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At Firefly Farm & Mercantile, we enjoy keeping old heirlooms going and many times these heirlooms have noteworthy genetics and attributes that are nejoyed by ga

Slow Food's The Ark of the Taste Collection - Firefly Farms & Mercantile

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At Firefly Farm &amp; Mercantile, we enjoy keeping old heirlooms going and many times these heirlooms have noteworthy genetics and attributes that are nejoyed by gardeners around the world. And a smaller number have a signifigance to the American Culture which can be found in our Slow Food's The Ark of the Taste Collection.

Seed Savers Exchange - Likely introduced to North America in the 1700s. In 1812, Thomas Jefferson recorded Bull Nose peppers in his garden calendar at Monticello. Crisp fruits ripen from green to red with an excellent flavor. Productive, sturdy plants. 55-80 days from transplant. Sweet. ±3,600 seeds/oz. Characteristics Fruits ripen to red Excellent flavor Productive, sturdy plants Sweet pepper 55-80 days from transplant 50 Seeds per packet Instructions - Sow seeds indoors ¼” deep. Peppers germinate best in warm soil, so gentle bottom heat may be helpful until seedlings emerge. Wait to transplant outdoors until the soil is warm. Sow indoors 8 weeks before the last frost Plant Rows 12-24” Apart Germinates in 14 days Full Sun Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute based on supplier availability

Seed Savers Exchange - <meta charset="utf-8">Likely introduced to North America in the 1700s. In 1812, Thomas Jefferson recorded Bull Nose peppers in his garden calendar at Monticello. Crisp fruits ripen from green to red with an excellent flavor. Productive, sturdy plants. 55-80 days from transplant. Sweet. ±3,600 seeds/oz.
Characteristics 
Fruits ripen to red
Excellent flavor
Productive, sturdy plants
Sweet pepper
55-80 days from transplant
50 Seeds per packet
Instructions - <meta charset="utf-8">Sow seeds indoors ¼” deep. Peppers germinate best in warm soil, so gentle bottom heat may be helpful until seedlings emerge. Wait to transplant outdoors until the soil is warm.
Sow indoors 8 weeks before the last frost
<meta charset="utf-8">Plant Rows 12-24” Apart
Germinates in 14 days
Full Sun 
Firefly Farm &amp; Mercantile may substitute based on supplier availability

Bull Nose Bell Pepper (Sweet)

Default Title

Seed Savers Exchange - An Ohio heirloom from the family of SSE member Nick Rini dating back to at least 1940. Tomato-type peppers are exceedingly flavorful with sweet juicy flesh. Very meaty, good for canning. Keeps for an extended period when refrigerated. 70-80 days from transplant. Sweet. Characteristics Organic Flattened, tomato-type pepper Sweet, juicy, thick flesh Good canning variety Stores well when refrigerated Sweet pepper 70-80 days from transplant 25 Seeds per packet Instructions - Sow seeds indoors ¼” deep. Peppers germinate best in warm soil, so gentle bottom heat may be helpful until seedlings emerge. Wait to transplant outdoors until the soil is warm. Sow indoors 8 weeks before the last frost Plant Rows 12-24” Apart Germinates in 14 days Full Sun Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute based on supplier availability

Seed Savers Exchange - <meta charset="utf-8">An Ohio heirloom from the family of SSE member Nick Rini dating back to at least 1940. Tomato-type peppers are exceedingly flavorful with sweet juicy flesh. Very meaty, good for canning. Keeps for an extended period when refrigerated. 70-80 days from transplant. Sweet. 
Characteristics 
Organic
Flattened, tomato-type pepper
Sweet, juicy, thick flesh
Good canning variety
Stores well when refrigerated
Sweet pepper
70-80 days from transplant
25 Seeds per packet
Instructions - <meta charset="utf-8">Sow seeds indoors ¼” deep. Peppers germinate best in warm soil, so gentle bottom heat may be helpful until seedlings emerge. Wait to transplant outdoors until the soil is warm.
Sow indoors 8 weeks before the last frost
<meta charset="utf-8">Plant Rows 12-24” Apart
Germinates in 14 days
Full Sun 
Firefly Farm &amp; Mercantile may substitute based on supplier availability

Sheepnose Pimento Pepper (Sweet), Organic

The Seed Savers Exchange - Noted in America as early as 1850 by the David Landreth seed house of Philadelphia. Heavy yields of 1½" pear-shaped fruits that are great for fresh eating. Used as a substitute for figs years ago by gardeners who would pack away crates of dried tomatoes for winter use. Indeterminate, 85 days from transplant. Characteristics: Organic Fig-shaped fruits grow to 1½ inches Very productive Indeterminate - Fruit ripens throughout the season 85 days from transplant Instructions - Sow seeds indoors ¼" deep. Tomatoes are sensitive to freezing temperatures, so wait to transplant outdoors until the soil is warm. Plant in full sun. Sow indoors 6 weeks before the last frost Germination 7-14 days Plant Outdoors: 24-36” Apart Support: Cage, stake, or trellis Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability

The Seed Savers Exchange - <meta charset="utf-8">Noted in America as early as 1850 by the David Landreth seed house of Philadelphia. Heavy yields of 1½" pear-shaped fruits that are great for fresh eating. Used as a substitute for figs years ago by gardeners who would pack away crates of dried tomatoes for winter use. Indeterminate, 85 days from transplant.
Characteristics: 
Organic
Fig-shaped fruits grow to 1½ inches
Very productive
Indeterminate - Fruit ripens throughout the season
85 days from transplant
Instructions - <meta charset="utf-8">Sow seeds indoors ¼" deep. Tomatoes are sensitive to freezing temperatures, so wait to transplant outdoors until the soil is warm. Plant in full sun.
Sow indoors 6 weeks before the last frost 
Germination 7-14 days
<meta charset="utf-8">Plant Outdoors: 24-36” Apart
<meta charset="utf-8">Support: Cage, stake, or trellis
Firefly Farm &amp; Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability

Red Fig Tomato, 1850 Heirloom, organic

The Seed Savers Exchange - Introduced into the 1998 Yearbook by SSE member Jeff Nekola. Grown since the early 1900s by Lithuanian immigrants in Sheboygan, Wisconsin. Pink paste-type 4-6 ounce fruits. Excellent flavor. Heavy yields, great for canning. Indeterminate, 80 days from transplant. It was a variety selected by the Ark of the Taste! Characteristics: Organic Pink paste tomatoes grow to 4-6 ounces Excellent flavor Very productive Great for canning Indeterminate - Fruit ripens throughout the season 80 days from transplant Instructions - Sow seeds indoors ¼" deep. Tomatoes are sensitive to freezing temperatures, so wait to transplant outdoors until the soil is warm. Plant in full sun. Sow indoors 6 weeks before the last frost Germination 7-14 days Plant Outdoors: 24-36” Apart Support: Cage, stake, or trellis Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability

The Seed Savers Exchange - <meta charset="utf-8">Introduced into the 1998 Yearbook by SSE member Jeff Nekola. Grown since the early 1900s by Lithuanian immigrants in Sheboygan, Wisconsin. Pink paste-type 4-6 ounce fruits. Excellent flavor. Heavy yields, great for canning. Indeterminate, 80 days from transplant. It was a variety selected by the Ark of the Taste! 
Characteristics: 
<ul>
<li>Organic</li>
<li>Pink paste tomatoes grow to 4-6 ounces</li>
<li>Excellent flavor</li>
<li>Very productive</li>
<li>Great for canning</li>
<li>Indeterminate - Fruit ripens throughout the season</li>
<li>80 days from transplant</li>
</ul>
Instructions - <meta charset="utf-8">Sow seeds indoors ¼" deep. Tomatoes are sensitive to freezing temperatures, so wait to transplant outdoors until the soil is warm. Plant in full sun.  
Sow indoors 6 weeks before the last frost 
Germination 7-14 days
<meta charset="utf-8">Plant Outdoors: 24-36” Apart
<meta charset="utf-8">Support: Cage, stake, or trellis
Firefly Farm &amp; Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability

Sheboygan Tomato, 1900's Heirloom, Ark of the Taste Selection

Seedsavers Exchange 25 Organic Seeds

Firefly Farm Minipackets 10 Seed

The Yellow-Fleshed Moon & Stars was introduced by Southern Exposure in 1987. It is an heirloom often grown in Georgia in the early 1900's. We started carrying this from Seedsavers Exchange as we carry their entire line and enjoyed planting it our first year with great results. The fruits range from 15-25 pounds. The flesh is a yellow orange color and it was the traditional moon and stars spotted rind while it has white seeds. We carry it from seed labels where we can find it available inlcuding Southern Exposure Seed Exchange when they offer it in retail packets for us. Characteristics: Organic Oval fruits grow to 24 inches long and 16 pounds Yellow flesh and white seeds Foliage and fruits are spotted with yellow Some disease and drought tolerance 95 days 25 seeds This variety will grow well in most regions of the United States. Instructions - Sow seeds outdoors in 12" diameter hills after danger of frost has passed and soil has warmed. Space hills 8' apart in all directions. Seeds will germinate in 4-10 days. Can also be started indoors 4 weeks before transplanting out. Watermelons love heat and prefer sandy or light-textured soils. Plant 1/2" deep Hill 6-8 seeds together Thin to 3-4 plants Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability

The Yellow-Fleshed Moon &amp; Stars was introduced by Southern Exposure in 1987. It is an heirloom often grown in Georgia in the early 1900's.
We started carrying this from Seedsavers Exchange as we carry their entire line and enjoyed planting it our first year with great results. The fruits range from 15-25 pounds. The flesh is a yellow orange color and it was the traditional moon and stars spotted rind while it has white seeds.
We carry it from seed labels where we can find it available inlcuding Southern Exposure Seed Exchange when they offer it in retail packets for us. 
Characteristics: 
<ul>
<li>Organic</li>
<li>Oval fruits grow to 24 inches long and 16 pounds</li>
<li>Yellow flesh and white seeds</li>
<li>Foliage and fruits are spotted with yellow</li>
<li>Some disease and drought tolerance</li>
<li>95 days</li>
<li>25 seeds </li>
</ul>
This variety will grow well in most regions of the United States.
Instructions - Sow seeds outdoors in 12" diameter hills after danger of frost has passed and soil has warmed. Space hills 8' apart in all directions. Seeds will germinate in 4-10 days. Can also be started indoors 4 weeks before transplanting out. Watermelons love heat and prefer sandy or light-textured soils.
Plant 1/2" deep
Hill 6-8 seeds together
Thin to 3-4 plants
Firefly Farm &amp; Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability

Moon & Stars Yellow Fleshed Watermelon, Organic, Heirloom

Seed Exchange - Plants grow 7' tall and bear 8-12" gold-yellow or maroon-red ears. Primarily used for cornmeal, posole, or hominy. A flint corn that probably hails from the western Abenaki (Sokoki) indigenous people of Vermont. Passed down to Roy and Ruth Fair of North Calais, Vermont, in the 1930s from Roy’s father, who received it from his own father. 90-95 days. Organic & Open-Pollinated Plants grow 7 feet tall 8-12 inch ears Flint corn 90-95 days 50 Seeds per pack 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. Start Indoors: 8-10 weeks before planting out Germination: 10-15 Days Plant Outdoors: 12-24” Apart Light: Full Sun Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability We are always adding new varieties so please check back often at Seeds - Vegetables (fireflyfarmandmercantile.com)

Seed Exchange - <meta charset="utf-8">Plants grow 7' tall and bear 8-12" gold-yellow or maroon-red ears. Primarily used for cornmeal, posole, or hominy. A flint corn that probably hails from the western Abenaki (Sokoki) indigenous people of Vermont. Passed down to Roy and Ruth Fair of North Calais, Vermont, in the 1930s from Roy’s father, who received it from his own father. 90-95 days. 
<li>Organic &amp; Open-Pollinated</li>
<li>Plants grow 7 feet tall</li>
<li>8-12 inch ears</li>
<li>Flint corn</li>
<li>90-95 days</li>
<li>50 Seeds per pack</li>
 
Instructions - <meta charset="utf-8">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.
<meta charset="utf-8"><meta charset="utf-8">Start Indoors: 8-10 weeks before planting out 
<meta charset="utf-8"><meta charset="utf-8">Germination: 10-15 Days 
<meta charset="utf-8"><meta charset="utf-8">Plant Outdoors: 12-24” Apart 
<meta charset="utf-8">Light: Full Sun
Firefly Farm &amp; Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability
We are always adding new varieties so please check back often at <a href="https://fireflyfarmandmercantile.com/pages/seeds-vegetables">Seeds - Vegetables (fireflyfarmandmercantile.com)</a>

Roy's Calais Corn, 1930's Heirloom, Organic

The Seed Savers Exchange - Family heirloom was sent to SSE in 1983 by SSE member Mark Reusser. His father obtained it from Urias Martin, whose Mennonite ancestors likely brought it in the early 1800s from Pennsylvania to Ontario. Juicy thick leaves are green tinged with red. Mild flavor. Looseleaf, 40-55 days. ±27,000 seeds/oz. Characteristics: Organic Green leaves tinged with red Mild flavor 40-55 days 250 seeds per packet Instructions - Sow continuously for a constant supply of lettuce. Best grown in cooler weather. Plant in full sun or partial shade. Direct Seed 1" apart Plant 1/4" deep Germinate 7-14 days Thin: 6-8" Apart Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability.

The Seed Savers Exchange - <meta charset="utf-8">Family heirloom was sent to SSE in 1983 by SSE member Mark Reusser. His father obtained it from Urias Martin, whose Mennonite ancestors likely brought it in the early 1800s from Pennsylvania to Ontario. Juicy thick leaves are green tinged with red. Mild flavor. Looseleaf, 40-55 days. ±27,000 seeds/oz. 
Characteristics: 
<ul>
<li>Organic</li>
<li>Green leaves tinged with red</li>
<li>Mild flavor</li>
<li>40-55 days</li>
<li>250 seeds per packet </li>
</ul>
Instructions - Sow continuously for a constant supply of lettuce. Best grown in cooler weather. Plant in full sun or partial shade. 
Direct Seed 1" apart
Plant 1/4" deep
Germinate 7-14 days
<meta charset="utf-8"><meta charset="utf-8">Thin: 6-8" Apart 
Firefly Farm &amp; Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability.

Speckled Lettuce, 1800's Family Heirloom, Organic

At one point in history, Tennis Ball Lettuce, dominated the market. It grew even in the darkest of days very well and had a tolerance for the cold. America can thank Bethiah Oliver, Massachusetts seedswoman who imported it to America from the United Kingdom in 1769 There were two strains, white-seeded and black-seeded. The white-seeded strain, popular in the North, matures two weeks earlier and is slightly more bitter than the black-seeded. The southern United States, favored the black-seeded strain. Is it possible they favored it because of its sweetness or their contempt for the northern states? Additionally at Monticello, Thomas Jefferson grew 15 varieties of lettuce and favored the Tennis Ball for its low maintenance compared to other lettuces. We are currently stocking Southern Exposure while we wait for the 2026 seeds from Seedsavers. Both are the black seeded variety. The Seed Savers Exchange - Small rosettes of light green leaves measure only 7" in diameter and form loose tender heads. Grown by Thomas Jefferson at Monticello. According to Heirloom Vegetable Gardening by SSE member William Woys Weaver, tennis ball lettuces were often pickled in salt brine during the 17th and 18th centuries. Black-seeded. Butterhead, 50 days Characteristics: Organic Heads grow to 7 inches Soft textured rosettes Black seeded Butterhead lettuce 50 days Instructions - Sow continuously for a constant supply of lettuce. Best grown in cooler weather. Plant in full sun or partial shade. Direct Seed 1" apart Plant 1/4" deep Germinate 7-14 days Thin: 6-8" Apart Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability.

At one point in history, Tennis Ball Lettuce, dominated the market. It grew even in the darkest of days very well and had a tolerance for the cold. America can thank Bethiah Oliver, Massachusetts seedswoman who imported it to America from the United Kingdom in 1769
There were two strains, white-seeded and black-seeded. The white-seeded strain, popular in the North, matures two weeks earlier and is slightly more bitter than the black-seeded. The southern United States, favored the black-seeded strain. Is it possible they favored it because of its sweetness or their contempt for the northern states? 
Additionally at Monticello, Thomas Jefferson grew 15 varieties of lettuce and favored the Tennis Ball for its low maintenance compared to other lettuces. 
We are currently stocking Southern Exposure while we wait for the 2026 seeds from Seedsavers. Both are the black seeded variety. 
The Seed Savers Exchange - Small rosettes of light green leaves measure only 7" in diameter and form loose tender heads. Grown by Thomas Jefferson at Monticello. According to Heirloom Vegetable Gardening by SSE member William Woys Weaver, tennis ball lettuces were often pickled in salt brine during the 17th and 18th centuries. Black-seeded. Butterhead, 50 days
Characteristics: 
<ul>
<li>Organic</li>
<li>Heads grow to 7 inches</li>
<li>Soft textured rosettes</li>
<li>Black seeded</li>
<li>Butterhead lettuce</li>
<li>50 days</li>
</ul>
Instructions - Sow continuously for a constant supply of lettuce. Best grown in cooler weather. Plant in full sun or partial shade.
Direct Seed 1" apart
Plant 1/4" deep
Germinate 7-14 days
<meta charset="utf-8"><meta charset="utf-8">
Thin: 6-8" Apart
Firefly Farm &amp; Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability.

Tennis Ball Lettuce, Heirloom, Organic

Seedsaver Exchange - 250 Organic Seeds

Southern Exposure - ~400 Organic Seeds

Firefly 250 Seeds

Firefly Minipack - 150 Seeds

The Seed Savers Exchange - Introduced to Seed Savers Exchange in 1982 by James Robinson, who is said to have acquired it from an Amish gardener in Maryland. Pale-orange flesh measures up to 5" thick, and the largest fruits weigh 60-80 pounds. Firm moist flesh is excellent for making pies and for freezing. 90-105 days. Characteristics: Pale orange flesh Flesh grows up to 5 inches thick Squash grow up to 60-80 pounds Winter squash 25 Seeds per packet Instructions - Since squash takes a long time to mature, try starting your plants indoors 3-4 weeks before planting them outside. Plant your seeds 1 inch deep in soil trays or pots and when you plant them in the garden you can use rows 4-6 feet apart instead of hills. If you choose to directly sow your seeds in the garden, start by building up a hill of loose soil 12 inches across and plant 6-8 seeds at the top. As your plants grow, thin them to 3-4 plants per hill. These squash should be mature in about 90-105 days. Direct Seed: 1" Deep Seeds to Hill: 6-8 Seeds Thin: To 3-4 Plants Light: Full Sun Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute based on supplier availability

The Seed Savers Exchange -  Introduced to Seed Savers Exchange in 1982 by James Robinson, who is said to have acquired it from an Amish gardener in Maryland. Pale-orange flesh measures up to 5" thick, and the largest fruits weigh 60-80 pounds. Firm moist flesh is excellent for making pies and for freezing. 90-105 days. 
Characteristics: 
<ul>
<li>Pale orange flesh</li>
<li>Flesh grows up to 5 inches thick</li>
<li>Squash grow up to 60-80 pounds</li>
<li>Winter squash</li>
<li>25 Seeds per packet </li>
</ul>
Instructions -
<meta charset="utf-8">
Since squash takes a long time to mature, try starting your plants indoors 3-4 weeks before planting them outside. Plant your seeds 1 inch deep in soil trays or pots and when you plant them in the garden you can use rows 4-6 feet apart instead of hills. If you choose to directly sow your seeds in the garden, start by building up a hill of loose soil 12 inches across and plant 6-8 seeds at the top. As your plants grow, thin them to 3-4 plants per hill. These squash should be mature in about 90-105 days. 
<meta charset="utf-8">
Direct Seed: 1" Deep
<meta charset="utf-8">
Seeds to Hill: 6-8 Seeds
<meta charset="utf-8">
Thin: To 3-4 Plants
<meta charset="utf-8">
Light: Full Sun
Firefly Farm &amp; Mercantile may substitute based on supplier availability

Amish Pie Squash

Funny enough the Seedsaver's stock came from all around the globe but it is an American squash bread from squash most likely from the Seneca Nation in Western New York. It is incredibly tasty and as described in The Ark of the Taste (Slow Food USA), it was a common substitue for pumpkins in pumpkins pie. It is still regarded as one of the finest squashes every bread. This is a variety found in Solw Food's The Ark of the Taste book. Seed Savers Exchange - (C. maxima) From our friends at Digger's Garden Club near Melbourne, Australia. A ribbed salmon-colored drum-like pumpkin with wall-to-wall starchy high-quality flesh. Excellent for baking, a great keeper. Fruits weigh 7-15 pounds. 90-100 days. Characteristics: Organic Salmon-colored ribbed fruits Fruits weigh 7-15 pounds Extremely thick, starchy flesh Excellent for baking Winter squash for storage 90-100 days 25 Seeds per packet Instructions - Sow seeds outdoors in 12" diameter hills after danger of frost has passed. Hills should be spaced 6' apart in all directions. Can also be started indoors 3 weeks before transplanting out. Direct Seed: 1" Deep Seeds to Hill: 6-8 Seeds Thin: To 3-4 Plants Light: Full Sun Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute based on supplier availability

Funny enough the Seedsaver's stock came from all around the globe but it is an American squash bread from squash most likely from the Seneca Nation in Western New York. It is incredibly tasty and as described in The Ark of the Taste (Slow Food USA), it was a common substitue for pumpkins in pumpkins pie. It is still regarded as one of the finest squashes every bread. This is a variety found in Solw Food's The Ark of the Taste book. 
Seed Savers Exchange - <meta charset="utf-8">(C. maxima) From our friends at Digger's Garden Club near Melbourne, Australia. A ribbed salmon-colored drum-like pumpkin with wall-to-wall starchy high-quality flesh. Excellent for baking, a great keeper. Fruits weigh 7-15 pounds. 90-100 days. 
Characteristics: 
<ul>
<li>Organic</li>
<li>Salmon-colored ribbed fruits</li>
<li>Fruits weigh 7-15 pounds</li>
<li>Extremely thick, starchy flesh</li>
<li>Excellent for baking</li>
<li>Winter squash for storage</li>
<li>90-100 days</li>
<li>25 Seeds per packet </li>
</ul>
Instructions - <meta charset="utf-8">Sow seeds outdoors in 12" diameter hills after danger of frost has passed. Hills should be spaced 6' apart in all directions. Can also be started indoors 3 weeks before transplanting out. 
<meta charset="utf-8">Direct Seed: 1" Deep
<meta charset="utf-8">Seeds to Hill: 6-8 Seeds
<meta charset="utf-8">Thin: To 3-4 Plants
<meta charset="utf-8">Light: Full Sun
Firefly Farm &amp; Mercantile may substitute based on supplier availability

Boston Marrow Squash

We are packing this one with Seedsavers Bulk Seeds since it was not available in retail packets. The Seed Savers Exchange -The 15" dark green oval fruits are covered with pea-sized, bright yellow "stars" and usually one larger “moon.” Foliage is also spotted. The fruits have sweet pink flesh and brown seeds. This watermelon created a sensation in 1981 when Merle Van Doren of Macon, Missouri, shared this legendary variety with Seed Savers Exchange.95 days. Characteristics: Elongated fruits grow to 24 inches long Fruits weigh up to 10-16 pounds Sweet pink flesh Speckled rind with "moon" and "star" markings 95 days 25 seeds Instructions - Sow seeds outdoors in 12" diameter hills after danger of frost has passed and soil has warmed. Space hills 8' apart in all directions. Seeds will germinate in 4-10 days. Can also be started indoors 4 weeks before transplanting out. Watermelons love heat and prefer sandy or light-textured soils. Plant 1/2" deep Hill 6-8 seeds together Thin to 3-4 plants Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability

We are packing this one with Seedsavers Bulk Seeds since it was not available in retail packets. 
The Seed Savers Exchange -The 15" dark green oval fruits are covered with pea-sized, bright yellow "stars" and usually one larger “moon.” Foliage is also spotted. The fruits have sweet pink flesh and brown seeds. This watermelon created a sensation in 1981 when Merle Van Doren of Macon, Missouri, shared this legendary variety with Seed Savers Exchange.95 days.
Characteristics: 
<ul>
<li>Elongated fruits grow to 24 inches long</li>
<li>Fruits weigh up to 10-16 pounds</li>
<li>Sweet pink flesh</li>
<li>Speckled rind with "moon" and "star" markings</li>
<li>95 days</li>
<li>25 seeds</li>
</ul>
Instructions - Sow seeds outdoors in 12" diameter hills after danger of frost has passed and soil has warmed. Space hills 8' apart in all directions. Seeds will germinate in 4-10 days. Can also be started indoors 4 weeks before transplanting out. Watermelons love heat and prefer sandy or light-textured soils.
Plant 1/2" deep
Hill 6-8 seeds together
Thin to 3-4 plants
Firefly Farm &amp; Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability

Moon & Stars Van Doren Watermelon

The Seed Savers Exchange - (C. maxima) (aka Pike’s Peak) Introduced by Hiram Sibley & Co. of Rochester, New York in 1888. Superb banana squash with thick sweet flesh. James J. H. Gregory found it simply “magnificent.” Winner of the SSE staff taste test in 2014. Hard-rinded, inversely pear-shaped, excellent keeper. 110 days. Characteristics: Banana type squash Hard, light blue rind Thick, sweet flesh Excellent keeper Winter squash 110 days Instructions - Sow seeds outdoors in 12" diameter hills after danger of frost has passed. Hills should be spaced 6' apart in all directions. Can also be started indoors 3 weeks before transplanting out. Direct Seed: 1" Deep Seeds to Hill: 6-8 Seeds Thin: To 3-4 Plants Light: Full Sun Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute based on supplier availability

The Seed Savers Exchange - <meta charset="utf-8">(C. maxima) (aka Pike’s Peak) Introduced by Hiram Sibley &amp; Co. of Rochester, New York in 1888. Superb banana squash with thick sweet flesh. James J. H. Gregory found it simply “magnificent.” Winner of the SSE staff taste test in 2014. Hard-rinded, inversely pear-shaped, excellent keeper. 110 days.  
Characteristics: 
<ul>
<li>Banana type squash</li>
<li>Hard, light blue rind</li>
<li>Thick, sweet flesh</li>
<li>Excellent keeper</li>
<li>Winter squash</li>
<li>110 days 
</li>
</ul>
Instructions - <meta charset="utf-8">Sow seeds outdoors in 12" diameter hills after danger of frost has passed. Hills should be spaced 6' apart in all directions. Can also be started indoors 3 weeks before transplanting out. 
<meta charset="utf-8">Direct Seed: 1" Deep
<meta charset="utf-8">Seeds to Hill: 6-8 Seeds
<meta charset="utf-8">Thin: To 3-4 Plants
<meta charset="utf-8">Light: Full Sun
Firefly Farm &amp; Mercantile may substitute based on supplier availability

Pike's Peak or Sibley Squash, 1888 Heirloom

Currently stocking Southern Expsoure Seed Exchange. We carry both throughout to year depending on timing. The Seed Savers Exchange - (C. pepo) (aka Thelma Sanders Sweet Potato) Originally from Thelma Sanders of Kirksville, Missouri. The seed was passed from Evert Pettit to Sue and Tom Knoche, Ohio squash collectors. All these seed stewards were among SSE’s earliest members. Wonderful cream-colored acorn squash. Sweet chestnut flavor, enormously productive. Thelma described this good keeper as ‘better than sweet potatoes.’ 85-90 days. Characteristics: Organic Cream-colored acorn squash Sweet chestnut flavor Extremely productive Winter squash 85-90 days At least 20 seeds per packet Instructions - Sow seeds outdoors in 12" diameter hills after danger of frost has passed. Hills should be spaced 6' apart in all directions. Can also be started indoors 3 weeks before transplanting out. Direct Seed: 1" Deep Seeds to Hill: 6-8 Seeds Thin: To 3-4 Plants Light: Full Sun Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute based on supplier availability

Currently stocking Southern Expsoure Seed Exchange. We carry both throughout to year depending on timing.  The Seed Savers Exchange - (C. pepo) (aka Thelma Sanders Sweet Potato) Originally from Thelma Sanders of Kirksville, Missouri. The seed was passed from Evert Pettit to Sue and Tom Knoche, Ohio squash collectors. All these seed stewards were among SSE’s earliest members. Wonderful cream-colored acorn squash. Sweet chestnut flavor, enormously productive. Thelma described this good keeper as ‘better than sweet potatoes.’ 85-90 days. 
Characteristics: 
<ul>
<li>Organic</li>
<li>Cream-colored acorn squash</li>
<li>Sweet chestnut flavor</li>
<li>Extremely productive</li>
<li>Winter squash</li>
<li>85-90 days</li>
<li>At least 20 seeds per packet </li>
</ul>
Instructions -
<meta charset="utf-8">
Sow seeds outdoors in 12" diameter hills after danger of frost has passed. Hills should be spaced 6' apart in all directions. Can also be started indoors 3 weeks before transplanting out. 
<meta charset="utf-8">
Direct Seed: 1" Deep
<meta charset="utf-8">
Seeds to Hill: 6-8 Seeds
<meta charset="utf-8">
Thin: To 3-4 Plants
<meta charset="utf-8">
Light: Full Sun
Firefly Farm &amp; Mercantile may substitute based on supplier availability

Thelma Sanders Squash, Heirloom, Organic

Firefly Minipacket - 10 Seeds

Southern Exposure Seed Exchange Organic Seeds -20

Seedsavers Exchange

Deer Tongue Looseleaf Lettuce - 54 days. Upright, loose heads with excellent sweet flavor and crisp texture. Has slightly savoyed, triangular, round-tipped leaves with a succulent mid-rib. Moderate bolt resistance. One of our favorites.Included in Slow Food USA’s Ark of Taste. Characteristics: Organic Looseleaf and cut-and-come-again 55 days .5g, 400 -600 seeds Instructions - Sow continuously for a constant supply of lettuce. Best grown in cooler weather. Plant in full sun or partial shade. Direct Seed 1" apart Plant 1/4" deep Germinate 7-14 days Thin 6-8" apart Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability.

Deer Tongue Looseleaf Lettuce - 54 days. Upright, loose heads with excellent sweet flavor and crisp texture. Has slightly savoyed, triangular, round-tipped leaves with a succulent mid-rib. Moderate bolt resistance. One of our favorites. Included <a data-mce-fragment="1">in Slow Food USA’s Ark of Taste.</a>
Characteristics: 
<ul>
<li>Organic</li>
<li>Looseleaf and cut-and-come-again</li>
<li>55 days</li>
<li>.5g, 400 -600 seeds </li>
</ul>
 Instructions - Sow continuously for a constant supply of lettuce. Best grown in cooler weather. Plant in full sun or partial shade.
Direct Seed 1" apart
Plant 1/4" deep
Germinate 7-14 days
Thin 6-8" apart
Firefly Farm &amp; Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability.

Deer Tongue Looseleaf Lettuce, Heirloom, Organic

The Seed Savers Exchange - Amish Deer Tongue produces bright and crisp green leaves in abundance. harvest by the leaves or take the whole head. They are able to withstand warm temperature a bit longer. 50 days Organic Looseleaf lettuce Heat-tolerant Instructions - Sow continuously for a constant supply of lettuce. Best grown in cooler weather. Plant in full sun or partial shade. Direct Seed 1" apart Plant 1/4" deep Germinate 7-14 days Thin: 6-8" Apart Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability.

The Seed Savers Exchange - Amish Deer Tongue produces bright and crisp green leaves in abundance.  harvest by the leaves or take the whole head.  They are able to withstand warm temperature a bit longer. 
<ul>
<li>50 days</li>
<li>Organic</li>
<li>Looseleaf lettuce</li>
<li>Heat-tolerant</li>
</ul>
<ul></ul>
Instructions - Sow continuously for a constant supply of lettuce. Best grown in cooler weather. Plant in full sun or partial shade.
<ul>
<li>Direct Seed 1" apart</li>
<li>Plant 1/4" deep</li>
<li>Germinate 7-14 days</li>
<li>Thin: 6-8" Apart</li>
</ul>
Firefly Farm &amp; Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability.

Amish Deer Tongue Lettuce, organic

Lorz Italian Softneck Braids - Our farmer loves to braid her prized Lorz Italian Garlic. She grows a limited amount each year and we were lucky enough io be able to be offered some braids. This strain if Lorz has been grown in her family for decades. This garlic will last us through June so use it after you run out of other garlics. The braids are 1 lb and have planting and culinary sizes. Plant the bigger ones and the smaller ones. They are hardy with mulch (like hardnecks) in our zone 4 climate. They the thrive in zones 4-9. 7-14 Cloves per head Softneck garlic Sweet, mellow and rich garlic flavors Need 10+ or more, check out our 10lb options Garlic is a wonderful addition to our gardens. It is found in just about every household in America. It is very easy to grow in most of the United States. Our seedstock would be considered Large to Jumbo around 2” unless we have it noted. We only sell garlic that is excellent quality seed-stock. We then open our culinary stock up once we have sorted all of our harvests. We ship in mid to late September, depending on the variety. Please contact us to see what we have in stock There are 3 types of garlic to choose from: Hardneck, Softneck, and Elephant. Here is the lowdown on what this means so you can choose the best one for you and your family. Types of Garlic Hardneck - Cold Hardy to Zones 3-7 (and colder), Produces Garlic Scapes, Produces less cloves than softnecks but is generally larger, it stores for 3-5 months after harvest Softneck - Great for warm areas (zones (8-9) as they don't need the cold to make cloves, store for up to 9 months, smaller than hardnecks. Our varieties are hardy to zone 4. Elephant - Not really a garlic but an allium that possesses garlic like flavors. A clove can take 1-2 years to split into cloves. Plant in the fall or cooler season for areas with no frosts. Very large cloves with mild garlic flavors. Growing Instructions: For those in zones 3-7, plant garlic about 2-4 weeks before your first hard frost (not your first frost, but your first hard killing frost). Garlic needs about 4-8 weeks to root in and grow before the ground freezes. Plant 4" Deep Space 6-8" apart Mulch with 2-4" of straw, wood chips or other organic mulch, but refrain from pine straw or cedar chips. Weed often as garlic hates competition Hardnecks produce a garlic scape (flower) that should be harvested before the flower fully develops. This increases the bulb size.

Lorz Italian Softneck Braids - Our farmer loves to braid her prized Lorz Italian Garlic. She grows a limited amount each year and we were lucky enough io be able to be offered some braids. This strain if Lorz has been grown in her family for decades.
This garlic will last us through June so use it after you run out of other garlics. The braids are 1 lb and have planting and culinary sizes. Plant the bigger ones and the smaller ones. They are hardy with mulch (like hardnecks) in our zone 4 climate. They the thrive in zones 4-9. 
<ul>
<li>7-14 Cloves per head</li>
<li>Softneck  garlic</li>
<li>Sweet, mellow and rich garlic flavors</li>
<li>Need 10+ or more, check out our 10lb options</li>
</ul>
Garlic is a wonderful addition to our gardens. It is found in just about every household in America. It is very easy to grow in most of the United States. Our seedstock would be considered Large to Jumbo around 2” unless we have it noted. We only sell garlic that is excellent quality seed-stock. We then open our culinary stock up once we have sorted all of our harvests. 
We ship in mid to late September, depending on the variety. Please contact us to see what we have in stock 
There are 3 types of garlic to choose from: Hardneck, Softneck, and Elephant.  Here is the lowdown on what this means so you can choose the best one for you and your family. 
Types of Garlic
<ul>
<li>Hardneck - Cold Hardy to Zones 3-7 (and colder), Produces Garlic Scapes, Produces less cloves than softnecks but is generally larger, it stores for 3-5 months after harvest</li>
<li>Softneck - Great for warm areas (zones (8-9) as they don't need the cold to make cloves, store for up to 9 months, smaller than hardnecks. Our varieties are hardy to zone 4.</li>
<li>Elephant - Not really a garlic but an allium that possesses garlic like flavors. A clove can take 1-2 years to split into cloves. Plant in the fall or cooler season for areas with no frosts.  Very large cloves with mild garlic flavors. </li>
</ul>
Growing Instructions:
For those in zones 3-7, plant garlic about 2-4 weeks before your first hard frost (not your first frost, but your first hard killing frost).  Garlic needs about 4-8 weeks to root in and grow before the ground freezes. 
<ul>
<li>Plant 4" Deep</li>
<li>Space 6-8" apart</li>
<li>Mulch with 2-4" of straw, wood chips or other organic mulch, but refrain from pine straw or cedar chips. </li>
<li>Weed often as garlic hates competition</li>
<li>Hardnecks produce a garlic scape (flower) that should be harvested before the flower fully develops. This increases the bulb size.  </li>
</ul>

Lorz Italian Softneck Braids - Garlic Seed and Culinary Garlic

Purple Straw Wheat: The Heritage Heart of American Grain Experience the beauty and resilience of one of America’s most storied grains. At Firefly Farm & Mercantile, we are proud to offer Purple Straw Wheat, a variety that reigned supreme in American fields for over a century. If you are looking for a wheat that combines deep historical significance with stunning garden aesthetics, this is the grain for your legacy garden. 📜 A 200-Year Legacy Purple Straw is one of the oldest and most influential wheat varieties in the United States. The Early Days: Traced back to the early 1820s (and likely even earlier), Purple Straw was the dominant wheat grown across the American South and Mid-Atlantic for over 100 years. A Southern Staple: Before the industrialization of agriculture, this was the wheat that built the reputation of Southern biscuits and pastries. It was favored by farmers because it ripened earlier than other varieties, allowing them to avoid the devastating "wheat rust" and mid-summer heat. The Survivor: As high-yield, short-statured modern wheats took over in the 1950s, Purple Straw nearly vanished. It was meticulously preserved by heritage grain enthusiasts and is now making a triumphant return to artisanal bakeries and home gardens. 🎨 Why It’s Perfect for the Home Gardener Purple Straw isn't just a crop; it's a visual masterpiece in the landscape. The "Purple" Straw: True to its name, as the grain matures, the stems and stalks take on a striking purplish-blue to reddish-hue. A 20 sq. ft. bed of ripening Purple Straw is a breathtaking sight that stands out from any other grain. Manageable Height: While it is a tall heirloom (reaching 3–4 feet), it has stronger stalks than many other ancient varieties, meaning it is less likely to "lodge" (fall over) during a summer thunderstorm. Climate Resilience: Having been selected in the South, it is exceptionally tolerant of heat and humidity, making it a reliable performer in regions where other wheats might struggle with fungal issues. 🍽️ Culinary Profile: The Biscuit King Purple Straw is a Soft Red Winter Wheat, which means it is the gold standard for specific types of baking. Texture: It has a lower protein/gluten content compared to hard bread wheats like Yecora Rojo. This makes for a "shorter" crumb—perfect for biscuits, pancakes, pie crusts, and delicate pastries. Flavor: It produces a flour that is mild, sweet, and distinctly "creamy." When you mill this at home, you aren't just making flour; you are making the exact ingredient used in 19th-century kitchens. 🌿 Garden Performance & Planting Rates Garden Bed Coverage: One packet from Firefly Farm & Mercantile is designed to perfectly seed a 20 square foot bed (roughly an 8' to 10' long by 2.5' wide garden bed). Feature Details Type Soft Red Winter Wheat (Heirloom) Planting Density 25–30 seeds per sq. ft. Planting Window Late Fall (usually Sept–Nov) Plant Height 36–42 Inches Days to Harvest Harvest in early Summer (June/July) ✨ Why We Love It "Purple Straw is a 'bridge grain.' It connects the modern gardener to the very foundation of American food culture. We love it because it’s a triple-threat: it’s beautiful to look at, easy to grow in difficult climates, and produces the most tender biscuits you’ve ever tasted. It belongs in every heritage garden." 👨🌾 Cultivation Tips Sowing: For your 20 sq. ft. bed, broadcast your seeds evenly and rake in to a depth of 1 inch. As a Winter Wheat, it needs the cold of winter (vernalization) to produce grain heads in the spring. The Purple Reveal: Keep an eye on your bed about 2-3 weeks before harvest. As the green fades, the purple color will begin to "bleed" into the straw—this is the signal that your harvest is near! Grow a piece of American history. Order Purple Straw Wheat seeds today from Firefly Farm & Mercantile! 🌻

<h2 data-line="0" id="Purple Straw Wheat: The Heritage Heart of American Grain">Purple Straw Wheat: The Heritage Heart of American Grain</h2>
Experience the beauty and resilience of one of America’s most storied grains. At Firefly Farm &amp; Mercantile, we are proud to offer Purple Straw Wheat, a variety that reigned supreme in American fields for over a century. If you are looking for a wheat that combines deep historical significance with stunning garden aesthetics, this is the grain for your legacy garden.
<hr data-line="4">
<h3 data-line="6" id="📜 A 200-Year Legacy">📜 A 200-Year Legacy</h3>
Purple Straw is one of the oldest and most influential wheat varieties in the United States.
<ul data-line="9">
<li data-line="9">
The Early Days: Traced back to the early 1820s (and likely even earlier), Purple Straw was the dominant wheat grown across the American South and Mid-Atlantic for over 100 years.</li>
<li data-line="10">
A Southern Staple: Before the industrialization of agriculture, this was the wheat that built the reputation of Southern biscuits and pastries. It was favored by farmers because it ripened earlier than other varieties, allowing them to avoid the devastating "wheat rust" and mid-summer heat.</li>
<li data-line="11">
The Survivor: As high-yield, short-statured modern wheats took over in the 1950s, Purple Straw nearly vanished. It was meticulously preserved by heritage grain enthusiasts and is now making a triumphant return to artisanal bakeries and home gardens.</li>
</ul>
<hr data-line="13">
<h3 data-line="15" id="🎨 Why It’s Perfect for the Home Gardener">🎨 Why It’s Perfect for the Home Gardener</h3>
Purple Straw isn't just a crop; it's a visual masterpiece in the landscape.
<ul data-line="18">
<li data-line="18">
The "Purple" Straw: True to its name, as the grain matures, the stems and stalks take on a striking purplish-blue to reddish-hue. A 20 sq. ft. bed of ripening Purple Straw is a breathtaking sight that stands out from any other grain.</li>
<li data-line="19">
Manageable Height: While it is a tall heirloom (reaching 3–4 feet), it has stronger stalks than many other ancient varieties, meaning it is less likely to "lodge" (fall over) during a summer thunderstorm.</li>
<li data-line="20">
Climate Resilience: Having been selected in the South, it is exceptionally tolerant of heat and humidity, making it a reliable performer in regions where other wheats might struggle with fungal issues.</li>
</ul>
<hr data-line="22">
<h3 data-line="24" id="🍽️ Culinary Profile: The Biscuit King">🍽️ Culinary Profile: The Biscuit King</h3>
Purple Straw is a Soft Red Winter Wheat, which means it is the gold standard for specific types of baking.
<ul data-line="27">
<li data-line="27">
Texture: It has a lower protein/gluten content compared to hard bread wheats like Yecora Rojo. This makes for a "shorter" crumb—perfect for biscuits, pancakes, pie crusts, and delicate pastries.
</li>
<li data-line="28">
Flavor: It produces a flour that is mild, sweet, and distinctly "creamy." When you mill this at home, you aren't just making flour; you are making the exact ingredient used in 19th-century kitchens.</li>
</ul>
<hr data-line="30">
<h3 data-line="32" id="🌿 Garden Performance &amp; Planting Rates">🌿 Garden Performance &amp; Planting Rates</h3>
<blockquote data-line="33">
Garden Bed Coverage: One packet from Firefly Farm &amp; Mercantile is designed to perfectly seed a 20 square foot bed (roughly an 8' to 10' long by 2.5' wide garden bed).
</blockquote>
<table data-line="35">
<thead data-line="35">
<tr data-line="35">
<th>Feature</th>
<th>Details</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody data-line="37">
<tr data-line="37">
<td>Type</td>
<td>Soft Red Winter Wheat (Heirloom)</td>
</tr>
<tr data-line="38">
<td>Planting Density</td>
<td>25–30 seeds per sq. ft.</td>
</tr>
<tr data-line="39">
<td>Planting Window</td>
<td>Late Fall (usually Sept–Nov)</td>
</tr>
<tr data-line="40">
<td>Plant Height</td>
<td>36–42 Inches</td>
</tr>
<tr data-line="41">
<td>Days to Harvest</td>
<td>Harvest in early Summer (June/July)</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<hr data-line="43">
<h3 data-line="45" id="✨ Why We Love It">✨ Why We Love It</h3>
<blockquote data-line="46">
"Purple Straw is a 'bridge grain.' It connects the modern gardener to the very foundation of American food culture. We love it because it’s a triple-threat: it’s beautiful to look at, easy to grow in difficult climates, and produces the most tender biscuits you’ve ever tasted. It belongs in every heritage garden."
</blockquote>
<hr data-line="48">
<h3 data-line="50" id="👨🌾 Cultivation Tips">👨🌾 Cultivation Tips</h3>
<ul data-line="51">
<li data-line="51">
Sowing: For your 20 sq. ft. bed, broadcast your seeds evenly and rake in to a depth of 1 inch. As a Winter Wheat, it needs the cold of winter (vernalization) to produce grain heads in the spring.</li>
<li data-line="52">
The Purple Reveal: Keep an eye on your bed about 2-3 weeks before harvest. As the green fades, the purple color will begin to "bleed" into the straw—this is the signal that your harvest is near!</li>
</ul>
<hr data-line="54">
Grow a piece of American history. Order Purple Straw Wheat seeds today from Firefly Farm &amp; Mercantile! 🌻

Purple Straw Wheat, Winter Wheat, 1820's Southern Heirloom

Seed Packet - 450 seeds (20 sq ft)

﻿Seed Exchange - Wejn's Yellow Hot Pepper, Three-inch long wax peppers with thick walls, ripen from yellow to bright orange then red. Grown by the late Eris Wenk, one of the last large truck farmers in Albuquerque’s South Valley. A great variety for canning and pickling. 80 days from transplant Organic Waxy fruits ripen from yellow to red Medium hot pepper Fruits grow to 3 inches Great for canning and pickling 25 Seeds Instructions - Sow seeds indoors ¼” deep. Peppers germinate best in warm soil, so gentle bottom heat may be helpful until seedlings emerge. Wait to transplant outdoors until soil is warm. Sow indoors 8 weeks before the last frost Plant 1/4" deep Germinates in 14 days Plant Rows 12-24" apart Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute based on supplier availability

﻿Seed Exchange - Wejn's Yellow Hot Pepper, Three-inch long wax peppers with thick walls, ripen from yellow to bright orange then red. Grown by the late Eris Wenk, one of the last large truck farmers in Albuquerque’s South Valley. A great variety for canning and pickling.
<li>80 days from transplant</li>
<li>Organic</li>
<li>Waxy fruits ripen from yellow to red</li>
<li>Medium hot pepper</li>
<li>Fruits grow to 3 inches</li>
<li>Great for canning and pickling</li>
<li>25 Seeds</li>
 
Instructions - Sow seeds indoors ¼” deep. Peppers germinate best in warm soil, so gentle bottom heat may be helpful until seedlings emerge. Wait to transplant outdoors until soil is warm.
<ul>
<li>Sow indoors 8 weeks before the last frost</li>
<li>Plant 1/4" deep</li>
<li>Germinates in 14 days</li>
<li>Plant Rows 12-24" apart</li>
</ul>
Firefly Farm &amp; Mercantile may substitute based on supplier availability

Wenk's Yellow Hots Pepper, (Hot), Organic

The Seed Savers Exchange - Family heirloom brought to Missouri by covered wagon in the 1880s by Lina’s grandmother. Lina Sisco was one of the six original members of SSE, which was founded in 1975. Large tan bean with maroon markings. This is very similar to a Cherry Bean or a Dwarf Horticulture Bean. The pods are mature to be maroon with cream striping. The horticultural type is used as a dry bean. Bush habit, dry, 85 days. ±1,100 seeds/lb. Bush bean Open-Pollinated Tan beans with maroon markings Dry or Horticultural bean 85 days 50 Seeds per Pack Instructions - Sow seeds outdoors after the danger of frost has passed and soil and air temperatures have warmed. Harvest dry beans when the pods are completely mature and dry. Direct Seed 2" apart Plant 1" deep Plant 36-48" rows apart Full Sun Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability We are always adding new varieties so please check back often at Seeds - Vegetables (fireflyfarmandmercantile.com)

The Seed Savers Exchange - Family heirloom brought to Missouri by covered wagon in the 1880s by Lina’s grandmother. Lina Sisco was one of the six original members of SSE, which was founded in 1975. Large tan bean with maroon markings. This is very similar to a Cherry Bean or a Dwarf Horticulture Bean. The pods are mature to be maroon with cream striping. 
The horticultural type is used as a dry bean. Bush habit, dry, 85 days. ±1,100 seeds/lb.
<meta charset="utf-8">
<li>Bush bean</li>
<li>Open-Pollinated</li>
<li>Tan beans with maroon markings</li>
<li>Dry or Horticultural bean</li>
<li>85 days</li>
<li>50 Seeds per Pack</li>
 
Instructions -
<meta charset="utf-8">
Sow seeds outdoors after the danger of frost has passed and soil and air temperatures have warmed. Harvest dry beans when the pods are completely mature and dry.
Direct Seed 2" apart 
Plant 1" deep
Plant 36-48" rows apart
Full Sun 
Firefly Farm &amp; Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability
We are always adding new varieties so please check back often at <a href="https://fireflyfarmandmercantile.com/pages/seeds-vegetables" data-mce-fragment="1">Seeds - Vegetables (fireflyfarmandmercantile.com)</a>

Lina Sisco's Bird Egg Bush Bean, 1880 Heirloom

Slow Food's The Ark of the Taste Collection

Wrap the items in a beautiful gift wrap for maximum surprise!

Gift Wrap

👑 Brandywine Pink Tomato: The "King" of Heirlooms If there is one tomato that defines the heirloom movement, it is the Brandywine Pink Tomato . Often cited as the best-tasting tomato in the world, this 19th-century classic is the benchmark by which all other beefsteaks are measured. With its rich history and legendary "spicy-sweet" flavor, no serious garden is complete without a Brandywine vine. 📜 A Rich Heritage The Brandywine's origins are as rich as its flavor: The Amish Connection: While there are many "Brandywine" varieties, the Pink Brandywine (Sudduth Strain) is the most famous. It is believed to have been cultivated by Amish farmers in the mid-to-late 1800s. 1885 Debut: It first gained wide popularity after being featured in the Johnson & Stokes seed catalog in 1885. The Legend of Ben Quisenberry: The variety was kept alive through the 20th century by legendary seed saver Ben Quisenberry, who famously said, "Nothing is better than a Brandywine." ✨ Key Features Potato-Leaf Foliage: Unlike most tomatoes, the Brandywine features "potato-leaf" foliage (broad, smooth leaves), a hallmark of many high-quality heirloom varieties. Massive Beefsteaks: These are true giants, often weighing between 1 to 2 pounds. Indeterminate Vines: Large, vigorous plants that produce fruit throughout the summer until the first frost. Iconic Flavor: It possesses a complex, rich, and slightly acidic "old-fashioned" tomato flavor that modern hybrids simply cannot replicate. 🍅 Flavor & Growth Profile Attribute Description Fruit Color Deep Pink / Rose-Red Fruit Size Large Beefsteak (12–24 oz) Flavor Perfectly balanced sweetness with a spicy, rich kick Days to Maturity 80–90 Days (A late-season reward) Plant Type Indeterminate (Requires strong support) 🍴 Culinary Inspiration The Brandywine is a "slicing tomato" in its purest form. Because the flavor is so intense, it is best enjoyed with minimal interference: The Ultimate Tomato Sandwich: Thick-cut slices on toasted bread with a smear of high-quality mayo and a pinch of sea salt. Classic Caprese: Layer with fresh buffalo mozzarella, basil leaves, and a drizzle of balsamic reduction. Gourmet Burgers: One slice is usually large enough to cover the entire patty. Fresh Salsas: Its meaty texture ensures your salsa isn't too watery. 🪴 Growing Tips for Success Provide Support: These vines are heavy and the fruit is massive. Use heavy-duty cages or a sturdy trellis system. Be Patient: Brandywine is a "late-season" variety. It takes longer to ripen than many other tomatoes, but the wait is well worth it. Pruning: To encourage the largest possible fruits, prune the side "suckers" and allow the plant to focus its energy on a few main stems. "If you only grow one heirloom tomato in your lifetime, make it the Brandywine. It isn't just a vegetable; it’s a gourmet experience that has survived for over 130 years for a reason." Ready to taste the legend?Add the Brandywine Pink Tomato to your garden this season and discover why it remains the gold standard of the heirloom world.

Brandywine Pink Tomato (Sudduth), 1880's Heirloom, organic options available

Seedsaver's is letting this one rest this year. We are testing our seed of what we grew this summer as we are growing out select varieties on the Ark of the Taste Foods. The Seed Savers Exchange - From the family of George Admire (1822-1911) a Civil War veteran who migrated west to Putnam County, Missouri during the 1850s. Bronze-tinged leaves form large loose heads. Mild flavor, slow to bolt, even in extreme heat. Butterhead, 60 days. Characteristics: Organic Bronze-tinged leaves Slow to bolt, even in extreme heat Butterhead lettuce 60 days 500 Seeds Instructions - Sow continuously for a constant supply of lettuce. Best grown in cooler weather. Plant in full sun or partial shade. Direct Seed 1" apart Plant 1/4" deep Germinate 7-14 days Thin 6-8" apart Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability.

Grandpa Admire's Lettuce, 1800's Heirloom, Organic

The Seed Savers Exchange - Introduced by North Carolina SSE member Craig LeHoullier in 1991 from seed obtained from J. D. Green of Tennessee. Uniquely colored dusty rose-brown fruits weigh up to 12 ounces. Delicious sweet flesh. Indeterminate, 75-90 days from transplant. Characteristics: Dusty rose-brown fruits grow to 12 ounces Sweet flavor Organic, Heirloom, Non-GMO Indeterminate - Fruit ripens throughout the season 75-90 days from transplant 25 Seeds Instructions - Sow seeds indoors ¼" deep. Tomatoes are sensitive to freezing temperatures, so wait to transplant outdoors until the soil is warm. Plant in full sun. Sow indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost Germination 7-14 days Plant apart 24-36" Plants need trellising or staking Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability such as High Mowing Organic

Cherokee Purple Tomato, Heirloom, Organic options available

If I could only grow one tomato, this would probably be it! It’s fruit is always consistent, meaty yet juicy. I love to pair with a fried egg, eat on a sandwich, use it to make sauce, or chop it and create bruschetta or add it to my fresh salads. The Seed Savers Exchange - One of the two original Bavarian heirlooms from Diane Ott Wheatley's family that started Seed Savers. Potato leaf plants produce large 1-2 pound beefsteak fruits. Meaty flesh with few seeds, very little cracking or blossom scars. Full sweet flavor. Excellent for canning, freezing, and slicing. Indeterminate, 85 days from transplant. Characteristics: Organic Pink fruits grow to 1-2 pounds Meaty beefsteak fruits have few seeds and little cracking Potato leaf plants Fruit ripens throughout the season 85 days from transplant 25 Seeds Instructions - Sow seeds indoors ¼" deep. Tomatoes are sensitive to freezing temperatures, so wait to transplant outdoors until the soil is warm. Plant in full sun. Sow indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost Germination 7-14 days Plant apart 24-36" Plants need trellising or staking Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability

German Pink Tomato, Heirloom, Organic

The Seed Savers Exchange - Eye-popping and scrumptious with bright pink sweet flesh and black seeds, this variety produces fruits that are about 2' long and weigh 10-16 pounds. Introduced in 1924 as Sun, Moon, and Stars by Peter Henderson & Co of New York. This strain is from Mereel Hales of Oklahoma who feels it is a pure example of the original variety Hales received from a Cherokee man in Mississippi. 95 days. Characteristics: Organic Elongated fruits grow to 24 inches long Fruits weigh up to 10-16 pounds Sweet pink flesh Speckled rind with "moon" and "star" markings 95 days 25 seeds Instructions - Sow seeds outdoors in 12" diameter hills after danger of frost has passed and soil has warmed. Space hills 8' apart in all directions. Seeds will germinate in 4-10 days. Can also be started indoors 4 weeks before transplanting out. Watermelons love heat and prefer sandy or light-textured soils. Plant 1/2" deep Hill 6-8 seeds together Thin to 3-4 plants Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability

Moon & Stars (Cherokee) Watermelon, 1924 Heirloom,

The Seed Savers Exchange - Easy-to-grow, prolific, and super-sweet, this ground cherry works well for preserves and pies, over ice cream, and in fresh-fruit salads—or can simply be eaten straight out of the garden. The plants have a sprawling habit and produce ½-¾" fruits encased in a papery husk that turns brown when the fruits ripen. This beloved variety takes its name from an ice cream stand, named not for a dear aunt, but for a cherished pet dog of the owners of Territorial Seed. Characteristics: Prolific and super sweet Fruits grow to ½ to ¾ inch Fruits have a papery husk Sweet variety that stores well 70 days from transplant Instructions - Sow seeds indoors ¼" deep. Plant out when the danger of frost has passed. Excellent results when grown on landscape cloth, which suppresses weeds and makes collecting the fruits easier. Start indoors 6 weeks before the last frost Germinate 14 days Plant 12-18" apart Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability

Aunt Molly's Ground Cherry, Aunt Molly's Husk Tomato, Organic Available

Seed Savers Exchange - Dependable and delicious, these fire-engine-red peppers were given to Seed Savers Exchange by Jimmy Nardello, whose mother brought the seeds to the United States when she emigrated with her husband, Guiseppe, from the Basilicata region of Italy in 1887. One of the best peppers for frying, with a mild, spicy flavor. Productive plants are loaded with glossy-red 10"-long peppers. Plants may have to be staked. An SSE staff favorite. 80-90 days from transplant. Sweet. Characteristics: Very productive Excellent frying pepper Sweet pepper 50 Seeds Instructions - Sow seeds indoors ¼” deep. Peppers germinate best in warm soil, so gentle bottom heat may be helpful until seedlings emerge. Wait to transplant outdoors until the soil is warm. Sow indoors 8 weeks before the last frost Plant 1/4" deep Germinates in 14 days Plant Rows 12-24" apart Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute based on supplier availability

Jimmy Nardello's Pepper, pre 1887 Heirloom (Sweet)

Seed Exchange - The 3"long, colorful, striped peppers of this variety are borne on 2'-tall plants with beautiful variegated foliage. Traditionally used in oyster and crab houses around Chesapeake Bay, this 19th-century African-American heirloom was first offered by William Woys Weaver in the 1995 Seed Savers Exchange Yearbook. His grandfather received the seeds in the 1940s from Horace Pippin of West Chester, Pennsylvania. 80 days from transplant. Medium hot. Characteristics: Organic Plants grow to 2 feet Good for container gardens Fruits grow to 3 inches Plants and peppers are variegated Medium hot pepper 80 days from transplant 25 Seeds Instructions - Sow seeds indoors ¼” deep. Peppers germinate best in warm soil, so gentle bottom heat may be helpful until seedlings emerge. Wait to transplant outdoors until the soil is warm. Sow indoors 8 weeks before the last frost Plant 1/4" deep Germinates in 14 days Plant Rows 12-24" apart Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute based on supplier availability

Fish Pepper, 1800's Heirloom (Hot)

Seed Exchange - Also known as Cherokee Black, the variety is good as both a snap and a dry bean; when mature, the greenish-purple 6” pods encase shiny jet-black seeds. This bean was shared with Seed Savers Exchange by the late Dr. John Wyche of Hugo, Oklahoma. His Cherokee ancestors carried this bean over the Trail of Tears, the infamous winter death march from the Smoky Mountains to Oklahoma (1838-39) that left a trail of 4,000 graves. Pole habit, snap or dry, 85 days. Pole bean Black seeds Green 6 inch pods with purple overlay Snap or dry bean 85 days 50 seeds Instructions - Sow seeds outdoors after danger of frost has passed and soil and air temperatures have warmed. Harvest frequently to increase yield. Pods can be left on the vine to mature and then harvested as dry beans. Direct Seed 2" apart Planting Depth 1" Support with trellis, teepee, or fencing

Cherokee Trail of Tears Pole Bean pre-1800’s Heirloom

Seed Exchange - Seeds were originally obtained from the Arikara tribe of North Dakota and introduced in Oscar Will’s Pioneer Indian Collection of seeds (1914). Yellow-tan seeds with red-brown eye rings. Excellent for use as a baking bean. Prolific plants, good drought tolerance. Bush habit, dry, 80-90 days Bush beans Yellow-tan seeds with red-brown eye ring Good drought tolerance Excellent used as a baking bean Dry bean 80-90 days 50 seeds Instructions - Sow seeds outdoors after danger of frost has passed and soil and air temperatures have warmed. Harvest dry beans when the pods are completely mature and dry. Direct Seed 2" apart Planting Depth 1" Plant Rows Apart 36"-48"

Arikara Yellow Bush Bean, pre-1800’s Heirloom

📜 The Rich History of Jacob’s Cattle Beans For many heirloom enthusiasts, the story behind the seed is just as important as the harvest. The Jacob's Cattle Bean boasts a deep-rooted history that bridges indigenous agricultural wisdom with early American colonial life. 🏛 Origins & Legend The bean’s name is a biblical reference to the Book of Genesis, describing the spotted and speckled cattle bred by the patriarch Jacob. While the name is European in origin, the bean itself is a New World treasure. Historical records and oral traditions suggest: Indigenous Roots: The bean was traditionally cultivated by the Passamaquoddy people of the Northeastern United States and Southeastern Canada (Maine and New Brunswick Heirloom). The Legend of the Gift: Local lore suggests that the bean was gifted by the Passamaquoddy to early European settlers, specifically a group in Lubec, Maine, as a gesture of goodwill. It quickly became a staple of "Down East" Maine culture. 📅 Appearance in Seed Catalogs While the bean had been a regional favorite in New England for centuries, it didn't enter the formal commercial trade until the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Key Historical Milestone:The Jacob's Cattle bean first began appearing in prominent commercial seed catalogs in the early 1900s. It was famously championed by Edward Lowden of Ontario, Canada, and later became a standout variety in the catalogs of heirloom pioneers who sought to preserve the "Maine baking bean" tradition. 🕰 A Survivor of Time Throughout the mid-20th century, as industrial farming shifted toward uniform, white navy beans, the Jacob's Cattle bean was kept alive by home gardeners and homesteaders in the Northeast. These "seed savers" valued the bean for its: Short Season Reliability: Its ability to mature quickly in the cool, short summers of the North. Nutritional Density: A vital source of protein for families during long winters. Today, it is recognized as a premier heirloom, celebrated by organizations like Slow Food USA in their "Ark of Taste"—a catalog of endangered heritage foods that are sustainably produced and unique in flavor. 🛠 Growing Facts & Requirements Attribute Specification Common Name Jacob's Cattle Bean Variety Name Phaseolus vulgaris (Trout Bean) Plant Type Determinate Bush (Upright) Days to Maturity 85 - 90 Days (Dry) Sun Requirement Full Sun (6-8 hours) Soil Preference Well-drained, fertile soil (pH 6.0 - 7.0) Watering Moderate; avoid wetting foliage to prevent disease Planting Depth 1 inch (2.5 cm) Plant Spacing 3 inches apart in rows 18-24 inches apart 💡 Why You Will Love It By planting these seeds, your customers aren't just growing a vegetable; they are participating in a centuries-old conservation effort. Every harvest helps ensure that this vibrant, speckled piece of agricultural history continues to thrive for future generations.

Slow Food's The Ark of the Taste Collection

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