Seed Library

Last updated: April 2023

Index

Introduction

Welcome to Moon’s Seed Library! At first, it may seem odd that a library would provide seeds, but our collections are developed to entertain, promote well-being, and contribute to lifelong learning in all of our patrons. As part of your community, we are constantly looking for new resources and services which enrich the public. The seed library, just like our movies or computers or Playaways, is our latest way of helping you explore your interests for free.

How it works

 

Step 1: Get your seeds

Check our online Seed Catalog to identify which seeds interest you. Then, fill out the digital Seed Library Order Form. A library staff member will complete your order and contact you when it’s ready to pick up.

You will receive the seeds in small envelopes which contain the correct number of seeds for a single plant to grow. Blends such as mesclun lettuce will contain more seeds because they contain a variety of plants.

Step 2: Plant your seeds

Each envelope has a quick-and-dirty summary of the plant’s water, sunlight, and soil needs to act as an everyday reference. Follow the guidelines on your seed packet or the online Seed Catalog to sow and maintain your plant.

Be sure to enjoy them as they grow and share with us how they’re doing. Tag us on social media with your garden selfies and seedling updates!

Step 3: Exchange your seeds

Once your plants mature, harvest any seeds you have and separate them into sealed envelopes or Ziploc bags. Label each package with the plant’s name, your name, and your contact information, then drop them off at the circulation desk. Don’t worry about the quantity, we’ll take care of that.

Step 4: Repeat

All of our seeds are heirloom seeds, so they should produce plants that are identical to the parent plants every time.  As long as your plants don’t crossbreed, the seeds you exchange will be the same as the ones you originally got from us. That cycle of new but identical seeds is what makes our seed library work. That, and seeing all your plant children happy.

You can also donate seeds that weren’t harvested from library-based plants. Follow Step 3 but include key information about the new seeds such as the plant’s name, breed, sun requirements, and whether they are heirloom or hybrid seeds. We will need that information for the Seed Catalog.

FAQ

Is it free?

Yes, just like everything else at the library, the seed library is free. Donations are greatly appreciated.

Does the seed library require a library card?

The seed library does not require a library card at this time, but you must complete an order form to receive any seeds.

How am I getting the seeds?

You will receive the seeds in small envelopes which contain the correct number of seeds for a single plant to grow.  The specific number of seeds depends on the plant. Most envelopes have 2 seeds: one acts as a backup for the other. Some plants have lower germination rates so the envelope will contain about 5 seeds. Blends such as mesclun lettuce will contain more seeds because they contain a variety of plants.

How many seeds can I get?

Each patron may request 1 envelope for each plant. If you want more, submit another order or contact a staff member.

What kind of seeds do you have?

We have seeds for flowers, herbs, fruits, and vegetables. Many of the plants are edible or attract pollinators. All of the plants are heirloom species, so they will produce seeds that are identical to the parent plant.

Can I donate my own seeds?

Yes! When you do, fill out the seed donation chart with the date, your name, and the seeds you’re providing. Please provide additional information about your seeds such as sun requirements, watering needs, and whether it is an heirloom or a hybrid plant. This information will let us know what we are adding to the seed library and will let other patrons know how to grow it.

How can I learn more about gardening?

There are lots of ways to learn more about gardening. You can borrow a book from the Home & Garden section (Dewey Decimal numbers 635, 642-643, 684, 693-698, and 712) or attend one of our Green Thumbs DIY classes. You can also talk to the Moon Township Garden Club or to Roxanne, our Technical Services Librarian, who started our seed library.

 

Seed Catalog

 

Amaranth

Love Lies Bleeding

  • Plant Type: Flower, Annual
  • Growing medium: Compost, loam, mulch, potting soil, topsoil
  • Space needed: 3-6 feet tall, 14-16 inches wide
  • Water needed: Every other day
  • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)
  • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Outdoor sow May or June.
  • Time to mature: 2 months
  • Good for: Birds
  • Notes: Container friendly.

Basil

Greek Basil

    • Plant Type: Herb, Annual

    • Growing medium: Compost, dried wood, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 8 inches tall, 6-8 inches wide

    • Water needed: Every other day

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Indoor sow in March. Outdoor sow in May.

    • Time to mature: 2.5 months

    • Good for: Bees, cooking

    • Notes: Container friendly. Leaves can be roasted, dried, preserved in salt, or frozen in olive oil or water. Pinch off flowers to encourage continuous growth.

Bean – Bush Snap

Blue Lake 274 Bush

    • Plant Type: Vegetable, Annual

    • Growing medium: Compost, dried wood, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed:15-20 inches tall, 10 inches wide

    • Water needed: Every other day

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Outdoor sow in May or June.

    • Time to mature: 2 months

    • Good for: Cooking

    • Notes: Harvest when the pods are full to eat them fresh. Harvest once the pods are dry to keep dried beans.

 

Bean – Pole

Lazy Housewife

    • Plant Type: Vegetable, Annual

    • Growing medium: Compost, loam, mulch, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 8-9 feet tall, 24 inches wide

    • Water needed: Every other day

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Outdoor sow May or June.

    • Time to mature: 3 months

    • Good for: Cooking

    • Notes: Container friendly.

 

Bee balm

Monarda fistulosa

    • Plant Type: Flower, Perennial

    • Growing medium: Compost, dried wood, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 24-48 inches tall, 18 inches wide

    • Water needed: Once a week

    • Light needed: Partial sun (3-6 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Indoor sow March or August. Outdoor sow April, May, September, or October.

    • Time to mature: 3 months

    • Good for: Bees, birds, butterflies, cooking

    • Notes: Known to attract hummingbirds. Deadhead to encourage continuous blooming. Its petals and leaves can be brewed for tea.

 

Bells of Ireland

Molucella Laevis

    • Plant Type: Flower, Annual

    • Growing medium: Compost, loam, mulch, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 30 inches tall, 10-12 inches wide

    • Water needed: Every other day

    • Light needed: Partial sun (3-6 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Outdoor sow May or June

    • Time to mature: 2 months

    • Good for: Pest repellent

    • Notes: Container friendly.

 

Black-eyed Susan

Rudbeckia – Goldsturm

    • Plant Type: Flower, Perennial

    • Growing medium: Compost, dried wood, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 24-26 inches tall, 18-24 inches wide

    • Water needed: Once a week

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Indoor sow April. Outdoor sow May through September.

    • Time to mature: 2 months

    • Good for: Bees, birds, butterflies

    • Notes: Container friendly. Drought resistant. Deer resistant. Low maintenance.

 

Broccoli

Calabrese

    • Plant Type: Vegetable, Annual

    • Growing medium: Compost, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 30-36 inches tall, 12 inches wide

    • Water needed: Once a week

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Indoor sow March, April, July, or August. Outdoor sow April through August.

    • Time to mature: 2.5 months

    • Good for: Cooking

    • Notes: Can be eaten raw or cooked. Blanch before freezing. Cut off some of the head and stem to grow smaller heads for later harvest.

 

Butterfly weed

Asclepias tuberosa

    • Plant Type: Flower, Perennial

    • Growing medium: Compost, dried wood, pebbles, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 12-36 inches tall, 24-36 inches wide

    • Water needed: Once a week

    • Light needed: Partial sun (3-6 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Indoor sow March or September. Outdoor sow May through August.

    • Time to mature: 2 months

    • Good for: Bees, butterflies

    • Notes: Drought resistant. Deer resistant.

 

Carrot

Danvers 126

    • Plant Type: Vegetable, Annual

    • Growing medium: Compost, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 4-8 inches tall, 3 inches wide

    • Water needed: Every other day

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Outdoor sow April through September.

    • Time to mature: 2.5 months

    • Good for: Cooking

    • Notes: Container friendly. Cut off greens after harvesting to help keep the root fresh. Can be eaten raw, cooked, blanched, pickled, canned, or frozen. Frost tolerant.

 

Catnip

Nepeta

    • Plant Type: Flower, Herb, Perennial

    • Growing medium: Compost, dried wood, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 18 inches tall, 12-14 inches wide

    • Water needed: Every other day

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Indoor sow April. Outdoor sow April through August.

    • Time to mature: 2.5 months

    • Good for: Bees, birds, butterflies, cooking, pets

    • Notes: Container friendly. Deer and rabbit resistant. Drought tolerant. Harvest the leaves before they turn yellow. Can be brewed as a tea or added to a salad.

 

Celery

Tall Utah 52-70 R Improved

    • Plant Type: Vegetable, Annual

    • Growing medium: Compost, dried wood, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 18-24 inches tall, 12 inches wide

    • Water needed: Every other day

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Indoor sow February or March.

    • Time to mature: 3.5 months

    • Good for: Cooking, containers.

    • Notes: Container friendly. Heat intolerant but frost tolerant. Harvest plants by cutting the stalks just above the soil.

 

Chamomile

German

    • Plant Type: Flower, Herb, Annual

    • Growing medium: Dried wood, pebbles, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 24-36 inches tall, 12-14 inches wide

    • Water needed: Every other day

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Outdoor sow May.

    • Time to mature: 3.5 months

    • Good for: Bees, birds, butterflies, cooking, cosmetics, perfumes

    • Notes: Container friendly. Harvest flowers when the petals arch back. Can be brewed as a tea or used for cosmetics and perfumes.

 

Chive

Garlic

    • Plant Type: Herb, Perennial

    • Growing medium: Compost, loam, mulch, pebbles, potting soil, silt, topsoil

    • Space needed: 18-24 inches tall, 3-4 inches wide

    • Water needed: Once a week

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Indoor sow February/March. Outdoor sow April.

    • Time to mature: 3 months

    • Good for: Cooking, containers, pest repellent

    • Notes: Container friendly. Harvest leaves after the flowers bloom.

 

Cilantro

Calypso

    • Plant Type: Herb, Annual

    • Growing medium: Dried wood, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 12-18 inches tall, 12 inches wide

    • Water needed: Every other day

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Indoor sow March. Outdoor sow May.

    • Time to mature: 2.5 months

    • Good for: Cooking

    • Notes: Harvest the leaves when the flower stems appear. Harvest the seeds (coriander) when they start turning grey/brown. Leaves can be dried or frozen.

 

Cornflower

Blue Boy

    • Plant Type: Flower, Annual

    • Growing medium: Compost, loam, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 30 inches tall, 11 inches wide

    • Water needed: Once a week

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Indoor sow March/April. Outdoor sow May/June.

    • Time to mature: 1 month

    • Good for: Bees, butterflies, cutting, scent

    • Notes: Drought tolerant. Easy to grow. Pollinator friendly.

 

Cosmos

Sensation Mix

    • Plant Type: Flower, Annual

    • Growing medium: Compost, loam, mulch, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 36-48 inches tall, 12-14 inches wide

    • Water needed: Once a week

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Indoor sow March or April. Outdoor sow May.

    • Time to mature: 1 month

    • Good for: Bees, birds, butterflies

    • Notes: Container friendly. Heat and drought tolerant. Deadhead to encourage continuous blooming. May self-sow.

 

Cucumber

Pickling – Parisian

    • Plant Type: Vegetable, Annual

    • Growing medium: Loam, mulch, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 6 inches tall, 4-5 feet wide

    • Water needed: Every other day

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Outdoor sow May or June.

    • Time to mature: 2 months

    • Good for: Cooking

    • Notes: Can be trellis trained. Harvest before seeds are fully developed. Pick when mature to encourage continual harvest.

 

Cucumber

Slicing – Straight Eight

    • Plant Type: Vegetable, Annual

    • Growing medium: Compost, loam, mulch, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 6-8 inches tall, 4-5 feet wide

    • Water needed: Every other day

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Outdoor sow May or June.

    • Time to mature: 2 months

    • Good for: Cooking

    • Notes: Can be trellis trained. Harvest before seeds are fully developed. Pick when mature to encourage continual harvest.

 

Daisy

Painted Mixed Colors

    • Plant Type: Flower, Perennial

    • Growing medium: Loam, mulch, potting soil, sand, topsoil

    • Space needed: 2 feet tall, 12 inches wide

    • Water needed: Once a week

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Indoor sow March. Outdoor sow April through August.

    • Time to mature: 2 months

    • Good for: Bees, butterflies, containers, pest repellent, scent.

    • Notes: Container friendly.

 

Dill

Fernleaf

    • Plant Type: Herb, Annual

    • Growing medium: Compost, dried wood, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 18 inches tall, 8-12 inches wide

    • Water needed: Every other day

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Indoor sow March. Outdoor sow May.

    • Time to mature: 2 months

    • Good for: Cooking

    • Notes: Container friendly. Harvest leaves as desired. Harvest seeds before the flowers turn brown.

 

Echinacea

Magnus

    • Plant Type: Flower, Perennial

    • Growing medium: Clay pellets, dried wood, loam,mulch, pebbles, potting soil, silt, topsoil

    • Space needed: 3 feet tall, 15-18 inches wide

    • Water needed: Once a week

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Indoor sow February, March, July, or August.

    • Time to mature: 2 months

    • Good for: Bees, birds, butterflies, cooking, containers.

    • Notes: Pollinator and container friendly. Clean and dry the plant to use as an herbal tea.

 

Eggplant

Black Beauty

    • Plant Type: Vegetable, Annual

    • Growing medium: Compost, loam, mulch, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 18-24 inches tall, 16 inches wide

    • Water needed: Every other day

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Indoor sow March or April.

    • Time to mature: 2.5 months

    • Good for: Cooking

    • Notes: Container friendly. Pick when the eggplants are 4-5 inches long and shiny.

 

Four O’Clocks

Red & Pink Mix

    • Plant Type: Flower, Annual, Perennial

    • Growing medium: Compost, loam, mulch, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 1-4 feet tall, 1-3 feet wide

    • Water needed: Once a week

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Indoor sow March, outdoor sow May

    • Time to mature: 1 month

    • Good for: Bees, birds, butterflies, containers, scent

    • Notes: Container friendly. Drought tolerant. Deer resistant. Fast growing. Nick the seeds with a knife and soak overnight before sowing. Can be perennial if overwintered indoors.

 

Foxglove

Foxy mixed colors

    • Plant Type: Flower, Perennial

    • Growing medium: Compost, mulch, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 24-36 inches tall, 12-18 inches wide

    • Water needed: Every other day

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Indoor sow March. Outdoor sow April or May.

    • Time to mature: 5 months

    • Good for: Bees, butterflies

    • Notes: Highly toxic. Deer and rabbit resistant. May self-sow.

 

Hibiscus

Hardy – Dinner Plate

    • Plant Type: Flower, Perennial

    • Growing medium: Compost, loam, mulch, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 3-7 feet tall, 2-4 feet wide

    • Water needed: Every other day

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Indoor sow February or March. Outdoor sow May or June.

    • Time to mature: 5 months

    • Good for: Bees, birds, butterflies, cooking

    • Notes: Deer resistant. Soak seeds overnight before sowing. Flowers last one day but are replaced quickly. Deadhead to encourage continuous growth. Cut back plant to 5 inches tall after first frost. Dry flower to use as an herbal tea.

 

Hibiscus

Common – Rose of Sharon

    • Plant Type: Flower, Perennial

    • Growing medium: Clay pellets, compost, loam, mulch, potting soil, sand, topsoil

    • Space needed: 8-12 feet tall, 3-10 feet wide

    • Water needed: Every other day

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Indoor sow February or March. Outdoor sow May or June.

    • Time to mature: 5 months

    • Good for: Bees, birds, butterflies, cooking

    • Notes: Deer resistant. Soak seeds overnight before sowing. Flowers last one day but are replaced quickly. Deadhead to encourage continuous growth. Cut back plant to 5 inches tall after first frost. May self-sow.

 

Kale

Lacinato

    • Plant Type: Vegetable, Annual, Biennial

    • Growing medium: Loam, mulch, topsoil

    • Space needed: 2-3 feet tall, 2-3 feet wide

    • Water needed: Every other day

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Indoor sow March. Outdoor sow April through September.

    • Time to mature: 2.5 months

    • Good for: Cooking

    • Notes: Can be successively grown and harvested. Harvest outermost leaves whenever they reach 6-8 inches long.

 

Lavender

Lady

    • Plant Type: Flower, Herb, Perennial

    • Growing medium: Compost, dried wood, pebbles, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 16 inches tall, 16 inches wide

    • Water needed: Every other day

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Indoor sow February, March, or August. Outdoor sow April, May, September, or October.

    • Time to mature: 5 months

    • Good for: Bees, butterflies, cooking, cosmetics, scent

    • Notes: Container friendly. Drought tolerant. Low maintenance. Harvest at the base of the flower stem. Can be used for tea, perfume, or cosmetics.

 

Lettuce – Bibb

Burpee Bibb

    • Plant Type: Vegetable, Annual

    • Growing medium: Compost, dried wood, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 9-15 inches tall, 6 inches wide

    • Water needed: Every day

    • Light needed: Partial sun (3-6 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Indoor sow March, April, August, or September. Outdoor sow April or May.

    • Time to mature: 2.5 months

    • Good for: Cooking

    • Notes: Harvest when the lettuce forms a head and the leaves are large. Flavor starts sweet and becomes bitter over time.

 

Lettuce – Butterhead

Buttercrunch

    • Plant Type: Vegetable, Annual

    • Growing medium: Compost, dried wood, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 9-15 inches tall, 6 inches wide

    • Water needed: Every day

    • Light needed: Partial sun (3-6 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Indoor sow March, April, August, or September. Outdoor sow April or May.

    • Time to mature: 2 months

    • Good for: Cooking

    • Notes: Harvest when the lettuce forms a head and the leaves are large. Flavor becomes bitter over time.

 

Lettuce – Loose leaf

Black Seeded Simpson

    • Plant Type: Vegetable, Annual

    • Growing medium: Compost, dried wood, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 9-15 inches tall, 6 inches wide

    • Water needed: Every day

    • Light needed: Partial sun (3-6 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Indoor sow March, April, August, or September. Outdoor sow April or May.

    • Time to mature: 1.5 months

    • Good for: Cooking

    • Notes: Harvest when the leaves reach desired size. Flavor becomes bitter over time.

 

Lettuce – Mesclun

Mesclun Classic Mix

    • Plant Type: Vegetable, Annual

    • Growing medium: Potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 9-15 inches tall, 6 inches wide

    • Water needed: Every other day

    • Light needed: Partial sun (3-6 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s):Outdoor sow April, May, August, or September.

    • Time to mature: 1 month

    • Good for: Cooking

    • Notes: Harvest when the leaves are 4-5 inches tall. May regrow when cut down to 1 inch above the soil.

 

Lettuce – Microgreens

Microgreens Burpee’s Mix

    • Plant Type: Vegetable, Annual

    • Growing medium: Potting soil

    • Space needed: 2-3 inches tall

    • Water needed: Every other day

    • Light needed: Partial sun (3-6 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s):Outdoor sow April, May, August, or September.

    • Time to mature: 1 month

    • Good for: Cooking

    • Notes: Harvest by cutting the leaves 2 inches above the soil.

 

Marigold

    • Plant Type: Flower, Annual

    • Growing medium: Compost, loam, mulch, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 8-10 inches tall, 6-8 inches wide

    • Water needed: Every other day

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Indoor sow March or April. Outdoor sow May or June.

    • Time to mature: 2 months

    • Good for: Bees, butterflies, pest repellent

    • Notes: Container friendly. Easy to grow. Deadhead to prolong blooming. Repels rabbits, deer, mosquitos, and other bugs.

 

Marjoram

Sweet

    • Plant Type: Herb, Annual

    • Growing medium: Loam potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 1 foot tall, 6-8 inches wide

    • Water needed: Once a week

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Indoor sow February or March. Outdoor sow May or June.

    • Time to mature: 2.5 months

    • Good for: Bees, butterflies, cooking

    • Notes: Container friendly. Can be dried, pickled, frozen, or used fresh.

 

Mint

Peppermint

    • Plant Type: Herb, Perennial

    • Growing medium: Compost, loam, mulch, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 18 inches tall, 12 inches wide

    • Water needed: Once a week

    • Light needed: Partial sun (3-6 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Indoor sow March or April.

    • Time to mature: 4 months

    • Good for: Cooking, scent

    • Notes: Very invasive. Container friendly. Harvest leaves as needed. Can be dried, frozen, jellied, preserved, or used as tea.

 

Mint

Peppermint

    • Plant Type: Herb, Perennial

    • Growing medium: Compost, loam, mulch, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 18-24 inches tall, 10-12 inches wide

    • Water needed: Every other day

    • Light needed: Partial sun (3-6 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Indoor sow March or April.

    • Time to mature: 4.5 months

    • Good for: Cooking, scent

    • Notes: Very invasive. Container friendly. Harvest leaves as needed. Can be dried, frozen, jellied, preserved, or used as tea.

 

Mint

Wild

    • Plant Type: Herb, Perennial

    • Growing medium: Compost, loam, mulch, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 18 inches tall, 12 inches wide

    • Water needed: Once a week

    • Light needed: Partial sun (3-6 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Indoor sow March or April.

    • Time to mature: 4 months

    • Good for: Cooking, scent

    • Notes: Very invasive. Container friendly. Harvest leaves as needed. Can be dried, frozen, jellied, preserved, or used as tea. Fruit is toxic.

 

Moonflower

    • Plant Type: Flower, Annual

    • Growing medium: Compost, loam, mulch, topsoil

    • Space needed: 10-15 feet tall, 3-6 feet wide

    • Water needed: Every other day

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Outdoor sow May or June.

    • Time to mature: 5 months

    • Good for: Cooking, scent

    • Notes: Pollinator friendly.  Nick the seeds with a knife and soak overnight before sowing. Requires a support for the vines to climb. May self-sow. Very toxic.

 

Nasturtium

Double Dwarf Jewel Mix

    • Plant Type: Flower, Annual

    • Growing medium: Compost, loam, mulch, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 10-12 inches tall, 10-12 inches wide

    • Water needed: Every other day

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Indoor sow March or April. Outdoor sow May.

    • Time to mature: 1 month

    • Good for: Bees, birds, butterflies, cooking

    • Notes: Container friendly. Deadhead to encourage continuous blooming. Flowers are edible.

 

Onion – bunching green

Evergreen Long White

    • Plant Type: Vegetable, Annual

    • Growing medium: Compost, loam, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 10-12 inches tall, 4 inches wide

    • Water needed: Every other day

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Indoor sow February or March. Outdoor sow August or September.

    • Time to mature: 3 months

    • Good for: Cooking, containers

    • Notes: Harvest once the leaves are 6-8 inches tall. Cold and disease resistant.

 

Oregano

Greek

    • Plant Type: Herb, Perennial

    • Growing medium: Compost, loam, mulch, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 1-2 feet tall, 12-16 inches wide

    • Water needed: Every other day

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Indoor sow March. Outdoor sow May.

    • Time to mature: 4.5 months

    • Good for: Cooking

    • Notes: Harvest before flower buds form. Leaves can be dried or frozen in water or olive oil.

 

Parsley

Single Italian

    • Plant Type: Herb, Biennial

    • Growing medium: Compost, loam, pebbles, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 12-18 inches tall, 12-14 inches wide

    • Water needed: Every other day

    • Light needed: Partial sun (3-6 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Indoor sow March. Outdoor sow May.

    • Time to mature: 2.5 months

    • Good for: Cooking

    • Notes: Container friendly. Cut off flowers to encourage continuous growth. Harvest leaves by cutting them at the base of the stalk. Can be dried, frozen in water or olive oil, or infused in oil or vinegar.

 

Pea – snow

Oregon Sugar Pod II

    • Plant Type: Vegetable, Annual

    • Growing medium: Loam, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 2-3 feet tall, 8 inches wide

    • Water needed: Every other day

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Outdoor sow April or May.

    • Time to mature: 2.5 months

    • Good for: Cooking

    • Notes: Can be harvested at any time but are tastiest before the peas inside the pod become so large they touch each other.

 

Pea

Shelling – Lincoln

    • Plant Type: Vegetable, Annual

    • Growing medium: Loam, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 12-18 inches tall, 12-14 inches wide

    • Water needed: Every other day

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Outdoor sow April or May.

    • Time to mature: 2 months

    • Good for: Cooking

    • Notes: Harvest when the pods are rounded, full and bright green. Can be frozen after being blanched twice or dehydrated.

 

Pepper – bell

Sweet California Wonder

    • Plant Type: Vegetable, Annual

    • Growing medium: Loam, mulch, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 18-24 inches tall, 1 foot wide

    • Water needed: Every other day

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Indoor sow February or March.

    • Time to mature: 2.5 months

    • Good for: Cooking, containers

    • Notes: 0 Scoville Heat Units. Harvest when green for mildest flavor and highest vitamin content. Harvest when red for strongest flavor. Can be chopped and frozen. 0 Scoville spiciness.

 

Pepper – hot

Habanero

    • Plant Type: Vegetable, Annual

    • Growing medium: Loam, mulch, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 18-24 inches tall, 16 inches wide

    • Water needed: Every other day

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Indoor sow February or March.

    • Time to mature: 2.5 months

    • Good for: Cooking, containers

    • Notes: 100,000 – 350,000 Scoville Heat Units. Overwatering may decrease spiciness. Harvest when green for mildest flavor and highest vitamin content. Harvest when red for strongest flavor and spice level. Can be dried. Use caution when handling.

 

Pepper – hot

Jalapeno Early

    • Plant Type: Vegetable, Annual

    • Growing medium: Loam, mulch, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 14-18 inches tall, 16 inches wide

    • Water needed: Every other day

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Indoor sow February or March.

    • Time to mature: 2.5 months

    • Good for: Cooking, containers

    • Notes: 2000 – 8000 Scoville Heat Units. Overwatering may decrease spiciness. Harvest when green for mildest flavor and highest vitamin content. Harvest when red for strongest flavor and spice level. Can be dried. Use caution when handling.

 

Pepper

Hot – Serrano Tampiqueno

    • Plant Type: Vegetable, Annual

    • Growing medium: Compost, dried wood, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 24-30 inches tall, 24-30 inches wide

    • Water needed: Every other day

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Indoor sow February or March.

    • Time to mature: 2.5 months

    • Good for: Cooking

    • Notes: 10,000 – 25,000 Scoville Heat Units. Overwatering may decrease spiciness. Harvest when green for mildest flavor and highest vitamin content. Harvest when red for strongest flavor and spice level. Can be dried. Use caution when handling.

 

Pepper – sweet

Sweet Banana

    • Plant Type: Vegetable, Annual

    • Growing medium: Compost, dried wood, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 18-24 inches tall, 1 foot wide

    • Water needed: Every other day

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Indoor sow March or April.

    • Time to mature: 2.5 months

    • Good for: Cooking, containers

    • Notes: 0-500 Scoville Heat Units. Overwatering may decrease spiciness. Harvest when green for mildest flavor and highest vitamin content. Harvest when red for strongest flavor and spice level. Can be dried. Use caution when handling.

 

Phlox

Blushing Bride

    • Plant Type: Flower, Annual

    • Growing medium: Compost, loam, mulch, potting soil, sand, topsoil

    • Space needed: 18-20 inches tall, 12-14 inches wide

    • Water needed: Every other day

    • Light needed: Partial sun (3-6 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Indoor sow March. Outdoor sow May.

    • Time to mature: 2 months

    • Good for: Bees, birds, butterflies

    • Notes: Easy to grow. Container friendly. Deer resistant. Heat tolerant. Deadhead to encourage continuous blooming.

 

Pumpkin

Connecticut Field

    • Plant Type: Fruit, Vegetable, Annual

    • Growing medium: Compost, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 12-18 inches tall, 72 inches wide

    • Water needed: Every other day

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Outdoor sow May or June.

    • Time to mature: 4 months

    • Good for: Cooking

    • Notes: Harvest when the rind is hard and bright orange. Cut so 3 inches of stem remain attached to the fruit. Pumpkins are about 20 pounds when mature. Can be carved or cooked. Seeds can be roasted.

 

Radish

Connecticut Field

    • Plant Type: Vegetable, Annual

    • Growing medium: Loam, mulch, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 4-6 inches tall, 3 inches wide

    • Water needed: Every other day

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Outdoor sow April, May, August, or September.

    • Time to mature: 1 month

    • Good for: Cooking

    • Notes: Harvest spring radishes once they form bulbs and before the temperature gets hot. Harvest fall radishes before the ground freezes.

 

Rosemary

Rosemary

    • Plant Type: Flower, Herb, Annual or Perennial (see notes)

    • Growing medium: Clay pellets, dried wood, loam, mulch, pebbles, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 2-3 feet tall, 1-2 feet wide

    • Water needed: Every other day

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Indoor sow February. Outdoor sow May.

    • Time to mature: 8 months

    • Good for: Cooking, cosmetics, perfume, containers

    • Notes: Slow to grow but easy to maintain. May be planted annually outside or perennially if overwintered indoors. Trim regularly to encourage continuous growth. Harvest up to one third of the plant at a time. Can be dried, roasted, or brewed as a tea.

 

Sage

Salvia officinalis

    • Plant Type: Herb, Perennial

    • Growing medium: Dried wood, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 1-2 feet tall, 16-24 inches wide

    • Water needed: Every other day

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-10 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Indoor sow February or March. Outdoor sow May.

    • Time to mature: 8 months

    • Good for: Cooking, containers

    • Notes: Container friendly. Harvest leaves or springs as needed. Maintain by trimming up to 2/3 its size. Can be dried, dehydrated, infused in honey or vinegar, or chopped and frozen in ice.

 

Sesame

Salvia officinalis

    • Plant Type: Herb, Annual

    • Growing medium: Compost, dried wood, loam, mulch, pebbles, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 2-6 feet tall

    • Water needed: Once a week

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Outdoor sow May.

    • Time to mature: 2 months

    • Good for: Cooking

    • Notes: Harvest seeds when pods split open.

 

Spinach

Bloomsdale Long Standing

    • Plant Type: Vegetable, Annual

    • Growing medium: Potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 10-12 inches tall, 4 inches wide

    • Water needed: Every other day

    • Light needed: Partial sun (3-6 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Outdoor sow April or May.

    • Time to mature: 1.5 months

    • Good for: Cooking

    • Notes: Harvest leaves when 3 inches long or the entire plant when seed stalks develop.

 

Squash – summer

Fordhook Zucchini

    • Plant Type: Vegetable, Annual

    • Growing medium: Loam, mulch, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 24-30 inches tall, 4-5 feet wide

    • Water needed: Every other day

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Outdoor sow May through July.

    • Time to mature: 2 months

    • Good for: Cooking

    • Notes: Harvest when fruit is small and shiny. Flowers are also edible. Harvest regularly to encourage continual growth.

 

Squash – winter

Vegetable Spaghetti

    • Plant Type: Fruit, Vegetable, Annual

    • Growing medium: Loam, mulch, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 10-12 inches tall, 4-5 feet wide

    • Water needed: Every other day

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Outdoor sow May through July.

    • Time to mature: 3.5 months

    • Good for: Cooking

    • Notes: Harvest when fruit is fully grown (around 3.5 pounds) and the rind is dull and hard. Cut so 2 inches of stem remain attached to the fruit.

 

Squash – winter

Waltham Butternut

    • Plant Type: Fruit, Vegetable, Annual

    • Growing medium: Loam, mulch, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 10-12 inches tall, 4-5 feet wide

    • Water needed: Every other day

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Outdoor sow May or June.

    • Time to mature: 2.5 months

    • Good for: Cooking

    • Notes: Harvest when fruit is fully grown (around 6 pounds) and the rind is dull and hard. Cut so 2 inches of stem remain attached to the fruit.

 

Sunflower – dwarf

Busy Bee

    • Plant Type: Flower, Annual

    • Growing medium: Compost, loam, mulch, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 3-4 feet tall, 12-16 inches wide

    • Water needed: Once a week

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Outdoor sow May or June.

    • Time to mature: 1 month

    • Good for: Bees, birds, butterflies, containers

    • Notes: Easy to grow. Drought tolerant.

 

Sunflower – dwarf hybrid

Sunny Bunch Hybrid

    • Plant Type: Flower, Annual

    • Growing medium: Compost, loam, mulch, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 2-4 feet tall, 12-16 inches wide

    • Water needed: Once a week

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Outdoor sow May or June.

    • Time to mature: 1 month

    • Good for: Bees, birds, butterflies, containers

    • Notes: Easy to grow. Drought tolerant.

 

Sunflower

Giant – Mammoth Russian

    • Plant Type: Flower, Annual

    • Growing medium: Compost, loam, mulch, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: Up to 12 feet tall, 36-40 inches wide

    • Water needed: Once a week

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Outdoor sow May or June.

    • Time to mature: 3 months

    • Good for: Bees, birds, butterflies, cooking

    • Notes: Easy to grow. Drought tolerant. Heads, petals, and seeds are edible. Harvest by cutting the stalk a foot beneath the head. Seeds should be dried and ripened before consuming.

 

Sunflower – giant

Sunforest Mix

    • Plant Type: Flower, Annual

    • Growing medium: Compost, loam, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: Up to 12 feet tall, 36-40 inches wide

    • Water needed: Once a week

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Outdoor sow May or June.

    • Time to mature: 3 months

    • Good for: Bees, birds, butterflies, cooking

    • Notes: Easy to grow. Drought tolerant. Includes three different varieties of sunflower.

 

Thyme

Common

    • Plant Type: Herb, Perennial

    • Growing medium: Loam, mulch, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 6-12 inches tall, 6-8 inches wide

    • Water needed: Every other day

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Indoor sow March.

    • Time to mature: 6 months

    • Good for: Bees, cooking, containers

    • Notes: Easy to grow. Harvest leaves or flowers as desired. Can be dehydrated, dried, infused, or frozen.

 

Tomato – beefsteak

Beefsteak – Mortgage Lifter

    • Plant Type: Fruit, Vegetable, Annual

    • Growing medium: Compost, loam, mulch, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: Up to 8 feet tall, 18 inches wide

    • Water needed: Every other day

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Indoor sow March. Outdoor sow May.

    • Time to mature: 2.5 months

    • Good for: Cooking

    • Notes: Leaves are toxic. Harvest when fruit is vividly colored and firm. Pick tomatoes regularly to encourage continuous growth. Good for sandwiches.

 

Tomato

Cherry – Cherry Roma

    • Plant Type: Fruit, Vegetable, Annual

    • Growing medium: Compost, loam, mulch, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 3-4 feet tall, 18 inches wide

    • Water needed: Every other day

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Indoor sow March. Outdoor sow May.

    • Time to mature: 2.5 months

    • Good for: Cooking

    • Notes: Leaves are toxic. Harvest when fruit is vividly colored and firm. Pick tomatoes regularly to encourage continuous growth. Good as a topping or snack.

 

Tomato

Paste – San Marzano

    • Plant Type: Fruit, Vegetable, Annual

    • Growing medium: Compost, dried wood, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 5-6 feet tall, 18 inches wide

    • Water needed: Every other day

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Indoor sow March. Outdoor sow May.

    • Time to mature: 2.5 months

    • Good for: Cooking

    • Notes: Leaves are toxic. Harvest when fruit is vividly colored and firm. Pick tomatoes regularly to encourage continuous growth. Good for sauces and drying.

 

Vine

Purple Hyacinth Bean

    • Plant Type: Fruit, Vegetable, Annual

    • Growing medium: Compost, loam, mulch, topsoil

    • Space needed: 8+ feet tall

    • Water needed: Once a week

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Indoor sow March. Outdoor sow May-July.

    • Time to mature: 3 months

    • Good for: Bees, butterflies

    • Notes: Toxic. Plant by a trellis or fence to encourage climbing.

 

Viola

Johnny Jump Up

    • Plant Type: Flower, Annual

    • Growing medium: Compost, loam, mulch, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 10 inches tall, 6 inches wide

    • Water needed: Once a week

    • Light needed: Partial sun (3-6 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Indoor sow February, March, or July.

    • Time to mature: 1 month

    • Good for: Bees, butterflies, containers, cooking

    • Notes: Flowers are edible. Winter hardy. May self-sow.

 

Viola – wild

Common Garden Violet

    • Plant Type: Flower, Annual

    • Growing medium: Compost, loam, mulch, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 10 inches tall, 6 inches wide

    • Water needed: Once a week

    • Light needed: Partial sun (3-6 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Indoor sow February, March, or July.

    • Time to mature: 1 month

    • Good for: Bees, butterflies, containers, cooking

    • Notes: Very invasive. Flowers are edible. Winter hardy. May self-sow.

 

Watermelon

Bush Sugar Baby

    • Plant Type: Fruit, Annual

    • Growing medium: Loam, mulch, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 15-24 inches tall, 2-3 feet wide

    • Water needed: Every other day

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Outdoor sow May or June.

    • Time to mature: 2.5 months

    • Good for: Cooking

    • Notes: Protect fruit by placing them on cardboard as they grow. Harvest when the vine is dying off, the underside of the fruit is yellowish, and it sounds hollow when gently thumped with your fingers.

 

Wildflower Mix

Monarch Sanctuary

    • Plant Type: Flower, Perennial

    • Growing medium: Potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 2-6 feet tall

    • Water needed: Once a week

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Outdoor sow May through October.

    • Time to mature: 2.5 months

    • Good for: Bees, birds, butterflies

    • Notes: Contains alyssum, baby’s breath, clover, cornflower, coneflower, lupine, marigold, sunflower, zinnia, and more.

 

Zinnia

Candy Cane Mix

    • Plant Type: Flower, Annual

    • Growing medium: Compost, loam, mulch, potting soil, topsoil

    • Space needed: 17 inches tall, 12-14 inches wide

    • Water needed: Every other day

    • Light needed: Full sun (6-16 hours per day)

    • Zone 6 sowing period(s): Indoor sow April, Outdoor sow May.

    • Time to mature: 3 months

    • Good for: Bees, birds, butterflies

    • Notes: Container friendly. Deer resistant. Deadhead to encourage continuous blooming.