Heirloom Seed Bank Receiving SeedsMaster Gardener ScoopApril 29, 2015

Heirloom Seed Bank Receiving Seeds

It is time to start having fun in the sun and in the garden. The heirloom seed program is getting kicked off this spring with an infusion of seeds. The packets have arrived and will be divided and soon be available at the Nashville Public Library. Those gardeners interested in participating in the program will sign out some seeds, grow them into maturity, enjoy the harvest, and return seeds for future sharing by other gardeners. Let’s discuss some seeds that will be available and some growing instructions.

• Zucchini Squash – Sow seeds outdoors in 12 inch diameter hills after danger of frost has passed. Hills should be spaced 6 feet apart in all directions. Crisp and mild-flavored zucchinis are borne prolifically on bush plants.

• Spinach – Direct seed 1 inch apart at a depth of 1/2 inch. Germination takes 7-14 days and thin as needed. Spinach grows best in cool weather and should be planted in early spring or late summer to produce a fall crop. For best yields, harvest continually and make successive plantings every ten days.

• Red Onion – Germination in 4-10 days, planting 6 inches apart in full sun, producing large flattened globes with purple-red skin. This variety is mildly pungent flesh with red concentric circles and is best used for salads and garnishes, not for extended storage. Long-day type. 100 days from transplant.

• Melon – Melons love heat. Sow seeds outdoors in 12 inch diameter hills after danger of frost has passed and soil has warmed. Space hills 6 inches apart in all directions. Seeds will germinate in 4-10 days. Oval fruits are 9 inches long and weigh 4-7 pounds. This melon has sweet orange flesh and is very juicy with full muskmelon flavor and a rather thick rind.

For More, Please Read The April 29, 2015 Edition Of The Nashville News.