Growing Information

Cucumber Growing Information

Do not plant until the temperature has warmed up and settled-after last frost date. For direct seeding, plant 5-6 seeds @ one inch deep in a circle @ eight inches in diameter. Thin to 2-3 plants. Growing cucumbers on a trellis (sow 1 seed/2", thin to 6") will keep your long cucumbers such as our Abruzzo straight and they are easier to find. For melons, consider using black plastic mulch for added heat (and weed control). You can start both of these as transplants, but like squash, these resent having the roots disturbed so be careful when transplanting.

Tomato Growing Information

Start tomato transplants 6-7 weeks before set out date which is after the last frost date when the soil is good and warm. There are numerous ways to start seedlings, but this works as well as any. Fill a container with seed starting mix or home made seed starting mix. Wet it well. Scatter seeds lightly (1/2 inch apart) and cover with a quarter inch of vermiculite (if you can find it) or some more potting soil. Do not cover with plastic or use a cover. Put in a warm place.  Tomatoes need 75F or so to germinate quickly. It is best to use a heating pad or a homemade heat box.

Pepper Growing Information

Peppers can be started 8-10 weeks before setting out. There are numerous ways to start seedlings, but this works as well as any. Fill a container with seed starting mix or home made seed starting mix. Wet it well. Scatter seeds lightly (1/2 inch apart) and cover with a quarter inch of vermiculite (if you can find it) or some more potting soil. Do not cover with plastic or use a cover. Put in a warm place. Peppers need warmth (80-85F or so) to germinate well; they will rot in cold soil. It is best to use a heating pad or a homemade heat box.