Growing plantsfrOM SEEd

BO-SEMI-ANN

www.whperron.com

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for beautiful seedlings,

keep these three words in mind:

LIGHT • WATER • FERTILIzER

Growing plants from seed successfully

TOP QUALITY SEEDS

Buy small quantities at a time, to avoid having to store them. Seeds

should be kept dry and cool, to ensure good germination at planting

time.

DISEASE-FREE GROWING ENVIRONMENT

In clean and shallow containers (5 cm/2“) that drain well, use artificial

soil. It contains peat moss, vermiculite and sand, is light and retains

dampness.

A seed flat with divisions reduces the risk of contamination.

Use peat pots or Jiffy pellets for larger seeds or for seedlings that do not

tolerate transplanting.

Apply NO-dAMP fungicide on the soil before sowing, in order to prevent

the seedlings from damping off.

TEMPERATURE AND DAMPNESS

for fast and regular germination, cover flat with a plastic dome that will

provide higher temperature and dampness.

remove the dome as soon as seedlings emerge.

Move to a sunny, well-ventilated area where the temperature is 20 – 22 °C.

LIGHT

Light is essential as soon as seedlings emerge. A shortage of light will

produce weedy plants.

12 to 14 hours of artificial light is beneficial every day, even before the

seedlings emerge. Use AgroLite, Grolux or Vita-Lite fluorescent lights and

keep them at a distance of 10 – 15 cm (4 – 6“) from the seedlings.

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Plants that need light to germinate

ANNUALS:

• Ageratum • Antirrhinum (Snapdragon) • Begonia • Browallia • Coleus

• Coreopsis • flowering kale • Gerbera • Helichrysum • Impatiens •

Matthiola • Molucella • Nicotiana • Petunia • reseda • Salvia •

Sanvitalia • Tithonia

VEGETABLES: CELERY • CHICORY • LETTUCE

HERBS: DILL • SAVORY

PERENNIALS:

• Achillea • Alyssum montanum • Arabis • Campanula •

Chrysanthemum • doronicum • Gaillardia • Lychnis • Papaver orientale

• Platycodon grandiflorus • Primula

HOUSE PLANTS: CAPSICUM (ORNAMENTAL PEPPER)

Steps to follow

1. FILLING THE SEED FLAT

dampen artificial soil before filling. fill the seed flat and tamp soil

lightly, to level the surface.

2. SEEDLINGS

Large seeds often benefit from soaking in water for several hours or

until swollen. Spread seeds with a Minisem hand sower or the seed

packet.

Very tiny seeds must not be covered.

Cover other seeds with soil or vermiculite at about twice the

thickness of the seed.

Sprinkle with care, using a watering can with a fine spray.

Label, indicating packet number and sowing date.

3. GERMINATION

Check our catalogue for germination period.

Cover with a plastic dome and place at a warm temperature (on

top of the refrigerator) or under artificial light.

remove the dome as soon as seedlings emerge and move to a

sunny, well-ventilated area.

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4. TRANSPLANTING

Seedlings are ready for transplantation when 2 pairs of true leavesare formed. At this stage, the plant shows 2 leaves, as well ascotyledons.

Transplant seedlings in a K804 flat.

Transplant tomato, pepper and eggplant seedlings into 8 – 10 cm(4“) biodegradable peat pots.

Handle small seedlings by their leaves because small thin stemsbreak easily.

Pack soil lightly around the plants and water.

Keep the newly transplanted seedlings in the shade for a few days.

5. GROWING

Maintain temperature around 22 °C during the day and 18 °C atnight.

Water and fertilize regularly with 20-20-20 fertilizer.

Allow surface to dry between waterings, because a damp soilproduces disease.

Some plants, such as geraniums, will have to be transplanted tolarger pots before setting out in the garden.

Before transplanting in the garden, gradually put the plants incooler temperatures.

When moving plants outdoors, keep them in the shade andgradually move them into sunlight for short periods each day.

Gradually increase the length of exposure.

If possible, transplant on cool cloudy days.

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Artificial Lighting

What a pleasure to watch a seed grow and become a beautiful, healthy

plant. Many gardeners prefer making their own seedlings indoors during

the winter and early spring.

Some species need light to germinate well, others need darkness, but for

many, light has no importance.

But one thing applies to every plant: they all need a lot of light to grow.

Artificial light is the ideal solution to grow young plants indoors.

It's not expensive and you can place it anywhere you want, even in

places with no windows.

ADVANTAGES OF ARTIFICIAL LIGHT

during the winter, sunlight is not sufficient for good plant growth.

The addition of artificial light:

• Improves plant quality

• Improves blooming of many plants which tend to stay dormant if

light is low

• Helps many seeds to germinate

• Allows you to grow a larger selection of plants indoors

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BEST SOURCES OF ARTIFICIAL LIGHT

FOR PLANTS

FLUORESCENT TUBES

The most popular, because they cover a larger surface. Cool White,

Grolux and Vita-Lite PowerTwist are among the best.

Cool White: standard tubes for indoor lighting. Not expensive.

Available in 2' and 4' lengths. Provide fast and

uniform germination.

Grolux: more expensive, but their special spectrum

produces dark green, compact plants. Stems

lengthen more slowly, but foliage becomes very

dense. Blooming is later. Germination is fast, but

seedlings are shorter than those under Cool White.

Vita-Lite: wide spectrum tubes. Very close to sunlight. for an

enlarged light spectrum, combine a Cool White

tube with a Grolux or Vita-Lite.

LIGHT BULBS

Plant-Lite: the most commonly used. different intensities are

available.

Wonderlite: with mercury gas. More efficient and last longer.

Both types of light bulbs absolutely require porcelain socket

HOW TO INSTALL ARTIFICIAL LIGHTS

With a photometer, you can determine if natural light is sufficient

or not.

Special fixtures with reflectors are more efficient.

12 to 16 hours of light are needed every day to maintain active

plant growth. Use a timer to keep even light periods.

Light intensity decreases rapidly as the light source is moved away.

The best distance between light and a plant is about 30 cm (12") but

for seed germination, it's 15 cm (6").

Telephone: 905.873.3037

Toll Free: 1.800.784.3037

Fax: 1.800.282.5746

P.O. Box 2500

Georgetown (Ontario) L7G 5L6

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PEANUT

CULTURAL PRACTICES: Plant three (3) seeds per mound in a warm and sandy

soil. The groundnut grows best when summers are long and hot. do not sow

too deeply. Harvest after the first frost and let them dry in their hulls. Before

eating cook the groundnut in the oven at 150 °C (300 °f).

ARTICHOKE

CULTURAL PRACTICES: A tender perennial grown as an annual. Sow in 8 cm

peat pots. Harden off in May. Plant in the ground, 4 to 6 cm deep, when all

danger of frost has passed. Mulch heavily. Harvest buds once they are large

and swollen, but before flowers appear.

ASPARAGUS

Asparagus is a perennial plant whose parts are edible. PLANTATION: Soak the

seeds in water 48 hours before planting. The first year, sow seeds directly in

the garden between mid-May and late May. SPACING: The first year, space

on the row is 10 cm and space between the rows is 45 cm. TIPS FOR CULTURE:

Weeding and keep the soil moist. The second year, harvest the claws and

place them to their final location, space on the row is 45 cm and space

between rows is 1.25 m. You will begin your harvest in the third year. This plant

has a life expectancy of 8 – 20 years.

EGGPLANT:

CULTURAL PRACTICES: Eggplant is grown like tomato plants. Start indoors,

then transplant in the garden 6 to 8 weeks later. Germination is slow, can take

up to 3 weeks, and warm temperatures (24 °C) are needed. Seedlings should

be hardened off, though not below a temperature of 15 °C. In the garden,

space the plants 61 cm apart, in rows that are 80 cm apart, in warm, rich soil.

The best tasting fruit is obtained by picking it before the seeds inside are fully

grown.

BEET

PLANTING TIME: Sow seeds directly in the garden from May to the beginning

of July, mid-June for a full harvest. The beets will have a better taste when

they grow quickly and steadily. SOIL: Light and slightly sandy soil with a pH of

6.0 or higher. Should be free of stones and clumps to allow the proper

develop ment of the root system. Work the soil thoroughly with compost or

manure. SPACING: Sow 1 cm deep. Clear plants 8 cm apart on rows spaced

at least 30 – 40 cm apart. GROWING TIPS: Heavy rains after a long period of

dry weather will result in poor root colour. These drought periods will also

cause tough or woody roots. Keep the beets well watered. A full sun

exposure is ideal. HARVEST: Beets are tender as soon as they reach half their

size, but harden when larger. When the plants are young the leaves make

delicious greens.

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SWISS CHARD

CULTURAL PRACTICES: for better germination plant early in the spring in a rich

well-prepared soil, as soon as it can be worked. Sow in rows 45 cm apart,

thinning seedlings to 30 cm apart. Cut the outer leaves first and continue

picking as needed. A great source rich in vitamins. Very similar to spinach

leaves in taste and appearance.

CORN SWEET

CULTIVATION: Sweet corn requires full sun exposure, a rich soil and heat.

Sowing should be done between mid-May and mid-June. Sweet corn seeds

are sown at a distance of 25 centimetres and at a depth of 1 to 3 centimetres

depending on the size of the seed. Spacing between rows is 90 centimetres.

The growth of seedlings may be earlier in a light, hot and rocky soil. Sowing

has to be done later in cold and humid soils, such as clay. In order to have

nice ears, it is preferable to plant six (6) small rows rather than one long one.

BROCCOLI AND MINI BROCCOLI

PLANTING TIME: Can be started indoors 4 to 5 weeks before the last frost or

sown directly in the garden at the beginning of May. It is essential to rotate

your crops to prevent diseases. SOIL: Prepare the garden soil. It should be

loose and hold moisture well. Uses the same type of soil, as cabbage but

requires more watering because of its rapid development. SPACING: When

transplanting or clearing, leave 30 to 45 cm between the plants and 45 to

60 cm between the rows, depending on the chosen types. GROWING TIPS:

Use a nitrogen fertilizer. Keep well watered. HARVEST: Heads should be firm

and tight. At this point, cut down on stalk to encourage side shoots of smaller

heads for an extended harvest.

CARROT

PLANTING TIME: Sow at the beginning of May for an early crop, in mid-June

for a fall crop and even at the beginning of July for young, tender carrots at

the end of the season. SOIL: Carrots prefer fairly rich, deeply worked, stone-

free soil with even moisture. Shorter varieties are suitable for shallow or heavy

soil; the longer types need deeper soil. SPACING: Sow 6 mm deep, in rows

40 cm apart. Space carrots to 5 cm. Sow seeds thinly, cover with soil. Hill the

soil well up around the plants to prevent burning of the plants. GROWING

TIPS: Keep soil moist for good formation of the root. Plant in full sun or light

shade. Light feeders. Hoe the soil over any exposed root crowns to prevent

greening. HARVEST: root shapes may vary significantly under different

environ ments and growing conditions. Lift carrots when their size is in

accordance to the variety and when they have a good orange colour. Baby

carrots should be picked at the young stage or they will continue to grow.

Can be kept in cool storage.

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CELERY

CULTURAL PRACTICES: Sow indoors, in light sandy soil, at the beginning of

March. Cover the seeds with 3 mm of earth. Keep the soil moist but not wet.

Mulch will help keep moisture and reduce weed growth. Seeds germinate in

approximately 3 weeks at a temperature of 18 °C. Transfer the seedlings to

pots when about 2.5 cm. When plants are 7 to 13 cm tall, around the end of

May, transplant in the garden in rich soil. Leave about 20 to 30 cm between

the plants on rows that are at least 60 cm apart.

CELERIAC

CULTURAL PRACTICES: Grow as you would celery in a rich well- drained soil.

The soil should be warm (over 17 °C) and maintained adequately moist. A

lack of boron in the soil will cause heart rot and hollow roots. Pick when at

least 10 to 15 cm in diameter, between the end of the summer into the fall.

Good for winter storage in a cool basement.

ITALIAN CHICORY

CULTURAL PRACTICES: Same growing practice as for head lettuce.

CURLY ENDIVE

CULTURAL PRACTICES: Sow directly in the garden in mid-May. Plant seeds

6 mm deep and 10 cm apart. When the plants are large, tie the outer leaves

together to let the centre blanch.

ENDIVE (ESCAROLLE TYPE)

CULTURAL PRACTICES: Sow directly in the garden in mid-May. Plant seeds

6 mm deep and 10 cm apart. When the plants are large, tie the outer leaves

together to let the centre blanch.

CHINESE CABBAGE

Sow in July. Before this, plants have a tendency to go to seed. restrained

vege ta tion. Leave 30 cm between plants in rows spaced at least 45 cm

apart.

SOYA EDAMAME

requires a well-drained soil at 15 °C when seeding and full sun. do not soak

the seeds before planting. Heat and drought tolerant. No need to fertilize.

Harvest when the pods are plump and still bright green.

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ORIENTAL VEGETABLES

Typical Oriental varieties that have the texture and appearance of spinach.

Plants reach 10 to 25 cm in height. deep green colour, very rich in vitamins.

Thick oval to elongated leaves. Varieties offered have a compact to ultra-

compact rapid growth habit. Ideal for limited spaces. The leaves and stems

are edible. Can be steamed or cooked in a wok. Best for Chinese cooking

preparations and vegetarian meals. They enhance the quality of your meals.

Sow in May in a rich soil at 1 cm in depth. Space at 15 to 20 cm in all direc -

tions after full plant growth.

BRUSSELS SPROUTS

CULTURAL PRATICES: Same as broccoli. full sun or slight shade and lots of

moisture are necessary. It is essential to rotate the crop. To help the upper

sprouts develop, pinch out the tip of the plant in late summer. Pick sprouts

from bottom of the stalk when they reach 2.5 – 3 cm in diameter. flavour is

enhanced when subjected to light frost.

SAVOY CABBAGE AND KALE

CULTURAL PRACTICES: Sow in early spring, or June to July, in fertile soil with a

pH of 6.5, 6 mm deep and 2.5 cm apart. Seedlings should be thinned out to

space 50 cm apart. The plant will mature in about 60 days, with best growth

in cool conditions. do not plant where Cole crops have been planted during

the two previous years in order to avoid disease.

KOHLRABI

CULTURAL PRACTICES: Plant seeds 1 cm deep in a rich soil, in early spring. Soil

should have a pH around 6.5. Space the rows 30 to 45 cm apart and thin

seed lings to 13 cm apart. Harvest when young, 5 cm diameter after approxi -

mately 60 days.

CABBAGE

CULTURAL PRACTICES: Necessitates crop rotation. Cabbage grows well in

cool weather. Sow directly in the garden in the end of May only or start your

seedling indoors 4 to 5 weeks before the last frost. If the seedlings are hard -

ened off before transplanting, they will withstand a mild frost. SOIL: fertile,

well irrigated, humus-rich loams with a pH of 6.0 to 6.5. SPACING: Sow seeds

6 mm deep and as thinly as possible. Thin the seedlings to 30 to 45 cm apart,

in rows 61 cm apart. GROWING TIPS: Plants require moisture especially after

transplanting or during dry spells. Plant in full sun to light shade. HARVEST:

Better conservation if harvested towards the end of October, or just prior to a

major frost. Harvest when the heads are firm. Store in a cold storage room.

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CAULIFLOWER

CULTURAL PRACTICES: Cauliflower does very well in cool weather and it will

be affected by the weather more than other vegetables. Sow in a green -

house from february 1st to mid-March for early crops. In this case, young

seedlings will need to be hardened off. Or, you can also sow directly in the

garden as soon as the soil can be worked. for a fall crop, sow outdoors

between the beginning and the middle of June. SOIL: fertile soil with an

abundant supply of moisture. SPACING: Sow the seeds thinly about 6 to

13 mm deep. When the seedlings are about 10 cm high, thin them out to 45

to 50 cm apart in rows of 60 to 90 cm apart. GROWING TIPS: Apply boron, as

a foliage spray, on small plants. Plants require moisture and full sun with light

shade. HARVEST: To prevent sunburn on the plant, tie the leaves over the

centre of the head. Pick when firm and the size is as required.

PUMPKIN

CULTURAL PRACTICES: Plant when all risk of frost has passed and the soil is

warm. SOIL: A nice, fertile soil and adequate moisture are necessary. Protect

from the wind. SPACING: Plant 4 to 5 seeds 2.5 cm deep in hills 2 m apart.

Thin out seedlings leaving 2 to 3 plants. GROWING TIPS: Pumpkins need

generous amounts of organic matter in the soil. Watering should be slow and

deep. HARVEST: What would autumn be without the presence of pumpkins in

the garden! And what a treat is pumpkin pie! Seeds make the ideal nutritious

snack. And of course, pumpkins are also for Halloween. The cooked flesh is

used for preserves and for freezing. rich in vitamin A. Harvest when the colour

of the pumpkin is dark orange. Storage should be in a cool dry place.

CUCUMBER

CULTURAL PRACTICES: The cucumber is a climbing vine which will do well on

a trellis if you have limited space or wish to produce straighter fruit. It can also

be grown on the ground. Germination will begin only when planted in a

warm soil, around 16 °C but not below 10 °C, and when there is no longer

any risk of frost, which cucumber plants cannot survive. Start seeds indoors at

least 3 weeks before transplanting. reduce planting stock by using Jiffy Pots

(see Gardening Aids). SOIL: Light, well-drained soil. SPACING: Put 5 to 6 seeds

per mound and space them 1.5 to 3 metres apart all around. GROWING TIPS:

full sun and moisture are necessary. Before transplanting, the soil must be well

watered. Use black mulch to protect seeds and to increase soil temperature.

HARVEST: Pick slicing cucumbers when their size has reached about 15 to

20 cm in length. Pickling cucumbers should be picked when they are 2.5 to

7 cm long.

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PICKLING CUCUMBER

CULTURAL PRACTICES: The cucumber is a climbing vine which will do well on

a trellis if you have limited space or wish to produce straighter fruit. It can also

be grown on the ground. Germination will begin only when planted in a

warm soil, around 16 °C but not below 10 °C, and when there is no longer any

risk of frost, which cucumber plants cannot survive. Start seeds indoors at

least 3 weeks before transplanting. reduce planting stock by using Jiffy Pots

(see Gardening Aids). SOIL: Light, well-drained soil. SPACING: Put 5 to 6 seeds

per mound and space them 1.5 to 3 metres apart all around. GROWING TIPS:

full sun and moisture are necessary. Before transplanting, the soil must be well

watered. Use black mulch to protect seeds and to increase soil temperature.

HARVEST: Pick slicing cucumbers when their size has reached about 15 to

20 cm in length. Pickling cucumbers should be picked when they are 2.5 to

7 cm long.

SQUASH

CULTURAL PRACTICES: Squash are a warm-season crop that needs tempera -

tures of 18 to 27 °C. You can start them indoors 3 to 4 weeks before trans -

planting. Transplant only when there no longer is a risk of frost. SOIL: Use a

warm, fertile and well-drained soil. SPACING: Place each seed about 2.5 cm

deep in hills that are 1.5 to 2 meters apart. Later thin to 2 or 3 of the best

plants. GROWING TIPS: In cool areas, protect young plants with cloches or

floating row covers. Add mulch after planting. Trailing types may be grown

up on strong supports. Plants need plenty of water. To conserve moisture work

organic matter into soil. Plant in full sun. HARVEST (summer): Pick the fruit

when the blossom end has fallen off the end of the fruit. HARVEST (winter):

Must be entirely ripe and the shell quite hard. HARVEST (zucchini): Cut the

zucchini when they are 10 cm long, with a short stalk. Handle the fruit

carefully to avoid bruising them. regular harvesting will encourage the

production of more fruit.

ORNAMENTAL GOURD

CULTURAL PRACTICES: Squash are a warm-season crop that needs tempera -

tures of 18 to 27 °C. You can start them indoors 3 to 4 weeks before trans -

planting. Transplant only when there no longer is a risk of frost. SOIL: Use a

warm, fertile and well-drained soil. SPACING: Place each seed about 2.5 cm

deep in hills that are 1.5 to 2 meters apart. Later thin to 2 or 3 of the best

plants. GROWING TIPS: In cool areas, protect young plants with cloches or

floating row covers. Add mulch after planting. Trailing types may be grown

up on strong supports. Plants need plenty of water. To conserve moisture work

organic matter into soil. Plant in full sun. HARVEST: Must be entirely ripe and

the shell quite hard. DRYING: pick them when the stems turn brownish. Punch

the end close to the stem with a long needle to let air inside; then hang for

several months in a well-ventilated area. The seeds will rattle when the gourds

are fully dry. Clean thoroughly with a strong disinfectant to remove any fungi

or dirt. Let dry and apply polish.

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CRESS

CULTURAL PRACTICES: Watercress is an aquatic plant that must be sown near

calm water or anywhere there is an artificial flow of pure water. rapid

growth. Others cress are sown directly from April to September. All cress

requires very moist soil that is rich in humus and they prefer shade. Very rich

in minerals and vitamins, they should be picked before the blooming period.

WATERCRESS

CULTURAL PRACTICES: Watercress is an aquatic plant that must be sown near

calm water or anywhere there is an artificial flow of pure water. rapid

growth. Others cress are sown directly from April to September. All cress

requires very moist soil that is rich in humus and they prefer shade. Very rich

in minerals and vitamins, they should be picked before the blooming period.

SPINACH

PLANTING TIME: May be planted as soon as the soil can be worked and again

at the end of August or beginning of September for fall crops. SOIL: Well-

drained and highly fertile soil. SPACING: Space rows 60 cm apart with seed

2 cm deep. GROWING TIPS: Enrich soil with high nitrogen organic matter. full

sun. Tolerates light shade. HARVEST: Cut young terminal shoots about 15 to

20 cm long; this encourages further shoots to develop over several weeks.

Eat leaves within two days of picking or refrigerate them for a few days.

Good source of iron and vitamins.

BUSH BEAN

CULTURAL PRACTICES: Sow when all danger of frost has passed, as the seed

is tender. Start around mid-May until the end of July. SOIL: Beans require a soil

temperature of at least 18 °C but no more than 24 °C. Poor germination will

occur if planted too early or if the soil is too wet. The beans prefer a light, well-

drained soil. SPACING: Space seeds 5 to 8 cm apart in rows 50 cm apart. Sow

every two weeks until July for a continuous harvest. All our Bush Bean varieties

are string less. GROWING TIPS: Keep well fertilized but do not allow seeds to

touch concentrated fertilizer. An excess of nitrogen will cause too much

foliage and fewer pods. full sun is needed. Keep surface of soil moist until the

beans start showing. HARVESTING: do not allow over-maturing. Beans should

feel firm and crisp. Pick regularly to encourage the production of new pods.

do not pick beans after a rain or in the early morning as this may cause

diseases.

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POLE BEAN

PLANTING TIME: Same as Bush Beans. SOIL: Should be rich and worked well.

Mulch with peat moss. SPACING: Pole beans are grown on stakes, fences or

trellises and can reach 3 metres in height. They are perfect for gardeners who

have limited space as they are great savers of space. Plant 2.5 to 3 metre

long stakes, 1 metre apart. Sow 5 to 8 seeds so as to leave only 4 plants per

stake after thinning. On a trellis, clear plants to 15 cm apart. 1 package for 4

metres, 125 g for 15 metres. Use a sheltered spot in your garden or against the

house. GROWING TIPS: Water well in dry weather. full sun. Keep weeds under

control. HARVESTING: Same as Bush Beans

BROADBEAN

CULTURAL PRACTICES: Broad beans grow well in cool soil and must be sown

as early as possible, late April or early May, as plants need to mature in early

summer when nights and days are still cool. The soil should be moist and well

drained. Sow seeds 5 cm deep, in rows 75 to 90 cm apart, leaving 20 to

30 cm between plants. The beans should be picked when they have the

appearance of being swollen. Beans are used for soups or various hot dishes.

1 package for 4 metres.

BEAN-SHELL

CULTURAL PRACTICES: A true gourmet item! Grow like a bush snap bean.

These beans are picked when plants are very dry and beans sound in the

pods. dry beans are used for soups or baked beans. Great for winter use, as

they are easy to freeze or to can.

BEAN-LIMA

CULTURAL PRACTICES: Sow at the end of May or beginning of June, not

before. The temperature of the soil should be very warm (minimum 18 °C).

Space rows 75 cm apart, leaving 30 cm between plants. Sow 5 cm deep.

Beans are eaten once pods are full. 1 package for 4 metres.

LETTUCE

PLANTING TIME: Lettuce is the first crop of spring. Good resistance t° Cold

allows it to be sown as soon as the earth can be worked. for an early harvest,

sow in a cold or hot bed and transplant directly in May. Germination will be

quicker and more uniform if the temperature is between 10 and 15 °C. SOIL:

A rich, well-drained soil is best. SPACING: for the main harvest, sow directly in

rows spaced 40 to 45 cm apart. Leave 20 – 25 cm between plants according

to their varieties. GROWING TIPS: It is helpful to add fertilizer high in nitrogen,

decomposed manure or compost to the soil. full sun. Needs constant

moisture. To reduce weeds and keep soil cool, mulch it. HARVESTING: Pick

lettuce early in the morning. firmness is an indication of readiness.

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CORN SALAD

CULTURAL PRACTICES: Sow in early spring. Germination is slow. Thin, allowing

small rosettes to be formed by the dark green leaves. Pick when about 6 cm

high, without separating the leaves. Popular in Europe, its flavour is enhanced

by frost but lessened if too mature.

CANTALOUPE AND WATERMELON

CULTURAL PRACTICES: Start seeds indoors in early spring. After about 6 weeks

and when all risk of frost has passed, the seedlings should be hardened off

and planted in the garden. SOIL: Melons need a well-drained, fertile soil with

a pH of 6.5 to 7, high humus content and a high level of nitrogen. SPACING:

Plant each seedling in slight mounds spaced 1 meter apart with 1 to

1.5 meters between rows. Make sure to protect young plants from wind and

cold weather with cloches or plastic tunnels until they are well established.

GROWING TIPS: Soil should be rich in organic matter and kept moist. Choose

a warm site in full sun. Pinch end of stems for faster ripening. HARVESTING:

Cantaloupe and muskmelon are sweet smelling when mature and fruit stalks

crack.

TURNIP

CULTURAL PRACTICES: Turnips grow well under cool conditions. A first planting

can be done from April 15th to May 15th. Sow in July or August for a 2nd harvest

in the fall. Turn the soil carefully. Space the rows 30 – 45 cm apart. Clear plants

to 8 – 10 cm. 1 seed package for 5 metres. Harvest after the first frost, which

enhances their sweetness. Store as you would potatoes. Turnip leaves

contain 3 times more vitamin A than Soya beans and are the only known

vegetable with vitamin B12. Crop rotation is a must.

SPANISH ONION

CULTURAL PRACTICES: Must be sown very early, as soon as the ground can be

properly worked. Spanish onions must be sown indoors, between the begin -

ning and the end of february. SOIL: A rich and fertile soil of mineral or organic

matter. Soil must be kept moist but not wet. SPACING: Space rows 35 to

38 cm apart. for larger bulbs, clear the plants 7 to 8 cm apart. 1 seed pack -

age for 5 meters. Thinned plants taste great in a salad. GROWING TIPS:

Applying a fertilizer is recommended and should be repeated when the

bulbs begin to swell. HARVESTING: Storage onions: when the onion tops begin

to fall over, turn brown and wither. drying may be accelerated by bending

down some of the tops. Pick the onions then place them in a warm, dry,

ventilated area to preserve. When dried, store the onions in a cool, dry

location. Bunching Onions: it is best to harvest them when they are young

and green.

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ONION

CULTURAL PRACTICES: Must be sown very early, as soon as the ground can be

properly worked. Spanish onions must be sown indoors, between the begin -

ning and the end of february. SOIL: A rich and fertile soil of mineral or organic

matter. Soil must be kept moist but not wet. SPACING: Space rows 35 to

38 cm apart. for larger bulbs, clear the plants 7 to 8 cm apart. 1 seed pack -

age for 5 meters. Thinned plants taste great in a salad. GROWING TIPS:

Applying a fertilizer is recommended and should be repeated when the

bulbs begin to swell. HARVESTING: Storage onions: when the onion tops begin

to fall over, turn brown and wither. drying may be accelerated by bending

down some of the tops. Pick the onions then place them in a warm, dry,

ventilated area to preserve. When dried, store the onions in a cool, dry

location. Bunching Onions: it is best to harvest them when they are young

and green.

OKRA

CULTURAL PRACTICES: Plant after last frost when the ground is warm. To help

seeds sprout, soak in water for a few hours before planting. Pick every 2 or

3 days. rich in proteins. Add to your favourite salad, soup, stew, etc.

PARSNIP

CULTURAL PRACTICES: Sow very early, as soon as the soil is ready

(temperature of 16 °C). A sandy soil, in which there is not too much fertilizer,

is ideal. The seeds must be sown closely enough because germination is

difficult. Pull up roots at the end of October or leave outside, covered with

mulch, to be pulled up the next spring. 1 seed package covers 5 metres.

PEPPER

CULTURAL PRACTICES: Start the seedlings indoors in hot beds or greenhouses.

Transplant into Jiffy Pots to begin hardening off at a temperature of 21 °C. do

not plant out until all risk of frost has passed and nights are warm (over 12 –

13 °C) or the flowers will drop. SOIL: Moderately deep, fertile, well-drained

soil with medium nitrogen levels. SPACING: Sow approximately 30 – 45 cm

apart in rows 60 cm apart. GROWING TIPS: Stake cultivars over 60 cm tall.

Water regularly. Plant in a sunny location. Apply a balanced fertilizer once a

month. HARVESTING: Peppers are best harvested when green; others may be

left to turn red or yellow. Cut the stalk about 2.5 cm from the fruit. Once

picked, keep the fruit in a cool area. Use 'Kozy-Coats' for earlier crops (see

Gardening Accessories).

- 17 -

LEEK

CULTURAL PRACTICES: Slow vegetative development. Sow indoors in March

and transplant as soon as the soil can be worked. Clear if too dense. When

leaves of young leek are 6 to 8 cm long, it is recommended to cut the

extremities so plants will grow bigger. Then transplant, leaving 15 cm bet -

ween each plant. Weed and draw earth up against plant base. 1 seed

packet for 5 metres.

PEA

CULTURAL PRACTICES: Peas prefer cool weather conditions to grow. Early

varieties can be sown as soon as the ground can be worked. depending on

the regions and the varieties, you may be able to start in late March until mid-

May. for fall crops, sow in July or August. SOIL: A rich, well-drained, sandy soil

is best. for larger yields and better quality peas, use Garden Seed Inoculants.

To ensure proper germination, the temperature of the soil should be between

10 and 16 °C. However, if it is hot (30 °C), the rate of germination will fall.

SPACING: Peas are natural climbers and can tolerate crowding. If you have

limited space, use high wire fencing between double rows. Sow seeds in

double rows 7 – 10 cm apart, with seed spacing 5 cm apart and cover the

seed with 5 mm of soil. Make successive sowings (watch out for hot

temperatures). for best results, provide support such as our trellis (see

Gardening Aids Section). do not thin plants. GROWING TIPS: Maintain even

moisture. Plant in full sun. Give the protection of a mild fungicide in prolonged

wet spells. HARVESTING: In order to encourage continuous production, pick

peas regularly. The most flavourful peas are young and tender.

PEA-SNAP

CULTURAL PRACTICES: Growing conditions are like those of peas, with the only

difference being that the very fibrous pod of the garden pea cannot be

eaten. However, the snap/snow peas are eaten entirely, peas and pods.

Harvest when you can see the peas rising slightly inside the pod. They are

more tenders when they are younger.

RADISH

PLANTING TIME: Sowing may be done early in the spring, with successive ones

every week afterwards. May be forced in greenhouses. Prefers cooler

temperatures. SOIL: Ideal growing temperature is from 10 to 18 °C in a good,

fertile soil. SPACING: Sow in rows spaced 45 to 50 cm apart and cleared 2.5 –

5 cm apart. GROWING TIPS: Keep moist. The faster they grow, the better the

taste. Semi-shade. radishes may be sown in wide rows (2 or 3 rows planted

together). May also be sown with slower growing vegetables to mark rows.

HARVESTING: When they have reached the size you wish. However, do not let

them grow too large as this will affect the taste (tough or woody).

- 18 -

SALSIFY

CULTURAL PRACTICES: Sow very early, as soon as the soil is ready (temper a -

ture of 16 °C). A sandy soil, in which there is not too much fertilizer, is ideal.

1 seed package for 5 metres. Store in moist sand, in the basement.

TOMATO

CULTURAL PRACTICES: Sow indoors under grow lights, approximately 6 –

8 weeks before last frost in your region. Harden off before planting outdoors.

Grow best at 21-24 °C or higher. SOIL: Prepare the ground by working in

plenty of well-rotted manure or compost at least 30 cm deep. Apply a

general fertilizer before planting. PACING: Set out 45 to 60 cm apart in rows

90 cm apart. Plant indeterminate types on stakes with 38 – 45 cm between

plants in single rows 45 cm apart. GROWING TIPS: Tomatoes tolerate a wide

range of fertile and well-drained soils. They require even moisture. Be careful

however not to over-water as this will reduce their flavour. Grow in a warm,

sunny spot. HARVESTING: Pick fruits as they ripen. Before frost, pull the plants

up by the roots and hang them upside down indoors to help the fruits ripen.

HUCKLEBERRY-GARDEN:

CULTURAL PRACTICES: Start seedlings indoors at the beginning of April.

Transplant at the end of May. Similar to the tomato in CULTURAL PRACTICES.

Likes a rich, well-drained soil and lots of sun. Harvest when berries turn very

black. Should be eaten cooked.

SPROUTS

To sprout seeds, moisten them and leave them out at room temperature. It is

important to not let the seed soak in water. Cooling the seed will slow or even

stop the sprouting process.

CUCUMBER-GREEHOUSE EUROPEAN

CULTURE: European style cucumbers that require no pollination. The plants

are completely gynoecious (100% female flowers) and parthenocarpic

(development of fruit without pollination). Not to be grown outdoors and

Must be isolated from all foreign pollination sources that might be carried by

plants of another type or by outdoor insects (their pollination would cause

deformity in the fruit). Sow in individual peat pots. In 4 to 5 weeks, transplant

pot and all, leaving 60 cm between plants in the row and space rows 1.5 to

2 metres apart. Pruning will improve normal development of fruits.

- 19 -

GREENHOUSE PEPPER

PLANTING TIME: Start seeds indoors in hot beds or in a greenhouse. Transplant

into Jiffy Pots to begin hardening off at a temperature of 21 °C. don’t plant

outdoors until all risk of frost has passed and nights are warm (over 12 to

13 °C) or flowers will drop. SOIL: Moderately deep, fertile, well-drained soil

with medium nitrogen levels. SPACING: Sow approximately 30 to 45 cm apart

in rows 60 cm apart. GROWING TIPS: Stake cultivars over 60 cm tall. Water

regularly. Need a sunny location. Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month.

HARVESTING: Peppers are best harvested when green; others may be left to

turn red or yellow. Cut the stalk about 2.5 cm from the fruit. Once picked,

keep in a cool area. Use 'Kozy-Coats' for earlier crops (see Gardening

Accessories).

GREENHOUSE TOMATO

CULTURE: The varieties of tomatoes recommended for growing in green -

houses are more resistant to a greater number of diseases. All varieties are of

indeterminate growth. Harvest tasty tomatoes almost all year long.

developed specifically for greenhouse or garden tunnel cultivation. In the

greenhouse, sow in mid-January for a spring crop and/or in mid-June for a

fall harvest.

STRAWBERRY:

CULTURE: Start indoors for best results. Start under glass or plastic and keep

moist. Germination will occur after 3 – 4 weeks at 18 °C. Lightly cover the

seeds with vermiculite. Once sprouted, maintain at cool temperatures (night

temperatures at 10 °C). Transplant outside using a greenhouse tunnel or

plastic non-heated tunnels. requires lots of light.

GARLIC:

CULTURE: follow the same guidelines as for onions, because garlic is grown

much the same way. Plant early in the spring. Barely cover the cloves leaving

10 cm between each.

ONION SET:

PLANTING TIME: Sow in the spring when the soil is workable, on a firm seed -

bed. To extend the growing season, start under cover in seed trays or cell

packs in early spring. SOIL: Grow them in an open area, on fertile medium to

light soil that is well drained. Prepare soil by digging in a good quantity of

well-rotted manure. do not plant in fresh manure. An all-purpose feed may

be worked into the seedbed before sowing. Onions have low nitrogen

requirements. SPACING: Press bulbs in the soil about 4 cm apart: for larger

onions, thin out to 12 cm apart. GROWING TIPS: Keep site free of weeds.

- 20 -

Onions have fairly small roots and need small quantities of water once well

established. Plant in full sun. HARVESTING: Tops of onions will turn brown and

wilt. for fresh use, pull or lift as needed. for storage, make sure that the outer

skins are thoroughly dry before putting in storage. Handle carefully to prevent

storage rot. Store in a dry, cool area.

HOW TO PRESERVE SEEDS

AFTER SOWING, return any excess seeds to their packet, fold over the top two

or three times and seal the packet with tape. PLACE THE PACKET IN A jAR.

Prepare a small pack of powdered milk with the corner of an envelope,

place it in the jar as well and close the jar.The powdered milk will absorb any

excess moisture inside the jar, that could shorten the life of your seeds.

replace the powdered milk once a year. PLACE THE jAR IN THE REFRIGERATOR.

You have just created a little seed preservation device, that is very efficient

and easy to make. Generally, you can estimate that any type of annual seed

will be good until the 3rd year.