1) THREE SISTERS’ COMPONENT

The first distinction of the Crisis Cache Survival Garden is the “Three Sisters’ Component.” This idea comes directly from the Native Peoples of North America. Historically, many Native Peoples used both the term and the method of food production. The “Three Sisters” are beans, corn, and squash. You may be thinking, “Why these three vegetables?”

There are several reasons. These three vegetables, when grown together, complement each other in both symbiotic and synergistic ways, and when eaten together, they complement each other from a nutritional standpoint. Additionally, corn is the only major grain crop that can be grown and harvested entirely by hand, but corn is a heavy feeder and requires a lot of fertilizer.

Fertilizer contains three primary components: N (nitrogen), P (phosphorous), and K (potassium). Nitrogen is necessary for the growth of leaves, stems, and stalks. Being a large plant, corn needs a lot of nitrogen, and beans are a nitrogen fixing legume. That is to say, beans take nitrogen out of the air and put it into the soil in a very usable form. Further, pole or half-runner beans need something to climb, and the corn stalk provides the beans with a “living trellis” to climb.

The squash plants fill in the remaining areas with large, broad leaves. Acting as a “living mulch,” the squash leaves shade the ground thus keeping the weeds down and the soil moist. This benefits both the corn and the beans, as well as the squash. Also, winter squash, perhaps more than any other vegetable, gives you more “bang for the buck” as a single Blue Hubbard Squash seed can produce over 100 lbs. of squash in a single growing season. Winter squash also stores very well, and under proper storage conditions will keep all winter long providing your family with a very nutritious food source when fresh vegetables are scarce. Further, raccoons love corn, and for whatever reason, raccoons will rarely cross a boundary “fence” planting of vining winter squash, thus reducing the chance that they will enter the corn patch and eat it.

Hidatsa Indians Drying Squash (Circa, 1900)

From a nutritional standpoint, when corn and beans are eaten together they provide all the necessary amino acids necessary to form a complete protein. This is crucial if you are unable to obtain animal protein for any length of time (meat, milk, and eggs are complete proteins). Without ingesting complete proteins, your muscles will begin to atrophy as your body essentially “consumes” them to obtain the amino acids lacking in your diet. Squash, especially winter squash, is a nutritional powerhouse providing additional protein along with a host of vitamins and minerals. Native Peoples ate the squash fresh and dried it for winter consumption. They also ate the blossoms as well as the seed not needed for the next year’s crop.

Due to the time tested reliance of Native Peoples (of Central and North America) on these three vegetables, and the immense importance they will assume in a contemporary crisis situation, a large portion of the Crisis Cache Survival Garden is dedicated to the Three Sisters. Indeed, not only are Three Sisters included, they are made a focal point with multiple genetic redundancy built into the Crisis Cache Survival Garden.

There are ten bean varieties included in the kit (containing bush, half-runner, and pole varieties), four corn varieties, and seven squash varieties. It would be far easier (and much less time consuming) to include larger packages of fewer varieties like other survival seed kits, but genetic diversity will be of paramount importance in a survival situation. If, for whatever reasons, environmental conditions cause one or more varieties to fail, the others will pull you through. Looking at the list below, you will see that the first 21 of the included 49 varieties are dedicated to the vital importance of the Three Sisters.

2) LONG-TERM ROOT CROP STORAGE COMPONENT

The second distinction of the Crisis Cache Survival Garden is multiple redundancy in the area of root crops for long-term, winter storage. Included are carrots, turnips, rutabagas, parsnips, onions, beets, and kohlrabi. Although kohlrabi is not technically a root crop, it grows and stores like one so it is included in this group. Okay, I know given the choice, your child would much rather eat a Big Mac than a rutabaga, but what about the choice between a rutabaga or nothing at all?

The Root Crop Component of the Crisis Cache Survival Garden is second in importance only to the “Three Sisters’” Component. The Root Crops add complex carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and fiber to your diet, and they are easy to grow and store for winter use. In all but the very coldest regions of the country (US), most of these root crops can be left in the ground (heavily mulched) and dug up all winter long. Otherwise, a root cellar, or basement is required for winter storage. Beets, Turnips, and Rutabagas, can all exceed two pounds in size, and Parsnips will easily exceed a pound or more. Carrots provide necessary Vitamin A, Kohlrabi is high in Vitamin C, and Onions just make everything taste better. A note on Onions: “Sweet” onions, while great to eat, will not last more than a month or so in storage, and many survival seed kits include them instead of “storage” onions, like the Yellow Onion Of Parma in our Crisis Cache Survival Garden.

3) EDIBLE SEEDS COMPONENT

The third distinction of the Crisis Cache Survival Garden is that of edible seeds. Seeds are nutritional powerhouses. The Crisis Cache Survival Garden contains the Mammoth Russian Sunflower, as well as seven varieties of squash. The seeds of all squash varieties are edible, as are, of course, sunflower seeds. The sunflower is an American native and was grown by Native Peoples. The Mammoth Russian Sunflower is included in this kit because it produces the largest seed heads of any sunflower (up to 20" across), and in a survival situation, bigger IS better.

Although the bane of the modern world is inexpensive, easy-to-obtain fat calories, this will be far different in a survival situation. Fat calories in the modern world come primarily from processed oils (think McDonald’s French fries), and animal products (think McDonald’s Double Quarter Pounder with Cheese). Both processed oils and animal products may be unavailable in a survival situation. Significantly, sunflower and squash seeds provide crucial fat calories that are sorely lacking in other vegetables.

4 & 5) SEED DESICCATION AND HERMETICALLY SEALED STORAGE SYSTEM

The fourth and fifth distinctions of the Crisis Cache Survival Garden are those of seed desiccation and the storage system. These two are the most critical distinctions.

After extensive research, I was able to locate only one other survival seed kit that was packaged in such a way as to ensure the viability of the seeds contained within. Some web sites use terms such as “seed bank,” “seed vault,” and “time capsule” in their product descriptions, but they lack the preparation and packaging necessary to guarantee the survival and viability of the seeds.

There are four primary enemies of seed longevity and viability. They are (in decreasing order of importance), 1) Vermin, 2) Moisture, 3) Heat, and 4) Light. Vermin is #1 because if your seeds are eaten by insects or rodents, it doesn’t matter how much vigor they have remaining.

For long-term storage, seeds need the exact opposite conditions from those that would encourage germination and growth. To grow, seeds need moisture, warmth, and light. Therefore, the very best storage conditions are dry, cold, and dark. Before the storage system is considered, preparation of the seeds must be addressed.

Seed preparation for the Crisis Cache Survival Garden involves drying the seeds to a moisture content of 8% or less. Apart from drying the seeds in an oven (which kills the seeds), this very low level of moisture can only be obtained by drying the seeds in Silica Gel. This is a very time consuming process, but it is absolutely crucial if seeds are to be stored for an extended period of time, or if they are to be placed in frozen storage. If the seeds are packaged at normal moisture levels, then frozen, they can be damaged–or even destroyed–by ice formation within the seed. Seeds dried to 8% or less moisture levels are not harmed by freezing. Very low moisture levels also decrease the seeds’ respiration rate to a very low level, thereby conserving energy for later germination and growth. Marc Rogers (p. 40), notes that seed expert Dr. James Harrington found that “each 1 percent reduction in seed moisture, under 14 percent but not below 5 percent, doubles the life expectancy of most vegetable seeds.” Therefore, drying seeds from a level of 14% to 8% results in six “doublings” or a longevity increase of approximately 64 years (if the seeds had only a one-year longevity to start with). Even if the desiccation and packaging of the seeds in the Crisis Cache Survival Garden only achieve half that, they should still be viable after 30 years. Marc Rogers (p. 41), continues: “Dr. Harrington has found that, at 70 percent relative humidity or lower, it is possible to double the life of the seed for each 9°F. decrease in temperature within the range of 32° to 112°F. As you can see, adding cold storage (refrigeration or freezing) to the equation greatly increases the longevity of the seeds.

Suzanne Ashworth states that, “Seeds of all species can be stored for many years with almost no loss of germination and only minimal loss of vigor, when dried to about 8% seed moisture, sealed into an airtight container and frozen. Seeds stored using these techniques will maintain their viability for up to ten times longer than normal germination rates.” It follows then, that seed longevity is not an absolute, but subject to many different variables. Seed longevity can be increased dramatically by proper drying and cold storage.

Only flame sealed glass or fused metal containers provide an absolutely impervious barrier to moisture. All other materials allow some moisture penetration over time. With this in mind, once dried to 8%, or less moisture content, the seeds must be protected from both vermin and from rehydrating while in storage. Obviously, neither flame sealed glass nor welded steel containers are very practical for a survival seed kit.

The packaging system must perform several functions at once. First, it must protect the seeds from mice, insects, or any other vermin that would like to eat your seeds. Second, it must be waterproof to keep the seeds from rehydrating so they remain in a state of suspended animation. Third, it must be able to be frozen. Fourth, it is advantageous if the container is capable of being buried for an extended period of time without degrading. Fifth, it must be durable. And, sixth, it must be portable. Our packaging system is comprised of several components, and is designed to perform all of these functions at once.

The desiccated seeds in the Crisis Cache Survival Garden are placed inside a 4.3 mil Mylar foil bag along with four, “one unit” (one ounce +), Montmorillonite Clay packs, along with the Basic Seed Saving Booklet. The excess air is then vacuumed out and the ZipSeal™ Mylar foil bag is zipped closed, then heat sealed shut. This package is then placed inside a second, identical 4.3 mil Mylar foil bag. Again, it is vacuum sealed, zipped closed, and heat sealed shut. This is done to provide a redundant layer of protection against the seeds rehydrating during storage. The Montmorillonite Clay ensures that the moisture level inside the bag remains low, and also absorbs any ethylene gas given off by the seeds during storage. Ethylene gas is a naturally occurring organic compound given off by ripening fruit such as bananas and tomatoes, but also by stored seeds. Ethylene gas speeds up the ripening of fruit, but also degrades seeds during long-term storage. High levels of ethylene gas can actually kill stored seeds, but apart from keeping the seeds desiccated, Montmorillonite Clay is unique in its ability to also absorb any ethylene gas produced by the stored seeds.

The ZipSeal™ Mylar pouches containing the seeds, Montmorillonite Clay, and booklet are then placed within a tough, polyethylene canister. The canister is designed to be buried to protect against theft or confiscation. The canister is also the first line of defense and simultaneously provides protection against vermin, protects the inner Mylar foil bags from being damaged, provides darkness, and prevents moisture penetration. The Crisis Cache Survival Garden kit canister (sealed with the enclosed lid sealant) has remained absolutely dry after being completely submerged in four feet of water for 72 hours. In all likelihood, it would likely have remained dry for weeks, or even years, but three days was deemed an adequate test as people are unlikely to store their seeds in a lake.

6) The sixth distinction is the inclusion of the Basic Seed Saving Booklet by Bill McDorman.

This booklet is sealed in a gallon Ziplock Bag (to store and protect it after opening), then packed inside the Mylar bags with the seeds and desiccant so it will remain dry and readable when you need it. No other survival garden kit contains a seed saving booklet. In the event of an economic collapse, it is likely that you will no longer be able to buy a seed saving book or find this crucial information on the internet. If the power grid, the internet, or commerce is compromised due to an economic collapse, you’ll rest easy knowing that you have this critical information already packed inside your Crisis Cache Survival Garden.

7) The seventh distinction is the Two (2) Waterproof Inserts containing concise growing information, general gardening information & tips, plus winter storage instructions for your vegetables.

8) The eighth and final distinction of the Crisis Cache Survival Garden is that the outer canister is made of rugged polyethylene and is capable of being buried for extended periods of time.

In a survival situation, seeds will become more valuable than gold. The theft of your seeds by desperate people is a very real possibility. Concealment is better than a safe, because any safe can be broken into given enough time and the right tools.

For about the price of a month’s auto insurance, or equipping your home with smoke detectors, you can ensure that you and your family can grow your own food–forever–if need be. Unlike the other survival seed kits available, the Crisis Cache Survival Garden is designed to be purchased and forgotten–until needed. If you don’t need it within the next 20-30 years, you will likely never need it. It is truly our hope that you will never need it. However, for an inexpensive one-time investment, you can ensure that you and your family are able to grow your own healthy and nutritious food into perpetuity. What other form of insurance is this critical to have, and this reasonably priced? If this is something you are interested in, we strongly encourage you to buy it before it’s too late. Because once the economic collapse resumes, like plywood and bottled water in New Orleans just before Hurricane Katrina hit, you may no longer be able to buy it at any price.

At SurvivalSuppliesOnline.com, we are so sure that our Crisis Cache Survival Garden is simply without equal, that we invite you to bookmark this page and check out the other survival seed kits that are available online. If you have read the complete description of our Crisis Cache Survival Garden, you now know a great deal about what goes into the production of our product–and why it’s superior to all survival garden kits. After reviewing the others, we feel confident that you’ll return here to purchase the Crisis Cache Survival Garden.

Compare the Crisis Cache Survival Garden to the others. Note that the Crisis Cache Survival Garden is the ONLY kit that contains desiccated seeds and a storage system with redundant layers of protection!

Heirloom Organics Homestead Pack ($249.00 + shipping, 31 varieties, 4.4 lbs, 126,000 seeds but 3 lbs. of that are wheat, barley, oats, & rye)

Survival Seed Bank ($149.00 + $15.00 shipping, 22 varieties, weight not given, 10,215 seeds, 43% lettuce & radish seeds)

Survivalist Seeds ($179.95, 50 varieties, 10,065 seeds)

SOME GENERAL NOTES ABOUT THE CRISIS CACHE SURVIVAL GARDEN:

Each of the 49 seed packets are packaged in a white paper “coin” envelope and include a label indicating the variety and date of packaging. Inside each envelope is a two-sided, insert with a color picture and variety description on one side, and detailed growing instructions on the reverse side.

The demand for Open Pollinated and Heirloom vegetable seeds has been unprecedented over the last two years and they are in very short supply. Consequently, substitutions may occasionally be necessary.

Seed weight vs. “count.” With but a few exceptions, our seeds are weighed–not counted. Generally, we count out a sample and then weigh it on a grain scale (a grain is one 7,000th of a pound). We then add between 5%–10% to the actual package, so the Crisis Cache Survival Garden actually contains approximately 15,000 seeds.

The advertized “Days To Maturity” is highly variable, and subject to your local growing conditions. Use this only as a rough guide for it is not an absolute.

In the event that you need to utilize your Crisis Cache Survival Garden kit, you are strongly advised to plant no more than half of your seeds the first year. This will give you a second chance in the event of a partial crop failure the first year. And remember: Don’t eat your seed corn! The Crisis Cache Survival Garden will plant such a large area that it will be very difficult for even a large family to keep it watered, weeded, and harvested anyway. A smaller, well tended garden is much more productive than a large, neglected one.

We hate paying postage as much as the next guy, so as with all products manufactured by SurvivalSuppliesOnline.com the Crisis Cache Survival Garden comes postpaid to the lower 48.

Notes on the differences between the terms, “Heirloom,” “Open Pollinated,” and “Hybrid,” as there seems to be a bit of confusion and misinformation surrounding this subject on the internet.

An “Open Pollinated” vegetable variety is one that, when pollinated by another plant of the very same variety, or self-pollinated, will produce seeds that grow into plants identical to the parent plant. Seeds from Open Pollinated vegetable varieties can be saved and planted year after year.

Hopefully, this clarifies this subject because some other web sites would have you believe that Heirloom vegetable varieties are very different and far superior to Open Pollinated ones, and that is simply not the case. Heirloom vegetables are Open Pollinated vegetables–although with a bit more history. The Crisis Cache Survival Garden contains only Open Pollinated and Heirloom vegetable varieties. It does not contain any Hybrids or “Frankenseeds” (Genetically Modified Organisms a.k.a. GMOs).

There is also a great deal of misinformation relating to long-term seed storage circulating on the internet. Popular misconceptions include:

• Seeds need to “breathe” in order to survive. They do not. In fact, seed “breathing,” or respiration, causes the seed to loose vigor and longevity. The more warm and moist the storage conditions are, the more seeds “breathe.” Respiration also releases ethylene gas (covered above).
• Seeds need to be packed with O2 (oxygen) depleters for long-term storage. As you can see, this is exactly the opposite of “Seeds need to breathe.” The current consensus opinion of seed scientists is that O2 absorbers are not needed. If they were, they would certainly be included in the Crisis Cache Survival Garden as they are inexpensive.
• Seeds that are too dry will die. Actually, seeds “ultradried” to a moisture level of between 1–3% have survived at room temperature for 40 years and still produced a germination rate of 98.4%. Desiccating seeds prior to storage–and maintaining a low level of dryness during storage–are the most critical issues to address for long-term seed storage.

$119.99 Postpaid

INCLUDED VARIETIES

	Kentucky Wonder Pole Bean (200 seeds) Introduced in 1864 as "Texas Pole," changed to its present name in 1877. Vigorous 5-7 foot vines. Great bean taste. Productive, reliable, early maturing, stringless green pods with brown beans. Enjoy canned, frozen, or fresh. Used dry, it is an excellent bean for baking. 65 days to green stage.
	Cherokee Wax Yellow Bean (200 seeds) Thought to be indigenous to Central, or South America, and handed down to colonists by the Cherokee Indians. Cultivated as early as 500 BC. Vigorous, 18-24 in. erect bush plants bear a heavy yield of stringless, black seeded, yellow, 6" pods. 48 days to snap bean stage. Can also be used as a dry bean for cooking.
	Wren's Egg Bean (200 seeds) Reported to have come from Italy in the 1800's. The vigorous, dark green plants produce short (14-18") runners. The 5" long pods are light green when young, turning tan and carmine when mature. Does very well in cool climates. 60 days for green shell beans; 80 days for dry soup beans.
	Great Northern Bean (300 seeds) Originally grown by the Mandan Indians of present-day Minnesota and North Dakota. The plants grow to 2' tall, producing 3-5" pods filled with 5-6 flavorful, thin, white beans. This bush bean grows well in the north and Midwest, is both early and drought resistant, and is a heavy yielder. Great for soups and for baking. 90 days for dry beans.
	Black Coco Bean (200 seeds) Easy to grow bush plants grow to two feet tall. Use as a green bean (60 days), or as a dry bean (85 days). Fabulous soup bean with unrivaled flavor. Cooks quickly with a wonderful aroma. Can also be mashed into delicious refried beans.
	Red Kidney Bean (200 seeds) Possibly grown as early as 7000 BC in what is now, Mexico. Six-inch pods are full of meaty, solid red, kidney shaped beans. Dried beans are good for baking, soups and chili. Cooked beans are full flavored and have a smooth texture. Bush habitat. Dependable producer. 95 days to dry beans.
	Pinto Bean (200 seeds) Pinto beans constitute 45% of all beans consumed in the United States. The dry beans are buff colored with darker speckles. The vigorous, half runner plants produce large yields of tasty, nutritious beans with a pleasant earthy flavor. Great for chili, refried and baked beans, as well as soups. Immature pods may used as a green, snap bean. 85-90 days for dry beans.
	Scarlet Runner Bean (100 seeds) The Scarlet Runner is native to South America where it grows as a perennial vine. Elsewhere, it is grown from seed as an annual. This pre-1750 variety was grown by colonists who obtained seed from Native Americans. Vines may exceed 20 feet in length in long growing season areas, but at least 10-12 ft. should be expected. Must have poles or trellises to climb. One quarter inch rope works well, too, but don’t use lightweight string as the vines get quite heavy. The Scarlet Runner is a rampant grower producing a heavy yield of 8-12" pods, each filled with large reddish to purple beans mottled with black. Can be used as a snap bean (70 days), or as a dry bean (95 days). This bean also produces a tuber that can be dug up and overwintered in the root cellar or basement. Replant it the following spring (after the danger of frost has passed) for an earlier crop than can be had by seed. However, do not eat the tuber as it is poisonous.
	Soldier Bean (200 seeds) The Soldier bean is a large, drought-tolerant, white kidney bean with reddish-brown markings resembling an 18th Century European soldier. Hardy bush plants yield very well, producing beans with a mild flavor and a firm texture. A very popular early New England variety. Great for baking and for soups. 89 days to dry beans.
	Jackson Wonder Butter Bean (200 seeds) Bush lima bean first introduced in 1888. Produces 3" dark green pods filled with fat, purple mottled, buff colored seeds. Plants grow 20-24" tall, and have 3-5 seeds per pod. Can be used as a stringless green bean (65 days), a green shell bean, or allowed to dry for use in soups, etc.
	Mandan Bride Corn (250 seeds) Heirloom flour corn from the Mandan Indians of present-day Minnesota and North Dakota. Incredible range of color. This is an early flour corn that does well in northern gardens. Ears are 8-12 rowed and 6-8" long, on 6' tall plants. Great for hominy, or for grinding into flour or corn meal. 85-90 days.
	Bloody Butcher Corn (250 seeds) Grown in the U. S. since 1845. Plants grow 9-13' tall and have 2-6 ears per stalk. Each ear is 8-12" long. Good drought tolerance. The Bloody Butcher is a dent type corn which is good for corn-on-the-cob during the milk stage, roasting and frying a bit later, and flour and cornmeal when fully mature and dry. 100-110 days. For the history of the Bloody Butcher Corn see: http://www.wvfarm2u.org/culture/folklife/bloodybutcher.aspx
	Golden Bantan Improved Sweet Corn (400 seeds) Improved strain, of the original introduced in 1902 by W. Atlee Burpee, selected for longer and more tender ears. Each 6' tall plant yields 2, 7-8 inch long ears filled with 10-14 rows of plump, sweet, golden kernels. Excellent for eating fresh, canning, or freezing. Very dependable variety. 70-85 days.
	Stowell's Evergreen Sweet Corn (400 seeds) First introduced in 1848, and still the leading white variety for home gardeners and market growers. Plants grow to 8' tall and yield 1 to 2 ears per stalk. Ears are 8-9" long, with 14-18 rows of sweet, tender, white kernels. Great for fresh eating, canning, or freezing. Very dependable variety. 80-100 days.
	Waltham Butternut Squash (50 seeds) C. moschata Produces 4-5 fruits per plant on 8-10 ft. vines. The dry, rich, orange flesh of the 3-6 lb., tan, 9" fruits has a distinctive sweet, nutty flavor. Some resistance to squash vine borers. Great for baking, stuffing, and soups. Exceptional winter storage variety. 105 days to maturity.
	Burgess Buttercup Squash (50 seeds) C. maxima Produces 4-6 fruits per plant on 6 ft. vines. The dry, orange flesh of the 3-4 lb. fruits is sweet and stringless. Buttercup is great for baking, stuffing, and for making a delicious soup on cold, winter days. Good winter storage variety. 105 days to maturity.
	Blue Hubbard Squash (50 seeds) C. maxima This strain is slightly smaller than other Blue Hubbard types. However, all hubbards are rampant growers that need lots of space. The double tapered fruits weigh 10-15 lbs (some may be much larger) and the deep orange flesh is fine textured, sweet, dry, and very flavorful. The tough-skinned, bluish-green fruits will keep for 6 months or more when properly stored. For short season areas, start indoors 2 to 3 weeks prior to transplanting in the garden. 110 days.
	Long Island Cheese Squash (50 seeds) C. moschata Cheese pumpkins are among the oldest squashes to be domesticated and selected for both food, and for animal feed. The 6-10 lb., tan fruits are deeply ribbed, flattish, and resemble a wheel of cheese. The flesh is orange, fine grained, and sweet. Excellent winter storage variety. 105 days to maturity.
	Black Zucchini Squash (50 seeds) C. pepo This large, vigorous, bush summer squash grows 2 feet tall, and spreads out about 36-40 in. The fruits are greenish-black, glossy, and smooth. The white flesh is fine textured and crisp with a mild, nutty flavor. Very prolific; two hills will feed your family all summer. Best when 4-8" long, or let grow large for stuffing. 55 days.
	Yellow Crookneck Squash (50 seeds) C. pepo Introduced about 1700. Large, vigorous bush plants yield copious quantities of delicious, buttery flavored yellow squash. The tender, smooth skinned fruits have delicious white flesh and are best when harvested at the 4-6" stage. If fruits are kept picked, this squash will produce heavily all summer long. 50 days.
	Green Striped Cushaw (50 seeds) C. mixta A Native American squash with an ancient history. Can be eaten as a summer squash when immature, or as a winter squash when fully mature. The 10-20 lb. fruit have sweet, medium-coarse, fibrous, pale yellow flesh. Stored properly, cushaws will keep 3-5 months. Large, vigorous vines. As with all squash, the seeds are edible. 115 days.

Mammoth Russian Sunflower (200 seeds) Despite the name "Russian," sunflowers are native to North America and were grown by Native Peoples. Sunflowers are grown primarily, and included here, for the edible seeds they produce in quantity, and the Mammoth Russian strain is the best. Enormous, single heads (up to 20" wide) form atop gigantic plants (8-12' tall). The striped, thin-shelled seeds are plump and meaty. The stalks can be used to give pole or runner beans something to climb. Plant in full sun. 80 days.

	Scarlet Nantes Carrot (1000 seeds) Classic heirloom variety with that old-time carrot flavor. The 6-7" bright orange carrots have blunt ends and almost no core. The slightly tapered roots are sweet, crisp and tender. Great for eating fresh, juicing, and for long-term winter storage. Can be dug all winter if mulched properly. 65 days.
	Detroit Dark Red Beet (500 seeds) Introduced in 1892 by the D.M. Ferry Seed Co. Produces very good yields of dark red, globe shaped, sweet and juicy beets. Great for long-term storage. In warmer climates, beets can be left right in the ground, mulched heavily, and dug up all winter long. The tops and thinnings make excellent greens, too. 58 days.
	Laurentian Rutabaga (500 seeds) Rutabagas are also known as "Swede turnips," or yellow turnips, and are thought to be a cross between a cabbage and a turnip. The smooth, globe shaped roots have purple shoulders and fine-grained yellow flesh. Cooked, the 4-6" diameter roots have a mild flavor and firm texture. Excellent for winter storage, or can be harvested all winter if left in the ground and mulched heavily. If rutabagas are to be harvested and stored in a root cellar or basement, allow them to be exposed to at least two hard frosts first as this greatly enhances their sweetness. 90 days.
	Purple Top White Globe Turnip (500 seeds) This variety produces very fine-grained roots weighing as much as two lbs. each and as big as softballs. Turnips are good raw, mashed and make a hearty addition to soups and stews. Turnips like cool weather and do best when planted for a fall crop. Great for winter storage. Mulch heavily to overwinter in the ground. As will rutabagas, two hard frosts before harvest greatly enhances the sweetness of turnips. 50-60 days.
	Sugar Hollow Crown Parsnip (500 seeds) This variety has been grown in the US since 1850. Parsnips produce wedge-shaped roots that are 8-12" in length and 2-3" at the shoulder. The sweet, creamy white roots are great for roasting and mashing. Great for winter storage. Mulch heavily to overwinter in the ground. Frost enhances sweetness. 105 days.
	Yellow Onion of Parma (500 seeds) This is a top-quality, long-day, late-maturing onion imported from Italy. The globe-shaped to oblong bulbs are a beautiful golden color and average about a pound in weight. Open pollinated, long-term storage onions are rare (most are hybrids). Stored properly this variety will keep 3-6 months. Start in flats for later transplanting. 110 days from transplant.
	Early Purple Vienna Kohlrabi (500 seeds) First recorded being grown in Europe in 1554. A hardy member of the cabbage family. The leaves grow like spikes from the enlarged stem. Skin and stems are purple; flesh is greenish white. The flavor of kohlrabi is similar to peeled broccoli stems. Kohlrabi is high in vitamin C and can last 3 months if stored properly. Although kohlrabi is grown primarily for its enlarged stem, the leaves are edible, too. 55 days.

	Late Flat Dutch Cabbage (300 seeds) This variety was a favorite of the early Dutch settlers in the US. The huge heads are 7-8" deep and 10-14" in diameter. The firm heads grow slowly and resist cracking. The solid, flat, blue green heads weigh 10-17 lbs. and are of high quality. Great for fall and winter use, as this is an excellent storage variety. 100 days from seed.
	Mammoth Red Rock Cabbage (300 seeds) Introduced in 1889. The heads of this fine quality, vigorous cabbage are solid, round, flattened and wine red in color. The heads are 7-10" in diameter and weigh 6-8 lbs. each. Mammoth Red Rock is a dependable producer and an excellent variety for long-term, winter storage. 98 days from transplants.
	Snowball Early Cauliflower (300 seeds) ntroduced in 1888 by Peter Henderson. Plants are compact and have short stems. The heads are solid, white, about 6" wide, and delicious. Enjoy raw, cooked, or frozen. Although named "early," this strain is well adapted to growing as a spring, summer, or fall crop. 65 days from transplant.
	Calabrese Broccoli (300 seeds) Brought to the US by Italian immigrants in the 1800s, and named after the Calabria region of southern Italy where it was developed. Produces 7-8" dark green central heads, followed by numerous side shoots after the central head is harvested. Hardy until a hard frost. Very dependable. 74 days from transplant.

	Green Arrow Pea (300 seeds) An excellent, main crop garden pea from England. Dark green pods grow in pairs near the top of the plant, making picking easy. Nine to 11 tender, sweet peas are produced in each 4-5" pod. Disease resistant vines reach 24-28" tall. Ideal for shelling and for eating fresh. A consistent heavy yielder. 68 days.
	Wando Pea (300 seeds) This heirloom shelling pea will still deliver a good yield during hot, dry weather when other varieties fail. However, like other garden peas, it thrives in cool, moist weather as well. The sturdy plants grow 18-30" tall, producing an abundant crop of 3½" pods containing 6-8 peas each. Great for eating fresh, freezing, or canning. 68 days.

	Bloomsdale Long Standing Spinach (500 seeds) The old standard for spinach since 1908. The "long standing" part of the name implies its resistance to "bolting," or going to seed quickly. The leaves are glossy, deep green, and savoyed. Produces heavy yields of sweet, thick, succulent leaves. Plant for both spring and fall harvest. 48 days.
	Fordhook Giant Swiss Chard (200 seeds) Introduced in 1750, and has remained one of the most popular varieties of chard. The plants are extremely vigorous and grow to a height of 22-28" tall. The delicious leaves are very broad, deeply crumpled, dark green, and have thick, white stalks. Good cooked or raw. Chard is also useful as a food source for rabbits, poultry, and goats. 60 days.
	Red Rhubarb Swiss Chard (200 seeds) Both beautiful and tasty, this variety yields all summer long and on into the fall. The stalks are a vibrant, ruby red, offering a striking contrast with the shiny, dark green, crumpled leaves. Vigorous plants reach 18-24 in. tall. Good raw or cooked. As with all chards, it can be utilized as a food source for rabbits, poultry, and goats. 55 days.
	Black Seeded Simpson Lettuce (1000 seeds) Heirloom variety introduced in the mid-1800s. The outer leaves are ruffled, bright green and crisp; inner leaves blanch almost white. Slow to bolt, and can be grown in all seasons: spring, summer, and fall. A very early, productive, and dependable variety. Heat tolerant. 45 days.
	White Cos Romaine Lettuce (1000 seeds) This heirloom variety of romaine dates from the 1860s. The uniform heads are tall and erect and reach a height of 8-10 in. Outer leaves are dark and grayish green, while the core remains white. Romaine is the nutritional powerhouse of the lettuce world as it packs the highest levels of vitamins and minerals of all lettuce types. Bolt resistant. 66 days.

	Stupice Tomato (100 seeds) Indeterminate, potato leaf, variety from Czechoslovakia. Stupice is cold tolerant, extra early, vigorous, and a heavy yielder all season. The fruits are 2" across, slightly oval, and weigh 2-4 oz. Produces well in northern climates. The fruits are consistently good, sweet, and tangy. 55-70 days from transplant.
	Rutgers Tomato (100 seeds) Indeterminate heirloom first introduced in 1934. AKA the "Jersey" tomato. So popular that it once made up 70% of all tomatoes processed in the US. Strong vines produce prolific yields of intense, bright red, 6-8 oz globular, thick walled fruits. Great for eating fresh, cooking, or canning. 74 days from transplants.
	Roma Tomato (100 seeds) Determinate. The old standby for paste tomatoes. Resistant to verticillium and fusarium wilt. Compact plants produce big crops of bright red, plum-shaped fruits with few seeds. little juice, and meaty interiors. The fruits average about 3 oz. and are crack resistant. Use for eating fresh, canning, paste or making sun dried tomatoes. 80 days from transplants.
	California Wonder Sweet Pepper (100 seeds) Introduced in 1928 and is still the largest, open pollinated pepper you can grow. The plants are very vigorous, upright, and grow to 2 ft. tall, or more. The fruits are large (3-4"), tender, sweet, and juicy. Blocky, four-lobed peppers begin a dark green, turning bright red when fully ripe. Very dependable variety. 74 days from transplants.
	Long Thin Red Cayenne Pepper (100 seeds) The classic, slender red chile. Heat rating: 4 (on 1-5 scale). Scoville rating: 50,000. HOT! The large, vigorous, upright plants grow 2-3' tall, and produce abundant yields of 5-6" thin pods. Pods begin green, changing to bright red when fully mature. Cayenne aids circulation and digestion. 75 days from transplants.

	Marketmore 76 Cucumber (100 seeds) Developed at Cornell University. This wonderful slicing cucumber is favored by organic gardeners because of its multiple disease resistance. The blocky, dark green fruits are 8-9" long and 2-2½" in diameter. Does well in cool climates. This variety has stood the test of time and found to be very reliable. 65 days from seed.
	Cherry Bell Radish (500) 1949 All-American Selection winner. Easy and fun to grow. Radishes are a great first vegetable for children to grow as they are the closest thing to "instant gratification" in the vegetable world as they are ready to eat in just three weeks from planting the seed. The smooth, round, bright red roots are 3/4" across with white, crisp flesh. Cherry Belle is sweet, mild, and crunchy – never pithy. Radishes grown during cool weather are milder than those grown during the heat of summer. 22 days.
	Sugar Baby Watermelon (100 seeds) Produces small "icebox" sized watermelons. The fruits are small (7-8" diameter), and weigh only 6-10 lbs. The rind is green with stripes of darker green. The crisp flesh is a luscious red color, fine grained, and has a fabulous flavor. The plants have short vines and are early enough for short season areas. 79 days from transplants.
	Hale's Best Jumbo Muskmelon (100 seeds) Introduced about 1924. Many old timers still judge it to be the best. The 3-4 lb. oval fruits have a yellowish-green rind, coarse heavy netting, and a light rib. The flesh is very thick (small seed cavity), sweet, salmon-pink in color, and delicious. Hale's Best Jumbo still sets the standard for muskmelon. 85 days from transplants.