Fry or roast to blister, and salt for the perfect savory snack. Blistered Shishitos are the pinnacle of appetizers. Flash-fried in a pan and served with dipping sauce, they are now a popular starter on tables across America. But their roots are in Japan, where they were popular long before reaching Western plates and palates. the name "Shishito" means "Lion Pepper." Fiercely flavored with a stable temperament, Shishitos are indeed lion-like. Even the plants look a bit feline, with their heavy harvests of green peppers hanging shaggy and full like giant manes.

If you've ever had a plate of green shishitos, prepared to perfection, salty and perfectly spicy and softened by a brief sauté, you've undoubtedly thought about growing your own. And why not? Finding the peppers in stores is difficult; growing your own is straightforward, inexpensive, and allows you to binge each summer on a very special treat.

So reliable and sweet, it deserves a crown. After finding this New York heirloom featured on the cover of a 1934 Harris’ Seeds Catalog, we were intrigued. Here is what they had to say about it. "Outstanding 1934 Introduction. Extremely Large, Early and Very Prolific. We put it mildly when we say that those who tested this new pepper last year were extremely pleased with it. The immense size, earliness and heavy yield make King of the North a variety that will give enormous yields of fine fruit even here in the North. The plants are medium size, branching and literally covered with fruit. The flesh is thick, mild and sweet." Was this pepper still deserving of a crown after all these years? In order to find out, we trialed it on our home farm- only to discover some of the famed regional adaptations had faded. After careful selection work, we're proud to say that this pepper is once again King of the North(ern growing conditions) with fast-maturing fruits that ripen to royal red even in short seasons. Grow these sweet bells in your own garden to see why they reign supreme! 

Mix of Russian and Siberian kales in shades of green and red. Innovative plant breeder Tim Peters developed this mix, originally called Gulag Stars, by blending Brassica napus kale varieties (Russian kales) with shinier Brassica rapa varieties (mustards and Asian Greens) using a method known as bud pollinating. Almost like astral projection, this allows two related but separate species to be swirled together. The result is this delightful mix, a blend of kales with shapes, colors, textures, and sizes that vary from plant to plant like colorful star-forming nebulae

The flavor of this kale similar to other Russian kales, a bit sharper than Dino Kale or Vates Blue Curled Kale. Plant this variety if you enjoy the flavor of Asian greens, but long for something more substantial and longer lasting in the garden. Makes a great baby leaf for salads. It's also a great variety for the budding breeder or seed saver. Kale is a biennial; grow the plants in year one, overwinter the ones you like, and save the seeds in the second year.

A bee-utiful mix of eye-catching striped cherry tomatoes. When new open-pollinated varieties are released they can sometimes get lost in the maze of hybrids touted to growers. If these new OP varieties don't catch on, they may disappear. We trial new varieties to discover which ones deserve some serious buzz. Over the past decade, plant breeder Fred Hempel has been using classical breeding practices to create colorful and delicious new varieties he calls "Artisan Tomatoes." We adore Hempel's Bumble Bee line the striped cherries are both pretty and tasty.

Contains Purple Bumble Bee, Sunrise Bumble Bee, and Pink Bumble Bee cherry tomatoes. Grow a few plants this year and you'll find yourself buzzing like a bee to each. Indeterminate.

Standard flat-leaf variety grows long stems and robust leaves. The most popular herb in the Western world, parsley has a bright, unmistakable tang that unites and amplifies the flavors of any dish. Of Mediterranean origin, it is now grown nearly everywhere. In temperate climates it is biennial; with the protection of a cold frame or snow cover, it comes back each spring and can be harvested for about a month before it goes to seed. This large-leaved, heavy-yielding variety is wonderful in gremolata: chop finely, then mix with lemon zest, garlic, and olive oil; salt to taste.

This variety produces big, flat, leaves on robust plants; a true giant!

Flax is the flower you’ve been missing in your garden border! ‘Linore’ reliably produces beautiful, sky-blue, pollinator-attracting flowers and delicate, airy foliage on stems that average about 2.5' tall. Developed in 1962 at the University of Oregon, this cold-tolerant variety can also be grown for linseed oil and fiber production. 100-110 days.

Instructions: Direct sow seeds onto the soil's surface as soon as the ground can be worked in early spring. Do not cover the seeds, as they require sunlight to germinate. Water well after seeds are sown. Collect seeds at the end of the season to broadcast for future planting, and clear growth once it dies back. 

• Direct sow in spring as soon as the ground can be worked
• Requires sun stratification to germinate
• Space plants 6"-9" apart in row
• Space rows 6" - 9" apart
• 1 lb seed can be broadcast sown to cover a 10' x 10' garden plot

Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) is a popular, warm-season fruit known for its juicy, sweet flesh and refreshing taste. The watermelon has become a staple in gardens and farms worldwide. With proper care, these sprawling vines produce large, delicious fruits in a variety of colors and sizes. These delicious, refreshing, and easy-to-grow fruits that thrive in warm climates. Their sprawling vines require space, but with proper care, they yield sweet, hydrating fruits perfect for summer.

• Plant Type: Annual
• Genus: Citrullus
• Species: Lanatus
• Plant Height/Width: Low growing but need lots of space… think 20 sq feet.
• Exposure: Full Sun
• Difficulty: Easy

Verbena (Verbena spp.) is a genus of flowering plants known for its vibrant, long-lasting blooms and ability to thrive in warm climates. These drought-tolerant, low-maintenance perennials and annuals are commonly found in garden beds, borders, and containers. Their ability to attract pollinators such as butterflies and bees makes them an excellent choice for eco-friendly gardening.

• Plant Type: Annual
• Genus: Verbena
• Species: Hybrida
• Plant Height/Width: up to 12"
• Season: Blooms May - October
• Exposure: Full Sun
• Difficulty: Easy

Monterey Cypress grow into bold, fast-growing evergreen trees from the species Cupressus macrocarpa. Native to the foggy coasts of California, these trees adapt surprisingly well to inland climates and offer year-round greenery with feathery foliage and a signature cypress silhouette. Perfect for windbreaks, privacy screens, or dramatic standalone features, Monterey Cypress matures quickly and tolerates a wide range of soils—though it prefers well-draining conditions. 

• Plant Type: Evergreen tree
• Genus: Cupressus
• Species: Cupressus macrocarpa
• Plant Height/Width: 40-70 feet tall / 20-30 feet wide
• Season: Year-round
• Exposure: Full Sun
• Difficulty: Moderate

Pumpkin squash is a versatile and popular member of the gourd family, known for its vibrant orange color, sweet flavor, and diverse uses in both culinary and decorative applications. It's a nutrient-rich vegetable that can be incorporated into a wide range of recipes, from soups and stews to baked goods and desserts. In addition to its culinary benefits, pumpkin squash is valued for its health properties, including high levels of vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. With proper planting, care, and maintenance, you can enjoy abundant, healthy pumpkins throughout the fall season.

• Plant Type: Annual
• Genus: Cucurbita
• Species: Cucurbita
• Plant Height/Width: Takes up a lot of space!
• Season: About 100 days to a mature turban squash.
• Exposure: Full sun
• Difficulty: Easy

Funky squash is a term used to describe unique, visually interesting varieties of squash that stand out due to their unusual shapes, colors, and textures. These varieties may include heirloom, hybrid, or ornamental squashes, ranging from warty and ridged types to bright, multi-colored forms. They are popular among gardeners for their novelty, as well as their culinary and decorative appeal.

• Plant Type: Annual
• Genus: Cucurbita
• Species: sp.
• Plant Height/Width: Low growing vine
• Season: Low growing vine
• Exposure: Full Sun
• Difficulty: Easy

The Spider Flower (Cleome hassleriana), known for its delicate, spider-like blooms, is a stunning annual that adds height and charm to gardens. Native to South America, this plant is loved for its tall, airy structure, vibrant colors, and long-lasting blooms. The flowers attract pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, making them an excellent choice for wildlife-friendly gardens. The Spider Flower is a stunning, easy-to-grow annual that adds height, color, and pollinator appeal to any garden. With its unique, spider-like blooms, it thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it low-maintenance and drought-tolerant once established.

• Plant Type: Annual (self-seeder)
• Genus: Cleome
• Species: Spinosa
• Plant Height/Width: 36-60' TALL
• Season: Blooms late spring to first frost
• Exposure: Full Sun
• Difficulty: Easy

Morning Glory is a fast-growing, stunning vine that enhances any garden with its vibrant trumpet-shaped blooms and lush foliage. Whether used for trellis decoration, erosion control, or pollinator attraction, this versatile plant is an easy addition to sunny landscapes.

• Plant Type: Annual (self-seeder)
• Genus: Ipomoea
• Species: Purpurea
• Season: Blooms summer into fall
• Exposure: Full sun to partial Shade

Hollyhocks are towering, majestic flowers known for their dramatic height, colorful blooms, and old-fashioned charm. These biennial or short-lived perennial plants can grow up to 8 feet tall, making them ideal for cottage gardens, borders, and backdrops. Hollyhocks are pollinator-friendly, attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. They thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, and though they are relatively easy to grow, they are susceptible to rust disease. Proper care and maintenance can ensure that these flowers bloom from mid-summer to early fall, creating a beautiful and nostalgic display in the garden. 

• Plant Type: Biennial
• Genus: Alcea
• Species: Rosea
• Plant Height/Width: 6-8 feet tall, 1-2 feet wide
• Season: Blooms June - August
• Exposure: Full sun to part shade
• Difficulty: Easy
• Attribute: Attract Pollinators

Gazanias are prized for their ability to bloom profusely from late spring through fall, adding bursts of color to any landscape. Their striking flowers open in full sun and close during cloudy weather or at night. These easy-to-grow plants require minimal maintenance, making them an excellent choice for both novice and experienced gardeners.

• Plant Type: Annual
• Genus: Gazania
• Species: Sp.
• Plant Height/Width: Groundcover
• Season: Blooms summer into fall
• Exposure: Full Sun
• Difficulty: Easy

French Marigolds are vibrant, easy-to-grow annual flowers known for their bright blooms and pest-repellent properties. They come in shades of yellow, orange, red, and bi-color varieties, adding cheerful color to flower beds, containers, and vegetable gardens. Beyond their beauty, French Marigolds are valued for their ability to deter pests, making them an excellent companion plant for vegetables and herbs. 

• Plant Type: Annual
• Genus: Tagetes
• Species: Patula
• Plant Height/Width: Up to 12"
• Season: Summer
• Exposure: Full sun
• Difficulty: Easy
• Attributes: Deter pests & attract pollinators

Evening Primrose is a striking biennial plant known for its delicate yellow blooms that open in the evening and attract nocturnal pollinators like moths and bees. This hardy and drought-resistant wildflower thrives in a variety of conditions, making it a valuable addition to both ornamental and naturalized landscapes. Apart from its aesthetic appeal, Evening Primrose has been used in traditional medicine and herbal remedies, particularly for its oil, which is rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) and is believed to offer various health benefits. 

• Plant Type: Biennial
• Genus: Oenothera
• Species: Biennis
• Plant Height/Width: up to 48"
• Season: Fall and Spring
• Exposure: Full sun
• Difficulty: Easy
• Attributes: Attract Pollinators

The Blue Cornflower (Centaurea cyanus), also known as Bachelor’s Button, is a charming and hardy annual flower known for its brilliant blue petals and delicate, ruffled appearance. Historically, the blue cornflower was a symbol of romance and used as a traditional boutonnière. Today, it remains a popular choice for wildflower gardens, pollinator habitats, and floral arrangements. These low-maintenance, resilient flower that adds striking blue hues to gardens and floral arrangements. Its ability to attract pollinators, resist drought, and self-seed makes it a favorite among gardeners.

• Plant Type: Annual
• Genus: Centaurea
• Species: Cyranus
• Plant Height/Width: 12–48 in. tall, 10–12 in. wide
• Season: Bloom time spring summer
• Exposure: Sun
• Difficulty: Super Easy

This essential herb bears fragrant grey-green, needlelike foliage and spikes of violet-blue flowers. Also known as True lavender, this Mediterranean native is highly valued for cutting and drying, as well as the aromatic fragrance and essential oils it produces.

• Conventional
• Perennial plant in zones 5-9
• Plants grow to 12-20 inches
• Short spikes of violet-blue flowers
• Good for cutting, drying, and essential oils

• Compact plants
• This variety will grow well in most regions of the United States but prefers a long, cool summer season
• Yield 50-100 sprouts over a season
• Sprouts grow to 1.5 inches
• Sweet flavor when harvested after frost
• 80-115 days from transplant
• Contains 100 seeds

• Organic
• Solid, tightly folded heads
• Heads weigh 3-4 pounds
• Up to 15" long by 7" wide
• Short season
• 60-75 days from transplant
• ±6,800 seeds/oz

This early-maturing variety is delicious eaten fresh. The conical, solid, tightly held heads grow up to 15" long by 7" wide and weigh 3-4 pounds each. An historic variety, this cabbage was first grown in the United States by Francis Brill of Jersey City, New Jersey, in 1840.

• Organic
• Sweet zingy flavor
• Very productive
• Indeterminate - Fruit ripens throughout the season
• Contains 25 seeds

A breeder's work of art! 'Green Zebra' has excellent flavor and unique color—golden green with forest green stripes, developing a slight amber blush when ripe. The 2"–3" tomatoes have very smooth skin essentially free of cracks. Provide support for vines that reach 6' or more. More heat and drought tolerant than other varieties.

When to Sow Outside: For mild climates only: 1 to 2 weeks after your average last frost date, and when soil temperature is at least 60°F.

When to Start Inside: RECOMMENDED. 4 to 6 weeks before transplanting. Transplant when air temperature is 45°F or warmer, usually 1 to 2 weeks after your average last frost date. Ideal soil temperature for germination is 70°–90°F.

Days to Emerge: 5–10 days

Seed Depth: ¼"

Seed Spacing: A group of 3 seeds every 24"–36"

Row Spacing: 36"

Thinning: When 2" tall, thin to 1 every 24"–36"

Once cured, hard-shelled gourds, such as Corsican, will last indefinitely and can be painted, carved, cut, or drilled as you would do with wood for dozens of craft projects. Carve them, leave the natural color, or paint these 6"–10" round and 3½"–5" deep gourds any color you want. Gourds may be sown 24" apart if trellised.

When to Sow Outside: RECOMMENDED. 2 to 4 weeks after your average last frost date, and when soil temperature is at least 60°F, ideally 70°F.

When to Start Inside: 2 to 4 weeks before your average last frost date, recommended for areas with short growing seasons. Sow in biodegradable pots that can be planted directly in the ground.

Days to Emerge: 5 – 10 days

Seed Depth: 1"

Seed Spacing: 2–3 seeds per mound

Thinning: When several leaves, thin to 1 per mound

Once properly cured, hard-shelled gourds, such as 'Birdhouse', can last for decades and can be painted, carved, cut, or drilled as you would do with wood, for hundreds of craft projects. 'Birdhouse' gourd of course makes a great birdhouse—leave natural or paint any color you want. Grow 10'–16' vines on the ground or up a very sturdy trellis to produce mature gourds in 80 to 140 days. Also attracts hummingbirds!

When to Sow Outside: RECOMMENDED. 2 to 4 weeks after your average last frost date, and when soil temperature is at least 60°F, ideally 70°F.

When to Start Inside: 2 to 4 weeks before your average last frost date, recommended for areas with short growing seasons. Sow in biodegradable pots that can be planted directly in the ground.

Days to Emerge: 5 – 10 days

Seed Depth: 1"

Seed Spacing: 4 seeds per mound

Thinning: When 3" tall, thin to 3 per mound

Not only Irish eyes will smile at this unusual plant. Its bright green bells with their tiny white "clappers" are always a conversation piece. Turns straw-colored when dry—a very valuable, long-lasting dried flower. The strain in this packet was selected for its superior cut and/or dried flower use. Reseeds, often producing new plants the following year from self-sown seeds.

When to Sow Outside: RECOMMEDED. 2 to 4 weeks before your average last frost date for chilling period. Seeds will germinate when soil temperature is above 50°F.

When to Start Inside: 6 to 8 weeks before your average last frost date. Sow in 3" biodegradable pots; roots sensitive to disturbance.

Days to Emerge: 15–35 days

Seed Depth: Press into surface

Seed Spacing: A group of 3 seeds every 12"

Thinning: When 2" tall, thin to 1 plant every 12"

This is the tall, old-fashioned, wonderfully fragrant lavender that is an extremely valuable and easy to use household herb, an important ingredient in fragrance sachets and potpourris, an excellent cut and dried flower for arrangements, and a most useful component of innumerable craft projects. Add the flowers to a simple syrup to make craft cocktails/mocktails or lavender lemonade. Bake into bread, cookies, or scones and use to flavor jellies. Perfect for rock gardens, or as a short hedge, and attracts pollinators.

When to Sow Outside: 4 to 6 weeks before your average last frost date, as soon as soil can be worked, or late fall in any climate.

When to Start Inside: RECOMMENDED. 10 to 12 weeks before your average last frost date. Transplant seedlings after average last frost.

Days to Emerge: 21 – 35 days

Seed Depth: Surface to ⅛"

Seed Spacing: A group of 3 seeds every 24"–36"

Thinning: When 1" tall, thin to 1 every 24"–36"