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Lemon Balm – Mandarina Orange – West Coast Seeds
$4.69Add to cartMelissa officinalis. This special cultivar of conventional lemon balm has been selected for its distinctive and pronounced orange scent. Mandarina Orange Balm grows with a trailing habit, so it makes a beautiful “spiller” in hanging baskets and raised garden beds. It can even be used as a ground cover, and used to cover slopes and other difficult areas. Small white flowers appear in summer that are very attractive to bees. Use the leaves as a relaxing tea. This plant grows 30-35cm (12-14″), and a little shorter in containers. It is perennial to Zone 4 and even deer resistant.
Timing: Start indoors 6 to 8 weeks before last frost, and transplant out or direct sow once day time temperatures are steadily above 10°C (50°F).
Starting: Barely cover the tiny seeds. Use a sterilized potting soil, and keep watering to an absolute minimum – just enough to keep the medium from drying out. Germination takes 10-14 days. Transplant at a spacing of 45cm (18″) into the garden.
Growing: Choose a shady spot or a location where plants can be protected from midday sun. Lemon balm prefers a fertile, moist soil in a cooler part of the garden. Plants grown in partial shade will be larger and more succulent than those exposed to full sun.
Harvest: Pick leaves throughout the summer for fresh use. The aroma is rapidly lost when dried or stored.
Approx. 25 seeds
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Oregano – Greek Organic – West Coast Seeds
$4.49Add to cartGreek oregano organic seeds are CERTIFIED ORGANIC! Greek oregano offers the best, most pungently flavoured oregano leaves for cooking. Plants are very hardy when established and impart a wonderful wild mountain aroma in the garden with their tiny white or pink flowers. Bees adore oregano when it is in bloom. Germination may be slow, so be patient. Oregano is one of the best herbs for drying because it maintains a strong flavour for months after harvest. Pick and dry whole stalks or whole plants – hang them upside down in an airy place out of direct sunlight. Once the plants are completely dry, they can be stored in open plastic bags. Otherwise, pull off the leaves and store them in sealed jars. Greek oregano pairs brilliantly with meats, eggs, and roasted vegetables like zucchini and eggplant.
Timing: Start indoors in plug trays from late winter to mid-spring. Starting indoors is more reliable than direct sowing. Use bottom heat to achieve a constant soil temperature of 15°C (60°F) for best results. Germination occurs in 7 to 14 days.
Starting: Oregano seeds are dust-like, so handle them with care. Prepare containers or plug trays using sterilized seed starting mix, and water the soil. Then try to evenly distribute the tiny seeds on the surface of the soil. Do not bury them. Using bottom heat will improve the overall success rate. As seedlings grow, keep soil on the dry side. Pot on as necessary or transplant to the garden in late spring to early summer.
Growing: Grow in a sunny and warm spot. Aim for 25cm (10″) between plants. Cut plants back after flowering to prevent them from getting straggly. As autumn approaches, divide some to bring inside over winter. Cut back the year’s growth to about 6cm (2½”) from the soil.
Harvest: Pick the leaves throughout the season as needed. Oregano leaves can be dried or frozen. Store dried leaves or whole stalks in air tight containers away from bright light.
Companion Planting: Oregano is particularly good for repelling cabbage moths, and it can be planted between rows of Brassicas for this purpose. Also good around asparagus and basil. When in bloom, oregano is highly attractive to pollinators.
Approx. 300 seeds
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Oregano – Za’atar Organic – West Coast Seeds
$3.99Add to cartOriganum syriacum. CERTIFIED ORGANIC. This wild oregano has hints of thyme and marjoram mixed in for a complex, wonderful fragrance. It is low growing and compact at about 15-20cm (6-8″) tall. Grow this aromatic herb in full sun in soil with good drainage or in containers. If the seeds are started indoors in early spring, it will be in bloom by mid-August, providing a magnet for bees. The plant performed really well in our summer field trials here at the farm, but as a perennial it is only hardy in Zones 9-10.
Timing: Start indoors in plug trays from late winter to mid-spring. Starting indoors is more reliable than direct sowing. Use bottom heat to achieve a constant soil temperature of 15°C (60°F) for best results. Germination occurs in 7 to 14 days.
Starting: Oregano seeds are dust-like, so handle them with care. Prepare containers or plug trays using sterilized seed starting mix, and water the soil. Then try to evenly distribute the tiny seeds on the surface of the soil. Do not bury them. Using bottom heat will improve the overall success rate. As seedlings grow, keep soil on the dry side. Pot on as necessary or transplant to the garden in late spring to early summer.
Growing: Grow in a sunny and warm spot. Aim for 25cm (10″) between plants. Cut plants back after flowering to prevent them from getting straggly. As autumn approaches, divide some to bring inside over winter. Cut back the year’s growth to about 6cm (2½”) from the soil.
Harvest: Pick the leaves throughout the season as needed. Oregano leaves can be dried or frozen. Store dried leaves or whole stalks in air tight containers away from bright light.
Companion Planting: Oregano is particularly good for repelling cabbage moths, and it can be planted between rows of Brassicas for this purpose. Also good around asparagus and basil. When in bloom, oregano is highly attractive to pollinators.
Approx. 50 seeds
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Thyme – Orangelo – West Coast Seeds
$4.69Add to cartThymus fragrantissimus. Grow this distinctly orange-scented thyme in hanging baskets or rock gardens and it will cascade over the edge. Its trailing nature makes it a prime candidate for ground cover, and established plants can even stand up to light foot traffic. Orangelo Thyme is hardy to Zone 5 and evergreen. It will grow between paving stones and over slopes and other hard-to-cover areas. And of course it is edible — its citrus overtones blend perfectly in savoury dishes. It reaches a maximum height of 25-30cm (10-12″). Perennial.
Timing: Sow indoors late winter to mid-spring. Transplant out once soil begins to warm, or direct sow late May through June. Ideal soil temperature for germination: 15-21°C (60-70°F).
Starting: Sow the dust-like seeds on the surface of dampened, sterilized seed starting mix under bright light with bottom heat. Keep watering to a minimum, as thyme seedlings are prone to damping off. When seedlings are large enough, harden them off and transplant to the garden or to containers, spacing them at 23-38cm (9-15″) apart.
Growing: Trim plants back after flowering to encourage bushy growth. Protect container-grown plants from cold as winter approaches, and water only as necessary. Damp, cold soil will kill thyme.
Harvest: Fresh thyme leaves can be harvested at any time of the year as long as the plants are established. Prune back any dead branches. Whole stems/branches can be clipped and dried whole, or individual leaves can be left to dry in a dark, airy spot for long term storage.
Companion Planting: An all around beneficial plant for the garden, thyme is particularly worth planting near Brassicas, as it repels cabbage moths, and strawberries, as it enhances flavour.
Approx. 25 seeds
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Wildflowers – Xeriscaping Blend – West Coast Seeds
$14.99Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product pageConserve water by planting varieties that (once established) need little or no further irrigation to thrive. Xeriscape Blend wildflower seeds are a selection of drought tolerant species that can be used anywhere in Canada or the Western United States where the elevation is below 2,000m (7,000′). It will bloom throughout the driest weather and return year after year. Xeriscaping allows growers to conserve the water that is proving to be ever more precious each year, and at the same time provide food for threatened pollinators and beauty to areas that may look haggard and dry in a normal season. This blend grows to 60cm (24″) tall. Recommended rate of application: 141g per 1,000 square feet.
Timing: Try to direct sow wildflower seeds during the period two weeks before, and eight weeks after, your last average frost date. Sowing when there is some risk of minor frost may improve germination. Wildflower seeds can also be sown in the autumn, but a certain percentage of seeds to may be lost to water, birds, and animals. To make the most of the annual species, direct sow in early spring.
Site Selection: If there are already no plants (including weeds) growing in the planting site, there may be a problem with the soil. Possible issues may be soil fertility, lack of drainage, or the need for soil amendments to improve texture. In such spots (eg. beneath a cedar tree), few plants will thrive, including wildflowers.
Site Preparation: Remove as much existing vegetation as possible through pulling or tilling under in order to minimize competition. Loosen the soil by scraping, raking, or tilling. Wildflower blends will not usually take if planted into existing lawn because the thatch prevents their contact with soil.
Seed Application: In small areas, seeds can be scattered by hand. In larger areas, you may want to employ a lawn spreader or some other mechanical means. We recommend adding 1-2 parts clean, dry sand to 1 part wildflower seeds which will help the seeds spread evenly. Do not use beach sand, as it usually contains salt. It may be wise to spread most of the seed, but to save some for filling in bald spots at a later date. Seeds must come into contact with the soil in order to germinate. Do not bury seeds more than 2-3 times their thickness.
Planting rates: Aim for a planting density of 70 seeds per square foot. 90g of seeds will cover 1,000 ft². Use 4kg per acre. 500g covers about 5,500 ft². If seeding an area where site preparation and weeding are not possible, double this rate.
Growing: Keep the seeded area as evenly moist as possible to help the seeds germinate and the young seedlings become established. Weeds need to be kept under control. Once they are growing, most mixes will not require additional water except in long periods of hot, dry weather. All of our mixes should re-grow for several years, but will eventually benefit from re-seeding. In late summer, many of the components will produce seed heads that can be harvested and replanted the following spring.
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Alyssum – Dwarf Pink – West Coast Seeds
$3.49Add to cartDwarf Pink Alyssum grows into a carpet of little pink, fragrant flowers. Plants grow and bloom quickly after sowing. They are excellent edging/border plants as they grow no more than 10cm (2-4″) tall. Its spreading habit makes it a useful ground cover. Alyssum is a great pollinator plant and will attract bees and butterflies. This makes it a fantastic companion for any flowering/fruiting vegetable.
Drought tolerant and suitable for containers or hanging baskets.Timing: Start indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date. Transplant out after all danger of frost has passed. Or, direct sow while some danger of light frost still exists. It’s very easy, either way.
Starting: Sow seeds on the surface of the soil. If starting indoors, use a sterilized seed starting mix and maintain a soil temperature of 12-21°F (55-70°F) under bright lights. The seeds require light to germinate, so do not cover them. They should sprout in 5-14 days.
Growing: Transplant 20-30cm (8-12″) apart once all risk of frost has passed. Watch for slug damage in the early spring. Alyssum prefers freely draining, loamy soil with a pH in the 6.0-7.0 range, but it’s adaptable. It is tolerant of dry soil and hot weather, and can be used for xeriscaping. If watering is abundant, Alyssum responds by growing rapidly. If growth slows in mid-summer due to heat, shear plants back by half to encourage compact growth and a second bloom. This annual may self sow.
Companion Planting: Alyssum is very attractive to pollinators and other beneficial insects, and useful as a mulch to keep weeds down between rows.
Approx. 600 seeds
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Amaranth – Love-Lies-Bleeding – West Coast Seeds
$3.99Add to cartLove-Lies-Bleeding looks as pretty in the garden as it does in cut and dried bouquets. Long, vibrant burgundy tassels hang from tall, lush green plants. Its easy to grow these vigorous 90-150cm (36-60”) plants. Pair with Hot Biscuits and Green Tails for maximum impact.
Timing: Direct sow in late spring, once night time temperatures are steadily above 10°C (50°F). Optimal soil temperature for germination: 18-24°C (65-75°F).
Starting: Sow 5mm (1⁄4”) deep in well drained soil in full sun. Thin to 25-35cm (10-14”) apart. Seeds germinate in 4-10 days, depending on conditions.
Growing: Ideal pH: 6.0-7.5. Keep moist until germinated, and then simply keep the area weeded.
Harvest: Pick baby or mature greens as needed. Simply cut them with scissors as one would with mescluns. The leaves have an appealing, nutty flavour. If growing for seed, choose A.hypochondriacus and provide ample spacing. Seed will ripen in late summer or early fall. Rub the flower heads between your hands over a bucket or tray. Doing this into paper yard waste bags works well. If the seeds do not fall easily, leave the plants for one more week and try again.
Approx. 380 seeds
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Gypsophila – Baby’s Breath – West Coast Seeds
$4.49Add to cartGypsophila elegans. Grow this annual for cut flowers to fill out a bouquet or to dry on their own. Or mix some Gypsophila seeds in where grass is allowed to grow tall for a stunning ethereal effect all summer. Baby’s Breath grows to 45cm (18″) tall. Direct sow outdoors from early spring to July for continuous blooms. Cut back after flowering for a second bloom. Plants from Baby’s Breath Gypsophila seeds are drought tolerant, so suitable for xeriscaping.
Note that the Baby’s Breath one associates with bridal bouquets is grown in very controlled settings, and harvested with precision just as the flower buds begin to open, and immediately refrigerated. This is the same flowering plant, but it is difficult to predict exactly when the plants will be bouquet-ready. To grow for summer weddings, direct sow large amounts at regular three week intervals starting in early spring when there is still a risk of frost. That would be mid-March here on the coast. Keep plants relatively crowded. This is the only way to ensure that at least some of your Baby’s Breath will be at its peak for your special event. Annual.
Timing: Plants bloom quickly from seed, so start outdoors, direct sowing in early spring in cool soil, when a light frost is still possible. In mild winter areas, it can also be direct sown in late autumn. Germination takes 10-20 days. Sow every 3-4 weeks until July for continuous blooms.
Starting: Just cover the small seeds, and thin or space to 15-20cm (6-8″). Crowded plants bloom more generously. Note that the Baby’s Breath one associates with bridal bouquets is grown (mainly in Mexico) in very controlled settings, and harvested with precision just as the flower buds begin to open. This is the same flowering plant, but it is difficult to predict exactly when the plants will be bouquet-ready. To grow for summer weddings, direct sow large amounts at regular three week intervals starting in early spring when there is still a risk of frost. That would be mid-March here on the coast. Keep plants relatively crowded. This is the only way to ensure that at least some Baby’s Breath will be at its peak for your special event.
Approx. 940 seeds
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Dandelions – Pink Dandelion – West Coast Seeds
$5.49Add to cartTaraxacum pseudoroseum. Pink Dandelion is similar to the common dandelion in almost all regards except for its elegant pale pink petals that surround a familiar lemon coloured centre. The leaves are not as bitter as the common dandelion, but are produced in a similar rosette above a well-formed taproot, beneath flower stems that grow to 30cm (12″) tall in fertile soil. This striking cousin of the well-known wildflower is thought to be native to the Caucasus region of central Europe. This perennial is hardy in Zones 3 to 8, and is useful as a low-maintenance bedding plant. Care should be taken to deadhead spent flowers to reduce its spread. These appear from mid-spring to autumn. Perennial.
Timing: Direct sow from early March to early September. Optimal soil temperature for germination: 10-25°C (50-75°F). Seeds take 14-21 days to germinate. The flowering process begins 56 to 105 from sowing, and continues for the life of the plant.
Starting: Sow short rows every two weeks for a constant supply. Be careful not to plant more than you can use, as the flowers need to be controlled. Press seeds lightly into the soil’s surface and keep the seeded area moist until germination. Do not bury the seeds, as light helps to break dormancy. Thin seedlings to 15cm (6″) apart for full sized crowns. If you intend to harvest as baby greens, they can be planted 5cm (3″) apart.
Growing: Dandelions are perennial, so in theory, they can produce over a very long time. Preventing the flowers from going to seed is essential for obvious reasons — uncontrolled growth can result in them spreading as noxious weeds. For the best leaves, grow in rich, fertile soil with good drainage. A well cultivated dandelion plant is actually quite luxurious and attractive.
Harvest: The youngest leaves have the mildest flavour and tender texture. Mature leaves need to be blanched or stir-fried. Bitterness in the leaves can be reduced by growing them in partial shade, or by placing a plastic or cardboard disc over the rosettes for a week prior to harvest. This is how some growers harvest endive, a close relative of the dandelion. For beer and wine making, harvest the flowers as soon as they open. Pull up whole plants at the end of the season and dry their roots for use as tea or dye.
Approx. 20 seeds
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Daucus (Ammi) – Purple Kisses – West Coast Seeds
$4.49Add to cartFancy umbels in shades of purple, pink, and white. Purple Kisses’ large, 8-13cm (3-5″) blooms are easy to grow and make fantastic, long-lasting filler flowers in bouquets. The tall 90-120cm (36-48″) plants are also highly attractive to pollinators in the garden.
Please note that Daucus carota is an invasive species in Canada!
Approx. 75 seeds
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Gomphrena – Strawberry Fair – West Coast Seeds
$3.99Add to cartThe ball-shaped flowerheads of these long bloomers resemble small strawberries–the red blooms feature tiny yellow flecks, just like seeds on a strawberry. Virtually maintenance-free, they are heat and drought tolerant, flowering from summer through to fall. Growing to 80cm (30″), the plants have a branching habit but upright stems, making them excellent as cut flowers, both in fresh and dried arrangements. Gomphrena is also used medicinally and makes a subtly sweet tea. AGM Award of Garden Merit RHS
Timing: Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost date or direct sow after soil temperatures warm in spring. Optimal soil temperature 21-24°C (70-75°F). Seeds should germinate in 7-14 days. To speed up germination, seeds can be soaked in warm water for 24-48 hours before planting.
Starting: Sow seeds in premoistened soil and lightly cover with seed starting mix. Place in a warm area in bright, but indirect light. Keep moist. Using heat mats will speed germination.
Growing: Gomphrena are slow growers and they may take some time to set true leaves. Keep seedlings under lights until they have at least two sets of true leaves. Then, begin hardening off before transplanting, or pot them on to continue growing until outdoor temperatures are consistently warm. Gomphrena prefer well-draining soil with consistent moisture, but can handle a dry spell. They perform best in full sun, but can tolerate partial shade. Pinch back young plants when they are around 15cm (6″) tall to encourage a bushier habit. Some taller varieties may need support to prevent them from falling over. Deadheading is not necessary, but cutting flowers regularly may result in more blooms.
Approx. 50 seeds
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Helipterum – Pierrot Red – West Coast Seeds
$3.99Add to cartThese bright pink “paper daisies” make cheerful fresh and dried bouquets. Pierrot Red’s petite 2.5-5cm (1-2”), slightly cupped blooms, have black or yellow centers. Compact 45-60cm (18-24”) plants grow an abundance of flowers on slender stems that are easy to cut.
Approx. 50 seeds
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Petunias – Dreams Appleblossom Pelleted – West Coast Seeds
$4.69Add to cartA single grandiflora type, Dreams petunias have a well branched, upright habit, growing 25-38cm (10-15”) tall. Large, pale pink flowers, up to 7.5-10cm (3-4”) across, bloom spring through summer. Resistant to Botrytis.
Timing: Start seeds indoors 8 weeks before planting out. Direct seeding is not recommended.
Starting: Press seeds lightly into the soil surface as light is needed to germinate. Seeds should germinate in 14-21 days at 21-27ºC (70-80ºF).
Growing: Space plants 20-30cm (8-12”) apart in full sun in soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.0. Seed Specs: Usual seed life: 1 year.
Approx. 25 seeds
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Petunias – Dreams Waterfall Mix Pelleted – West Coast Seeds
$4.69Add to cartA single grandiflora type, Dreams petunias have a well branched, upright habit, growing 25-38cm (10-15”) tall. A mix of large flowers, up to 7.5-10cm (3-4”) across, of midnight, sky blue, and white, blooming spring through summer. Resistant to Botrytis.
Timing: Start seeds indoors 8 weeks before planting out. Direct seeding is not recommended.
Starting: Press seeds lightly into the soil surface as light is needed to germinate. Seeds should germinate in 14-21 days at 21-27ºC (70-80ºF).
Growing: Space plants 20-30cm (8-12”) apart in full sun in soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.0. Seed Specs: Usual seed life: 1 year.
Approx. 25 seeds
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Snapdragons – Madame Butterfly Ivory – West Coast Seeds
$5.99Add to cartUnique azalea type snapdragon with ruffled, double-petaled blooms. Madame Butterfly’s tall ivory white flowers create a full display with an antique look. Harvest when the lower 1/3 of flowers on the stem are open. 66-89cm (26-35”) plants can be grown in a greenhouse or in the open field and garden.
Timing: Start snapdragons indoors, 8-10 weeks before planting out. Transplant out after last frost. Direct sowing is less reliable. Provide bright light and a soil temperature of 12°C (55°F). Seeds should sprout in 10-21 days.
Starting: Sow on the surface of a sterilized seed starting mix. To avoid damping off (to which snapdragons are somewhat prone), increase ventilation, use a layer of vermiculite on top of the soil, and water only from below. Transplant out once daytime temperatures are consistently above 10°C (50°F) and space 30cm (12″) apart.
Growing: Grow these easy sub-shrubs in rich, soil with a neutral pH. Pinch back young plants once 6 leaves have appeared for bushier mature plants. Feed lightly twice, before any flowers appear. Deadhead often. If flowering seems to subside, cut back dramatically, and then feed and water generously.
Approx. 50 seeds
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Sunflowers – Suntastic – West Coast Seeds
$6.99Add to cartThis new hybrid dwarf sunflower produces no pollen, but blooms up to three times in a season with as many as twenty flowers per plant. The 13-15cm (5-6″) flowers produced by Suntastic sunflower seeds have brilliant yellow petals surrounding a dark black disc that will appeal to florists and home gardeners alike. Bred for container growing, this All America Selections winner is ideal for patio growing, and will provide continuous colour all summer. It begins to bloom just 65 days after sowing, so it’s way earlier than most other sunflowers in its class. Suntastic sets a new standard for dwarf sunflowers, and looks great in window boxes or mass plantings in the garden bed. Annual.
Timing: Direct sow repeatedly after the last frost date. Starting indoors is possible, but does not gain much time. If sunflowers are allowed to get root-bound, they will lack stability at transplant time, and will require staking. Optimal soil temperature for germination: 21-30°C (70-85°F). Seeds should sprout in 10-14 days.
Starting: Sow seeds 5mm-1cm (¼-½”) deep. Space dwarf varieties 15cm (6″) apart, but give the giants lots of room at 1m (3′) between plants.
Growing: To grow really big plants with really big flowers, enrich the soil with organic matter and incorporate 2 cups of balanced organic fertilizer per 3m (10′) of row, and irrigate regularly. When the plants are 30cm (12) tall, dissolve 5ml (1 tsp) of borax (for boron) in 350 ml (12 fl oz) of water and spread the solution over 5m (15′) of row. Be careful not to over-apply this solution. This application of boron will produce bigger seeds and flower heads. Do not apply boron to other garden plants. When the back of the flower head turns yellow, it is ready to be cut from the plant.
Companion Planting: Sunflowers planted near rows of corn are said to increase yields. Sunflowers can be used to draw heavy metals, toxins, and even radiation from soil, but should be burned at the end of the season if grown for this purpose. Plant sunflowers amid squash plantings to improve pollination and overall production.
Approx. 10 seeds
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Sunflowers – Italian White – West Coast Seeds
$3.49Add to cartHelianthus debilis. Like freshly churned butter, the petals of Italian White sunflowers are the palest yellow, almost white. They surround a dark chocolate-brown disk, bringing an appealing high contrast effect to flower borders and cut flower bouquets. The flowers appear on multi-branching stems over a long period in summer atop stems that can reach just over 2m (7′) in height. This classic heirloom is drought tolerant and thrives in poor soils. Annual.
Timing: Direct sow repeatedly after the last frost date. Starting indoors is possible, but does not gain much time. If sunflowers are allowed to get root-bound, they will lack stability at transplant time, and will require staking. Optimal soil temperature for germination: 21-30°C (70-85°F). Seeds should sprout in 10-14 days.
Starting: Sow seeds 5mm-1cm (¼-½”) deep. Space dwarf varieties 15cm (6″) apart, but give the giants lots of room at 1m (3′) between plants.
Growing: To grow really big plants with really big flowers, enrich the soil with organic matter and incorporate 2 cups of balanced organic fertilizer per 3m (10′) of row, and irrigate regularly. When the plants are 30cm (12) tall, dissolve 5ml (1 tsp) of borax (for boron) in 350 ml (12 fl oz) of water and spread the solution over 5m (15′) of row. Be careful not to over-apply this solution. This application of boron will produce bigger seeds and flower heads. Do not apply boron to other garden plants. When the back of the flower head turns yellow, it is ready to be cut from the plant.
Companion Planting: Sunflowers planted near rows of corn are said to increase yields. Sunflowers can be used to draw heavy metals, toxins, and even radiation from soil, but should be burned at the end of the season if grown for this purpose. Plant sunflowers amid squash plantings to improve pollination and overall production.
Approx. 70 seeds
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Sunflowers – Sonja – West Coast Seeds
$5.49Add to cartSonja is a quintessential sunflower with its 10cm (4”) blooms of bright yellow/orange petals with dark centres. 96-106cm (38-42″) tall branching plants produce 8 or more flowers on long, strong stems. A day-length neutral variety that produces pollen loved by bees.
Timing: Direct sow repeatedly after the last frost date. Starting indoors is possible, but does not gain much time. If sunflowers are allowed to get root-bound, they will lack stability at transplant time, and will require staking. Optimal soil temperature for germination: 21-30°C (70-85°F). Seeds should sprout in 10-14 days.
Starting: Sow seeds 5mm-1cm (¼-½”) deep. Space dwarf varieties 15cm (6″) apart, but give the giants lots of room at 1m (3′) between plants.
Growing: To grow really big plants with really big flowers, enrich the soil with organic matter and incorporate 2 cups of balanced organic fertilizer per 3m (10′) of row, and irrigate regularly. When the plants are 30cm (12) tall, dissolve 5ml (1 tsp) of borax (for boron) in 350 ml (12 fl oz) of water and spread the solution over 5m (15′) of row. Be careful not to over-apply this solution. This application of boron will produce bigger seeds and flower heads. Do not apply boron to other garden plants. When the back of the flower head turns yellow, it is ready to be cut from the plant.
Companion Planting: Sunflowers planted near rows of corn are said to increase yields. Sunflowers can be used to draw heavy metals, toxins, and even radiation from soil, but should be burned at the end of the season if grown for this purpose. Plant sunflowers amid squash plantings to improve pollination and overall production.
Approx. 25 seeds
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Sunflowers – Solar Power – West Coast Seeds
$4.99Add to cartPlant Solar Power sunflower seeds in mass plantings if you have the room because the flowers are so striking. They look great on their own as well, or mixed in with other medium-tall varieties. Striking bi-coloured petals are mahogany with bright yellow tips around a dark brown centre for amazing contrast on 1.7m (5.5′) tall plants. Solar Power has thick, strong stems, but it is surprisingly nice as a cut flower, dominating any bouquet with its large size and flashy colour. All sunflowers are attractive to honeybees and other wild pollinators, and they can act as a kind of beacon to draw pollinators towards crops that require pollination like squash and pumpkins. Hardy Annual (HA).
Timing: Direct sow repeatedly after the last frost date. Starting indoors is possible, but does not gain much time. If sunflowers are allowed to get root-bound, they will lack stability at transplant time, and will require staking. Optimal soil temperature for germination: 21-30°C (70-85°F). Seeds should sprout in 10-14 days.
Starting: Sow seeds 5mm-1cm (¼-½”) deep. Space dwarf varieties 15cm (6″) apart, but give the giants lots of room at 1m (3′) between plants.
Growing: To grow really big plants with really big flowers, enrich the soil with organic matter and incorporate 2 cups of balanced organic fertilizer per 3m (10′) of row, and irrigate regularly. When the plants are 30cm (12) tall, dissolve 5ml (1 tsp) of borax (for boron) in 350 ml (12 fl oz) of water and spread the solution over 5m (15′) of row. Be careful not to over-apply this solution. This application of boron will produce bigger seeds and flower heads. Do not apply boron to other garden plants. When the back of the flower head turns yellow, it is ready to be cut from the plant.
Companion Planting: Sunflowers planted near rows of corn are said to increase yields. Sunflowers can be used to draw heavy metals, toxins, and even radiation from soil, but should be burned at the end of the season if grown for this purpose. Plant sunflowers amid squash plantings to improve pollination and overall production.
Approx. 20 seeds
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Sunflowers – Desert Sun – West Coast Seeds
$6.49Add to cartLarge bicolour blooms the colour of a desert sun in reds, golds, and yellows. Large 12.5-18cm (5-7”) pollenless blooms have strong, straight stems, creating sturdy, dramatic bouquets. Desert Sun’s vigorous, branching plants are 175-200cm (5.5-6.5’) tall.
Timing: Direct sow repeatedly after the last frost date. Starting indoors is possible, but does not gain much time. If sunflowers are allowed to get root-bound, they will lack stability at transplant time, and will require staking. Optimal soil temperature for germination: 21-30°C (70-85°F). Seeds should sprout in 10-14 days.
Starting: Sow seeds 5mm-1cm (¼-½”) deep. Space dwarf varieties 15cm (6″) apart, but give the giants lots of room at 1m (3′) between plants.
Growing: To grow really big plants with really big flowers, enrich the soil with organic matter and incorporate 2 cups of balanced organic fertilizer per 3m (10′) of row, and irrigate regularly. When the plants are 30cm (12) tall, dissolve 5ml (1 tsp) of borax (for boron) in 350 ml (12 fl oz) of water and spread the solution over 5m (15′) of row. Be careful not to over-apply this solution. This application of boron will produce bigger seeds and flower heads. Do not apply boron to other garden plants. When the back of the flower head turns yellow, it is ready to be cut from the plant.
Companion Planting: Sunflowers planted near rows of corn are said to increase yields. Sunflowers can be used to draw heavy metals, toxins, and even radiation from soil, but should be burned at the end of the season if grown for this purpose. Plant sunflowers amid squash plantings to improve pollination and overall production.
Approx. 25 seeds
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Sunflowers – Velvet Queen – West Coast Seeds
$3.99Add to cartHelianthus annuus. Rich copper red petals are highlighted with golden yellow around a nearly black central disc. Plant Velvet Queen sunflower seeds for 1.5m (5′) tall plants with simply gorgeous blooms around 13cm (5″) wide. This variety looks its best when contrasted with some bright yellow sunflowers in a border or raised bed. Be sure the soil is warm at planting time, and freely draining throughout the season. Velvet Queen is an early flowering type, so try planting at two to three week intervals instead of all at once. The bloom period will be longer this way, and the flowers are just right for cutting and bringing indoors. Annual.
Timing: Direct sow repeatedly after the last frost date. Starting indoors is possible, but does not gain much time. If sunflowers are allowed to get root-bound, they will lack stability at transplant time, and will require staking. Optimal soil temperature for germination: 21-30°C (70-85°F). Seeds should sprout in 10-14 days.
Starting: Sow seeds 5mm-1cm (¼-½”) deep. Space dwarf varieties 15cm (6″) apart, but give the giants lots of room at 1m (3′) between plants.
Growing: To grow really big plants with really big flowers, enrich the soil with organic matter and incorporate 2 cups of balanced organic fertilizer per 3m (10′) of row, and irrigate regularly. When the plants are 30cm (12) tall, dissolve 5ml (1 tsp) of borax (for boron) in 350 ml (12 fl oz) of water and spread the solution over 5m (15′) of row. Be careful not to over-apply this solution. This application of boron will produce bigger seeds and flower heads. Do not apply boron to other garden plants. When the back of the flower head turns yellow, it is ready to be cut from the plant.
Companion Planting: Sunflowers planted near rows of corn are said to increase yields. Sunflowers can be used to draw heavy metals, toxins, and even radiation from soil, but should be burned at the end of the season if grown for this purpose. Plant sunflowers amid squash plantings to improve pollination and overall production.
Approx. 20 seeds
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Sunflowers – Procut Red – West Coast Seeds
$6.49Add to cartA breeding breakthrough as the first single stem sunflower with deep burgundy petals! Procut Red offers superior quality for cut bouquets with stunning colour and long stems. Gorgeous on its own or in mixed bouquets. 10-15cm (4-6”) pollenless blooms.
Timing: Direct sow repeatedly after the last frost date. Starting indoors is possible, but does not gain much time. If sunflowers are allowed to get root-bound, they will lack stability at transplant time, and will require staking. Optimal soil temperature for germination: 21-30°C (70-85°F). Seeds should sprout in 10-14 days.
Starting: Sow seeds 5mm-1cm (¼-½”) deep. Space dwarf varieties 15cm (6″) apart, but give the giants lots of room at 1m (3′) between plants.
Growing: To grow really big plants with really big flowers, enrich the soil with organic matter and incorporate 2 cups of balanced organic fertilizer per 3m (10′) of row, and irrigate regularly. When the plants are 30cm (12) tall, dissolve 5ml (1 tsp) of borax (for boron) in 350 ml (12 fl oz) of water and spread the solution over 5m (15′) of row. Be careful not to over-apply this solution. This application of boron will produce bigger seeds and flower heads. Do not apply boron to other garden plants. When the back of the flower head turns yellow, it is ready to be cut from the plant.
Companion Planting: Sunflowers planted near rows of corn are said to increase yields. Sunflowers can be used to draw heavy metals, toxins, and even radiation from soil, but should be burned at the end of the season if grown for this purpose. Plant sunflowers amid squash plantings to improve pollination and overall production.
Approx. 25 seeds
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Sunflowers – Procut White Lite – West Coast Seeds
$6.49Add to cartHelianthus annuus. Creamy, nearly white petals surround a honey-coloured central disc atop a stem that can reach 2m (6′) tall. ProCut White Lite is a pollenless hybrid sunflower for the professional florist trade. As a cut flower it leaves no mess, but it still bears nectar that will attract and feed bees and other pollinators from far and wide. Harvest the blooms just as they begin to open for the longest vase life, or enjoy them in the field where they look incredible in mass plantings. The day-length neutral flowers grow up to 15cm (6″) wide on single stems. Annual.
Timing: Direct sow repeatedly after the last frost date. Starting indoors is possible, but does not gain much time. If sunflowers are allowed to get root-bound, they will lack stability at transplant time, and will require staking. Optimal soil temperature for germination: 21-30°C (70-85°F). Seeds should sprout in 10-14 days.
Starting: Sow seeds 5mm-1cm (¼-½”) deep. Space dwarf varieties 15cm (6″) apart, but give the giants lots of room at 1m (3′) between plants.
Growing: To grow really big plants with really big flowers, enrich the soil with organic matter and incorporate 2 cups of balanced organic fertilizer per 3m (10′) of row, and irrigate regularly. When the plants are 30cm (12) tall, dissolve 5ml (1 tsp) of borax (for boron) in 350 ml (12 fl oz) of water and spread the solution over 5m (15′) of row. Be careful not to over-apply this solution. This application of boron will produce bigger seeds and flower heads. Do not apply boron to other garden plants. When the back of the flower head turns yellow, it is ready to be cut from the plant.
Companion Planting: Sunflowers planted near rows of corn are said to increase yields. Sunflowers can be used to draw heavy metals, toxins, and even radiation from soil, but should be burned at the end of the season if grown for this purpose. Plant sunflowers amid squash plantings to improve pollination and overall production.
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Sunflowers – Procut White Nite – West Coast Seeds
$6.49Add to cartEasy to grow single stem sunflower with strong stems and 10-15cm (4-6”) pollenless blooms. ProCut White Nite has cream, nearly white petals with a contrasting dark center, loved by professional cut flower growers. Harvest just as flowers begin to open to protect from insect damage. 120-180cm (4-6’) plants.
Timing: Direct sow repeatedly after the last frost date. Starting indoors is possible, but does not gain much time. If sunflowers are allowed to get root-bound, they will lack stability at transplant time, and will require staking. Optimal soil temperature for germination: 21-30°C (70-85°F). Seeds should sprout in 10-14 days.
Starting: Sow seeds 5mm-1cm (¼-½”) deep. Space dwarf varieties 15cm (6″) apart, but give the giants lots of room at 1m (3′) between plants.
Growing: To grow really big plants with really big flowers, enrich the soil with organic matter and incorporate 2 cups of balanced organic fertilizer per 3m (10′) of row, and irrigate regularly. When the plants are 30cm (12) tall, dissolve 5ml (1 tsp) of borax (for boron) in 350 ml (12 fl oz) of water and spread the solution over 5m (15′) of row. Be careful not to over-apply this solution. This application of boron will produce bigger seeds and flower heads. Do not apply boron to other garden plants. When the back of the flower head turns yellow, it is ready to be cut from the plant.
Companion Planting: Sunflowers planted near rows of corn are said to increase yields. Sunflowers can be used to draw heavy metals, toxins, and even radiation from soil, but should be burned at the end of the season if grown for this purpose. Plant sunflowers amid squash plantings to improve pollination and overall production.
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Wildflowers – Pacific Northwest Blend – West Coast Seeds
$4.49Add to cartThis mix of annuals and perennials blooms freely in the sun with little or no care once established. Beginning in the early spring and continuing through the summer this blend provides a changing show of colours and textures. Pacific Northwest wildflower seeds are a magnificent blend. Sow in March and April for best results, or plan a fall sowing. Break up the soil in the area you want to plant and scatter the seeds lightly. Be sure to keep the planted area moist until germination. This is usually not hard to accomplish in the rainy Pacific Northwest. Annuals and Perennials.
Timing: Try to direct sow wildflower seeds during the period two weeks before, and eight weeks after, your last average frost date. Sowing when there is some risk of minor frost may improve germination. Wildflower seeds can also be sown in the autumn, but a certain percentage of seeds to may be lost to water, birds, and animals. To make the most of the annual species, direct sow in early spring.
Site Selection: If there are already no plants (including weeds) growing in the planting site, there may be a problem with the soil. Possible issues may be soil fertility, lack of drainage, or the need for soil amendments to improve texture. In such spots (eg, beneath a cedar tree), few plants will thrive, including wildflowers.
Site Preparation: Remove as much existing vegetation as possible through pulling or tilling under in order to minimize competition. Loosen the soil by scraping, raking, or tilling. Wildflower blends will not usually take if planted into existing lawn because the thatch prevents their contact with soil.
Seed Application: In small areas, seeds can be scattered by hand. In larger areas, you may want to employ a lawn spreader or some other mechanical means. We recommend adding 1-2 parts clean, dry sand to 1 part wildflower seeds which will help the seeds spread evenly. Do not use beach sand, as it usually contains salt. It may be wise to spread most of the seed, but to save some for filling in bald spots at a later date. Seeds must come into contact with the soil in order to germinate. Do not bury seeds more than 2-3 times their thickness.
Growing: Keep the seeded area as evenly moist as possible to help the seeds germinate and the young seedlings become established. Weeds need to be kept under control. Once they are growing, most mixes will not require additional water except in long periods of hot, dry weather. All of our mixes should re-grow for several years, but will eventually benefit from re-seeding. In late summer, many of the components will produce seed heads that can be harvested and replanted the following spring.
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Wildflowers – Firewise Blend – West Coast Seeds
$4.99Add to cartWith the increase of wildfires, properties that border wildlands prone to fires need to become firewise. Plant this special wildflower blend as part of a fire mitigation plan. Create a buffer zone with these compact, fire resistant, annual and perennial flowers that have higher moisture content and lower amounts of volatile oils than common landscaping plants.
Recommended rate of application: 170g per 1,000 square feet. Annuals and Perennials.Timing: Try to direct sow wildflower seeds during the period two weeks before, and eight weeks after, your last average frost date. Sowing when there is some risk of minor frost may improve germination. Wildflower seeds can also be sown in the autumn, but a certain percentage of seeds to may be lost to water, birds, and animals. To make the most of the annual species, direct sow in early spring.
Site Selection: If there are already no plants (including weeds) growing in the planting site, there may be a problem with the soil. Possible issues may be soil fertility, lack of drainage, or the need for soil amendments to improve texture. In such spots (eg, beneath a cedar tree), few plants will thrive, including wildflowers.
Site Preparation: Remove as much existing vegetation as possible through pulling or tilling under in order to minimize competition. Loosen the soil by scraping, raking, or tilling. Wildflower blends will not usually take if planted into existing lawn because the thatch prevents their contact with soil.
Seed Application: In small areas, seeds can be scattered by hand. In larger areas, you may want to employ a lawn spreader or some other mechanical means. We recommend adding 1-2 parts clean, dry sand to 1 part wildflower seeds which will help the seeds spread evenly. Do not use beach sand, as it usually contains salt. It may be wise to spread most of the seed, but to save some for filling in bald spots at a later date. Seeds must come into contact with the soil in order to germinate. Do not bury seeds more than 2-3 times their thickness.
Growing: Keep the seeded area as evenly moist as possible to help the seeds germinate and the young seedlings become established. Weeds need to be kept under control. Once they are growing, most mixes will not require additional water except in long periods of hot, dry weather. All of our mixes should re-grow for several years, but will eventually benefit from re-seeding. In late summer, many of the components will produce seed heads that can be harvested and replanted the following spring.
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Zinnias – Benary’s Giant Carmine – West Coast Seeds
$5.99Add to cartBenary’s Giants are the zinnias of choice for professional cut flower growers. Fully double, 10-15cm (4-6”) flowers have an excellent vase life. Vigorous plants perform well through the summer allowing for multiple cuts. Keep cutting for continuous blooms.
How To Grow, Timing: Direct sow after last frost. Zinnias don’t transplant well, but can be started indoors, if necessary, in peat or coir pots, 6-8 weeks before planting out. Maintain a soil temperature of 21-26°C (70-80°F). Seeds should germinate in 5-24 days.
How To Grow, Starting: Just cover Zinnia seeds, and aim for a final spacing of 25-30cm (10-12″) between plants.
How To Grow, Growing: Depending on the variety, it takes about two months after sowing for the first flowers to appear. Take regular cuttings of Zinnia stems to enjoy indoors, starting mid-summer right into the fall. Cutting encourages the production of new flowers and seems to stimulate the plants for greater vigour. Watch for signs of powdery mildew on the leaves, usually in late summer. Try to avoid overhead watering to prevent mildew.
Approx. 25 seeds
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Zinnias – Cherry Queen – West Coast Seeds
$3.69Add to cartThe fire engine red flowers of the stunning Cherry Queen Zinnia grow 10-12cm (4-5″) wide. The upright stems grow 75-100cm (30-40″) tall and are perfect for cut flower production. The pollinator attracting flowers are particularly attractive to butterflies. Bloom time is mid summer to early autumn. Zinnias are a great addition for market growers, and can bring in premium prices as farm stand bouquets. The plants are resilient, and will keep producing new stems and blossoms over several weeks. Use Cherry Queen Zinnia seeds in mass plantings for an amazing look, or clumped in larger containers, and enjoy the pollinators they attract. Annual.
How To Grow, Timing: Direct sow after last frost. Zinnias don’t transplant well, but can be started indoors, if necessary, in peat or coir pots, 6-8 weeks before planting out. Maintain a soil temperature of 21-26°C (70-80°F). Seeds should germinate in 5-24 days.
How To Grow, Starting: Just cover Zinnia seeds, and aim for a final spacing of 25-30cm (10-12″) between plants.
How To Grow, Growing: Depending on the variety, it takes about two months after sowing for the first flowers to appear. Take regular cuttings of Zinnia stems to enjoy indoors, starting mid-summer right into the fall. Cutting encourages the production of new flowers and seems to stimulate the plants for greater vigour. Watch for signs of powdery mildew on the leaves, usually in late summer. Try to avoid overhead watering to prevent mildew.
Approx. 130 seeds
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Zinnias – Benary’s Giant Lime – West Coast Seeds
$5.99Add to cartBenary’s Giants are the zinnias of choice for professional cut flower growers. Fully double, 10-15cm (4-6”) lime-green flowers have an excellent vase life. Vigorous plants perform well through the summer allowing for multiple cuts. Keep cutting for continuous blooms. Annual.
How To Grow, Timing: Direct sow after last frost. Zinnias don’t transplant well, but can be started indoors, if necessary, in peat or coir pots, 6-8 weeks before planting out. Maintain a soil temperature of 21-26°C (70-80°F). Seeds should germinate in 5-24 days.
How To Grow, Starting: Just cover Zinnia seeds, and aim for a final spacing of 25-30cm (10-12″) between plants.
How To Grow, Growing: Depending on the variety, it takes about two months after sowing for the first flowers to appear. Take regular cuttings of Zinnia stems to enjoy indoors, starting mid-summer right into the fall. Cutting encourages the production of new flowers and seems to stimulate the plants for greater vigour. Watch for signs of powdery mildew on the leaves, usually in late summer. Try to avoid overhead watering to prevent mildew.
Approx. 25 seeds
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Poppies – Frosted Salmon Peony – West Coast Seeds
$3.99Add to cartPapaver somniferum. Frosted Salmon Peony poppies are crowned by dramatic, fully double flowers in bright red to salmon pink. As the day passes, the petal edges fade slightly, giving the flowers a frosted appearance. They can grow to 10cm (4″) across. Hardy annual.
How To Grow, Timing: For best results, direct seed outdoors in the early spring, when the soil is cool and there is still some risk of frost. Three plantings at six weeks apart will prolong the blooming season. Or direct sow in the fall for blooms the following summer.
How To Grow, Starting: Since the seeds are very fine, barely cover with soil, and keep moist until germination.
How To Grow, Growing: Thin plants 20-25cm (8-10″) apart and deadhead flowers to prolong blooming. Poppies prefer a rich and well-drained soil but are highly adaptable to many growing conditions. Grow in full sun to light shade and for maximum impact, cluster plants in a border.
Approx. 550 seeds
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Poppies – Bridal Silk – West Coast Seeds
$3.99Add to cartPapaver rhoeas. Growing to 40-60cm (15-25″) tall, these delicately silky, white poppies with yellow anthers are stunning as they sway in the breeze, especially when grown in free-flowing drifts. The large saucer-shaped flowers bloom in early summer, attracting birds and pollinators. These poppies are deer resistant. Fleuroselect Novelty 2008. Hardy annual.
How To Grow, Timing: Start perennial poppies outdoors in early spring, when some chance of frost is still a possibility. Start annual varieties outdoors at the same time in Zones 3-7. In Zones 8-10, the best bet is to direct sow in the fall. Poppies are famously difficult to transplant, so starting them indoors is not recommended. If absolutely necessary, use peat or coir pots, and maintain a soil temperature of 12°C (55°F). Seeds will sprout in 20-30 days.
How To Grow, Starting: Sow on the surface of the soil, or barely cover seeds. Thin to a minimum of 15cm (6″) apart.
How To Grow, Growing: Poppies are easy to grow and the self-sow with abandon, without becoming weedy. Simply pull up unwanted plants (an easy task) before they bloom, or better yet, let them tell you where they want to grow. They will thrive for years at a time in surprising spots, like a crack in the driveway. Other times, they simply won’t take, no matter how much you try. Keep them moderately well watered in hot, dry weather, and do not fertilize. For the largest heads on Papaver somniferum, sow seeds in the fall or early winter. Thin plants to allow them some space, and keep the area weeded as plants grow larger. Grow this variety in full sun in well-drained, but ordinary garden soil. If spring and summer are cool and damp, or plants are over-crowded, expect smaller seed heads.
Approx. 895 seeds
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Poppies – Pizzicato Mix – West Coast Seeds
$4.69Add to cartPapaver oreintale. Pizzicato poppy seeds produce a superb semi-dwarf mix of red, scarlet, orange, salmon, mauve, rose, pink, and white. The large, cup-shaped flowers are 15-20cm (6-8″) in diameter. Expect up to twenty flowers per plant, followed by attractive seed pods from which seeds can easily be harvested. Pizzicato oriental poppy seeds are best direct sown in fall or mid-winter, and grow to a height of 50cm (19″). The flowers appear on stiff stems that stand up well in windy areas. This Oriental poppy mix blooms in June and July, after spring bulbs have faded, but before the arrival of summer flowers. After flowering, seed heads dry and the foliage fades away entirely, returning with autumn rains. This poppy is a good choice for xeriscaping, and it’s deer resistant to boot. Annual.
How To Grow, Timing: Start perennial poppies outdoors in early spring, when some chance of frost is still a possibility. Start annual varieties outdoors at the same time in Zones 3-7. In Zones 8-10, the best bet is to direct sow in the fall. Poppies are famously difficult to transplant, so starting them indoors is not recommended. If absolutely necessary, use peat or coir pots, and maintain a soil temperature of 12°C (55°F). Seeds will sprout in 20-30 days.
How To Grow, Starting: Sow on the surface of the soil, or barely cover seeds. Thin to a minimum of 15cm (6″) apart.
How To Grow, Growing: Poppies are easy to grow and the self-sow with abandon, without becoming weedy. Simply pull up unwanted plants (an easy task) before they bloom, or better yet, let them tell you where they want to grow. They will thrive for years at a time in surprising spots, like a crack in the driveway. Other times, they simply won’t take, no matter how much you try. Keep them moderately well watered in hot, dry weather, and do not fertilize. For the largest heads on Papaver somniferum, sow seeds in the fall or early winter. Thin plants to allow them some space, and keep the area weeded as plants grow larger. Grow this variety in full sun in well-drained, but ordinary garden soil. If spring and summer are cool and damp, or plants are over-crowded, expect smaller seed heads.
Approx. 350 seeds
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Snapdragon – Potomac Apple Blossom – West Coast Seeds
$4.69Add to cartThe high performing Potomac snapdragon series was selected for stem and flower quality for production during long summer days. Appleblossom’s tall, strong stems have long, refined spikes of bicolour white and pale pink flowers. 80-120cm (32-48″) tall plants can be grown in the field and garden, or in a greenhouse. Annual.
How To Grow, Timing: Start snapdragons indoors, 8-10 weeks before planting out. Transplant out after last frost. Direct sowing is less reliable. Provide bright light and a soil temperature of 12°C (55°F). Seeds should sprout in 10-21 days.
How To Grow, Starting: Sow on the surface of a sterilized seed starting mix. To avoid damping off (to which snapdragons are somewhat prone), increase ventilation, use a layer of vermiculite on top of the soil, and water only from below. Transplant out once daytime temperatures are consistently above 10°C (50°F) and space 30cm (12″) apart.
How To Grow, Growing: Grow these easy sub-shrubs in rich, soil with a neutral pH. Pinch back young plants once 6 leaves have appeared for bushier mature plants. Feed lightly twice, before any flowers appear. Deadhead often. If flowering seems to subside, cut back dramatically, and then feed and water generously.
Approx. 25 seeds
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Snapdragon – Potomac Ivory – West Coast Seeds
$4.69Add to cartThe high performing Potomac snapdragon series was selected for stem and flower quality for production during long summer days. Tall, strong stems have long, refined spikes of ivory white flowers. 80-120cm (32-48″) tall plants can be grown in the field and garden, or in a greenhouse. Annual.
How to Grow, Timing: Start snapdragons indoors, 8-10 weeks before planting out. Transplant out after last frost. Direct sowing is less reliable. Provide bright light and a soil temperature of 12°C (55°F). Seeds should sprout in 10-21 days.
How to Grow, Starting: Sow on the surface of a sterilized seed starting mix. To avoid damping off (to which snapdragons are somewhat prone), increase ventilation, use a layer of vermiculite on top of the soil, and water only from below. Transplant out once daytime temperatures are consistently above 10°C (50°F) and space 30cm (12″) apart.
How to Grow, Growing: Grow these easy sub-shrubs in rich, soil with a neutral pH. Pinch back young plants once 6 leaves have appeared for bushier mature plants. Feed lightly twice, before any flowers appear. Deadhead often. If flowering seems to subside, cut back dramatically, and then feed and water generously.
Approx. 25 seeds
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Tomato Beefsteak – Pork Chop Organic – West Coast Seeds
$4.49Add to cartThis stunning beefsteak tomato is sure to impress! Yellow with shining gold stripes at maturity, Pork Chop’s large, slightly flattened, 225-340g (8-12oz) globes are full of flavour that is sweet with just a hint of citrus. Indeterminate plants.
75 Days.
Approx: 10 Seeds.
How To Grow, Timing: Start indoors in early spring over bottom heat. When seedlings germinate, remove from the heat and grow under bright lights. Grow seedlings on for 6-8 weeks at around 10°C. Early season tomatoes can be planted out once night time temperatures are reliably above 7°C – or later. Other types should be transplanted out when night time lows are 10°C or warmer – or later. Optimal soil temperature for germination: 25-35°C. With bottom heat seeds should germinate in 7-14 days.
How To Grow, Starting: Sow seeds 5mm-1cm deep. Keep seedlings under very bright light to prevent legginess. You may have to pot on seedlings more than once before they go out to allow for root growth. Space bush (determinate) transplants 45-60cm apart and vine (indeterminate) types 50-75cm apart in rows 1m apart.
How to Grow, Growing: Ideal pH: 6.0-6.8. Tomatoes like fertile, well drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Dig in finished compost and manure, and add 1 cup balanced organic fertilizer beneath each transplant. The nutrition from heavy clay soils is excellent for tomatoes, but they are slow to warm, so transplanting should be done later. By the same token, lighter soils warm more quickly, so transplants can go out sooner. Adding glacial rock dust will supply all the calcium they will need. Regular watering is vital, but don’t let the plants sit in water. Tomatoes are tropical plants so they require full sun and lots of heat. Vine varieties will require some kind of support such as a wire to grow up, or a trellis to be tied to as the plant grows. Bush types benefit from the support of a tomato cage in order to prevent sprawling. At the time of final transplant, plants can be buried up to their first pair of true leaves. This will encourage greater root growth, helping with both nutrient uptake and the plants’ ability to stand up to dry conditions.
Stop watering around the end of July to encourage the fruit to ripen. If tomato plants are grown under cover, you can encourage pollination and fruit set by tapping the stem from time to time. Tomatoes do not rely on insects for pollination. Vibrating the plant shakes pollen loose within the flowers, which then self-pollinate.Indeterminate tomatoes continue to grow and produce fruit until they are killed by frost. Remove any suckers (stems growing from the crotch of leaves) to keep the foliage under control, and they will set a later crop of larger fruit. Determinate varieties normally set fruit in a concentrated time period. Their suckers are not normally removed, though some trimming helps with ventilation.
How to Grow, Harvest: Harvest when the fruit is the desired colour. Green tomatoes can be ripened indoors at a cool temperature when they are blemish free. Very dark green tomatoes are unlikely to ripen fully.
How To Grow, Disease & Pests: Blossom End Rot is an environmental disorder caused by a calcium deficiency. As the name of the disorder indicates it occurs at the blossom end of the fruit. It appears as a brownish dry and firm sunken area. Sometimes a secondary infection can occur at the damaged area, which turns it mushy and wet. Internal blackening can occur without the characteristic end rot. Calcium deficiency can happen when there is uneven watering. When the plants are too dry for a period followed by over watering, this encourages fast growth. The tomato plant can’t take up enough calcium resulting in an unbalanced potassium-to-calcium ratio. Early fruit show the affects sooner than later fruit. Digging in bonemeal, dolomite lime and a balanced organic fertilizer such as Gaia All Purpose Blend 4-4-4 will help prevent this disease as will an even and regular watering schedule.
An airborne fungal disease causes Late Blight. It begins as leaf spots before spreading to stems and fruit. Water soaked areas appear on the leaves. These are greenish black and irregular in shape. Brown cankers develop on the stems and fruit. Blight infected tomatoes can have a fishy smell. Often the fruit manages to almost reach maturity before the cankers take over. Sometimes a bluish grey mould grows on the underside of infected leaves and on the fruit cankers.
Prevention is key as there is no cure for the disease. Keep moisture off the plants. Use drip tape for watering and avoid splashing the leaves. Our cloche system is excellent for keeping rain and moisture off the plants. In a greenhouse or under a cloche, humidity can build up so high that the fungus will destroy plants in 24 hours. You must ventilate well.
Bordo Copper Spray applied regularly in late summer prevents the fungus that causes Late Blight to germinate. If applied with the OMRI listed Superflow Natural Surfactant the copper spray will stay on longer and there will be less need to apply other than after each rainfall or heavy dew.
Phytopthera infestans is the fungus that infects tomatoes and potatoes, and is dreadful on the Coast. Greyish black areas appear first on stems and leaves, moving rapidly to kill the plant. The critical factor is moisture. Blight infects tomato plants with leaves and stems that are moist for over 48 hours. Moisture can be from rain, heavy dew, high humidity in a greenhouse or cover, condensation, or irrigation water. Once you know this, you can plan a shelter under an overhanging eve, on a porch or under a structure that you create. The protection must have excellent ventilation and must give you access to pick and prune your tomatoes. Consider growing your tomatoes in containers that can be moved to sheltered spots out of the rain.
Late blight overwinters in tomato and potato debris. Do not plant in a bed used to grow tomatoes or potatoes last year, and dispose of diseased plants in the garbage not the compost. Copper spray can prevent the fungus from infecting the plant. Plants must be sprayed every 7-10 days before any symptoms appear. Blight strikes in the rains of late summer, so choose at least one variety that will ripen before the deluge. The best advice we can offer to avoid blight is to grow early ripening bush varieties and to protect your vines carefully.
Flea Beetles make many tiny holes in the tomato leaves. They can cause problems for small tender transplants but a healthy plant can usually outgrow the damage. Use our Floating Row Cover for early season protection from Flea Beetles when transplanting your tomatoes.
How to Grow, Companion Planting: Another sensitive plant when it comes to companions, tomatoes benefit from asparagus, basil, beans, borage, carrots, celery, chives, collards, cucumber, garlic, lettuce, marigold, mint, nasturtium, onion, parsley, and peppers. Avoid planting alongside Brassicas and dill. Corn will attract tomato pests, and kohlrabi will stunt tomatoes’ growth. Potatoes may spread blight to tomatoes, so keep them apart. Do no plant tomatoes near walnut trees.
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Tomato Slicer – Get Stuffed Organic – West Coast Seeds
$4.49Add to cartCERTIFIED ORGANIC! Large, substantial fruits grow in clusters of three to four on sturdy, relatively short vines. Get Stuffed Organic features blocky, striped fruits that are almost the shape of a bell pepper. They can be hollowed and stuffed for cooking, or used raw as a delicious, edible serving vessel. They were a big hit in our tomato trials and are worth growing for their beautiful appearance alone.
Indeterminate (vine)
75 Days.
Approx: 30 Seeds.
How To Grow, Timing: Start indoors in early spring over bottom heat. When seedlings germinate, remove from the heat and grow under bright lights. Grow seedlings on for 6-8 weeks at around 10°C. Early season tomatoes can be planted out once night time temperatures are reliably above 7°C – or later. Other types should be transplanted out when night time lows are 10°C or warmer – or later. Optimal soil temperature for germination: 25-35°C. With bottom heat seeds should germinate in 7-14 days.
How To Grow, Starting: Sow seeds 5mm-1cm deep. Keep seedlings under very bright light to prevent legginess. You may have to pot on seedlings more than once before they go out to allow for root growth. Space bush (determinate) transplants 45-60cm apart and vine (indeterminate) types 50-75cm apart in rows 1m apart.
How to Grow, Growing: Ideal pH: 6.0-6.8. Tomatoes like fertile, well drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Dig in finished compost and manure, and add 1 cup balanced organic fertilizer beneath each transplant. The nutrition from heavy clay soils is excellent for tomatoes, but they are slow to warm, so transplanting should be done later. By the same token, lighter soils warm more quickly, so transplants can go out sooner. Adding glacial rock dust will supply all the calcium they will need. Regular watering is vital, but don’t let the plants sit in water. Tomatoes are tropical plants so they require full sun and lots of heat. Vine varieties will require some kind of support such as a wire to grow up, or a trellis to be tied to as the plant grows. Bush types benefit from the support of a tomato cage in order to prevent sprawling. At the time of final transplant, plants can be buried up to their first pair of true leaves. This will encourage greater root growth, helping with both nutrient uptake and the plants’ ability to stand up to dry conditions.
Stop watering around the end of July to encourage the fruit to ripen. If tomato plants are grown under cover, you can encourage pollination and fruit set by tapping the stem from time to time. Tomatoes do not rely on insects for pollination. Vibrating the plant shakes pollen loose within the flowers, which then self-pollinate.Indeterminate tomatoes continue to grow and produce fruit until they are killed by frost. Remove any suckers (stems growing from the crotch of leaves) to keep the foliage under control, and they will set a later crop of larger fruit. Determinate varieties normally set fruit in a concentrated time period. Their suckers are not normally removed, though some trimming helps with ventilation.
How to Grow, Harvest: Harvest when the fruit is the desired colour. Green tomatoes can be ripened indoors at a cool temperature when they are blemish free. Very dark green tomatoes are unlikely to ripen fully.
How To Grow, Disease & Pests: Blossom End Rot is an environmental disorder caused by a calcium deficiency. As the name of the disorder indicates it occurs at the blossom end of the fruit. It appears as a brownish dry and firm sunken area. Sometimes a secondary infection can occur at the damaged area, which turns it mushy and wet. Internal blackening can occur without the characteristic end rot. Calcium deficiency can happen when there is uneven watering. When the plants are too dry for a period followed by over watering, this encourages fast growth. The tomato plant can’t take up enough calcium resulting in an unbalanced potassium-to-calcium ratio. Early fruit show the affects sooner than later fruit. Digging in bonemeal, dolomite lime and a balanced organic fertilizer such as Gaia All Purpose Blend 4-4-4 will help prevent this disease as will an even and regular watering schedule.
An airborne fungal disease causes Late Blight. It begins as leaf spots before spreading to stems and fruit. Water soaked areas appear on the leaves. These are greenish black and irregular in shape. Brown cankers develop on the stems and fruit. Blight infected tomatoes can have a fishy smell. Often the fruit manages to almost reach maturity before the cankers take over. Sometimes a bluish grey mould grows on the underside of infected leaves and on the fruit cankers.
Prevention is key as there is no cure for the disease. Keep moisture off the plants. Use drip tape for watering and avoid splashing the leaves. Our cloche system is excellent for keeping rain and moisture off the plants. In a greenhouse or under a cloche, humidity can build up so high that the fungus will destroy plants in 24 hours. You must ventilate well.
Bordo Copper Spray applied regularly in late summer prevents the fungus that causes Late Blight to germinate. If applied with the OMRI listed Superflow Natural Surfactant the copper spray will stay on longer and there will be less need to apply other than after each rainfall or heavy dew.
Phytopthera infestans is the fungus that infects tomatoes and potatoes, and is dreadful on the Coast. Greyish black areas appear first on stems and leaves, moving rapidly to kill the plant. The critical factor is moisture. Blight infects tomato plants with leaves and stems that are moist for over 48 hours. Moisture can be from rain, heavy dew, high humidity in a greenhouse or cover, condensation, or irrigation water. Once you know this, you can plan a shelter under an overhanging eve, on a porch or under a structure that you create. The protection must have excellent ventilation and must give you access to pick and prune your tomatoes. Consider growing your tomatoes in containers that can be moved to sheltered spots out of the rain.
Late blight overwinters in tomato and potato debris. Do not plant in a bed used to grow tomatoes or potatoes last year, and dispose of diseased plants in the garbage not the compost. Copper spray can prevent the fungus from infecting the plant. Plants must be sprayed every 7-10 days before any symptoms appear. Blight strikes in the rains of late summer, so choose at least one variety that will ripen before the deluge. The best advice we can offer to avoid blight is to grow early ripening bush varieties and to protect your vines carefully.
Flea Beetles make many tiny holes in the tomato leaves. They can cause problems for small tender transplants but a healthy plant can usually outgrow the damage. Use our Floating Row Cover for early season protection from Flea Beetles when transplanting your tomatoes.
How to Grow, Companion Planting: Another sensitive plant when it comes to companions, tomatoes benefit from asparagus, basil, beans, borage, carrots, celery, chives, collards, cucumber, garlic, lettuce, marigold, mint, nasturtium, onion, parsley, and peppers. Avoid planting alongside Brassicas and dill. Corn will attract tomato pests, and kohlrabi will stunt tomatoes’ growth. Potatoes may spread blight to tomatoes, so keep them apart. Do no plant tomatoes near walnut trees.