Seeds - Herbs

The Seed Savers Exchange - (Calendula officinalis) Calendulas have been referred to as Pot Marigold for centuries. Radio was introduced to gardeners in the 1930s and is now quite hard to find. Beautiful orange flowers have quill-like edible petals. Blooms from early summer until frost. Well suited for pots. Self-seeding, hardy annual, 18-24" tall. Characteristics:  Self-seeding, hardy annual Plants grow to 18-24 inches tall Blossoms are edible Great for container growing 250 Seeds per packet  Instructions: Sow seeds indoors 1/4" deep. Transplant outdoors after the last frost. Can also be directly sown outdoors after the last frost. Prefers light well-drained soil and will tolerate dry conditions. Good cut flower. Calendula petals are edible and have a tangy slightly sweet flavor.  Start Indoors: 6-8 weeks before the last frost Germination: 5-15 Days Plant Outdoors: 6-18” Apart Light: Sun/Partial Shade   Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability

The Living Seed Company - Purple basil exudes beautiful deep purple glossy leaves, offering Italian, Thai and Mediterranean dishes a sweet color accent.  Wonderful when combined in vinegar. A gorgeous herb has a similar taste profile to its green counterpart.  Can be used in any recipe calling for basil and as a stunning garnish.  This traditional classic Italian annual is authentic in appearance, offering a prized, spicy flavor. The purple basil reaches modest heights of 8 – 10” but can also be used ornamentally and in arrangements. This fragrant plant offers a delicious aroma and is choice for a wide range of dishes. Excellent for pesto, marinara, in soups, stews, and even tea. Enjoy this herb raw or lightly cooked. This annual is easy to grow and is known for its vigor.  The glossy basil, grows uniformly, with stunning lilac flowers that attracts bees.  Organic Annual plants Plants will grow to 18"  Sweet, fragrant leaves 60-80 Days 150 Seeds Instructions - Sow seeds outdoors when soil is warm and temperature does not drop below 65°F. Can also be started indoors 4-6 weeks before planting out. Make successive sowings for continuous summer supplies. Pinch back flower stalks as they appear to keep plants from bolting. Prefers rich well-drained soil. Sow 1/8" deep Germination 5-30 days Thin to 4-6" apart Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute seed vendors from time to time because of availability

Red-Veined Sorrel - Citrus flavored greens, deep maroon veins against dark green leaves, helps it create amazing dishes. It is perfect for salads or you can braise it too.  Sow in the spring, all throughout summer and into fall for continued harvest. We start with organic seeds but are not certifed organic for handling as it we are in the process of doing this.  Characteristics:  Organic, non-GMO, and open-pollinated  Annual Harvest in as little as 45 days, 55 full size Citrus flavor Gourmet ingredient  Packet 1/32 oz Instructions - Sow 1/2" apart, sow 1/4" deep Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute seed vendors from time to time because of the availability

Bright yellow, daisy-like blooms with a few orange show-offs and extremely high resin content. High Mowing Organic Seeds - A few orange types help keep the genetic variation of this powerful strain alive and well. Excellent medicinal properties compared to other calendulas; used as an herbal application for inflammation and localized skin problems. Also used as a dye for food or fabric and as an edible flower. Approx. 2,800 seeds/oz. Organic, non-GMO, and open-pollinated  Best medicinal variety Spring bee food 24-30" tall Annual 80 days  1/32 oz approx.  Instructions - Sow seeds indoors 1/4" deep. Transplant after last frost. Can also be directly sown outdoors after the last frost. Plant light well-drained soil Germination 7-14 days Plant 6-12" apart Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute seed vendors from time to time because of the availability

Renee's Garden - Italian heirloom grows easily and reliably produces plump green oval bulbs with feathery tops. The crispy, sweet anise flesh is perfect for versatile salads, dips, or to roast, sauté or grill.  Characteristics:  Organic Heirloom  Pastel-green oval bulbs  Versatile juicy-crisp flesh  Feathery tops    Instructions - In early spring when the danger of hard frost is over, sow seeds in well-worked, fertile soil in full sun. Space seeds 4 inches apart in rows 12 inches apart and covers seed 1/2 inch deep. Carefully thin when seedlings are large enough to handle to stand 10 to 12 inches apart so bulbs have room to grow and mature. Or start seeds indoors in a container of seed starting mix. Keep moist and provide a strong light source until seedlings are 3 or 4 inches tall and ready to transplant as above. For tender, best-quality bulbs, fennel needs rich soil and cool growing weather, so sow seeds as early as the ground can be worked and again in midsummer for fall harvesting. Be sure seedlings are thinned or transplanted 10 to 12 inches apart. Keep plants evenly moist throughout the growing season – mulching is a good strategy. Fennel is a heavy feeder, so fertilize every 2 to 3 weeks with a high nitrogen fertilizer such as fish emulsion. When bulbs are full and plump, cut them off at the soil level. Trim the feathery leaves down to the solid base.  Cold Winters: May  Mild Winters: March-April / July-August  Full sun  Sow Seeds: 4" apart, 1/2" deep  Days to Germinate: 14-21 days  Days to Harvest: 90 Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute suppliers due to availability. 

Currently just stocking conventional The Seed Savers Exchange - Mediterranean native. Attractive evergreen shrub with grey-green pinnate leaves. Classic herb has a spicy flavor used extensively to season meats and vegetables. Great for pots. Perennial in zones 8-10, grown as an annual in the North. Characteristics:  Organic or conventional Perennial in zones 8-10 Grown as an annual in cool climates Plants can reach up to 5 feet tall Tolerant of drought and low water 50 Seeds Instructions - Sow seeds indoors 1/4" beneath surface of soil. Seeds need to be kept above 70°F for germination. Plant out after the danger of frost has passed in late spring. Prefers sandy, somewhat poor, well-drained soil. Sow indoors 8-10 weeks before planting Germination 14-21 days Plant 12-24" apart Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute seed vendors from time to time because of the availability

Intense dark purple-red color with mild and aromatic basil flavor - a favorite in our trials! An improved strain of Rubin with very uniform germination and stand, no green off-types and stronger, more upright stems. Tall lavender flower spikes are lovely in bouquets and should be pinched for better leaf production.  Compact, upright habit Edible and ornamental Open-Pollinated Harvest in 45-60 days Instructions -Annual. Sow 1/8" deep Germination 5-30 days Thin to 4-6" apart Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute seed vendors from time to time because of availability

The Seed Savers Exchange - Rue is native to the Balkan Peninsula. The bitter taste of the herb rue has led to it being associated with the verb rue "to regret". It is mentioned in folklore and medieval handbooks on wellness but is now used primarily as an ornamental plant. Characteristics:  Perennial in zones 4-9 Plants grow to 2 feet tall Pungent aroma and yellow flowers Grows well in containers 250 seeds  This variety will grow well in most regions of the United States. Instructions - Sow seeds indoors just beneath the surface of the soil. Seeds need to be kept above 70°F for germination. Transplant outdoors after danger of frost has passed in late spring. Prefers well-drained poor soil. Oil from Rue leaves may cause a photosensitive skin reaction in some. Use caution when brushing against leaves on warm sunny days. Start Indoors: 10-12 weeks before the last frost Germination: 14-21 Days Plant Outdoors: 12-24” Apart Light: Full Sun Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute seed vendors from time to time because of the availability

High Mowing Organic Seeds - Very attractive, compact plants with the strongest downy mildew resistance we've seen. This line of downy mildew-resistant basil has been trialed against market standards all across the country and has come up aces every time. In our own field trials in northern Vermont, Obsession also impressed us with high marks for plant vigor and bolt tolerance. Plants have a high leaf-to-stem ratio and average 26" in height. Suitable for field or potted plant production. We are excited to offer Obsession as an organic seed thanks to our partnership with the team at Van Drunen Farms Specialty Seeds. Characteristics:  Organic, non-GMO, and open-pollinated  Slow to bolt  Extremely uniform  Open-Pollinated  Instructions - Basil is a tender annual that prefers warm weather and rich soil. It is a popular culinary herb, cut flower, and can be used as a medicinal herb to calm the stomach. Basil needs well-drained but moist soil that is highly fertile. It is not drought tolerant, so even moisture levels are important for healthy growth. Start transplants indoors 6 weeks prior to planting out, or direct seed mid-spring through late summer. Basil is very sensitive to cold; use a row cover to extend the season. Pinch buds to encourage branching and leaf production.  Plant 1/4" deep. Transplanting is recommended; if direct seeding, sow 2-3 seeds per inch and thin to 4-8" apart.  Plant Spacing: Transplanting at 4-8" is recommended; if direct seeding, sow 2-3 seeds per inch and thin to 4-8" apart.  Row Spacing: 18"  Harvest & Storage - Harvest can begin once plants have become established, by pinching or cutting branches but leaving the plant to continue to produce leaves. A harvest of the full plant should be completed just before the plant starts to flower (flavor is significantly impacted once flowering occurs). Cut the entire plant 4-6" above the ground to promote a second growth. Store unwashed at room temperature to avoid browning. Do not store below 50°F.  Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute seed vendors from time to time because of the availability

The Seed Savers Exchange - (Salvia officinalis) Classic culinary herb for flavoring meat, cheese, and bean dishes. Good for laying on the grill and flavoring meat with its smoke. Attractive grey-green shrubby plant with beautiful mauve flowers. Perennial in zones 5-10.  Characteristics:  Perennial in zones 5-10 Plants grow up to 2 feet tall Grey-green leaves with mauve flowers The savory, slightly peppery flavor 250 seeds  Instructions - Sow seeds indoors on the surface of the soil. Can also be directly sown outdoors two weeks after the last spring frost. Prefers rich, moist, well-drained soil. Divide every 3-4 years. Start Indoors: 6-8 weeks before the last frost Germination: 14-21 Days Plant Outdoors: 12” Apart Light: Full Sun Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute seed vendors from time to time because of the availability

Saltwort is a native found in the salt marshes of Japan but adapts well to any garden.  The leaves are crunchy and are irresistible.  Okahijiki is how this is referred to in Japan. It can be eaten in salads, steamed or even eaten as a microgreen. It is highly nutrious.  Salsola komarovii Characteristics:  Japanese Culinary Herb 200 Seeds Firefly Farm & Mercantile Packet 15 days for microgreens and 50 days for mature planting Instructions -Sow directly in spring to summer.  Sow to a depth of 1/8" to 1/4" and place 1 seed every inch or so and rows should spaced 12-18". No thinning is needed.  Sow 1/8" deep Germination 5-14 days

Renee's Garden - We import this unique and easy-to-grow shiso because it is aromatic, tasty, and really beautiful in the garden. The fringed 3-inch leaves are a striking blue-green on top and dark burgundy underneath and absolutely glow in the sun. The fragrant, branching 2 1/2 foot plants bloom in profusion with pretty plumes of lavender-pink flowers. Shiso’s vibrant flavor is strongly herbaceous and citrusy. The leaves can be enjoyed in pickles, Asian salads, noodle dishes, and sushi rolls.   Characteristics:  Heirloom  Butterfly & Hummingbird favorites  Pollinators & Beneficials  Great in containers  Summer/fall harvest Heat-loving, frost tender    Instructions - When late spring weather has thoroughly warmed up, sow seeds 1 inch apart in well-worked fertile soil in full sun. Cover 1/4 inch deep, firm soil, and keep the seedbed moist. Germination takes 1 to 2 weeks. After seedlings are well established, thin or transplant 8 inches apart to allow plants room to mature. Sow seeds 1 inch apart in a container of seed starting mix, 4 to 6 weeks before the last expected frost. Keep warm and evenly moist, and provide a good light source. When seedlings are large enough to handle and night temperatures are solidly above 50°F, acclimate gradually to outdoor conditions before planting in the garden 8 inches apart. Remember— it is critical to plant Shiso in the garden only after days and nights are solidly above 50°F (10°C). Pinch off growing tips when plants are 6 to 8 inches tall to encourage branching. Harvest sprays of leaves by cutting stems just above two new sprouting lateral branches to get lush regrowth. Keep flower buds pinched off to extend harvesting and feed regularly to promote new growth. Plant in May-June for cold winters; April-July for mild winters  Full Sun  Sow seeds 1" apart and 1/4" deep  7-14 days to germinate  Mature Height: 2-2.5 feet  Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute suppliers due to availability. 

Renee's Garden - The delicious spicy pungency of fresh cilantro leaf is essential in salsa and most Mexican dishes or in piquant Southeast Asian cooking. Our Slow-Bolt Cilantro holds in leaf better than other strains, but plan on making several sowings for a constant fresh supply, as plants flower and make seed quickly and the lacy green leaves don’t dry well. If your plants do flower, scatter their spicy blossom florets in salads.  Characteristics:  Kitchen Herbs  Annual Long-standing variety  Spicy leaves  Approx 150 seeds   Instructions - In early spring, sow Cilantro seed directly into well-drained fertile soil 1 to 2 inches apart in rows 8 inches apart in full sun. Cover 1/4 inch deep and firm soil over seeds. Keep seedbed evenly moist as seedlings emerge over 10 to 20 days. Make new sowings every few weeks until mid-summer for continuous harvests of fresh leaves. Cilantro plants flower, then set seed quickly as plants mature. Lushest, leafy growth takes place in cooler weather; plant early and throughout cool spring weather and sow again in fall, particularly in mild winter areas.  Plant in: February - September Full sun  Plant 1-2 inches apart  Plant 1/2 inch deep  10-20 days to germinate  Mature Height: 1 - 1.5 feet  Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute suppliers due to availability. 

Renee's Garden - Striking 4 to 5-foot plumes of filigreed coppery leaves and lacy golden flower umbels that ripen mellow anise-flavored seeds. Smokey Bronze Fennel makes a stunning addition to flower or herb beds and is a major nectar & pollen host for many butterflies and beneficial insect species. Season seafood, salads, or cooked vegetables with feathery copper-bronze leaves. Tea made from aromatic leaves or sweet seeds soothes upset stomachs and calms the nerves.   Characteristics:  Heirloom  Butterfly Favorites  Pollinators & Beneficials  Coppery-bronze fennel  Aromatic anise scent and flavor    Instructions - In spring when the danger of hard frost is past, sow seeds 1 inch apart in finely worked, well-drained, fertile soil in full sun. Cover 1/2 inch deep, firm soil, and keep the seedbed moist. Germination takes 2 to 3 weeks. After seedlings are well established, carefully thin or transplant 1 foot apart to allow plants room to mature. Sow thinly in a container of seed starting mix, 4 to 6 weeks before the last expected frost. Keep warm and evenly moist, and provide a good light source. When seedlings are 3 to 4 inches tall, acclimate gradually to outdoor conditions before carefully transplanting as above.  Growing Notes: Plant in very well-drained soil and keep a close eye on young seedlings, which grow slowly at first – their unusual bronze color can make them easy to weed out by accident! A prime butterfly plant, the copper-bronze fronds of Smokey Bronze fennel send up tall branching stalks crowned by intricate yellow flowers that provide valuable nectar and pollen to ladybugs, lacewings, and other beneficial insects. Bronze fennel’s deep-colored foliage provides a beautiful contrast to the green foliage and bright hot colors of summer annuals like cosmos, zinnias, and sunflowers. Plant in March-June  Full Sun  Plant 1/2" deep  Space 1" apart  14-21 days to germinate  Mature Height: 4-5 feet  Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute suppliers due to availability.