotations. Lettuce Mosaic Virus (LMV) is transmitted by many species of aphids. Encourage beneficial insect activity by planting “barrier plants” such as alyssum, chives, or garlic nearby to suppress aphid populations. Provide adequate Calcium and avoid excessive Nitrogen and Phosphorus to prevent tipburn.

Harvest

Cut lettuce heads at the base when they reach full size. If left to grow for too long they will start to elongate and go to seed, which turns them bitter. Wash in cold water and store in the refrigerator to crisp up. 

Loose leaf types can be harvested gradually by pulling off a few outer leaves at a time, leaving the central heart to continue growing to maturity.

Baby leaf varieties can be harvested starting from 3 weeks after planting. Clip leaves carefully, and keep roots in-ground as new leaves will grow from cut stems. Harvest as needed and use quickly for best taste and texture. 

Have your harvested lettuce leaves wilted? Put the leaves in a bowl of cold water with ice cubes and soak for about 15 minutes for them to rehydrate.

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Lettuce, Romaine - Paris Isle Cos — Head variety - classic romaine that can grow huge heads with crisp leaves

Lettuce, Bibb Butterhead — Head variety - buttery texture, large heads, and crisp/sweet flavor

Lettuce, Gourmet Blend — Baby leaf mix - colorful mix of red and green varieties

Lettuce, Green Leaf Black Seeded Simpson — Loose leaf variety - early producer with light green, curled, tender leaves

Spinach

Overview

Spinach is a cool weather crop whose tender baby leaves can be used for salads and full sized leaves in cooked dishes. Spinach is higher in iron, calcium, and vitamins than most cultivated greens, and one of the best sources of vitamins A, B, and C.

Conditions

For soil, use a fertile well-draining potting mix that’s tailored for vegetables. Spinach germinates and grows best in cool soil. For the best quality leaves, provide full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight). 

Planting

Spinach is best grown by directly planting in the garden, as opposed to transplanting. Begin planting in early spring as soon as the ground can be worked. Use our grow calendar tool to find specific dates for your region! Seeds germinate in 7-14 days. 

For mature leaves, plant 10 seeds per foot, ½" deep, and thin seedlings to 6" apart as they grow. Summer sowing in soil over 85°F risks low or erratic germination. 

For baby leaf growth, plant seeds 3/4" apart in a 2-4" wide band, about 40 seeds/ft. Do not thin. For a continuous supply, sow every 7 days. 

Pests and Disease

Downy Mildew is a devastating disease of spinach. Avoid overhead and/or late-afternoon irrigation, and increase plant spacing to enhance air circulation. Cover seedlings with floating row cover to prevent insect damage.

Harvest

When plants are 10-12” tall, cut the whole plant just below the crown. Don’t wait too long to harvest or wait for larger leaves; bitterness will set in quickly after maturity. Remove any old, dirty, or yellowed leaves. Wash carefully to remove soil and grit, but be gentle to avoid bruising the tender leaves.

For baby leaf harvest, cut at 2–4 inches tall and wash. Spinach keeps in the refrigerator for about a week.

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Spinach, Bloomsdale — yields a large crop of thick, crinkled, dark green leaves

Swiss Chard

Overview

Easy to grow and adaptable to summer heat as well as colder fall conditions, swiss chard can be harvested continuously throughout the season for salads, and steamed or sautéed greens. Swiss chard has generous amounts of A, C, E, and B6, and a broad range of minerals, including calcium, zinc, and iron.

Conditions

For soil, use a fertile well-draining potting mix that’s tailored for vegetables. Cool and mild weather is preferred, though chard has some heat tolerance. Seedlings will tolerate light frosts, and mature plants are hardy to moderate frosts. For the best quality leaves, provide full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight). 

Planting

Swiss chard can be planted directly in the garden, or it can be started indoors and later transplanted. Use our grow calendar tool to find specific planting dates for your region! Seeds germinate in 7-14 days. 

For planting outdoors, plant seeds in rows approximately 6 seeds per foot, thinning to 4-6" apart for full size plants. For transplanting, plant seeds indoors in containers ~5-6 weeks before transplanting after heavy frosts become infrequent. Transplant 4-6" apart in rows 12–18" apart.

For baby leaf growth, plant about 40 seeds per foot in dense 2-4" bands. Do not thin. 

Harvest

When plants are 6-8” tall, you can begin harvesting. Use the “cut-and-come-again” harvesting technique, taking the largest, oldest leaves and leaving the young ones to continue growing.
You can cut the ribs off the chard leaves and cook them like asparagus. The rest of the leaves are eaten as greens. You can cook them like spinach or eat them raw.

For baby leaves, clip young plants just above the soil. Multiple harvests are possible because the plants will grow new stems and leaves.

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Swiss Chard, Ruby Red — red stems with crinkly green leaves bring taste & color to any meal (great baby leaf variety)

Bean

Overview

Beans have been a staple food for many cultures and can be enjoyed in the fresh snap, green shell or dry mature stages. They are easy to grow, drought tolerant and productive. The beautiful seeds come in an infinite array of colors, patterns and shapes and have been used as jewelry as well as currency. Beans are high in protein, complex carbohydrates, folate, iron and soluble fiber. In association with Rhizobium bacteria, bean crops enhance fertility by adding nitrogen to the soil.

Beans grow in two different plant habits:

Bush Beans are low-growing with a compact, 1–2-foot-high plant height that do not require support.

Pole Beans (aka vining types) can grow very tall, typically requiring some form of trellising.

Conditions

Beans are a frost-sensitive, warm-season crop. They grow best on well drained, loamy soils with a pH between 5.8 and 6.5. Amend planting areas with compost, phosphorus and potassium. For the best quality beans, provide full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight).

Planting

Plant seeds outdoors directly in the garden once warm weather arrives. Use our grow calendar tool to find specific planting dates for your region! Seeds germinate in 7-14 days. 

Plant seeds 1" deep, spaced 4-6" apart. For bush-type varieties, no support structures are needed. For vining or pole-type varieties, set up structures shortly after planting. Water well just once at planting time to avoid seed rot. After the seedlings emerge (6–12 days) keep moderately moist, allowing the soil to dry out a bit between waterings.

Care

If beans have not been grown in your garden before, it may be necessary to inoculate bean seeds prior to planting. An inoculant will help your beans form nitrogen-producing nodules on plant roots, allowing them to fix nitrogen from the air into the soil for nutrient use. This symbiotic relationship with beneficial bacteria enriches the soil, results in larger plants, and increases yield.

Pests and Disease

Seed rot and seedling disease due to damping-off pathogens may be a problem in cool soils. Shallow plantings into 60°F or warmer soils will reduce risk of seedling disease. Avoid or minimize potentially devastating White Mold by practicing crop rotation and irrigating early in the day to allow drying of foliage. Bacterial blights of beans can be controlled through crop rotation and composting of crop debris. Encourage beneficial insect activity by planting cilantro and other umbels nearby to help control the many kinds of insect pests that love beans. Spray with pyrethrins and neem oil as a last resort to control heavy infestations. 

Harvest

Harvest fresh beans when they’ve reached their desired length, but before they become lumpy and tough. Pick frequently to encourage more production. 

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Bean, Tendergreen Bush — Bush-type: classic, stringless beans that are great canned, frozen, or fresh

Bean, Blue Lake Bush Green — Bush-type: plump, tender, 6" long pods with white seeds

Bean, Kentucky Wonder Pole Green — Pole-type: heirloom brown-seeded bean with great flavor and meaty texture

Beets

Overview

Easy-to-grow beets come in a range of colors from deep red to yellow to candy-striped. The sweet roots are tasty steamed or cooled and added to salads. And you can eat their nutritious green tops, too, so they’re a dual-purpose crop. Beets are a good source of vitamins and minerals including vitamin A and C, calcium, iron, folate, potassium, magnesium, and a very good source of dietary fiber. 

Conditions

For soil, use a fertile well-draining potting mix that’s tailored for vegetables. In general, cool temperatures produce the best flesh color. For the best quality beets, provide full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight). 

Planting

Use our grow calendar tool to find specific dates for your region! Seeds germinate in 7-21 days. 

Plant seeds outdoors when soil has warmed to 45°F. Plant approximately 15 seeds per foot, ½" deep, and thin to one seedling every 3" as they sprout. Plant some every 2 weeks for a continuous harvest. 

Pests and Disease

Keep beets well irrigated to prevent scab, the same disorder that affects potatoes, causing raised brown rough spots on the mature roots. Internal breakdown or browning is most likely to occur in alkaline soils after prolonged hot, dry periods. This is caused by a boron deficiency. Rotate crops to prevent Cercospora leaf spot and other soil borne diseases.

Harvest

Harvest beets as they reach your desired diameter, between 1-3". To harvest, insert a spade into the soil underneath the beet and push soil up, loosening the beet. Then grab the beet stalks and pluck the beet out from the soil.

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties 

Beets, Detroit Dark Red — classic variety with dark red and extremely sweet roots

Broccoli

Overview

A nutritious garden favorite, broccoli loves cool weather. Broccoli is rich in vitamins A, B, and C, potassium, phosphorus, and iron, with moderate amounts of protein, calcium, and thiamin.

Conditions

For soil, use a fertile well-draining potting mix that’s tailored for vegetables and high in organic matter. A consistent supply of moisture throughout the growing season is important; irrigate regularly for best results. Broccoli is a cool-weather crop - the best success is with spring and fall crops, and even winter crops where the weather is mild. 

Planting

Use our grow calendar tool to find specific dates for your region! Seeds germinate in 10-21 days. 

Plant indoors in starter pots or trays ~8 weeks before the desired transplant date. Keep soil temperature 75–80°F until germination, then reduce air temperature to about 60°F. Transition outside (harden) for 7 days before outdoor transplant. Space 16-18" apart for full-sized heads.

Care Tip

Do not get developing broccoli heads wet when watering, as it can cause rot. If bottom then top leaves turn yellow, add blood meal (a soil amendment high in nitrogen).

Harvest

Before flower buds open, cut the center head to harvest and immediately keep cool. Additional smaller shoots/heads will continue to grow - harvest shoots regularly to encourage continued production.

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Broccoli, Calabrese — old-fashioned broccoli with dark, bluish-green center heads, great for fall planting

Broccoli Raab, Rapini — a versatile vegetable that can grow in warm or cool climates & matures quickly. Mild bitter and nutty flavor that is delicious when sautéed in olive oil and fresh garlic.

Cantaloupe

Overview

Cantaloupes are a type of melon with a tan-green rind. They are a delicious, heat-loving melon with a relatively long growing season, making them especially well-suited for southern gardeners.

Conditions

Cantaloupes do best in well-draining soil that’s a mix between loamy and sandy. Amend the soil with aged manure or compost before planting, as cantaloupes are heavy feeders. For best quality crop, provide full sun (6+ hours of direct sunlight per day). Cantaloupes also need ample vining space, so plan accordingly.

Planting

Cantaloupes are commonly planted directly in the garden once soil temperatures have reached at least 60°F. Use our grow calendar tool to find specific planting dates for your region! Seeds germinate in 7-14 days. 

Plant seeds ½" inch deep in groups of 4-6, with each group spaced 4-6 feet apart. Plant seeds in hills or hilled rows to help with proper drainage. Thin to plant per group as seedlings develop. 

Care
Row covers are a good way to keep pests like squash bugs and vine borers at bay.

While the plants are growing, blooming, and setting fruit, they need 1 to 2 inches per square foot of water (about 1.5 gallons) per week. Use a drip irrigation system or water in the morning. Reduce watering once fruits are growing, as dry weather produces the sweetest melons.

Prune vines once fruit begins to grow to ensure best quality melons.

Male flowers may arrive several weeks before females appear - don’t be discouraged when first blooms do not produce fruit. Melon flowers do require pollination, so if bees are limited you must self-pollinate flowers. 

Harvest

When rinds begin to change from green to tan or yellow, the melon is typically ripe enough to pick. Look for a crack in the stem where it attaches to the fruit. This is a sign of ripeness as well. The fruit should be easy to separate from the vine. 

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Cantaloupe, Hale’s Best Jumbo Melon — beautiful melon with golden, aromatic and sweet fruit inside. 3-4lbs. 

Carrot

Overview

Everyone’s favorite root crop, sweet crispy carrots are even more amazing when freshly harvested from your own garden. They are available in a variety of colors including orange, purple, yellow and white. Carrots are rich in beta carotene, vitamin C, and potassium, and are a good source of dietary fiber.

Conditions

For soil, use a fertile well-draining potting mix that’s tailored for vegetables. Deep, loose, and fertile sandy loams and peat soils with good moisture-holding capacity grow the straightest and smoothest roots. Till (loosen up soil) down 12 inches and make sure there are no rocks, stones, or even soil clumps to impede your carrots’ growth. Avoid amending the soil with nitrogen-rich material such as manure and fertilizer, which can cause carrots to fork and grow little side roots; instead, work in old coffee grounds. 

Planting

Use our grow calendar tool to find specific dates for your region! Seeds germinate in 14-21 days. 

Plant seeds directly in your garden from early spring to midsummer, 1-2" apart, 1/2" deep. Sprinkle the soil surface with water to keep moist. Do not allow soil to crust before the emergence of seedlings, which takes 2–3 weeks, depending on temperature and moisture. Thinning should not be necessary, but ensure plants are 2” apart for full growth. Plant carrots at 3-week intervals for a continuous supply.

Care

Cover planted ground with paper or gauzy fabric for the first week to conserve moisture and prevent soil crusting. Keep your garden weed-free by tine weeding and shallow hoeing. Cover any carrot roots that begin to pop out of the soil. 

Harvest

Carrots may be dug up and harvested any time after they reach the desired size. Generally the best harvest period lasts about 3 weeks (longer in cool, fall weather), after which roots lose their optimal taste and form. 

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Carrot, Scarlet Nantes — nearly coreless & 6-8" long, this orange carrot is a family staple

Carrot, Rainbow Blend — beautiful, diverse colors that'll brighten any plate

Carrot, Bambino (Baby) — 3-4" long baby carrots with deep orange color & classic carrot flavor

Carrot, Chantenay Red Cored — short, fat carrot with sweet flavor and a deep red-orange center

Cauliflower

Overview

Cauliflower is a sun-loving cool-weather crop grown for their tender, creamy white heads, or ‘curds’, cauliflower is delicious raw, steamed or sautéed. Its mild, sweet flavor is accented by butter, sauces or seasonings. Cauliflower is an excellent source of vitamins C, K, several B vitamins, dietary fiber, and many essential minerals. 

Conditions

For soil, use a fertile well-draining potting mix that’s tailored for vegetables. Cauliflower is a cool-weather crop - the best success is with spring and fall crops, and even winter crops where the weather is mild. For the best quality cauliflower heads, provide full sun (6+ hours of direct sunlight) and consistent moisture (don’t let the topsoil become dry to the touch). 

Planting

Use our grow calendar tool to find specific dates for your region! Seeds germinate in 10-21 days. 

Plant indoors in starter pots or trays ~6-8 weeks before the desired transplant date. Keep soil temperature 75–80°F until germination, then reduce air temperature to about 60°F. Transition outside (harden) for 7 days before outdoor transplant. Space 12" apart for full-sized heads.

Care

Exposure to the sun can cause white cauliflower heads to yellow. To prevent yellowing and promote better head quality in hot weather, cover heads with plant leaves or keep out of direct sun during hottest days.

For best growth, side-dress the plants with a high-nitrogen fertilizer 3-4 weeks after transplanting.

Harvest

Keep an eye on development, harvesting when desired size is obtained but before the curds become loose, or "ricey.". Plants are usually ready to harvest in about 70-80 days after transplanting. Cut the heads off the plant with a large knife. Be sure to leave some of the leaves around the head to keep it protected. 

If heads are too small but have already started to open up, they will not improve and should be harvested immediately.

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Cauliflower, Snowball Y — versatile and flavorful, these snow white heads grow to 3–5lbs

Cucumber

Overview

Cucumber is an easy-to-grow and famous crop known for pickling as well as fresh eating. Low calorie cucumbers are a good source of potassium, anti-oxidants, and Vitamin K.

Conditions

For soil, use a fertile well-draining potting mix that’s tailored for vegetables. Cucumbers are very sensitive to the cold. Make sure both soil and air temperatures have warmed prior to planting. For an abundant crop, provide full sun (6+ hours of direct sunlight per day).

Planting

Use our grow calendar tool to find specific dates for your region! Seeds germinate in 7-14 days. 

Plant seeds directly in the garden once soil temperatures have reached 70°F. Plant one seed every 6", 1/2" deep, thinning to 12" apart as seeds sprout. Rows should be spaced 5-6 feet apart for vine growth.

Alternatively, cucumbers can be planted indoors and transplanted into the garden once temperatures are warm enough. Plant indoors in starter pots or trays ~3-4 weeks before the desired transplant date. Transition outside (harden) for 7 days before outdoor transplant. Space 12" apart in rows, with 5-6 feet of space between rows for vines to grow. 

Care

Water slowly in the morning or early afternoon, avoiding the leaves so that you don’t encourage leaf diseases that can ruin the plant. If possible, water your cucumbers with a soaker hose or drip irrigation to keep the foliage dry. 

Vining varieties can grow vertically with the help of a trellis or fence. This removes vines from the garden floor and can help prevent disease and save space. 

If your cucumber plants do not set fruit, it’s not usually a disease but rather a pollination issue. Both female and male flowers must be blooming at the same time. This may not happen early in the plant’s life, so be patient. (Female flowers are the ones with a small cucumber-shaped swelling at the base that will become the fruit.)

Harvest

Once fruit bearing begins, pick daily to encourage continued fruiting. Ripe fruits are uniformly green, firm, and crisp. Using a knife or clippers, cut the stem above the fruit. (Pulling the fruit may damage the vine.)

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Cucumber, Marketmore 76 — Slicing variety - these long, dark-green cucumbers are the standard for slicing

Cucumber, Muncher — Slicing variety - this sweet, smooth cucumber is known for being easy to eat and quick to grow

Cucumber, Sumter — Pickling variety - blocky, medium-green fruit with white spines

Cucumber Slicing Muncher
Slicing Variety - This sweet, smooth cucumber is known for being easy to eat and quick to grow.

Cucumber Slicing Straight Eight
Slicing Variety - Known for their vigorous vines, slicing cucumbers are juicy and sweet.

Eggplant

Overview

A versatile staple in Italian and Southeast Asian cuisines, eggplant can be baked, roasted, pickled, mashed or dried. Eggplant is a good source of Vitamins C, B, and K and minerals as well as fiber. 

Conditions

For soil, use a fertile, well-draining potting mix that’s tailored for vegetables. For best quality crop, provide full sun (6+ hours of direct sunlight per day) and consistent moisture (don’t let the topsoil become dry to the touch).

Planting

Eggplant is most commonly planted indoors in starter pots before being transplanted outdoors. Use our grow calendar tool to find specific planting dates for your region! Seed will not germinate in cool soil. Seeds germinate in 7-14 days. 

Plant seeds in starter pots or trays ¼" deep, ~8-10 weeks before the desired transplant date. Transition outside (harden) for 7-14 days before outdoor transplant. Ensure weather has fully warmed, as cold weather can weaken plants. Space 18-24" apart for full-sized plants. 

Care

It is important to be mindful of over-fertilizing. Too much nitrogen often results in large, bushy plants that produce only one small set of fruit. Keep watering levels consistent to prevent ill-formed fruit. 

Eggplants may be pruned and staked to keep the fruits straight, as plants may fall over once fruit begins to set. 

Pests and Disease

Practice lengthy crop rotation to avoid Verticillium wilt. A 4-5 year rotation for all Solanaceae crops is recommended. Full sun and good air circulation will help prevent powdery mildew.

Fabric row covers are the recommended method of control for flea beetles and Colorado potato beetles (CPB) for newly-set transplants. Once covers are removed, regularly check undersides of leaves and crush any orange egg masses of the CPB.

Harvest

Clip fruit stem with shears. Pick fruits of desired size regularly to encourage further production. The best way to gauge the time to harvest: The skin of the fruit is shiny and unwrinkled and a uniform color. As soon as the skin does not rebound to gentle pressure from your finger, it’s ripe.

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Eggplant, Black Beauty — shiny & purple 4-6 inch fruit used in many recipes like eggplant parmesan

Melon

Overview

A refreshing summer fruit with a sweet and juicy green flesh that grows well in hot climates

Conditions

Choose a sun-soaked (6+ hours of direct sunlight), warm location with well-drained soil

Planting

Typically, late spring is ideal. Use our grow calendar tool to find specific planting dates for your region! Plant directly in warm soil (for optimal growth, enrich the soil with compost or organic matter) after danger of frost has passed. Plant seeds 3" apart in groups of 3–4 seeds and space each group ~4' apart. Thin to the one strongest seedling per group when they are ~2–3" tall.

Care

Keep the soil consistently moist but avoid over watering by using efficient watering methods like a soaker hose or drip irrigation. Feed your plants with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer both at planting and throughout their growth. Mulching helps conserve moisture and keeps weeds at bay, and providing support for the vines as the melons develop prevents them from resting directly on the ground.

Pets and Disease

Striped or spotted cucumber beetles can damage leaves, stems, fruit, vines and their hatched larvae consume roots leading to weakened plants. Neem oil, white oil, and organic insecticidal soap are useful in controlling these pests. Here's a link to our favorite homemade insecticide soap recipe for plants!

Harvest

Harvest when the melons have a sweet aroma, a yellowish color, and a slight softness when pressed at the blossom end.

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Honeydew Melon, Green Flesh

Onion

Overview

A hardy crop grown globally, onions are a staple in vegetable gardening. They can be grown for their mature bulbs, or simply for their green tops. Rich in dietary fiber, vitamin C, potassium, iron, and organosulfur compounds, onions have been linked to cancer prevention and lowering blood pressure and cholesterol. 

Conditions

Onions are a hardy crop adapted to a wide range of growing conditions. Day length is important in variety selection of bulbing onions. Growers north of 38 degrees latitude should plant long day varieties as early as possible to achieve full size prior to maturity. Growers south of 38 degrees should plant short day or intermediate day varieties as these need less day length to reach full size. Green/bunching onions can be grown at any latitude. Onions grow best in fertile, well drained soils with a pH of 6–6.8. 

Planting

Use our grow calendar tool to find specific dates for your region! Seeds germinate in 10-14 days.

Plant indoors in starter pots or trays ~7-9 weeks before the desired transplant date. Transition outside (harden) for 7-14 days before outdoor transplant. Space 3-5" apart for full-sized bulbs, or 1-2" for bunching types. 

Care

Keep consistently watered and well weeded. Shallow roots require light, frequent irrigation when plants are young. 

Pests and Disease

Botrytis Leaf Blight, Gray Mold, Downy Mildew, and Purple Blotch are fungal diseases of onions that can be challenging to control. Practice 3–4 year crop rotations for all onion family crops (onions, shallots, leeks, garlic) and thoroughly compost or turn under all crop debris. Cover with floating row cover in areas with high onion maggot or thrips pressure. 

Harvest

Onions for use in the green stage are harvested as soon as they attain edible size. 

Onions growing to full bulb stage will have their green tops drop down when onions are ready to be harvested. Harvest when tops are between 80–100% broken down. Store in a cool, dry place.

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Onion, Evergreen Bunching — Green/Bunching Variety - crisp onions grown for greens with a sweet flavor 

Onion, Walla Walla — Long Day variety - large onions with mild, juicy, sweet flesh that grill very well

Onion, Yellow Sweet Spanish Utah — Long Day Variety - opaque-yellow skin, thick necks and sweet, flavorful white flesh

Okra

Overview

Dramatic okra plants with their hibiscus-like flowers provide an ornamental element in the garden as well as producing the nutritious pods that thicken gumbo and are delicious fried or sautéed. Traditionally grown in the warmest areas of the US, the young pods are high in many amino acids, vitamins A, B6 and C, Folate, and thiamin.

Conditions

Okra are a warm-weather crop that need sufficiently high temperatures (at least 65°F) to thrive, but the warmer the better! For soil, use a fertile, well-draining potting mix that’s tailored for vegetables. For best quality crop, provide full sun (6+ hours of direct sunlight per day).

Planting

Okra can be directly planted in the garden once it is warm enough, or started indoors to jumpstart growing. Use our grow calendar tool to find specific planting dates for your region! Seeds germinate in 14-21 days. 

For planting outdoors, plant seeds 2" apart, 1/2" deep. Thin to 12-18" when seedlings emerge. 

For indoor starting, plant in 2" starter pots or trays, 3 seeds per pot, 1/2" deep. Start 4-5 weeks ahead of the desired transplanting date. Thin to one plant per pot/cell, and transplant 12-18" apart in rows 3' apart. Transition outside (harden) for 7-14 days before outdoor transplant.

Care

Keep the plants well watered throughout the summer months. 1 inch of water per week is ideal, more in a hot, arid region. After the first harvest, remove the lower leaves to help speed up production.

Pests and Disease

Remove stink bugs that cause wart-like growths on pods.

Harvest

Harvest promptly by clipping pods at 2-4" long to keep plants productive. Oversized pods become tough. 

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Okra, Clemson Spineless — produces an abundance of dark-green, deeply-grooved pods

Pea

Overview

Planting peas is a springtime ritual that rewards the gardener with bountiful harvests of sweet tasting peas far more flavorful than store bought. Peas are rich in protein, vitamins A and C, folate and iron.

There are three kinds of peas commonly seen in home gardens:

English peas, aka shelling peas, produce inedible pods from which large, edible peas are harvested.

Snow peas produce edible flat pods with small peas inside.

Snap peas produce tender, edible pods with full-size peas.

Conditions

For soil, use a fertile well-draining potting mix that’s tailored for vegetables. Peas are a cool weather crop, so plant early in the spring as soon as the soil can be worked. Most pea varieties require support structures (trellises, poles, or fences) to grow best. For best quality crop, provide full sun (6+ hours of direct sunlight per day).

Planting
Plant peas directly in your garden once the soil can be worked.  Use our grow calendar tool to find specific planting dates for your region! Seeds germinate in 7-14 days. 

Plant peas ½-1” deep, spaced 1-1 ½” apart in rows 4-6 feet apart. Put trellis or other support structure in place shortly after planting. Thinning is not required. As peas grow, make sure plants are latching onto the support structure. 

Care

If peas have not been grown in your garden before, it may be necessary to inoculate pea seeds prior to planting. An inoculant will help your peas form nitrogen-producing nodules on plant roots, allowing peas to fix nitrogen from the air into the soil for nutrient use. This symbiotic relationship with beneficial bacteria enriches the soil, results in larger plants, and increases yield.

Pests and Disease

A common disease is pea root rot (Fusarium sp. or Aphanomyces euteiches) which causes browning and drying of the foliage from the ground up. The best controls against rot are well-drained soil and crop rotations out of legumes for at least three years. 

Powdery mildew causes white, powdery mold on the leaves, stems, and pods in hot and humid weather. To prevent disease, avoid overhead irrigation and increase plant spacing to maximize airflow.

Harvest

Peas mature quickly, so check daily once flowers bloom. Keep your peas well picked to encourage more pods to develop. Pick peas in the morning after the dew has dried. They are crispiest then. Use clippers to cut the pods from the vine, or remove with two hands (take care not to damage vines). Pea pods that have hardened or turned a dull color are over mature.

If you missed your peas’ peak period, you can still pick, dry, and shell them for use in soups.

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Pea, Oregon Snow Sugar Pod II — Snow Variety - sweet peas inside big pods create a healthy, delicious snack. 4" pod size.

Pea, Snap Sugar Daddy — Snap Variety - stringless, sweet, crisp and fully-edible pods. 3" pod size. 

Pepper

Overview

Whether sweet or spicy, peppers add multiple dimensions to our foods. Peppers come in a grand diversity of shapes, colors and flavors. Most peppers are high in Vitamin C. Capsaicin, the 'heat' in hot peppers, provides many health benefits.

Conditions

For soil, use a fertile well-draining potting mix that’s tailored for vegetables. For best quality crop, provide full sun (6+ hours of direct sunlight per day) and consistent moisture (don’t let the topsoil become dry to the touch). Abundant phosphorus and calcium are essential for pepper skin development and needed for the best results.

Planting 

Use our grow calendar tool to find specific planting dates for your region! Seeds germinate in 10-14 days. 

Plant seeds indoors in starter pots or trays 8-10 weeks before the desired transplant date. Pepper seeds germinate slowly in cooler temperatures, so try to keep soil temperatures above 80°F for germination, and then around 70°F  thereafter. Transition outside (harden) for 7 days before outdoor transplant. Space 12-18" apart for most peppers, though some may need 18-24" spacing for larger growth.

Care

When flowers appear, amend the soil with calcium to aid in fruit development. Crush eggshells into powder and side dress the peppers.

Harvest

Pick the first peppers promptly when they reach full size to encourage further fruit sets. The longer bell peppers stay on the plant, the more sweet they become and the greater their vitamin C content. 

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Bell Pepper, Sweet Cal Wonder — sweet & thick-walled, this is the classic, most popular bell pepper (no heat)

Bell Pepper, Sweet Keystone Giant — extremely large with thick walls - great for stuffing and grilling (no heat)

Jalapeno Pepper — zesty flavor great in Mexican cuisine, pickled or fresh (2,500 - 8,000 SHU)

Chili Pepper, Cayenne Thin — a famous, super hot pepper that can easily be dried or flaked (30,000 - 50,000 SHU)

Chili Pepper, Poblano — popular Mexican pepper, called Ancho (dried) & Poblano (fresh) - 1,000 - 1,500 SHU

Sweet Pepper, Red Marconi — delicious, sweet Italian pepper great raw, fried, grilled or stuffed (no heat)

Pumpkin

Overview

Treasured for their ease of cultivation, high food production and excellent storage, pumpkins have been a staple crop in the Americas for millennia. Widely known as an iconic Halloween and fall crop, orange-fleshed varieties are rich in beta carotene, antioxidant vitamins C and E, and potassium.

Conditions

Pumpkins require warm temperatures (above 70°F) before planting. For soil, use a fertile well-draining potting mix that’s tailored for vegetables. Add ample compost or manure, as pumpkins are heavy feeders. For best quality crop, provide full sun (6+ hours of direct sunlight per day). Pumpkins also need ample vining space, so plan accordingly.

Planting

Pumpkins are a warm-weather crop with a long growing season that prefer to be planted directly in the garden. Plant seeds in late spring when the soil is at least 70°F and frost danger has passed. Use our grow calendar tool to find specific planting dates for your region! Seeds germinate in 7-14 days.

Plant 4-6 seeds in groupings 1/2-1" deep spaced 4-6 feet apart. Plant seeds in “pumpkin hills” - slightly raised mounds above the normal garden floor. This helps keep soil temperature warmer. Thin to 1 plant per spacing interval after seedlings are established. 

Care

Pumpkins are heavy feeders. Regular treatments of manure, compost, or fertilizer mixed with water will sustain good growth. Use a high nitrogen formula in early plant growth, and switch to a high phosphorus fertilizer before the blooming period.

Pinch off each vine end after a few pumpkins have formed. This will stop vine growth and encourage fruit growth. As fruits develop, they should be turned (with great care not to hurt the vine or stem) to encourage an even shape.

Pests and Disease

Common cucurbit diseases include powdery mildew, downy mildew, bacterial wilt, and phytophthora. Avoid problems with adequate soil drainage, good air flow, insect pest control, and crop rotation. If necessary, check with your local Cooperative Extension Service agent for specific control options.

Cucumber beetles, squash bugs, and vine borers are all common pests for cucurbits. Protect young plants with floating row covers. Squash bug eggs found on the undersides of leaves may be crushed by hand. For vine borers, cut out of vines and hill soil over the wound. Keep field borders mowed and remove plant refuse in the fall; spring plow to bury pupae. C. moschata types are less susceptible to vine borers. Insecticides (specifically, pyrethrin sprays) may offer some control.

Harvest

Fruits can tolerate 1-2 light frosts, however, temperatures below 28°F/-2°C can damage fruit.
Pumpkins are ripe when rinds have turned orange and hardened, and a “thump” with your finger feels hard and sounds hollow. Harvest by clipping handles close to the vine. Let the pumpkins cure in the sun for a week prior to bringing indoors or transporting. 

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Pumpkin, Jack O’lantern — the best pumpkin for Halloween carving and cooking - 18-24lb fruit size!

Radish

Overview

One of the easiest and quickest root vegetables to grow, radishes come in a rainbow of colors and add a mildly spicy flavor to fresh salads. Since radishes can be harvested as soon as three weeks after planting, they can be planted multiple times in a growing season. Radishes are a good source of vitamin C.

Conditions

For soil, use a fertile well-draining potting mix that’s tailored for vegetables. Radishes are adversely affected by hot, dry weather. For best quality crop, provide full sun (6+ hours of direct sunlight per day) and consistent moisture (don’t let the topsoil become dry to the touch).

Planting

Plant radishes directly in your garden beginning in early spring. Use our grow calendar tool to find specific planting dates for your region! Seeds germinate quickly in 4-6 days. Plant seeds in 3” wide bands, with approximately 1” between each. Thin to 2-3” between plants, or closer to 3-6” for larger varieties. 

Care

Keep plants well-watered during the growing season, as drought can halt growth and cause roots to taste bitter. 

Pests and Disease

Use floating row covers at time of planting to control flea beetles and cabbage root maggots.

Harvest

Harvest promptly to avoid pithiness, beginning at about 3-4 weeks when roots are the size of a large marble. Push back soil slightly to check root size before harvest. 

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Radish, Cherry Belle — crisp, mini radish that makes a great addition to any salad

Radish, German Giant — large radish with red skin and crisp, white flesh

Squash

Overview

Treasured for their ease of cultivation, high food production and excellent storage, squashes have been a staple crop in the Americas for millennia. Tender summer squash is available abundantly throughout the summer, while winter squash can be stored for use throughout the winter.

Conditions

Squash are frost sensitive, heat loving crops that require temperatures above 70°F before planting. They grow best on well drained, fertile soils with a pH between 6.0-7.5. Supply consistent moisture with drip irrigation to reduce mildew and other foliar diseases. For best quality crop, provide full sun (6+ hours of direct sunlight per day). Squash also need ample vining space, so plan accordingly.

Planting

Squash are most commonly planted outdoors directly in the garden. Plant seeds in late spring when the soil is at least 70°F and frost danger has passed. Use our grow calendar tool to find specific planting dates for your region! Seeds germinate in 7-14 days.

Plant 3 seeds in groupings 1/2-1" deep, spaced 18-36" apart depending on variety. Thin to one plant per spot as seedlings develop. 

CareSquash are heavy feeders. Regular treatments of manure, compost, or fertilizer mixed with water will sustain good growth. Use a high nitrogen formula in early plant growth, and switch to a high phosphorus fertilizer before the blooming period.

Winter squash will need lots of water, especially when fruit sets. Water soil deeply, but avoid getting leaves or fruit wet. Reduce watering as the squash reach maturity. 

Harvest

Harvest squash when vines have begun to die back and fruit has reached its full size and final color. Press your nail into the skin, and if it resists puncture then it is ripe. Cut fruit from vines leaving a 1-2 inch stem for good storage. Let cure in a warm,dry place, then store at 50-55°F.

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Squash, Spaghetti  — Winter variety - sweet, nutty flavor from soft inner flesh. Great pasta alternative. 

Squash, Waltham Butternut — Winter variety - sweet flavor and smooth texture. Best if stored for 2 months after harvest. 

Tomato

Overview

Tomatoes embody the joy of gardening more than any other fruit. They are every gardener’s go-to choice to produce yummy, abundant fruit. They are available in a wide variety of sizes and colors, from bite-size yellow types to giant marbled beefstakes!

There are two different ways that tomato plants grow:

DETERMINATE (Bush): Varieties do not need pruning and may be grown with or without support; fruit ripens within a concentrated time period.

INDETERMINATE (Vining): Varieties should be staked, trellised, or caged, and pruned for best results; fruit ripens gradually over an extended period.

Conditions

Tomatoes are long-growing, heat-seeking, sun lovers that do not tolerate frost. For soil, use a fertile well-draining potting mix that’s tailored for vegetables. For best growth, provide full sun (6+ hours of direct sunlight per day). Indeterminate varieties will need stakes, cages, or other support structures for best growth.

Planting

Use our grow calendar tool to find specific planting dates for your region! Seeds germinate in 7-14 days. 

Start seeds indoors in start pots or trays 4-6 weeks before desired transplanting date. Don’t start too early, as root-bound transplants will be stunted and perform poorly. Plant seeds ¼" deep and thin to 1 plant per pot. Water only enough to keep the mix from drying out. 

Transition outside (harden) for 7 days before outdoor transplant. Space 12-18" apart for determinate varieties. Indeterminate varieties will need 18-24" spacing. Be sure to set up any support structures shortly after transplanting.

Care

For indeterminate varieties, gently prune small offshoots below larger branches to concentrate growth. 

Abundant phosphorus is important for high yields. Too much nitrogen causes rampant growth and soft fruits susceptible to rot. Use a tomato-specific organic fertilizer as directed to ensure proper nutrient levels.

Prune indeterminate/vining tomatoes.

Pests and Disease

Learn the common tomato diseases in your area. Select resistant varieties. For prevention, use young, healthy transplants, avoid overhead irrigation, plow in tomato plant refuse in the fall, rotate crops. Fungicides can reduce certain diseases when properly selected and applied.

Prevent blossom end rot by providing abundant soil calcium and an even supply of soil moisture.

Use row covers to protect young seedlings from flea beetles. Tomato hornworms can be controlled with Bacillus thuringiensis. 

Harvest

Leave your tomatoes on the vine as long as possible to fully ripen. Tomatoes are ready for picking when firm and very red in color, regardless of size, with perhaps some yellow remaining around the stem. Harvest with stems still attached. 

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Tomato, Amish Paste — this heirloom, irregular shaped tomato is nearly seedless & with it's thick skin and bright color is great in salads or for slicing/pastes.

Tomato, Beefsteak — the classic, juicy, and meaty tomato; great for slicing

Tomato, Red Cherry — these bite-size tomatoes are bright red, sweet, and juicy

Tomato, Roma — firm & thick-walled, these are great canned or in sauces

Tomato, Yellow Pear — bite-sized, plump, pear-shaped salad tomato

Tomato, Big Rainbow — beautiful slicer with golden flesh and red-marbled accents

Tomato, Brandywine Pink — dating back to 1885, this heirloom is famous for its sweet flavor

Tomato, Rutgers — legendary slicing tomato, once the most popular variety in the world

Tomato, Cherokee Purple — a rich, sweet, and smoky flavor lends itself to be enjoyed raw or cooked

Watermelon

Overview

Everyone seems to love juicy watermelon in the summertime. Native to Africa, watermelons come in numerous different sizes and colors, all with delicious flesh inside. They grow spectacularly in warm climates with long growing seasons. 

Conditions

For soil, use a fertile, well-draining potting mix that’s high in organic matter. For the best quality melons, provide full sun (6+ hours of direct sunlight) and consistent soil moisture during the growing season. Watermelons also need ample vining space, so plan accordingly.

Planting

Watermelons are most commonly planted directly outdoors in the garden once soil is above 70°F.  Use our grow calendar tool to find specific planting dates for your region! Seeds germinate in 7-14 days. 

Plant seeds in groups of 3, ½–1" deep, 18-36" apart in rows that are 6 feet apart. Plant seeds in hills or hilled rows to keep soil temperature high and provide good drainage. Thin to 1 plant per group as seedlings develop. 

Pests and Disease

"Sudden wilt" is a complex disease and cold weather stress syndrome in late summer when plants have a heavy set of ripening watermelons, can cause plants to wilt almost overnight. Keep plants healthy with good fertility and irrigation to avoid sudden wilt.

Protect against cucumber beetles with floating row covers applied at germination.

Harvest

There are 3 ways to tell when a watermelon is ripe: 1) the tendril nearest the point on the vine where fruit stem attaches is browning/dead; 2) the spot where the fruit rests on the ground is yellow; and 3) the classic mystery — you hear "punk," as opposed to "pink" or "pank," when you flick the melon with your fingers. Stems should be cut with a sharp knife close to the fruit.

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Watermelon, Crimson Sweet — classic large watermelon with crisp, sweet, & dark-red fruit. 15-25lbs.

Watermelon, Sugar Baby — mini, super sweet watermelon with an almost black rind when ripe. 8-12lbs.

Zucchini

Overview

Zucchini are high-producing members of the squash family, and are summer garden staples. High in antioxidants and Vitamin A but low in calories, Zucchini is a healthy addition to every home garden. 

Conditions

Zucchini squash thrive in warm summer conditions. For soil, use a fertile well-draining potting mix that’s tailored for vegetables. Zucchini will need ample feeding throughout growth, as the large fruits need plenty of nutrients. For best growth, provide full sun (6+ hours of direct sunlight per day). 

Planting

Plant seeds outdoors directly in the garden once warm weather arrives. Use our grow calendar tool to find specific planting dates for your region! Seeds germinate in 7-14 days. 

Plant seeds in clusters of 3, each ½" deep, spaced 24-36" apart. Thin to one plant per cluster as seedlings start to grow. 

Care

Keep your zucchini well-watered, especially during hot summer months. Plants tend to produce only male flowers at first, but female flowers will come soon after. If pollinating insects are thin on the ground – or rather the air – you can hand pollinate flowers by transferring the pollen from a male flower directly to an open female flower.

Pests & Diseases

Powdery mildew can be an issue on the leaves later on in the season. Keeping plants well-watered and leaving plenty of space between them for good airflow should slow the spread of this disease. If your zucchini does get powdery mildew, don’t worry too much, as plants will usually cope.

Harvest

Harvest regularly, 2-3 times a week, once plants begin to produce. Cut or gently twist off fruits when they have reached the desired size. Male flowers can also be clipped off and eaten, but do not clip female flowers or more fruit will not be produced!

BTTR Selected Varieties

Zucchini, Black — versatile, smooth zucchini with a creamy, white flesh.

Zucchini, Cocozelle — classic Italian heirloom with edible fruit and flowers. Characterized by striped outer flesh.

Alyssum

Overview

Fragrant and edible clusters of small white blooms.

Conditions

For a garden graced with the delicate beauty of Sweet Alyssum, choose a sunny location (6+ hours of direct sunlight) with well-drained soil.

Planting

Plant seeds in early spring or fall. Use our grow calendar tool to find specific planting dates for your region! Plant 2–3 seeds per starter pot indoors 4–5 weeks before transplating and lightly pressing them into the soil. Thin to the one strongest plant per pot when ~2" tall, and transition outside (harden) for 7 days before outdoor transplant, spacing them 6–8 inches apart. Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid overwatering.

Care

Fertilize with a balanced, all-purpose organic fertilizer every 4–6 weeks. Deadheading (removal of old flowers) to encourage continuous flowering.

Pets and Disease

Be vigilant for pests like aphids and use organic pest control methods if needed. Here's a link to our favorite homemade insecticide soap recipe for plants!

Harvest

Harvest the charming white blooms for fresh and deliciously fragrant arrangements. They may also be used for dried arrangements.

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Alyssum, Sweet White

Bachelor Buttons

Overview

Bachelor Buttons are an attractive, old-fashioned wildflower that blooms in shades of blue, crimson, pink, and white. Frilly flowers sit atop multi-branching stems. As a quick and easy to grow flower, they’re perfect for adding to arrangements or letting them bloom in the garden. 

Conditions

Bachelor Buttons prefer fertile, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter, but will grow in less than ideal conditions. For optimal blooms and large plants, provide full sun to part shade (3-5 hours of direct sunlight per day).

Planting

Bachelor Buttons are most commonly planted outdoors directly in the garden. Use our grow calendar tool to find specific planting dates for your region! Seeds germinate slowly in 7-25 days.

Plant seeds just ⅛" deep in the garden soil, 5-8 seeds per foot. Thin seedlings to 8-10" apart after first true leaves appear. 

Harvest

Harvest 2" flowers when fully open or leave in the garden through bloom. Flowers can also be dried. 

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Bachelor Buttons, Jubilee — blue, ruffled blossoms & one of the easiest flowers to grow from seed

Calendula

Overview

An early spring edible flower medley with orange and yellow blooms.

Conditions

To ensure its successful growth, begin by selecting a sunny location (6+ hours of direct sunlight) with well-drained soil.

Planting

Plant the seeds in early spring or late summer to enjoy a continuous display of blooms throughout the growing season. Use our grow calendar tool to find specific planting dates for your region! Plant 2–3 seeds per starter pot indoors 4–5 weeks before transplating bury them about 1/4 inch deep. Thin to the one strongest plant per pot when ~2" tall, and transition outside (harden) for 7 days before outdoor transplant. Space them 12–18 inches apart to allow ample room for growth.

Care

Consistently moist soil, without waterlogging is essential, and a balanced, all-purpose organic fertilizer applied every 4–6 weeks will help sustain the plant's vitality. Regular deadheading (removal old flowers) encourages more blooms.

Pets and Disease

Keep an eye out for potential pests like aphids and snails, employing organic methods for control. Here's a link to our favorite homemade insecticidal soap recipe for plants!

Harvest

As the blossoms flourish, harvest them regularly for fresh or dried floral arrangements.

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Calendula, Pacific Beauty

Cosmos

Overview

Single flowers, 3–4" across, in lavender, pink, magenta and white.

Cosmos are annual flowers with daisy-like flowers that sit atop long slender stems and bloom throughout the summer. They attract beneficial insects and birds to your garden and grow easily from seed. Blooms vary in color but include pink, orange, red, yellow, white, and maroon. Cosmos grow in both beds and containers—and they also make great cut flowers!

Conditions

Cosmos do not require any special soil conditions, and are even well-adapted to survive in poor soils. They are also drought tolerant. For optimal blooms and large plants, provide full sun (6+ hours of direct sunlight per day). Tall varieties may benefit from some wind protection.

Planting

Cosmos are most commonly started indoors and transplanted into the garden. Use our grow calendar tool to find specific planting dates for your region! Seeds germinate quickly in 7-10 days.

Plant seeds indoors in starter pots or trays 5-7 weeks before your desired transplant date. Plant ¼" deep and keep the soil surface moist until emergence. Transition outside (harden) for 7 days before outdoor transplant. Space 9-12" apart.

Care

Do not overwater, as cosmos can tolerate short periods of drought. Deadheading (removing old flowers) will encourage new flowers to grow in their place and prolong the bloom period. There is no need to fertilize cosmos during growth.

Harvest

Harvest flowers when petals are just opening, but not yet flattened. Cosmos flowers will self-seed if left on the stem. 

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Cosmos, Sensation Mix — 3-4" wide flowers that come in lavender, pink, magenta and white. Blooms last 8 weeks. 

Daisy

Overview

These are great for cut flowers with large yellow double blooms on long stems.

Conditions

For bountiful growth, select a sunny spot (6+ hours of direct sunlight) with well-drained soil.

Planting

Plant seeds in early spring. Use our grow calendar tool to find specific planting dates for your region! Plant indoors in starter pots 5–7 weeks before transplating and lightly pressing them into the soil. Transition outside (harden) for 7 days before outdoor transplant, spacing them 12–18 inches apart. Keep the soil consistently moist, but ovoid overwatering.

Care

Apply a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer organic every 4-6 weeks for optimal growth. Deadheading (removal of old flowers) to encourage continuous flowering.

Pets and Disease

Keep an eye out for pests like aphids and address them using organic pest control methods when necessary. Here's a link to our favorite homemade insecticide soap recipe for plants!

Harvest

Harvest these glorious double daisies for fresh or dried floral arrangements, adding a burst of color and cheer to your garden throughout the growing season.

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Daisy, Rudbeckia Gloriosa Double

Echinacea

Overview

Echinacea, also known as Coneflowers, are tough little native flowers that draw butterflies, bees, and birds to the garden. They are incredibly easy to grow, drought tolerant, and grow to bloom very quickly.  

Conditions

Echinacea prefer well-drained soil and full sun (6+ hours of direct sunlight per day), but are tolerant of both poor soil conditions and lower light levels if required. 

Planting

Echinacea are most commonly started indoors in pots or trays, then transplanted to the garden when the weather is warm. Use our grow calendar tool to find specific planting dates for your region! Seeds germinate in 10-15 days.

Plant seeds in starter pots or trays 8-10 weeks before transplanting outside. Transition outside (harden) for 7 days before outdoor transplant. Space at least 18-24" apart for full-sized plants.

Harden off and transplant outside in late spring or early summer

Care & Harvest

Note - echinacea are perennial flowers, and thus may not flower the first year after planting. 

For overwintering, cut back the plant prior to cold weather.

For harvesting the flower, harvest when the petals are expanding. For harvesting the cone, harvest when the cone is raised and has turned golden.

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Echinacea, Purple Coneflower — ancient herbal remedy with beautiful, purple/violet blooms

Lavender

Overview

Lavender is a bushy, strong-scented perennial. Prized for its fragrance, medicinal properties, and beautiful color, lavender is a valued plant across the world. It also attracts pollinators to the garden. 

Conditions

Plant in a light, well-draining, gravelly soil meant for perennials. For the best quality flowers, provide full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight).

Planting

Use our grow calendar tool to find specific dates for your region! Seeds are extremely difficult to germinate and take roughly 14-28 days. 

Transplant (recommended): Start in containers 8-10 weeks before last frost. Sow seeds on top of the growing medium, gently pressing them in. Do not fully cover, as the seeds require light to germinate. Transplant to individual pots when the plants are large enough to handle. Transplant to the garden in the spring after last frost. Space plants 12-18" apart. 
Care Prune established plants in the spring when green leaves start to emerge from the base of the plant. Remove approximately one third of the top. In late fall, clip plants back to below the flower stems and add mulch to keep soil temperature higher. In colder growing areas, plants may need extra winter protection.

Pests and Disease

In humid climates, lavender is prone to fungal diseases. Lavender may develop fungal root rot due to excess water (look for yellowing leaves as a sign of overwatering). To prevent fungal disease, do not overwater lavender.

Harvest

If harvesting for cut flowers, harvest flower spikes in the morning on a dry, warm day after half of the flower buds have opened. Cut stems as long as possible. Gather into bundles and dry in a cool, dark place where there is good air circulation. 

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Lavender, English — beautiful blooms & relaxing aromas make this a must for any garden

Linaria

Overview

Early spring flower blend of yellow, violet, and pink blooms.

Conditions

To cultivate the enchanting Linaria Fairy Bouquet, choose a sunny location (6+ hours of direct sunlight) with well-drained soil.

Planting

Plant groups of 2–3 seeds in early spring, every 6 inches apart outdoors. Use our grow calendar tool to find specific planting dates for your region! Lightly cover the seeds and keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.

Care

Fertilize every 4–6 weeks with a balanced, all-purpose organic fertilizer. Deadheading (removal of old flowers) to encourage continuous flowering.

Pets and Disease

Watch for pests like aphids and manage them organically. Here's a link to our favorite homemade insecticide soap recipe for plants!

Harvest

Harvest the dainty, pastel blossoms for charming fresh or dried arrangements.

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Linaria, Fairy Bouquet

Marigold

Overview

Marigolds are annual flowers that bring a wealth of gold, copper, and brass blooms to your summer flower garden. Easy to grow, marigolds are an excellent choice for cheerful, extra-large blooms, especially in containers or beds!

Conditions

Marigolds prefer moderately-fertile, well-draining soil rich in organic matter. For optimal blooms and large plants, provide full sun (6+ hours of direct sunlight per day).

Planting

Marigolds are most commonly started indoors and transplanted into the garden. Use our grow calendar tool to find specific planting dates for your region! Seeds germinate quickly in 4-7 days.

Plant seeds indoors in starter pots or trays 4-6 weeks before your desired transplant date. Plant ¼" deep and keep the soil surface moist until emergence. Transition outside (harden) for 7 days before outdoor transplant. Space 8-12" apart for most varieties. 

In warmer climates, marigold seeds can be directly planted outdoors in the garden. When the soil is warm, plant 6 seeds per foot, 1/4" deep. Cover lightly but firmly. Keep the surface from drying out until emergence. Thin to 8-12" apart after the first true leaves appear.

Care

Watering should be done by soaking soil thoroughly, then allowing soil to dry somewhat between waterings. Once plants are established, begin pinching off stems to encourage bushier growth. Deadheading (removing old flowers) is not required, but can encourage new flowers to grow in their place. There is no need to fertilize marigolds during growth - too much nitrogen will cause plants to grow lush greenery but few flowers. 

Harvest

Cut flower stems when blooms are fully open but still have tight centers. Hang upside down to dry for long-lasting dried flower arrangements. 

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Marigold, Sparky — fiery colors in bunching blooms that grow great in containers. 2" blooms last 14 weeks.

Poppy

Overview

These bright orange cup-shaped blooms grow well in fields or containers.

Conditions

To grow successfully, choose a sunny location (6+ hours of direct sunlight) with well-drained soil.

Planting

Plant seeds outdoors in early spring or late fall, scattering them lightly over the soil's surface. Use our grow calendar tool to find specific planting dates for your region! Gently press them into the earth without covering them, as they require light to germinate. Keep the soil consistently moist until germination, then allow it to dry between watering.

Care

Once the poppies reach a height of 3–4 inches, thin to the one strongest plant every 6 inches. Fertilize sparingly, as these wildflowers thrive in nutrient-poor soil. Deadhead (removal of old flowers) to prolong flowering.

Pets and Disease

Slugs and snails may attack seedlings or newly emerging shoots in early spring during moist conditions. Traps and baits are quite effective for controlling these pests. To get rid of aphids is to spray them off your plants with a strong stream of water from the garden hose. Fungal diseases like downy and powdery mildew may kill young seedlings or cause growth deformities.

Harvest

The best time to harvest California Poppies is just as the flowers are going to seed and for either fresh or dry arrangements.

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Poppy, California

Sunflower

Overview

With stunning blooms from mid-summer to early fall, sunflowers bring summer vibes to the garden like no other plant. Flowers come in many colors (yellow, orange, maroon, and more) but they are commonly bright yellow with dark brown centers anywhere from 4 to 12 inches in diameter! These iconic blooms are a beautiful addition to any garden.

Sunflowers have two distinct growing habits, depending on the variety:

Single-stem varieties produce one flower for every seed, though blooms can reach up to 12 inches in diameter. 

Branching varieties produce multiple smaller blooms per plant that branch off of the main stem. 

Conditions

Sunflowers prefer fertile, well-draining soil that’s loose and deep. Ensure it is high in organic matter, as sunflowers feed heavily. Sunflower stems can grow tall, so ideally find a sheltered spot out of danger of heavy winds to limit the risk of weather damage. For optimal blooms and large plants, provide full sun (6+ hours of direct sunlight per day). Note - sunflowers may shade parts of the garden because they are so tall. Plant them in the northernmost section of the garden to prevent them from shading your other plants. 

Planting

Plant sunflowers directly outdoors in the garden after all danger of last frost. Use our grow calendar tool to find specific planting dates for your region! Seeds germinate in 7-14 days.

Plant seeds ½" deep in groups of 3, and space the groups 12-24" apart, depending on the variety. Note - single stem varieties can be planted more closely together, around 6-12". Firm soil lightly, water and keep evenly moist. Thin to one seedling per group when seedlings have two sets of leaves.  

Pests and Disease

Remove plants after they are killed by frost in fall to avoid disease issues the following year.

Harvest

Sunflowers can be left in the garden through blooming or cut for flower arrangements shortly after bloom. To harvest the seeds, cut the heads off after the stalks are quite dry and flower heads begin to turn yellow and droop. Cut flower-heads with a foot of the stalk attached. Hang heads in a warm, dry, well-ventilated place so the seeds may fully ripen and dry. 

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Sunflower, Mammoth grey Stripe — Single-stem variety: massive 12" blooms on up to 12' tall plants with lots of edible seeds

Sunflower, Autumn Beauty — Branching variety: beautiful blooms look like fall leaves with bronze & red colors (up to 8" each)

Sunflower, Lemon Queen —Branching variety: beautiful lemon-yellow, pointy petals with chocolate centers (up to 5" each)

Zinnias

Overview

Zinnias are one of the easiest flowers to grow, shooting up quickly and blooming heavily. Zinnia flowers can create a massive burst of color in your garden, and they attract beneficial insects to your garden such as butterflies. 

Conditions

Zinnias prefer fertile, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Consider adding compost before planting to amend the soil. For optimal blooms and large plants, provide full sun (6+ hours of direct sunlight per day).

Planting

Zinnias are most commonly started indoors and transplanted into the garden. Use our grow calendar tool to find specific planting dates for your region! Seeds germinate quickly in 3-10 days.

Plant seeds indoors in starter pots or trays 4 weeks before your desired transplant date. Plant ¼" deep and keep the soil surface moist until emergence. Do not allow plants to become root bound, as zinnias are sensitive to transplant shock. Transition outside (harden) for 7 days before outdoor transplant. Space 9-12" apart for most varieties. 

In warmer climates, zinnia seeds can be directly planted outdoors in the garden. When the soil is warm, plant 6 seeds per foot, 1/4" deep. Cover lightly but firmly. Keep surface from drying out until emergence. Thin to 9-12" apart after the first true leaves appear.

Pests and Disease

Adequate spacing is important to keep proper air circulation and prevent powdery mildew.

Care & Harvest

It is necessary to cut and remove old flowers (a process called deadheading) to encourage new flower growth. Zinnias can be left in the garden through blooming or cut for flower arrangements shortly before flowers are completely open. 

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Zinnia, California Giants — densely-petaled, large blooms in a variety of beautiful colors. 3–6" blooms last 10 weeks.

Zinnia, Cut and Come Again — vibrant blooms in many colors on vigorous plants that produce all summer. 2-3" blooms last 10 weeks. 

Zinnia, Red Beauty — large, vibrant flowers with dahlia-like red blooms. 4-6" blooms.

Wildflower Mix

Overview

This 16 variety blend of vibrant annuals and perennials are easy to grow in any climate.

Conditions

Choose a sunny spot (6+ hours of direct sunlight) with well-drained soil.

Planting

Plant seeds outdoors in early spring or late fall, loosen the soil to a depth of at least 3" by raking the area. For best germination & growth, soak soil before planting so that seeds don't shift & bunch during first watering. Scatter the wildflower seed mix lightly and evenly over the soil's surface. Use our grow calendar tool to find specific planting dates for your region! Gently rake the area to promote contact between the seeds and soil. Lightly press down to secure the seeds, making sure they are no deeper than 1/4" into the soil. Keep the soil consistently moist 3 to 4 weeks until germination, then water as needed.

Care

Regularly inspect the area for weeds, especially during the early stages of growth. Remove competing weeds to allow wildflowers to flourish. Deadheading (removal of old flowers) to encourage continuous flowering and prevent the plant from putting energy into seed production. However, if you want the wildflowers to self-seed, allow some to go to seed.

Pets and Disease

Wildflowers are generally resistant to pests and diseases, but monitor for any issues. In case of problems, use organic methods to control pests and diseases to minimize environmental impact, (e.g., prune affected areas, thin to improve air circulation), and water at the base rather than overhead to minimize conditions favorable for fungai diseases.

Harvest

Opt for early morning or late afternoon to cut wildflowers when they are well-hydrated and temperatures are cooler. Use sharp scissors or pruning shears to make clean, angled cuts (this helps prevent crushing the stems, ensuring better water uptake) above a leaf node or bud. This encourages branching and additional blooms.

Back To The Roots Selected Varieties

Wildflower Mix, Rainbow Blooms