Seeds and Supplies

Connecticut Field pumpkins are well known in Ontario as a good processing pumpkin and are a standard variety for pies. Fruit has a deep orange skin and a thick, fine-grained, deep yellow, sweet flesh. This variety regularly produces 11 kg (25 lb) pumpkins up to 50 cm (20″) in diameter that are a flat globed shape with little ribbing. One of the oldest heirloom pumpkin varieties as it has been grown since at least the early 1700’s. How to Grow Pumpkin is a hot weather crop. They need full sun and deep, rich, well drained, organic soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. Before planting, work in lots of compost. Sow seed directly outdoors in late May through early June 2.5 cm (1″) deep in hills 2.4 m (8′) apart with 4-6 seeds per hill. After germination, thin to 3 plants per hill. Seed can be started indoors 3 weeks before the plant out date. Pumpkins do not transplant well–use paper or fibre pots that can be set directly in the soil. For competition sized pumpkins, allow only two pumpkins per plant to mature. Protect mature pumpkins from frost and cold temperatures.

Look for help when it’s time to bring these beauties in from the garden. “Big Max” lives up to his name by producing large pumpkins, reliably in the 20 kg (44 lbs) range. When growing conditions are ideal, this pumpkin will produce fruit that weigh more than 45 kg (100 lbs) measuring in at 175 cm (70″) in diameter. Fruit tends to have a “flattened” appearance. The skin is pinkish orange and very thick. ‘Big Max’ is usually listed as C. maxima rather than C. pepo. How to Grow Pumpkin is a hot weather crop. They need full sun and deep, rich, well drained, organic soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. Before planting, work in lots of compost. Sow seed directly outdoors from late May through early June 2.5 cm (1″) deep in hills 2.4 m (8′) apart with 4-6 seeds per hill. After germination, thin to 3 plants per hill. Seed can be started indoors 3 weeks before the plant out date. Pumpkins do not transplant well–use paper or fibre pots that can be set directly in the soil. For competition sized pumpkins, allow only two pumpkins per plant to mature. Protect mature pumpkins from frost and cold temperatures.

Jack-Be-Little Pumpkin Seeds (Ornamental Type) . As the name implies, ‘Jack-Be Little’ produces miniature pumpkins, approximately 5 cm (2″) tall, 7.5 cm (3″) in diameter and cute as a button! Although they are edible, they are most often used for table decorations and miniature Jack o ‘Lanterns. When properly cured, these pumpkins will last up to 8 months. How to Grow Pumpkin is a hot weather crop. They need full sun and deep, rich, well drained, organic soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. Before planting, work in lots of compost. Sow seed directly outdoors in late May through early June 2.5 cm (1″) deep in hills 2.4 m (8′) apart with 4-6 seeds per hill. After germination, thin to 3 plants per hill. Seed can be started indoors 3 weeks before the plant out date. Pumpkins do not transplant well–use paper or fibre pots that can be set directly in the soil.

Heirloom vegetable. Without a doubt, Atlantic Giant is one of the worlds largest pumpkin varieties. Developed by Mr. Howard Dill of Nova Scotia, this giant has won numerous world titles for largest pumpkin, often weighing in excess of 450 kg (1000 lbs)! Even under normal conditions in the average home garden, this monster is still capable of outstanding performance. The kids will just love growing this one and by the way, keep a forklift handy so you can take your winner to the fall fair! Packet contains 8 seed. How to Grow Pumpkin is a hot weather crop. They need full sun and deep, rich, well drained, organic soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. Before planting, work in lots of compost. Sow seed directly outdoors from late May through early June 2.5 cm (1″) deep in hills 2.4 m (8′) apart with 4-6 seeds per hill. After germination, thin to 3 plants per hill. Seed can be started indoors 3 weeks before the plant out date. Pumpkins do not transplant well–use paper or fibre pots that can be set directly in the soil. For competition sized pumpkins, allow only two pumpkins per plant to mature. Protect mature pumpkins from frost and cold temperatures.

Hungarian Yellow Sweet Pepper Seeds (Banana Type) 1915 Heirloom Vegetable. Hungarian Sweet Banana produces, not surprisingly, banana shaped fruits between 15-20 cm (6-8″) long with a delightful bright waxy-yellow colour that typically changes to bright scarlet red as they mature. These stocky plants 50-60 cm (20-24″) tall produce a heavy yield of fruit. Depending on growing conditions, this pepper may mature to a brilliant sunshine yellow or a more subtle lemon yellow. Excellent for preserves such as pickling, in-oil antipasti or canning. How to Grow Start indoors mid February to late March. Use a soil-less growing mix. Sow seed 6 mm (1/4″) deep. Maintaining the growing medium at a temperature of 21 C (70 F) will enhance germination. Grow the seedlings under bright light and temperatures of 16-21 C (60-70 F) to produce strong, stocky plants. Transplant after hardening off, in late May to early June. Full sun and a well-drained soil is best. Space the plants 30 cm (12″) apart in rows spaced 60 cm (24″) apart. Control weeds and avoid high nitrogen fertilizers. Try harvesting the peppers at different maturities to experience a wider range of flavours and textures. Staking is recommended with most varieties. Note: Estimated days to maturity are based on counting the days after transplanting.

Yes you can grow your own peanuts. We have Valencia seed peanuts, which are an ideal variety for growing in southern Ontario and other long growing season areas of Canada. How to Grow Peanuts do best in a warm, sunny site with a sandy open soil. Sow seed from mid May to the first of June about 2.5-5 cm (1-2″) deep, 12.5 cm (5″) apart in rows 90 cm (36″) apart – sow when soil temperature reaches at least 21 C (70 F). Thin to 25 cm (10″) apart after germination. Keep plants evenly watered and the area well weeded through the season. Leave the plant to mature as long as possible in the fall, then dig up the entire plant after the first frost tickles the foliage. As freshly harvested peanuts have a high water content, hang the entire plant(s) in the garage or basement to dry (this is called curing). Do not rush this drying stage, the drier the peanuts are, the easier they are to roast. Roast shelled peanuts at 175-190 C (350-375 F) for 15 to 20 minutes. When roasting peanuts still in the shell increase the time to 20 to 25 minutes.

(Leaf Type). Outrageous Red forms a loose head with a spectacular magenta red colour. The open style heads are medium to larger in size with deeply lobed leaves. This makes a great baby leaf variety and makes any salad come alive! Slow to bolt in summer heat and keeps its mild, non-bitter flavour. Colour is best in cooler weather but stands up well in summer. Upright growth habit. How to Grow Lettuce is a sun-loving cool weather crop that grows best in organic, well drained soil. Sow as soon as the soil can be worked in the spring, then every two weeks thereafter to ensure a continuous supply. Sow about 3 mm (1/8″) deep in rows 45 cm (18″) apart. An even supply of moisture during the entire growth period is imperative for success. Harvest leaf lettuce by either pulling the entire plant or by cutting leaves from the main stem at least 2.5 cm (1″) above the base – this will allow the plant to sprout new leaves. Harvest head lettuce by cutting the head off at the base just below the lower leaves. Once lettuce bolts (starts to produce a rapidly growing flower stem) leaves become bitter.

(Leaf Type) Heirloom Vegetable. Speckles is an Amish heirloom variety with beautiful bright red speckles on a lime green Butterhead type leaf. This showy lettuce adds colour to any salad. Speckles is a cross between a green butterhead and Forellenschluss (troutback) romaine. How to Grow Lettuce is a sun-loving cool weather crop that grows best in organic, well drained soil. Sow as soon as the soil can be worked in the spring, then every two weeks thereafter to ensure a continuous supply. Sow about 3 mm (1/8″) deep in rows 45 cm (18″) apart. An even supply of moisture during the entire growth period is imperative for success. Harvest leaf lettuce by either pulling the entire plant or by cutting leaves from the main stem at least 2.5 cm (1″) above the base – this will allow the plant to sprout new leaves. Harvest head lettuce by cutting the head off at the base just below the lower leaves. Once lettuce bolts (starts to produce a rapidly growing flower stem) leaves become bitter.

Attractive appearance, crunchy texture and a nice buttery flavour. Attractive green leaves are overlaid with deep burgundy colouring. Sweet, crisp heads are 30 cm (12″) tall and rather loosely wrapped. A colourful addition to salads or mesclun mixes. How to Grow Lettuce is a sun-loving cool weather crop that grows best in organic, well drained soil. Sow as soon as the soil can be worked in the spring, then every two weeks thereafter to ensure a continuous supply. Sow about 3 mm (1/8″) deep in rows 45 cm (18″) apart. Gradually thin seedlings to 15 cm (6″) apart. An even supply of moisture during the entire growth period is imperative for success. Harvest by cutting the head off at the base just below the lower leaves. Once lettuce bolts (starts to produce a rapidly growing flower stem) leaves become bitter.

Heirloom Vegetable. A loose-leaved, bright green lettuce with a curly brownish-red edge. Excellent flavour and colour! Avoid planting too late in the spring as Prizehead tends to bolt in hot weather. Superb early spring and fall leaf lettuce. How to Grow Lettuce is a sun-loving cool weather crop that grows best in organic, well drained soil. Sow as soon as the soil can be worked in the spring, then every two weeks thereafter to ensure a continuous supply. Sow about 3 mm (1/8″) deep in rows 45 cm (18″) apart. An even supply of moisture during the entire growth period is imperative for success. Harvest head lettuce by cutting the head off at the base just below the lower leaves. Once lettuce bolts (starts to produce a rapidly growing flower stem) leaves become bitter.

A medium green, long standing variety. The crisp, thick leaves are sweet and tender and free from any hint of bitterness. Hidden within the enticing outer leaves is the beautiful “buttery heart”. How to Grow Lettuce is a sun-loving cool weather crop that grows best in organic, well drained soil. Sow as soon as the soil can be worked in the spring, then every two weeks thereafter to ensure a continuous supply. Sow about 3 mm (1/8″) deep in rows 45 cm (18″) apart. An even supply of moisture during the entire growth period is imperative for success. Harvest head lettuce by cutting the head off at the base just below the lower leaves. Once lettuce bolts (starts to produce a rapidly growing flower stem) leaves become bitter.

Heirloom Vegetable. This delicious tasting member of the onion family produces leaves that are a medium green with a nicely elongated stem 20-22.5 cm (8-9″) long and 5-7.5 cm (2-3″) thick. The mild tasting, white stems are absolutely delicious in stews, soups and other dishes. Serve this variety baked in parchment for a tasty treat. An essential component in European cuisine. Introduced in 1834. How to Grow Leeks are a long season plant so start seed indoors in February and early March. Sow the seed 7 mm (1/4″) deep in a soil-less medium and keep at 20 C (68 F) during germination and growth. Transplant seedlings outside later in the spring when they are around 20 cm (8″) tall. Space the transplants 10-15 cm (4-6″) apart in rows 30-45 cm (12-18″) apart. Seed can also be sown directly into the garden in April through June.

Heirloom Vegetable. This handsome purple, pre-1860 variety has a white, crisp, mild tasting interior. Flesh has a nutty flavour when eaten raw and a mild cabbage taste when cooked. An excellent companion plant amongst cucumbers. Irrigation is essential for best growth. Purple Vienna withstands considerable frost and when conditions are not too cool or too hot, crops can be harvested as little as six to eight weeks after sowing but are best when the stem reaches 5-7.5 cm (2-3″) in diameter. Try successive sowings two weeks apart from April through to early August. How to Grow Sow seed directly outdoors anytime from late April to late July 1 cm (1/2″) deep and 2.5 cm (1″) apart. Space rows 30-45 cm (12-18″) apart. Thin emerging seedlings to 10 cm (4″) apart in the row.

HEIRLOOM. A timeless heirloom variety, ancient yet still tops with turnip lovers Turnip lovers cherish these deliciously sweet and tender, white roots. Handsomely blushed with pink to purple at the crown, classic turnip range from 4–6" across. Super-nutritious young leaves on the easy-growing plants are the classic southern greens of legend and are perfect for soups, in vegetable gratin, or baked alongside other root vegetables.t 32°F/0°C and 90-95% relative humidity for 4 to 6 months.

Endive and escarole are grown like lettuce, either in rows or patches. Escarole tastes best when grown quickly in cooler weather. Be sure to add nitrogen fertilizer to the soil. This escarole produces well-rounded, tightly packed, dark green heads with deeply blanched, succulent, creamy-white hearts. A mild, delicate taste that is sure to win you over. Wonderful quickly ‘wilted’ in olive oil. Scrumptious. Broad Leaved Batavian is an old variety from way back in the 1860’s. How to Grow Sow seed directly outdoors in June, 6 mm (1/4″) deep in rows 60 cm (24″) apart. Thin seedlings to 20 cm (8″) apart within the row. To promote tenderness and to discourage bitterness, blanch the inner leaves by tying the larger outer leaves up over the centre about 7 to 10 days before harvesting – make sure the outer leaves are dry when you do this.

Abundant fruits are large and dark purple in colour. An excellent variety to choose for both home gardeners and commercial growers as the fruit remains tender and tart for an extended time. Introduced in 1902. How to Grow Start seed indoors about 10 weeks before your typical last frost date. Soak seeds in water overnight before planting. Seed germinates best at a temperature of 27 C (80 F). After seeds sprout, grow on under lights at a slightly cooler temperature of 23 C (72 F). Harden off seedlings gradually then transplant outside to the garden after the danger of frost has passed. Plant in a full sun location with a fertile, highly organic soil. Place the transplants 60 cm (24″) apart in rows 90 cm (36″) apart. Keep evenly watered through the season and feed regularly with a low nitrogen fertilizer. About 3 to 4 weeks before your typical first fall frost date, pinch off any blossoms that develop. This well encourage the plant to put its energy towards maturing the fruit that it is already carrying. Mature fruit is dark and shiny and the surface will not spring back when it is depressed and released.

This plant deserves a place of honour in any salad lover’s garden! The fringed, emerald green leaves of this pretty endive are absolutely delicious in salads.The tender and very sweet inner leaves are the real prize! Growth is heavy with plants reaching 37 cm (15″) or more in diameter by the end of the season. How to Grow Sow seed directly outdoors in June, 6 mm (1/4″) deep in rows 60 cm (24″) apart. Thin seedlings to 20 cm (8″) apart within the row. To promote tenderness and to discourage bitterness, blanch the inner leaves by tying the larger outer leaves up over the centre about 7 to 10 days before harvesting – make sure the outer leaves are dry when you do this.

Marketmore Cucumber Seeds (Slicing Type) . A high yielding variety producing perfectly shaped, uniform, dark green cucumbers 20-22 cm (8-9″) long. Superb for slicing. Highly disease resistant. Resistant to mosaic, scab & more. How to Grow Cucumbers grow best in a rich, warm, sandy loam soil. Before planting, work into the native soil 30 cm (12″) deep large amounts of garden compost or composted manure. As cooler soil will reduce germination and increase the chance of the seed rotting before it sprouts, wait until the soil has reached a temperature of at least 18 C (66 F) before planting. Mound the soil up into hills about 15-20 cm (6-8″) high and about 30-60 cm (12-24″) across. Space the hills about 120 cm (4′) apart. Sow the seed 2 cm (3/4″) deep with 6 to 8 seeds per hill then after the seed sprouts, thin to 3 or 4 plants per hill. If you have limited space, most cucumbers grow on trellises. Protect the plants from any late spring/early summer frosts and keep the plants evenly watered through the growing season. Even soil moisture is very important as cucumbers become very bitter if the plant becomes moisture stressed by hot dry weather. To prevent damage to the plant, harvest the cucumbers by cutting them from the vine with a sharp knife – do not pull or twist them from the vine.

This is our best normal sugary variety for cool soil planting. Short, sturdy plants produce ears that average 18 cm (7 1/2″) long. An excellent variety for freezing. Irrigation essential. How to Grow When planting in rows, space the seed 10-15 cm (4-6″) apart, later thinning to 20-30 cm (8-12″) apart with the rows 55-75 cm (22-30″) apart. To ensure proper pollination, plant at least 3 to 4 rows. Corn can also be planted with 3 to 4 seeds per hill in hills spaced 30 cm (12″) apart. Plant 250 gr (1/2 lb) to a 30 m (100′) row; 4.5-6.8 kg (10-15 lbs) per acre. Work in a good general vegetable fertilizer at planting, keep weeds under control and the soil evenly watered through the season.

Ornamental Corn Seeds 1600 Sturdy plants produce cobs filled with multi-coloured kernels ranging in colour from reds through purples to yellows and white. An early maturing variety! Isolate ornamental corn varieties from sweet corn by at least 91.5 m (300′). How to Grow Best growth in a sunny, wind sheltered site with a well drained soil and soil pH of 5.5 to 6.5. Sow seed after all danger of frost is past and the soil has warmed –planting any sooner delays germination increasing the risk of damage or destruction by insects or rot before sprouting Sow seed in rows 10-15 cm (4-6″) apart, thin to 30 cm (12″) apart with the rows 90 cm (36″) apart. To ensure proper pollination, plant at least 3 to 4 rows. Plant 250 g (1/2 lb) to a 30 m (100′) row; 4.5-6.8 kg (10-15 lbs) per acre. Work in a vegetable fertilizer at planting. Keep weeds under control. Irrigate frequently through the season. Sufficient water is particularly important at flowering and when the cobs begin to fill. Cobs are ready for harvesting when the ‘silks’ turn dark brown. To check for optimum maturity, gently peel back a section of the husk and press your thumbnail into a kernel. If the liquid is a milky colour, the corn is ready. If clear, the corn is immature. Sowing Temperature Guidelines. Sow only when soils have warmed to 18 C. Some years this happens in mid May, other years we need to wait until late May or early June.