Annuals and Tender Perennials

Renee's Garden - We’ve made up a special color blend of very fragrant Mammoth heirloom sweet peas, selecting true blue, lavender, deep mauve & violet varieties, along with just the right proportion of cream flowers for contrast. All the colors bloom together, with long stemmed, large blossoms richly scented with that special sweet pea fragrance that reminds us of orange blossoms and honey. The rich shades of these lovely flowers make a beautiful garden display and stunning romantic bouquets for indoor enjoyment.  Characteristics:  Heirloom  Pollinators & Beneficials  Annual climbing vine  Spring/summer bloom  Frost tolerant   40-45 Seeds   Instructions - Sweet peas must have well-drained soil, so dig deeply and enrich with aged manure or compost before sowing seeds. Erect a well-anchored trellis, vertical netting, or other support for vines before planting. Sow seeds in full sun in cool early spring weather as early as the ground can be worked. In mild winter areas, where the ground does not freeze, seeds can also be planted in fall to form strong root systems, then overwinter to bloom strongly in spring. Plant sweet pea seeds 1 inch deep and 2 to 3 inches apart. When seedlings are 2 inches tall, thin them 4 to 5 inches apart, to allow plants room to mature.  Sweet peas bloom best before the weather gets too hot, so if spring planting, sow as soon as the ground can be worked. Where summer heat comes on fast, they’ll appreciate a spot with afternoon shade. Anchor supports well as vines will grow heavy with bloom. Protect seedlings from birds, slugs, and snails. Mulch and keep well watered. For the longest bloom, pick flowers often and keep faded blossoms cut. Plant in: March-May for cold winters; September-March for mild winters  Full sun or part-day shade  Sow seeds 2-3" apart; 1" deep Days to germinate: 12-28 days  Mature Height: 6-8 feet  Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute suppliers due to availability. 

Mexican Tulip Poppy - Also called Giant Golden Cups, this wonderful poppy-like heirloom offers delicate 3 inch flower cups that glisten in the sun and resemble satiny butter yellow tulips. Plants grow1 1/2 to 2 feet tall with finely cut, blue-green foliage. Flowers have straight stems and are perfect for long lasting fresh bouquets. Mexican Tulip Poppies are lovely planted in groups or drifts where their eye-catching silky yellow flowers provide pools of glowing color. Hunnemannia fumarifolia Characteristics:  Yellow Blossoms Re-seeding annual  Tolerates poor soil  1-2' tall .65 grams (~130 seeds) Instructions - This poppy like flower is a hardy annual preferring full sun, well-drained sandy soil. It will do well in poor soils so do not fertilize.  Direct seed in fall for early summer blooms in zones 7-10, plant in spring for late summer blooms in all zones. The plant will be reseeded, but it is also helpful to gather some seeds to replant next year. Poppies can be started indoors as transplants but direct seeding is best and HIGHLY Recommended Direct Seed 1/4" deep Germination 10-15 days Thin 8-10" apart Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute seed vendors from time to time because of the availability

The Seed Savers Exchange - (Lagurus ovatus) For those who cannot stand to just have one color of Bachelor’s Buttons! Plants will bloom throughout the season, great for mass plantings. Extensive range of colors. Long stems are excellent for cutting. Self-seeding hardy annual, grows 2-3' tall. Annual plants grow to 2-3 feet tall A mix of purple, pink, white, and blue flowers Blooms throughout the season Self-seeding Great for cut flower arrangements 250 Seeds per packet  Instructions: Instructions - Sow seeds outdoors in the early spring when the soil is still cool and light frost is possible. Can also be sown in the fall just before the ground freezes. Plants will tolerate poor soil. Good cutting flower. Direct Seed: 1/8" deep Germination: 7-15 Days Plant Outdoors: 6-12” Apart Light: Full Sun   Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability

The Seed Savers Exchange - A type of sorghum traditionally used in broom-making. A diverse mix of varieties in many colors. Includes Apache Red, Texas Black Amber, Tennessee Red, Nicaraguan Broom, Iowa Red, Hadley Kidd, Moyer Sonnen, Sattie Museum, Moyer Jensen Gold, Hungarian Red, and Black, Ramirez South Chile, and Kepley. Gorgeous in floral arrangements. 100-110 days. ±1,200 seeds/oz.  Characteristics:  A mix of many varieties in multiple colors Nice addition to floral arrangements 100-110 days 100 seeds per packet  This variety will grow well in most regions of the United States but prefers a long, frost-free growing season. Instructions - Sow seeds outdoors 1" deep after danger of frost has passed. For good pollination and full ears, plant in blocks of 3-6 rows instead of one long row. Thin seedlings to 8" apart. Corn is a heavy feeder and does best in well-drained fertile soil with plenty of water.  Direct Seed: 4" Apart Germination: 4-21 Days Rows Apart: 36-48" Light: Full Sun  Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability 

Southern Exposure Seed Exchange - Mona's Orange Cosmos was introduced in 1990 by SESE. It is a Family heirloom from Southern California. It takes 59 days to bloom a radiant orange, mostly single-petalled bloom.  Certified Organic  Family Heirloom  Especially well-suited to the South-East  From Small Farms  Edible petals  Seed heads attract birds  Instructions - Annual. Germination: 14 days, 70 degrees F. Prefers full sun. Tolerates partial shade, poor soils, and drought once established. For earlier blooms sow indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost. Or sow outdoors after all danger of frost. Plant 1/4” deep; thin to 12”-14” spacing. Deadhead to prolong blooming.  Full Sun Plant 1/4" deep  12" - 14" spacing    Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute seed vendors from time to time because of the availability

The Seed Savers Exchange - Beautiful 5-6" blossoms are closed all day until sunset when the flowers open, releasing one of the most fragrant perfumes in the summer garden. Frequently visited by night pollinators. Annual in the North, perennial in milder areas. Vines 8-12' tall, if given proper support. Although frequently visited by hummingbird moths, the plants, seeds, and foliage of this variety are all poisonous—please use caution. Characteristics:  Annual vining plants grow up to 12 feet tall Perennial plant in southern/warm climates White blossoms are up to 6 inches and open at night Extremely fragrant and attracts pollinators 50 Seeds Instructions - Sow seeds outdoors after the last frost. Keep moist while germinating. Seeds can be slightly chipped and soaked in warm water for 24 hours before planting for better results. Prefers full sun and moist average soil. Sow 1/2" Deep Germination 5-21 days Thin 4-6" apart Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute seed vendors from time to time because of the availability Please note: The Arizona Department of Agriculture prohibits the sale of any plant in the genus of Ipomoea, which includes Moonflower.

Renee's Garden - These lovely climbing nasturtiums have charming soft primrose yellow flowers and bright green foliage, much different from the usual bold and brassy color mix. They grow easily in any well-drained soil and will gracefully disguise neglected areas or twine along a fence, trellis, or wall, providing a summer arbor of pretty lily-pad-shaped leaves and long-spurred flowers. As a wonderful bonus, both the bright flowers and leaves are deliciously edible with a spicy watercress flavor.   Characteristics:  Heirloom Selective  Hummingbird favorites  Pollinators & Beneficials  Annual vine  Spring/summer/fall bloom  Frost tender    Instructions - To start outdoors, sow seeds in spring once all danger of frost is over in full sun (or part shade in hot climates). Nasturtiums need no added fertilizer in most soils. Poke seeds into well-worked soil about 1 inch deep and 3 to 4 inches apart. Press the soil firmly over the seeds and keep them moist. When seedlings are large enough to handle, thin 10 inches apart so plants will have ample room to grow. To start early indoors, sow 2 seeds each in individual 4-inch pots of well-drained seed starting mix 3 weeks before the last expected frost date. Cover 1 inch deep. Provide a strong light source. When seedlings have several sets of leaves, pinch out the weaker seedling leaving 1 per pot. After outdoor temperatures are evenly above 50°F (10°C) gradually acclimate to outdoor conditions. Transplant seedlings into the garden 10 to 12 inches apart in full sun. Climbing nasturtiums are very reliable and easy to grow in any well-drained soil. Help them to twine up their supports, then they’ll climb easily and bloom nonstop. Do not let plants dry out during the blooming season. You can also plant Moonlight to tumble along the ground.  Plant in April-June for cold winters; March-July for mild winters Full sun or partial shade  Sow seeds 3-4" apart; 1" deep  7-14 days to germinate  Mature height: 4-6 feet Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute suppliers due to availability. 

Renee's Garden - Our own sizzling hot blend of cutting zinnias in bright scarlet, rich true crimson, and deep dark red, all knockout red shades that enhance and augment each other for gorgeous bright garden color and absolutely stunning centerpiece bouquets. You will love the fully double, big flowers that bloom strongly on vigorous, branching 3 to 3-1/2-foot tall plants. These stunning and long-lasting red flowers are guaranteed to attract native pollinators, butterflies, and hummingbirds to your garden.    Characteristics:  Heirloom  Butterfly & Hummingbird favorites  Pollinators & Beneficials  Annual   Summer/fall bloom  Frost tender     Instructions - To start in the garden, sow seeds in well-worked soil in full sun when the danger of frost is past and the weather is warm and above 50°F (10°C) both day and night. Space seeds 2 to 3 inches apart in rows 12 inches apart, cover about 1/2 inch deep, and gently firm the soil. Keep soil evenly moist while awaiting germination. To start early indoors, four weeks before the last frost date, sow seeds 1/2 inch deep and 3 inches apart in a container of seed starting mix. Keep warm and moist and provide a strong light source until seedlings are ready to plant outside when temperatures rise above 50°F (10°C) day and night. Space seedlings 8-12 inches apart when large enough to handle to give plants room to mature and provide good air circulation. Zinnias grow readily in ordinary garden soil in full sun. For large and abundant flowers, thin before seedlings get crowded; adequate spacing and regular, even watering help keep zinnias productive and discourage mildew. Pick when flower blossoms first open and petals are tight for the longest vase life. Cut long stems well back into the plant to keep plants branching low and producing the best blooms for summer-long bouquets.  Plant in May-June for cold winters; April-May for mild winters Full sun  Space seeds 2-3" apart  Plant 1/2" deep  Days to germinate: 7-10 days  Mature Height: 3-3.5 feet  Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute suppliers due to availability. 

Attractive, sunny mix of yellow, orange, rose and crimson flowers on trailing plants. Delicate lilypad-like leaves are just as attractive as the bright flowers. Edible flowers and foliage are a gourmet treat with flavor reminiscent of peppery watercress. Perfect for hanging baskets, containers or in the garden.  Trailing Vines grow to 10' long Edible flowers and foliage Annual Organic & Open-Pollinated 1/8 oz or ~25-30 seeds on average Instructions - Sow seeds outdoors one week after last frost. Plants prefer average moist soil. Water during dry spells, but do not fertilize, as this will promote more foliage than flowers.  Sow 1/4" Deep Germination 5-21 days Thin 6-12" apart Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute seed vendors from time to time because of availability

Renee's Garden - These free flowering mounding plants adorn themselves with spurless semi-double blooms in warm vibrant shades of coppery-red, like the glowing embers of a vivid summer sunset. Shining above deep green, lily pad-like leaves, Copper Sunset blossoms act as welcoming beacons for hungry hummingbirds and are perfect for filling garden beds or baskets. Use their edible leaves and flowers in the kitchen as spicy-tasting garnishes for sandwiches, salads, and seafood.   Characteristics:  Heirloom Selective  Hummingbird favorites  Pollinators & Beneficials  Great in containers  Spring/Summer/Fall bloom  Frost tender    Instructions - To start outdoors, Sow seeds in spring once all danger of frost is over in full sun (or part shade in hot climates). Nasturtiums need no added fertilizer in most soils. Poke seeds into well-worked soil about 1 inch deep and 3 to 4 inches apart. Press the soil firmly over the seeds and keep them moist. When seedlings are large enough to handle, thin to 10 inches apart as mounding plants need ample room.  To start early indoors, Sow 2 seeds each in individual 4-inch pots of well-drained seed starting mix 3 weeks before the last expected frost date. Cover 1 inch deep. Provide a strong light source. When seedlings have several sets of leaves pinch out the weaker seedling, leaving one per pot. When night temperatures are above 50°F, gradually acclimate to outdoor conditions. Transplant seedlings into the garden 10 inches apart in full sun. These brilliantly colored mounding nasturtiums are reliable and easy to tuck into any well-drained spot. Except in very poor soil, nasturtiums will grow and bloom readily with no added fertilizer. Carefully thinned to proper spacing, they are a perfect disguise to cover fading bulb foliage in late spring, and their softly draping leaves and vivid flowers will quickly fill garden beds or containers.  Plant in March-June  Full sun or partial shade  Sow seeds 3-4" apart; 1" deep  9-12 days to germinate  Mature height: 1 foot  Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute suppliers due to availability. 

Renee's Garden - Creamsicle’s beautiful flowers remind me of the soft swirled colors of orange sherbet and French vanilla ice cream, with throats etched in deep crimson. The free-flowering, top-setting blossoms float in abundance above softly mounding, blue-green, lily pad-shaped foliage. These uniquely colored flowers create a lovely effect, different than the deep, bright colors of most other nasturtiums. Alluring Creamsicle is a fine choice for garden beds and borders and is also a perfect choice for container plantings.    Characteristics:  Heirloom Selective  Hummingbird favorites  Pollinators & Beneficials  Great in containers  Spring/Summer/Fall bloom  Frost tender    Instructions - To start outdoors, sow seeds in spring once all danger of frost is over in full sun or part shade in hot climates. Nasturtiums will grow and flower readily with no added fertilizer in most soils. Poke seeds into well-worked soil about 1 inch deep and 3 to 4 inches apart. Press the soil firmly over the seeds and keep them moist. When seedlings are large enough to handle, thin to 10-12 inches apart so plants will have ample room to grow.  To start early indoors, sow 2 seeds each in individual 4-inch pots of well-drained seed starting mix 3 weeks before the last expected frost date. Cover 1 inch deep. Provide a strong light source. When seedlings have several sets of leaves pinch out the weaker seedling, leaving 1 per pot. When night temps are above 50°F (10°C) gradually acclimate to outdoor conditions. Transplant seedlings into the garden 10 inches apart in full sun. These mounding nasturtiums are reliable and easy to tuck into any well-drained spot. They are a perfect disguise to cover fading bulb foliage in late spring. Their softly draping leaves and wonderfully colored flowers will quickly fill and gladden garden beds or containers. Both leaves and flowers are tasty, spicy-sweet additions to salads and sandwiches.  Plant in April-June for cold winters; March-July for mild winters Full sun or partial shade  Sow seeds 3-4" apart; 1" deep  9-12 days to germinate  Mature height: 10-12"  Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute suppliers due to availability. 

Renee's Garden - These split-petal vining nasturtiums date from the 19th century. Their unique petals, shaped like little flames, stand out in a kaleidoscope of colors against ivy-shaped leaves. Carefree Phoenix blooms absolutely nonstop, covering the foliage with both bright and pastel blossoms in crimson-red, rich gold, fiery orange, warm cream and soft peach, many brushed with burnished copper at the petal base. Phoenix flowers are edible and especially gorgeous scattered on salads or used as edible garnishes for savory dishes.   Characteristics:  Heirloom Selective  Hummingbird favorites  Pollinators & Beneficials  Great in containers  Annual Spring/summer/fall bloom  Frost tender    Instructions - To start outdoors, sow seeds in spring once all danger of frost is over in full sun (or part shade in hot climates). Nasturtiums need no added fertilizer in most soils. Poke seeds into well-worked soil about 1 inch deep and 3 to 4 inches apart. Press the soil firmly over the seeds and keep them moist. When seedlings are large enough to handle, thin to stand 10 inches apart, or 6 to 8 inches apart if training seedlings up vertical supports. To start early indoors, sow 2 seeds each in individual 4-inch pots of well-drained seed starting mix 3 weeks before the last expected frost date. Cover 1 inch deep. Provide a strong light source. When seedlings have several sets of leaves, pinch out the weaker seedling leaving 1 seedling per pot. When the weather is evenly in the 50°F (10°C) range, gradually acclimate to outdoor conditions. Transplant as above in full sun. Climbing nasturtiums are easy to grow in any well-drained soil. You’ll need to train young plants onto their supports with loose ties, then they’ll climb easily and bloom non-stop. Do not let plants dry out during the blooming season. If aphids become a problem, wash them off with a strong spray of water or spray with a non-toxic Safer’s Soap solution. Phoenix’s bright confetti-like blossoms are true summer beacons for hungry hummingbirds.  Plant in April-June for cold winters; March-July for mild winters Full sun or partial shade  Sow seeds 3-4" apart; 1" deep  10-12 days to germinate  Mature height: 4-6 feet Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute suppliers due to availability. 

Sunsets everywhere you look Renee's Garden- California poppies' fluted form and exuberant golden-orange color truly celebrate spring. A perfect choice for hot and dry areas, they'll grow easily without fuss all over the country. The silky, vivid flowers shine above mounds of feathery gray-green foliage for weeks, covering the ground with a cloak of bright flowers. Carefree and cheerful, these native orange poppies are perfect to cover a neglected area or hard to cultivate slope or plant in the garden for a memorable display of glowing color. Eschscholzia californica Characteristics: Native flower for the west coast Re-seeding annual  Tolerates poor soil  3-4' tall 78 days  2 grams (~1200 seeds) Instructions - This poppy is a hardy annual preferring full sun, well-drained sandy soil. It will do well in poor soils so do not fertilize.  Direct seed in fall for early summer blooms in zones 7-10, plant in spring for late summer blooms in all zones. The plant will be reseeded, but it is also helpful to gather some seeds to replant next year. Poppies can be started indoors as transplants but direct seeding is best and HIGHLY Recommended Direct Seed 1/4" deep Germination 10-15 days Thin 8-10" apart Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute seed vendors from time to time because of the availability