Row by Row Garden Show: Recent Episodes

Greg and Travis

Join Greg and Travis from Hoss Tools for the Row by Row Garden Show. Their weekly vegetable gardening show focuses on content for people who like to grow their own food. Greg and Travis discuss current gardening trends, best varieties to plant, tips and tricks for improving your harvest, and much more!!

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Hey neighbor! We’re in the dog days of summer, but fall gardening season is right around the corner. So let's talk about what you can plant right now as you transition into cooler weather, starting with one of our favorites: field peas.

We prefer planting field peas for a fall crop because they consistently deliver better flavor, improved yields, and handle late-season conditions well. We’ll break down the different types of field peas, including crowder and cream varieties, and explain the difference.

We’ll also cover planting methods and timing to help you get strong germination and healthy growth. Whether you’re direct seeding or filling in open rows from summer crops, these tips will help you maximize your production heading into fall.

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Hey Neighbor! Fall gardening is right around the corner, and now is the time to start planning the garden you want this season. In this episode, we’re talking all about fall garden preparation, including what seeds you should be starting now, what crops you can direct sow, and what plants are better left waiting until temperatures begin to cool down.

We’ll break down what different growing zones should be doing right now and the timeline you can expect for your fall crops. We’ll start a tray of broccoli, talk about some of our favorite fall varieties, and share what we’re excited to grow in the Hoss garden this season.

We’ll also cover when to start onions, which plants we’ll be offering this fall, and the crops we’re looking forward to harvesting as the garden transitions from summer to fall. Whether you’re planting a full garden or just getting started with a few fall favorites, there’s plenty of opportunity ahead.

Fall gardening is one of our favorite times of year, and we can’t wait to share the journey with you. Join us as we get the Hoss garden ready for another season. Let’s get dirty!

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Hey Neighbor,

Is your drip irrigation system not performing like it used to? Clogged emitters, uneven watering, low pressure, and mineral buildup can all keep your garden from getting the water it needs.

In this video, Greg shares the most common reasons drip irrigation systems fail and the simple maintenance steps you can take to get them working like new again. A little preventative maintenance now can save your plants, conserve water, and keep your garden thriving through the hottest part of the season.

In this video, you'll learn:

• The most common causes of drip irrigation problems

• How to identify clogged emitters and blocked lines

• Tips for flushing and cleaning your system

• Simple maintenance that extends the life of your irrigation setup

• How to keep your garden watered efficiently all season long

Whether you're growing vegetables in raised beds, rows, or containers, these quick maintenance tips will help you get the most from your drip irrigation system.

Shop Drip Irrigation - https://shorturl.at/NX9ed

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Hey Neighbor! Think it's too late to garden in July? Think again!

In this episode of the Row By Row Garden Show, we're talking about what you should be doing in your garden right now, from planting late-season crops and preparing for your fall garden to staying safe while harvesting fresh produce during the recent Cyclospora outbreaks.

In This Episode:

Can you still garden in July?

What vegetables you can still plant before July 20

How to start planning your fall garden

Watering, mulching, cover crops, and garden maintenance

Growing pumpkins for Halloween

Tips for gardeners heading out on vacation

Why container gardening is a great option during summer heat

Cyclospora Food Safety Update:

Several states, including Michigan, Ohio, North Carolina, and New York City, have reported increased Cyclospora cases this year. We discuss:

✅ Proper produce washing techniques

✅ Why soap and water beat hand sanitizer

✅ Foods commonly linked to past outbreaks

✅ Symptoms to watch for

✅ Why growing your own food is one of the best ways to know where your food comes from

July Garden Checklist

✔️ Plan your fall garden

✔️ Remove spent crops quickly

✔️ Plant tomatoes, corn, okra, cucumbers, squash, beans, and more

✔️ Water deeply—not frequently

✔️ Keep weeds under control

✔️ Make notes about sun, shade, drainage, pests, and irrigation

✔️ Start fall transplants indoors

✔️ Grow in containers for flexibility during the summer heat

Garden Spotlight:

This week's spotlight features Sharon Colburn from Harvest, Alabama (Zone 7), sharing an incredible harvest of Hoss green beans, squash, carrots, and onions—and why she loves the Hoss Fertilizer Injector!

Plus, don't miss another classic Old Goat Drawing with Patsy McBroom!

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Hey Neighbor! While Hoss and Mama Hoss are off enjoying a well-deserved vacation, Evan and Karrie are stepping in to keep things rolling. And maybe stir up a little fun along the way.

In this episode, we’re switching things up with some behind-the-scenes questions, a few laughs, and some honest moments about Grow Hoss employees. Catch this off-the-cuff conversation that gives you a peek at what goes on when the boss is away.

Evan also shares a few annual flowers you should be thinking about starting soon, so you can stay on track and keep your garden looking its best.

And make sure you stick around to the very end… things get interesting with a tomato sandwich showdown, and PB steps in as the official judge. You won’t want to miss it.

Flowers - https://growhoss.com/collections/flowers

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Hey Neighbor! This week on Row by Row, we’re getting back to the roots of a successful garden by talking all about fertility. Mid-season is when your crops really start telling you what they need, and if you’re not paying attention to your soil, you could be leaving a lot of harvest on the table. We’re taking a closer look at what your garden needs right now, with a special focus on root crops like sweet potatoes and how to keep them growing strong through the heat of summer.

We’ll break down the importance of NPK levels, how each nutrient plays a role in plant development, and what to look for when your plants are lacking. Plus, we’ll touch on a few common pest issues you might be seeing this time of year and how to handle them before they get out of hand.

If you want healthier plants, better yields, and a more productive garden, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss. Grab a seat and let’s grow together.

Fertilizers: https://tinyurl.com/hoss-fertilizers

Have you joined the Hoss Gardening Club? – the EASY way to garden! A Monthly subscription box delivered right to you with everything you need! Get Dirty! Join the club here: https://shorturl.at/S4bDu

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Hey Neighbor! Thinking about planting summer cover crops? Let's break down the key benefits, tradeoffs, and how to choose the right option for your garden. Cover crops can help reduce erosion, build soil organic matter, improve fertility, suppress weeds, and even attract pollinators. But they also require water and proper management, especially during hot summer months.

We cover when to plant (typically June–July), when to terminate, and highlight several popular options like Sunn Hemp, Iron Clay Peas, Buckwheat, and more. Each one bringing its own strengths depending on your goals.

Whether you’re looking to improve soil health or prep for your next crop, this guide will help you get started with summer cover crops.

Summer Cover Crops - https://growhoss.com/collections/cover-crops

FLOWER PLUGS - https://growhoss.com/collections/flower-plants

Have you joined the Hoss Gardening Club? – the EASY way to garden! A Monthly subscription box delivered right to you with everything you need! Get Dirty! Join the club here: https://shorturl.at/S4bDu

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Hey Neighbor! June in the south means the summer heat is here, and your garden plan needs to shift to crops that thrive in it. We’re covering what you should be planting right now, including heat-loving staples like okra, sweet potatoes, squash, and more. We also talk about heat-tolerant greens and edible hibiscus that can handle the high temperatures when traditional greens cannot. A successful June garden is not just about vegetables. We highlight herbs like basil along with tropical spices such as ginger and turmeric that grow well in the heat. Flowers like sunflowers, zinnias, and marigolds are also key this time of year, not only for color but for attracting pollinators and beneficial insects that help control pests naturally.

We also walk through important garden chores to stay on track this month, including deep watering, monitoring for pests and disease, feeding your plants, cleaning up unused space, and more. Harvest tips are just as important, so we cover when and how to pick for the best flavor and continued production, from harvesting early in the morning to keeping okra cut and picking tomatoes at first blush.

If you want to keep your garden productive through the summer and set yourself up for a strong fall season, this is your June game plan!

Have you joined the Hoss Gardening Club? – the EASY way to garden! A Monthly subscription box delivered right to you with everything you need! Get Dirty! Join the club here: https://shorturl.at/S4bDu

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Hey Neighbor! The garden is flourishing and we are enjoying all the fresh produce, but what happens when you can't eat it fast enough? Tonight, we’re walking through how to preserve your summer harvest so you can enjoy the fruits of your labor year round. From corn and beans to tomatoes, cucumbers, and more, each crop has a best method for preserving flavor, texture, and nutrition. We cover freezing, pressure canning, dehydrating, pickling, and even fermenting so you can choose the right approach for your harvest.

Learn why low-acid vegetables like corn and green beans require pressure canning, how easy it is to freeze peppers and tomatoes, and the best ways to turn cucumbers into pickles or berries into jams and freezer staples. Whether you’re stocking the freezer, filling the pantry, or trying to reduce waste, these simple methods will help you make the most of every harvest.

If your garden is producing more than you can keep up with, this is what you should be doing. Let’s put that harvest to work.

Preserving Information - https://growhoss.com/pages/garden-planning-resources

Have you joined the Hoss Gardening Club? – the EASY way to garden! A Monthly subscription box delivered right to you with everything you need! Get Dirty! Join the club here: https://shorturl.at/S4bDu

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Hey Neighbor! Gardening through the summer heat can feel like keeping a tiny jungle alive under a blazing sky, but with the right techniques, your garden can thrive even in the hottest months.

In this week’s Row By Row Garden Show, we’re sharing practical tips for gardening in Southern summer heat, including:

???? How to water deeply for stronger roots

???? Why mulch is your garden’s best friend

???? Using shade cloth to protect crops

???? Helping pollinators survive extreme temperatures

???? The best heat-loving crops to grow right now

???? Tips for tomatoes during high heat stress

???? How to start planning your fall garden early

Whether you’re gardening in Georgia, Texas, Florida, or anywhere with intense summer temperatures, these strategies will help you work with the heat instead of fighting against it. Because summer gardening isn’t about perfection, it’s about endurance, healthy soil, and learning how to ride the seasonal waves.

???? Let us know in the comments:

What’s thriving in YOUR summer garden right now?

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Hey Neighbor! Think it’s too late to plant? Think again. Late May is actually prime time for a wide range of warm-season crops, especially in the South and other hot-growing zones. Let's break down exactly what you can still plant right now, whether you’re direct sowing seeds or setting out transplants.

From fast-producing crops like okra and squash to heat-loving staples like roselle, peppers, and sweet potatoes, there’s still plenty of opportunity to get a productive garden in the ground. We also cover key tips like succession planting every couple weeks, why corn needs to be planted in blocks for proper pollination, and how mulch can make or break your tomato success in the heat.

If you’re looking to maximize your summer garden and keep the harvest going strong, this is your go-to late May planting guide.

*Trial Zinnia Name: Zowie! Yellow Flame

True Grit: Appalachian Ways - Strawberry Biscuit Video:

https://youtu.be/-7oIuS3Bfrg?si=xswX1d4A5MHjai-T

Have you joined the Hoss Gardening Club? – the EASY way to garden! A Monthly subscription box delivered right to you with everything you need! Get Dirty! Join the club here: https://shorturl.at/S4bDu

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Hey Neighbor! Are you growing flowers in your garden? In this episode, we’re talking about why flowers are more than just something pretty to look at. They play a critical role in supporting pollinators and improving the success of your vegetable garden. From bees to butterflies, pollinators are responsible for over one third of our food production, and they rely on us to provide the habitat and food sources they need to thrive.

We walk through what pollinators are, why they matter, and how adding flowers and native plants to your garden can make a real impact. Plus, we share how you can take those blooms and turn them into beautiful, homegrown flower arrangements to enjoy inside your home.

If you want a garden that gives back, produces more, and brings a little extra beauty to your day, this is a great place to start.

Flower Seeds: https://growhoss.com/collections/flowers

Have you joined the Hoss Gardening Club? – the EASY way to garden! A Monthly subscription box delivered right to you with everything you need! Get Dirty! Join the club here: https://shorturl.at/S4bDu

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Hey Neighbor! Tonight, we’re breaking down why your okra might be lacking flavor and how to grow tender, great-tasting pods all season long. Getting the best quality okra comes down to a few key factors like harvest timing, plant nutrition, and consistent care. We cover when to harvest for peak flavor, why picking small and often matters, and how heat, sunlight, and even time of day can impact sweetness. We also dive into fertilization and watering, including how too much nitrogen or inconsistent moisture can lead to bland or tough pods. Listen in to learn simple pruning techniques to improve airflow and production, along with a look at different okra varieties so you can choose the right fit for your garden.

If you want higher yields and better tasting okra this season, this episode is packed with practical tips to help you get there.

Okra Seeds: https://growhoss.com/collections/okra

Live Plants: https://growhoss.com/collections/plants-bulbs

Have you joined the Hoss Gardening Club? – the EASY way to garden! A Monthly subscription box delivered right to you with everything you need! Get Dirty! Join the club here: https://shorturl.at/S4bDu

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Hey neighbor! Tonight, we’re sharing our top 5 favorite things to grow right now as the garden shifts into summer. These picks were chosen for their ability to handle the heat while still producing strong, whether you’re growing for beauty, flavor, or both. From multiple varieties of sunflowers, space-saving cantaloupe, productive okra, and more, we’re breaking down why these varieties stand out and how they can fit into your garden this season.

If you’re looking for reliable, easy-to-grow options that deliver through the warmer months, this is a great place to start.

Have you joined the Hoss Gardening Club? – the EASY way to garden! A Monthly subscription box delivered right to you with everything you need! Get Dirty! Join the club here: https://shorturl.at/S4bDu

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Hey Neighbor! The garden is growing and so are the pests! In April, pest pressure starts building fast. Aphids, fire ants, squash bugs, and more are already targeting new growth, and catching them early is the key to staying in control. Tonight, we break down what pests to watch for right now and how to manage them using simple, effective methods like scouting, handpicking, proper watering, and targeted treatments like neem oil and more. We also cover crop-specific threats for tomatoes, squash, beans, corn, and greens so you know exactly what to look for in your garden.

Stay consistent, act early, and you will prevent small problems from turning into major infestations.

Live Plants: https://growhoss.com/collections/plants-bulbs

Have you joined the Hoss Gardening Club? – the EASY way to garden! A Monthly subscription box delivered right to you with everything you need! Get Dirty! Join the club here: https://shorturl.at/S4bDu

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Hey Neighbor! This week we asked you to send in your burning questions, and y’all delivered. Now, we are going to answer them! From planting herbs to dealing with common garden pests and figuring out timing for your spring and summer crops, we are covering a little bit of everything to help you grow with confidence this season. If you have been wondering what to spray for worms, how to handle powdery mildew, or how late is too late to plant certain crops, this episode is packed with practical, real-world advice you can take straight to the garden. Follow along and see what you can learn for your own setup.

Live Plants: https://growhoss.com/collections/plants-bulbs

Have you joined the Hoss Gardening Club? – the EASY way to garden! A Monthly subscription box delivered right to you with everything you need! Get Dirty! Join the club here: https://shorturl.at/S4bDu

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Hey Neighbor! April is go time in southern gardens, and tonight we are breaking down your complete April garden checklist to set you up for a productive season. From what to plant right now to the must-do tasks you cannot skip, we cover everything you need to stay on track this spring. Learn how to properly harden off seedlings, prepare your soil for planting, and why consistent deep watering is key to preventing issues like blossom end rot later on. We also cover the importance of mulching, how to fertilize at the right stages for strong growth and better yields, and how to get ahead of common garden pests before they become a problem. Plus, we share what you can grow right now and tips for succession planting to keep your garden producing all season long. Whether you are a beginner gardener or experienced grower, this April gardening guide will help you grow smarter, avoid common mistakes, and maximize your harvest.

Live Plants: https://growhoss.com/collections/plants-bulbs

Have you joined the Hoss Gardening Club? – the EASY way to garden! A Monthly subscription box delivered right to you with everything you need! Get Dirty! Join the club here: https://shorturl.at/S4bDu

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Hey neighbor! Join us as Evan steps in for Hoss and Mama Hoss and takes us on a tour of Mama Hoss’ beautiful potager garden. Evan walks through how the garden is designed and planted for both efficiency and productivity, showing how every space is used with purpose, and maybe a few mistakes that were made. You’ll get a closer look at the varieties she chose to grow this season, along with a few trials we’re testing out in the garden this year. If you’re looking for garden layout ideas, planting inspiration, or ways to make your space more productive, this tour is full of practical takeaways you can apply to your own garden. Spend a relaxing day in the garden with us and get inspired for your next planting.

Live Plants: https://growhoss.com/collections/plants-bulbs

Have you joined the Hoss Gardening Club? – the EASY way to garden! A Monthly subscription box delivered right to you with everything you need! Get Dirty! Join the club here: https://shorturl.at/S4bDu

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Hey Neighbor! It’s that time of year when tomatoes are top of mind, and unfortunately, so is blossom end rot. In this episode, we take a deep dive into one of the most common tomato problems and clear up the confusion around what actually causes it. We debunk popular myths about calcium tablets, eggshells, and quick fixes, and explain why blossom end rot is usually not a true calcium deficiency. Instead, we focus on what really matters: consistent watering, healthy root systems, balanced nutrients, and proper soil pH. Learn how calcium moves through your plants, why it sometimes fails to reach developing fruit, and what you can do to prevent blossom end rot before it starts. If you want stronger plants, healthier tomatoes, and a more successful harvest this season, this is a must-watch for your garden.

LIVE PLANTS: https://growhoss.com/collections/plants-bulbs

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Hey Neighbor! It’s March and that means go-time in the garden, especially for Zone 9 gardeners. In this week’s Row by Row, we’re walking through what to plant in March, including what to direct sow and what to transplant for a strong start to your spring vegetable garden. We cover cool season crops, warm season favorites, and share tips on succession planting to keep your harvest going all season long. We also hit on essential garden maintenance like mulching, watering, and preparing your soil as temperatures begin to rise. Grab your notebook and build your March garden checklist with us so you can grow a productive, thriving garden this season.

Live Plants: https://growhoss.com/collections/plants-bulbs

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Hey Neighbor! Your holiday gift guide is here and we have gathered our favorite stocking stuffers, garden bundles, tools, and gift ideas to make Christmas shopping simple. From seed collections and flower bundles to our Hossinator Garden Bundle, and new Hoss Hat, there is something for every grower. You can also choose practical favorites like Compact Pruning Shears or keep it easy with a Grow Hoss Gift Certificate. Join us as we show off thoughtful gifts that gardeners will love this season. Happy growing and happy gifting!

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0:00 Start

6:40 Gifting to Others

8:55 ProCut Sunflower Bundle

11:04 Queeny Zinnia Bundle

12:18 Container Gardening Bundle

13:25 Hossinator Garden Bundle

15:30 TugTrug Bundle

19:00 New Hoss Hats

19:50 Seed Tin Collections

25:16 Survival Seed Collection

26:15 Compact Dramm Pruning Shears

27:19 Garden Hod

28:45 Garden Spotlight of the Week - Leslie Schmuckler

30:45 Bobble Head Hoss Winner - Clint Pennick

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Hey Neighbor! Winter weather is coming, and it’s time to get your garden ready to take on the cold! Tonight, we’re sharing exactly what you should be doing to keep your garden in shape and prepare for spring. We’ll walk through how to winterize your garden, extend your growing season, and protect your plants through freezing temps.

Learn how cover crops and mulch can make a big difference in your soil health, and find out what will help your garden thrive this winter. Follow along, grab some easy tips, and get your garden ready for the season ahead!

Cover Crops: https://growhoss.com/collections/cover-crops

Tools: https://growhoss.com/collections/hand-tools

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Hey Neighbor! Do you want the secrets to growing your best onion harvest ever? In this week’s Row by Row, we’re talking all about how to plan for a successful onion crop. The secret to big, healthy onions starts long before planting day and how it all comes down to choosing the right variety for your zone, planting at the right time, and fertilizing through each growth stage. You’ll learn how to prep your soil, water correctly, and feed your onions with the right nutrients at the right time for maximum bulb size. Stick around for our best harvesting and curing tips to help your onions last all season long. If you’ve ever wondered how to take your onion harvest to the next level, now is your time to shine!

Onions: https://growhoss.com/collections/onion-plants

Onion Growing Guide: https://tinyurl.com/Onion-Growing-Guide

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Hey Neighbor! Thinking about keeping your garden growing through the cooler months? In this episode, we’re talking all about cold-hardy greens, which ones thrive in the cold, how to protect them from frost, and how to keep them healthy and productive all winter long. We’ll cover how frost affects your plants, what variables make a difference, and why soil moisture and plant maturity play such an important role in frost resistance. You’ll also learn how mulch and row covers can protect against freeze damage and how a touch of frost can actually make some greens taste sweeter. We’ll help you identify fertilizer and pest control needs and give you everything you need for a healthy crop. Join us to learn how to make your greens thrive!

Greens: https://growhoss.com/collections/greens

Collards: https://growhoss.com/collections/collards

Kale: https://growhoss.com/collections/kale

Spinach: https://growhoss.com/collections/spinach

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Hey Neighbor! Carrots are one of those crops that remind us that simple doesn’t mean easy. Tonight we are talking all about how to grow carrots for your soil type so you can finally get those long, sweet roots you’ve been dreaming of. From sandy to clay soils, we’ll walk you through which carrot varieties thrive best where, how to prepare your beds, and why a little patience at germination goes a long way.

Carrots are cool-season favorites that bring sweetness, crunch, and nutrition to any home garden. But there’s more to it than just planting and waiting; success starts with the soil. We’ll cover how to loosen, feed, and condition your garden beds for straight, strong roots, and share the little details that make the biggest difference: spacing, thinning, and moisture management.

You’ll also learn a few fun facts about these Vitamin A–packed powerhouses, from their surprising history and colorful roots to why letting them bolt can actually help you save seed for next season. Whether you’re growing in raised beds, containers, or rows, we will help you match the right carrot to your garden and set you up for a sweet harvest.

Carrot Seeds: https://growhoss.com/collections/carrots

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Hey Neighbor! We’re talking all about strawberries tonight. From June-bearing to everbearing and day-neutral varieties, we’ll break down the differences and help you decide which type fits your garden best. We’ll show how we started our plugs and what we are delivering to you this year. We cover when to plant based on your growing zone, how to prepare your soil, and what to know about fertilizing, irrigation, and mulching for healthy, productive plants. Plus, we’ll share tips on harvesting, storing, and troubleshooting common issues like small berries or declining yields. Whether you’re growing in the ground, raised beds, or containers, this episode will help you grow the sweetest, most successful strawberry crop yet.

Strawberry Plugs: https://growhoss.com/pages/strawberry-plugs

Fertilizers: https://growhoss.com/collections/growing-supplies/Fertilizers

Pesticides: https://growhoss.com/collections/growing-supplies/Pest-Control

Brassicas: https://growhoss.com/pages/brassica-plugs

Berries: https://growhoss.com/pages/berry-plant-plugs

Onions: https://tinyurl.com/268y6pjd

Garlic: https://growhoss.com/pages/garlic

Ya'll be sure to join us this Fall at a great festival going on!

Fall Gathering Georgia Bushcraft: https://www.georgiabushcraft.com/pages/fall

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Hey Neighbor! October is a transition month in the garden with warm days, cooler nights, and the start of fall crops. Tonight, we will identify the most common pests you are likely to see in October, show you how to control them, and share tips and tricks to help your garden thrive. From keeping your crops healthy to protecting young plants, we cover practical strategies to keep your fall garden productive and strong. Whether you are managing leafy greens, brassicas, or other cool-season crops, this episode will give you the guidance you need to enjoy a successful harvest.

Pest Control: https://growhoss.com/collections/growing-supplies/Pest-Control

Brassicas: https://growhoss.com/pages/brassica-plugs

Berries: https://growhoss.com/pages/berry-plant-plugs

Onions: https://tinyurl.com/268y6pjd

Garlic: https://growhoss.com/pages/garlic

Strawberries: https://growhoss.com/pages/strawberry-plugs

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Hey Neighbor! Things look a little different today but you are in for a treat! Evan takes us for a garden tour at Hoss HQ's. Come see everything we are planting and trialing, and learn about the challenges we’ve faced this season. Spot crops you are growing or get inspired to try something new! Walk along with us and enjoy a day out in the Hoss Garden.

Brassicas: https://growhoss.com/pages/brassica-plugs

Berries: https://growhoss.com/pages/berry-plant-plugs

Onions: https://tinyurl.com/268y6pjd

Garlic: https://growhoss.com/pages/garlic

Strawberries: https://growhoss.com/pages/strawberry-plugs

Don't forget about our 2025 Get Dirty Sweepstakes!

NO PURCH. NEC. Open to legal residents of US/DC, 18+. Void in AK, HI, NY & where prohibited. Starts 9/1/25 and ends 11/30/25. Subject to Rules, including free entry method: https://growhoss.com/pages/get-dirty-sweepstakes-rules

Sponsor: Grow Hoss

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Hey Neighbor! Why should you plant cool-season cover crops in the garden? Tonight, we’re sharing the five key benefits of growing cool cover crops and why they are one of the best tools you can use to improve your soil. Cover crops fix nitrogen, build organic matter, and help reduce compaction. They provide erosion control, suppress weeds with dense growth, and break pest cycles by cutting off food sources and interrupting reproduction.

We’ll also highlight some of the best cool-season cover crops to plant this fall and winter, including clovers, legumes, small grains, and more. Each type brings unique advantages depending on your soil needs and garden rotation. From boosting nutrients to protecting soil structure, cool cover crops are a simple way to prepare your garden for long-term success. So tune in, see what your garden needs this cool season, and get dirty!

Cool Season Cover Crops: https://growhoss.com/collections/cover-crops/Cool-Season

Chestnut Hills Farmstead Petal Video - https://youtu.be/40p5kDa8ISA?si=RnTqjIQBFXflvBON

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Hey Neighbor! Ever wonder what’s really on your store-bought lettuce? The truth might surprise you. When you grow your own, you know exactly what’s in and on your greens. No nitrites, no guesswork, just fresh flavor. Tonight, we dig into the why and the how of indoor gardening. From lettuce, arugula, and kale to herbs like basil and parsley, we’ll show you the best crops to keep your harvest going all season long. You’ll learn about lights, watering, and soil setups that make growing indoors easier than you think. Plus, we’ll show you two of our favorite lettuce varieties and how quickly you can bring them from seed to plate.

Fresh, affordable, and under your own care. That’s the power of growing indoors! What greens will you try this season?

Pint Size Lettuce: https://tinyurl.com/9evs3rwe

Lettuce: https://growhoss.com/collections/lettuce

Ya'll be sure to join us this Fall at some of the great festivals going on!

Great Garden Festival: https://www.justdigitfarms.com/the-great-fall-garden...

Fall Gathering Georgia Bushcraft: https://www.georgiabushcraft.com/pages/fall

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Hey Neighbor! Let's talk about onions! Onions can be a little tricky, but the key to success is choosing the right type for your zone. In this week’s Row by Row Show, we’re breaking down short-day, intermediate-day, and long-day onions, and why daylength is the real trigger for bulbing. Planting the wrong type can leave you with nothing but green tops or tiny bulbs, so it’s important to match your onions to your region.

We’ll cover how planting and harvest timing changes across the country, which types store the longest, and how the right choice can save you months of wasted fertilizer, water, and garden space. Be sure to check our onion map and Onion Growing Guide for more helpful tips to get the biggest, healthiest onions possible.

Ya'll be sure to join us this Fall at some of the great festivals going on!

Great Garden Festival: https://www.justdigitfarms.com/the-great-fall-garden...

Fall Gathering Georgia Bushcraft: https://www.georgiabushcraft.com/pages/fall

Have you joined the Hoss Gardening Club? – the EASY way to garden! A Monthly subscription box delivered right to you with everything you need! Get Dirty! Join the club here: https://shorturl.at/S4bDu

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Onion Growing Guide: https://tinyurl.com/ysu2677k

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Hey Neighbor! September is a month of transition in the garden. Summer crops are wrapping up, and it’s time to shift into cool-season planting! In this week’s episode, we kick things off with details about our big Hoss giveaway! Then we're diving into exactly what you should be doing in your garden right now. We’ll break it down by growing zones, so whether you’re in the South, Midwest, or up North, you’ll know how to keep your garden thriving this month.

Zones 8–10: Plant broccoli, cabbage, kale, collards manage pests like cabbage loopers & armyworms

Zones 6–7: Last chance for lettuce, spinach, arugula + prep garlic beds for October planting

Zones 3–5: Harvest and preserve warm-season crops + start cover crops like clover, rye, or vetch

Pest Watch: Whiteflies, loopers, aphids, late blight & mildew management

Harvest Tips: Best storage methods for potatoes, onions, winter squash + quick preservation tricks

Crop Spotlight: Sugar peas are the most overlooked crop this time of year. Find the best varieties to plant, how to grow them, and delicious ways to use them in the kitchen!

PEAS: https://growhoss.com/collections/peas

Ya'll be sure to join us this Fall at some of the great festivals going on!

Great Garden Festival: https://www.justdigitfarms.com/the-great-fall-garden...

Fall Gathering Georgia Bushcraft: https://www.georgiabushcraft.com/pages/fall

Have you joined the Hoss Gardening Club? – the EASY way to garden! A Monthly subscription box delivered right to you with everything you need! Get Dirty! Join the club here: https://shorturl.at/S4bDu

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Hey Neighbor! Ready to grow your best crop of onions yet? Tonight, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about starting onions from seed. Choosing the right type for your location, planting, and caring for seedlings until they’re garden-ready.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

• The best onion type for your area (long day, intermediate, or short day)

• Step-by-step guide to planting onion seeds in trays

• When to transplant seedlings

• Why trimming and “stressing” onion plants helps them grow stronger

• How to keep onions fed

Whether you’re in the South planting short-day onions, in the North with long-day types, or somewhere in between, these tips will help set you up for a big, beautiful harvest.

Watch to the end for planting demos, seedling care tips, and our tried-and-true methods for producing strong, healthy onions!

Onion Seeds: https://growhoss.com/collections/onions

Ya'll be sure to join us this Fall at some of the great festivals going on!

Great Garden Festival: https://www.justdigitfarms.com/the-great-fall-garden...

Fall Gathering Georgia Bushcraft: https://www.georgiabushcraft.com/pages/fall

Have you joined the Hoss Gardening Club? – the EASY way to garden! A Monthly subscription box delivered right to you with everything you need! Get Dirty! Join the club here: https://shorturl.at/S4bDu

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Hey neighbor! Ready to grow your own sweet, antioxidant-packed blueberries? Blueberries can be a bit more challenging to grow than blackberries, but we are here to help! We will go over tips and tricks to help you grow your own blueberries in no time! From the right varieties to planting, fertilizing, and watering, we will have you harvesting as a pro in no time.

What you’ll learn:

• Blueberry Basics – The 3 main types (highbush, lowbush, half-high) and which is best for your garden.

• When to Plant – The best seasons for planting based on your growing zone.

• Light & Spacing Needs – How much sun and space blueberries need for strong growth and big harvests.

• Soil & Fertility – Ideal pH levels, soil amendments, and the fertilizing schedule using HOSS All-In-One 10-10-10 Fertilizer.

• Irrigation & Mulching Tips – How to water properly and keep roots healthy with mulch.

• Pest & Disease Control – Preventing common problems for long-term success.

• Pruning Guide – When and how to prune for young plants vs. mature bushes.

• Harvest & Storage – How to pick at peak ripeness and preserve your blueberries.

With the right care, your blueberry bushes will reward you with sweet harvests and lasting beauty in the garden for years to come!

Blackberry & Blueberry Plugs - https://growhoss.com/pages/berry-plant-plugs

Ya'll be sure to join us this Fall at some of the great festivals going on!

Great Garden Festival: https://www.justdigitfarms.com/the-great-fall-garden...

Fall Gathering Georgia Bushcraft: https://www.georgiabushcraft.com/pages/fall

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0:00 Start

0:45 Let's talk Blueberries

4:39 Why Blueberries?

6:11 Low PH Needs and what you can do

9:52 When and How to Plant

12:54 Varieties

15:19 Fertility

16:56 Pest and Disease Control

17:44 Harvesting

18:48 Pruning

20:40 What else is going on at Hoss

22:45 Garden Spotlight - Shannon Burke

24:03 Farmer Hoss Winner - Charles Palmer

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Hey Neighbor! Ready to grow your own sweet, juicy blackberries? In this complete growing guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know — from choosing the right varieties to planting, fertilizing, watering, and harvesting like a pro.

In this video, you’ll learn:

  • Blackberry Basics – The 3 main types (erect thorny, erect thornless, trailing thornless) and how to choose the best for your garden.

  • Variety Highlights – Sweetie Pie, Ponce, and Natchez blackberries — flavor profiles, growth habits, and productivity tips.

  • When to Plant – Best seasons for planting and why timing matters.

  • Light & Spacing Needs – How much sun and space your plants require for maximum yield.

  • Soil & Fertility – The perfect pH, soil amendments, and the ideal fertilizing schedule using HOSS All-In-One 10-10-10 Fertilizer.

  • Irrigation Tips – How to keep plants evenly watered and why drip irrigation can make all the difference.

  • Pest & Disease Prevention – Keep your plants healthy for years to come.

  • Harvest & Storage – When to pick for peak sweetness, how to store, and tips for preserving your harvest.

Whether you’re a first-time grower or a seasoned gardener, this guide will help you enjoy fresh berries straight from your backyard — year after year.

Blackberry & Blueberry Plugs - https://growhoss.com/pages/berry-plant-plugs

Ya'll be sure to join this Fall at some of the great festivals going on!

Great Garden Festival: https://www.justdigitfarms.com/the-great-fall-garden...

Fall Gathering Georgia Bushcraft: https://www.georgiabushcraft.com/pages/fall

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Hey Neighbor! We've had cooler weather and it has us thinking about fall planting! Tonight we talk about what we will be planting this fall, what you should be planning on, and tips on how to be successful. We discuss our favorite varieties and some that are overlooked. Between collards, broccoli, celery, flowers, and herbs we are prepping our gardens for fall. Come along, pick up some varieties you may not have chosen before, and lets get dirty!

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Hey Neighbor! Are you ready for an easier, cleaner, and more efficient way to plant your fall garden? In this video, we show you exactly how to plant using HOSS Seed Tape—a gardener’s secret weapon for perfectly spaced veggies with zero guesswork.

What is Seed Tape?

Seed tape is a biodegradable strip pre-loaded with pre-spaced seeds—no measuring, no thinning, and no wasted seeds. Just lay, cover, water, and grow.

In this video, we’re planting:

• Rainbow Carrot Blend

• Lacinato Kale

• Detroit Dark Red Beets

• Bloomsdale Spinach

• White Lisbon Bunching Onion

• Oakleaf Lettuce Mix

• French Breakfast Radish

• Baby Leaf Greens

• Purple Top Turnip

• Giant White Kohlrabi

• Komatsuna Mustard

Why Use HOSS Seed Tape?

• Pre-spaced for uniform growth—no thinning required

• Biodegradable paper—eco-friendly and easy to handle

• Lightweight material keeps birds away from seeds

• The ONLY seed tape in the U.S. with built-in slow-release fertilizer (14-14-14)

• Perfect for beginners and busy gardeners alike

Pro Tip: Plant your seed tape about ½ inch deep in well-prepped soil, keep it consistently moist, and you’ll be amazed by the even germination and healthy growth.

Whether you're a first-time gardener or a seasoned grower looking to simplify your fall planting, seed tape takes out the guesswork and sets you up for a beautiful harvest.

Drop your favorite fall crop in the comments & don’t forget to subscribe for more gardening tips from Farmer Hoss!

SEED TAPE BUNDLE: https://tinyurl.com/kvdw4j86

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Hey Neighbor! Join us tonight as we talk about what is to come for our Fall season. We chat about amazing events you can attend—with workshops, meet and greets, and all around good time! Petals from the Past in Jemison, Al is being held September 20th 9am-3pm. This event is filled with our favorite Youtubers and a great time you don't want to miss! Then, November 7-9 the Georgia Bushcraft Fall Gathering is happening! A huge event with a weekend full of camping, music, classes, food trucks and so much more! We are excited to attend both of these events and would love to see everyone that can make it out!

Garden Spotlight - Jerry Scott

Farmer Hoss Winner - Leslie Vanderpool

Celosia Century Mix - https://tinyurl.com/mrykpzrw

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Hey neighbor! Ever wondered what's really going on beneath your feet? In this episode of Row by Row, we dig into the essential role that earthworms play in soil health, sustainable gardening, and regenerative agriculture. Whether you're a seasoned grower or just getting started, this episode will change how you think about soil — and the squiggly little engineers working for free under the surface. Let’s grow together and get dirty!

From surface-dwelling red wigglers to deep-burrowing nightcrawlers, earthworms are the quiet MVPs of any thriving garden. You'll learn:

*The 3 main types of earthworms and where they live

*How their tunnels improve aeration, water retention, and microbial activity

*Why worm castings are nature’s perfect fertilizer (rich in NPK, calcium, and magnesium)

*How to attract more worms into your garden naturally

*What vermicomposting is — and why you should start doing it

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Hey Neighbor!

It’s hot. It’s buggy. It’s July. The garden’s gone full jungle mode, and we’re right there in the thick of it—fighting squash bugs, picking okra, and getting prepped for the fall garden.

In this episode, we’re walking you through what we’re harvesting, what we’re still planting, and how we’re keeping things alive through the heat. It may look bare out there, but we’ve still got plenty growing—and more on the way. Whether you're pulling okra or pulling weeds, you're not alone. Grab a cold drink and join us for a real look at what gardening in July is all about.

Cover Crops: https://growhoss.com/collections/cover-crops/Warm-Season

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Hey Neighbor,

Tonight, we’re taking a trip down memory lane… we’re reviewing the highlights from late 2024 from the garden shed in the potager garden, an ongoing mission for learning new things, our big intention of letting go negativity and negative baggage. What’s been happening in 2025 the last 6 months? Well, tonight we’re going to tell you! We’ve got lots to talk about! Can you believe this year is ALREADY half way over? Where does time go? Join us and let’s grow together! Get Dirty!

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Hey Neighbor! Which pepper will reign supreme? We brought in two special guests to help us find out! In this fiery (and flavorful) video, we taste and review a wide variety of peppers—sweet, spicy, and everything in between—to determine which one stands out as the best overall. See which pepper surprises our taste testers and earns the crown! Comment below with your favorite pepper—or the one you'd never dare to try. Let's grow together and get dirty!

Featured Peppers in the Lineup:

Gold Rush Banana – Mild, sweet, and perfect for pickling

Rajah Cayenne – Classic cayenne heat with a bold red color

Tabasco – The hot sauce legend with 30,000–50,000 SHU

Hossinator Bell – Big, blocky, and packed with sweet crunch

Shishito – Mild Japanese favorite (watch out—1 in 10 is spicy!)

Jalapeño Orange Spice – Citrusy and seriously spicy (80,000 SHU!)

Jalapeño Pumpkin Spice – Fruity with a sweet heat

Jalapeño Lemon Spice – Bright yellow and tangy

Seminis Hybrid Jalapeño – Milder and bred for disease resistance

Sakata Hybrid Anaheim – Tall grower with mild heat and versatility

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Hey Neighbor,

We’re putting five top-tier tomato varieties to the test in a blind taste-off! We grew some tangy classics to sweet and juicy slicers in the garden this season and tonight we're putting our taste buds to the ultimate test! Which one will come out on top? Whether you're a tomato connoisseur or planning your next garden lineup, hopefully this video will help which tomato variety you should grow! Let's Get Dirty!

Featured Varieties:

Hossinator – A vine-ripe acidic flavor bomb with heirloom taste and zero pruning needed. Determinate and disease-resistant. Find it here: https://shorturl.at/b4Clv

Rubee Dawn F1 – Sweet, tangy, and high-yielding! This hybrid indeterminate tomato brings early maturity and uniform fruit. Find it here: https://shorturl.at/GPhs7

Lemon Boy Plus F1 – Bright yellow, firm, and flavorful with a perfect sweet-tangy balance and improved disease resistance. Find it here: https://shorturl.at/qSZW3

Berkeley Tie-Dye – Visually stunning with green and red streaks, and flavor rich enough to rival the Cherokee Purple. Find it here: https://shorturl.at/AZifm

Cherokee Carbon F1 – A purple beefsteak hybrid with heirloom roots and bold, rich taste. Find it here: https://shorturl.at/ycnrs

Tell us in the comments: Which tomato would YOU vote for?

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Hey Neighbor! Tired of the same old, same old in the garden? Tired of the same old tomatoes and cucumbers wilting in the summer heat? In this episode, we’re diving into uncommon, heat-loving vegetables and herbs perfect for blazing Zone 9 summers. These standout plants don’t just survive the heat—they thrive in it!

Featured Plants:

  1. Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa) – A tropical beauty with tart, cranberry-like pods used in teas, jams, sauces, and even wine. Learn how to grow it, harvest it, and make refreshing hibiscus tea.
  2. Luffa Gourds – Not just for bath sponges! Discover how to grow these vigorous vines for food and fun.
  3. Holy Basil (Tulsi) – Sacred, stress-relieving, pollinator-attracting, and built for the heat.
  4. Toothache Plant – This electric daisy is part garden novelty, part natural remedy—great for pollinators and conversation starters.
  5. Birdhouse Gourds – Grow your own natural garden decor and bird habitats while enjoying massive vines and moonlight blooms.
  6. Red Vein Sorrel – Ornamental and edible with a lemony tang, this striking leafy green handles the heat in partial shade.
  7. Tobacco (for personal or ornamental use) – A surprising backyard crop with deep historical roots and pest-repelling potential.

We also spotlight Kim Rubey, a microgreen grower in Lexington, KY (Zone 6), and share what she’s growing this summer. Plus, shoutout to Beth from Old Goat: BackyardGardenswithBeth!

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Hey Neighbor!

Yes—you can absolutely garden in June in the South! In fact, it's one of the busiest (and most rewarding) months of the year. Whether you're tending tomatoes or deadheading zinnias, this video covers everything Southern gardeners need to know to keep their gardens thriving through the heat.

Vegetable Garden Tips:

Harvest: Tomatoes, okra, peppers, squash, melons & more

Sow: Southern peas, sweet potatoes, and succession squash

Start fall brassicas indoors

Pest alerts: squash vine borers, aphids, tomato hornworms

Flower Garden Tips:

Plant heat-loving blooms like zinnias & marigolds

Deadhead for continued flowering

Mulch & deep water to beat the heat

Fruit Garden Tips:

Harvest blackberries, blueberries, peaches & plums

Thin fruit to prevent damage

Protect with netting & watch for disease

Herb Garden Tips:

Harvest rosemary, thyme, basil & more

Pinch basil to prevent flowering

Start a second round of basil & dill

General Maintenance:

Stay ahead of weeds

Water wisely & monitor for stress

Use shade cloth & cover crops like buckwheat or Red Ripper peas to improve soil and suppress weeds

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Hey Neighbor! Want bigger, sweeter berries right in your backyard? In this video, we’re sharing the secret to growing delicious berries at home—whether you're planting strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, or raspberries. From soil prep to pruning tips, discover how to boost your berry harvest and keep your plants thriving season after season! Let's Grow Together and Get Dirty!

Don’t forget to join the Hoss Gardening Club – the EASY way to garden! A Monthly subscription box delivered right to you with everything you need! Get Dirty! Join the club here: https://shorturl.at/S4bDu



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Hey Neighbor! Today, we are discussing everything about garlic. We have a variety of hardneck and softneck garlic available, but which one offers the best flavor? Find out how to grow flavorful garlic bulbs in your garden, including plant spacing and fertilization techniques. We will share all our successful tips for growing garlic! Get Dirty and Let's Grow Together.

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Hey Neighbor! Brassicas are our favorite fall staple! If you haven't had time to start your brassica seeds, we've got you covered. From the nutrient-packed broccoli to the versatile collards, we will be diving into all the benefits and tips for growing these varieties. Get Dirty and Let's Garden Together!

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Hey Neighbor! We've all been hearing about a new strawberry disease that's threatening strawberry crops. Many of us have questions about whether we should be worried and how to treat it. What exactly is Neopestalotiopsis? And will it affect your strawberry crops? Today, we will be sharing everything that we have learned about this disease. Get Dirty and Let's Garden Together.

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Hey Neighbor! Join us tonight as we discuss all things Celery! Celery is one of our most favorite things to grow in the fall and winter months. There has been a lot of talk about how to get celery seeds started, do you need light or not? Where is the best place to grow celery? In-ground, containers, or raised beds? How easy or difficult is it to maintain? Let's Grow Together and Get Dirty!

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Hey Neighbor! One of our favorite things to grow fresh in the garden is English peas! The flavor of fresh English peas is like no other, definitely beating the store-bought peas! We're discussing all of our favorite tips and tricks for growing English peas and other fall crops. Join us as we go over our favorite varieties! Get Dirty and Let's Garden Together!

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Hey Neighbor! With fall gardening right around the corner, it's time to get to work to ensure you are ready. From starting transplants to planting cover crops, there are so many things you can be doing in your garden now! If you don't have time to start your transplants, don't worry, we have lots of great plant options coming this fall. Get Dirty and Let's Garden Together!

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Hey Neighbor! Have you ever wanted to save your own seeds? The process of saving your seeds can be either straightforward or challenging, depending on the type of seed. From tomatoes to corn, the process of saving seeds can be drastically different. How to save seeds? Where to store seeds? What kind of seeds to save? We are answering these questions and more in todays episode. Get Dirty and Let's Garden Together!

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Hey Neighbor! Fall is one of our favorite times of the year for gardening. It's not as hot, which makes it more enjoyable. Many people don’t realize the variety of options available for fall gardening. Our favorites include turnips, radishes, carrots, cabbage, spinach, and lettuce. It's all about knowing when to plant and how to manage pests. Follow along as we share all of our fall gardening tips and tricks. Get Dirty and Let’s Garden Together!

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Hey Neighbor! It's time to start thinking about what you want to grow for your fall crops. What about cowpeas? Cowpeas make a great fall crop because they are heat and drought-resistant and have much less pest pressure in the fall. Today, we will discuss everything you need to know about growing cowpeas in your garden! Get Dirty and Let's Garden Together!

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Hey Neighbor! Today we are talking about what you can do in the garden during July. When it gets this hot outside a lot of our plants start struggling and others have reached the end of their harvesting period, so it's okay to take a break! Get your plots prepped for fall or take a break and grow some stuff inside! Or work on processing what you've harvested this season. Mama Hoss is all about making her own supplements! Get Dirt and Let's Garden Together!

www.herbaffair.com

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Hey Neighbor! One of our favorite things to grow and eat down in the south is corn! Corn is a staple for any household, from flour to grits you can make a variety of products from your plants! How do you grind corn? Grinding corn is something you can do in your own home or at a local mill. Get Dirty and Let's Garden Together!

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Hey Neighbor! Today, we'll be discussing essential tips for surviving the summer heat. It's easy to get overheated while working in the garden, especially here in South Georgia. Additionally, we'll be talking about our favorite tomato varieties and conducting a blind taste test to determine the best one. From gardening tips to beating the heat, we've got it all in today's episode of the Row by Row Show. Get Dirty and Let's Garden Together!

COG HILL COFFEE - https://coghillcountrystore.com/pages/coffee

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Hey Neighbor! We are getting to that time of the year when you start to wonder, is this ready to harvest? Well, today we will be going over a handful of our favorites to grow in the garden and when you should harvest them! From cucumbers to watermelons, we are sharing all of the Hoss secrets to know when they are ready to harvest! Get Dirty and Let's Garden Together!

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Hey Neighbor! Gardening is currently in full swing! As plants come to the end of their lifecycle and you have empty beds you may be thinking, what to plant now? We've got you covered! From sunflowers to cover crops there's a plethora of seeds you can plant now. Should you start your fall crops? Watch today's episode of the Row by Row to find out! Get Dirty and Let's Garden Together.

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Hey neighbor! Today's episode of Row by Row is all about common plant diseases. One of the most important things to know about plant diseases is that although we can use common symptoms to make a guess on what going on, we cannot give a definitive diagnosis without testing. However, we are going to tell you how to treat your plants when you have signs of disease. How to identify plant diseases? How to prevent plant diseases? Get Dirty and Let's Garden Together!

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Hey Neighbor! As the weather warms up and we have fewer leafy greens in the garden, we are searching for alternative options. Microgreens provide a great way to incorporate greens into your diet when they are not available in your garden. The best part is that you can grow them indoors! These tiny greens are rich in vitamins and nutrients. How to grow microgreens? Learn our quick tips and tricks to growing them indoors! Get Dirty and Let's Garden Together!

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Hey Neighbor! Today we are talking all about controlling pests in your garden! Pests are one of those things that every gardener is going to have to deal with at some point! How to get rid of common garden pests? What are common garden pests? From Thrips to Whiteflies, all garden pests can be managed if you are paying attention to your garden and applying a good spray program. Get Dirty and Let's Garden Together!

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Hey Neighbor! Today we are talking about sunflowers! Did you know that sunflowers are extremely beneficial for your garden? They are great for adding nutrients to the soil and breaking up the soil. Not only are they beneficial, but they make a beautiful addition to the garden. From dwarfs to giants there's a sunflower variety for everyone! Get Dirty and Let's Garden Together!

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Hey Neighbor! Today we are talking about a common disease that can ruin any gardeners crop. Blossom End Rot is a common issue in the garden community and can strike even the most skilled gardeners' crop. Where does blossom end rot come from? How to avoid blossom end rot? We will be talking about these and disproving some common old wives' tales about how to cure blossom end rot. Get Dirty and Let's Garden Together!

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Hey Neighbor! We’re talking about two different topics tonight, Onions and Pollinators! The first topic is on onions, we’re reviewing our recent visit to the Vidalia Onion field trials, what the different types of Vidalia onions are, how to store them, and much more! Second topic of the tonight is pollinators, what are pollinators, how are they beneficial for your vegetable garden, and should you be concerned if you don’t have any beneficial pollinators around! Join us for another great Row By Row Garden Show, let’s grow together! Get Dirty!

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Hey Neighbor! Tonight, it's all about Sweet Potatoes and how to be successful at growing them in your own backyard grocery store (aka The Garden). It's that time of year to start planting your sweet potato slips. We're going over how and when to plant, what to expect, fertilization and pest control, and harvesting! Join us, let's grow together and learn how to be successful at growing our own food!

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Hey Neighbor! Today we have Tracy from Sakata on the show to talk about seeds! When it comes to seeds there is a ton of information out there on the types, germination, laws, and more. Today, we will be breaking down this information with an industry expert. What makes a seed organic? What are the different types of seeds? How to determine seed quantity? Get Dirty and Let's Grow Together!

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Hey Neighbor! Did you know that gardening is good for your physical and mental health? Many studies have shown that gardening can help foster a healthy body and mind! In today's episode we talk about the benefits of gardening and the benefits we see personally in our lives. Let us know why you garden down in the comments! Get Dirty and Let's Grow Together!

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Hey Neighbor! Today we are talking all about herbs and how to grow your own herb garden! Herbs are great to have in your garden for many reasons from culinary to medicinal uses. We will be going over our favorite herbs to grow, how to grow them, and the medicinal uses for them! Get Dirty and Let's Grow Together!

Check out the Home Apothecary course to learn more about how to use herbs for medicinal remedies: https://school.thewhisperingwillowfarm.com/

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Hey Neighbor! We know that when you get your soil sample result back most of us don't know what to do next. In todays Row by Row we have Tonya from Waters Agricultural Labs to talk about how you should read soil sample results and how to apply those results in your garden. From pH levels to Nitrogen levels, all is important to growing a healthy garden. Get Dirty and Let's Grow Together!

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Hey Neighbor! Today we are talking about melons! Melons can be a tricky thing to grow but with the right knowledge, they can be a great crop! From Irrigation to Disease Control, there are some things you need to know and implement to keep your crop healthy and producing. Tag along as we talk about how we grow melons and our favorite varieties to grow! Get Dirty and Let's Grow Together!

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Hey Neighbor! Today's episode is all about growing a sustainable amount of food for your family! Homesteading has become a hot topic over the years but for many of us, it's been a way of life for as long as we can remember! From starting out growing a small garden to growing a whole plot to feed your family, gardening is something that can be therapeutic, and it brings people together. Meet our friends @TrueGritAppalachianWays and give them a follow! Get Dirty and Let's Grow Together!

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Hey Neighbor! Turmeric is an amazing herb that has great health benefits! It also is incredibly easy to grow. In fact, growing Turmeric at home takes little to no effort beyond watering and pest control! Watch today's episode of the Row by Row gardening show to learn all about how to grow turmeric, how to harvest turmeric, how to use and process turmeric, and more! Let's Grow Together and Get Dirty!

Get your Turmeric Roots now: https://growhoss.com/products/turmeric-roots?variant=47689277440310

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Hey Neighbor! It's almost time to start your sweet corn! Sweet Corn can be a difficult crop to grow for beginner and experienced gardeners alike, so what's the secret? Understanding the different varieties of sweet corn and picking the type that will work best for your location and schedule is KEY. Join us as we discuss different varieties and the key tips to having a successful yield with expert, Pieter Westerbeek from Semis. Get Dirty and Let's Grow Together!

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Hey Neighbor! If you're like us, you're starting your seeds for your spring garden and you're probably VERY excited about it. Whether you're a novice gardener or a seasoned gardening pro, mastering the art of seed starting is a key to a successful growing season. Having the knowledge and strategies you need to avoid any mistakes is extremely important. Tonight, we're reviewing our top 10 mistakes that anyone should try to avoid when starting seeds. Let's Grow Together!

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Hey Neighbor! Not everyone has a large enough space for in-ground planting, tonight we are focusing on small space gardening, mainly growing in containers! With the right containers, soil, watering schedule, and sun exposure, it's possible to yield your favorite tasty vegetables in a small footprint. You can avoid problems with soil-borne diseases, nematodes of poor soil conditions with container gardening! Join us and let's grow together!

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Hey Neighbor! Join us today with Monterey representative, Wendell, to discuss everything you need to know about creating the best pest control program for your garden! What is a pest control program? How do you decide on the best pest controls for your crops? We will be answering these questions and more with expert advice from Wendell. From Tomatoes to Fruit Trees, we will be going over our preferred spray programs for each! Get Dirty and Let's Grow Together!

Check out our spray program resources!

Tomatoes and Peppers: http://tinyurl.com/yd8rtbm2

Fruit Trees: http://tinyurl.com/y4w5axvs

Corn and Beans: http://tinyurl.com/4b24za7b

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Hey Neighbor! Today we are talking about our newest product, Seed Tape! What is Seed Tape? It is a pre-sown product that has your seeds spaced out for you in between a tissue-like material! Seed tape takes all the guesswork out of seed spacing and makes gardening quick and easy. Get Dirty and Let's Grow Together!

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Seed Tape: https://shorturl.at/gyAC9

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Hey Neighbor! It's almost time to plant potatoes, so make sure you're prepared! How to grow potatoes? How many potatoes should I plant? When to plant potatoes? We'll be answering all of these questions and more in today's episode of the Row by Row show. Potatoes are a great crop for your family or farm, so don't miss out!

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Biscuits Book: http://tinyurl.com/3t9wtjuc

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Hey Neighbor! Today, we would like to introduce you to the latest seeds that we have added to our online store. From bright purple broccoli to sweet candy stevia, we have a wide range of options available. What vegetables should you plant in spring? We highly recommend our top 10 vegetables that you must have in your garden. Let's explore these options together! Let's Grow Together and Get Dirty!

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Hey Neighbor! Join us today as we discuss the new products we are adding to our store, as well as a sneak peek at what's to come! From mesh bags to our Dramm 170 Water Breaker, our new products are designed to enhance your gardening experience. What vegetables are growing in your winter garden? Ours is providing an abundance of fresh produce to get us throughout the winter. Get Dirty and Let's Grow Together.

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Check out this channel: @TrueGritAppalachianWays

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Hey Neighbor! We are excited to share with you what's been growing in our winter garden today! We have grown an abundance of varieties in our gardens from carrots to collards. Are you wondering what you should be doing in your garden this January? Don't worry, we've got you covered. We will go over what you should be fertilizing and what you can be planting. Get Dirty and Let's Grow Together!

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Hey Neighbor! Today, we'll be discussing New Year's resolutions. Have we kept up with our 2023 resolutions? We'll be sharing what we accomplished and what we didn't. In addition, we will be highlighting the top three most popular resolutions and also sharing some of our employees' goals for the new year. Let's grow together and Get Dirty.

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Hey Neighbor! Join us on today's episode of the Row by Row Gardening Show to learn what you should be doing to prepare your garden for spring. When to get a soil test? Now! It is the perfect time to start cleaning and amending your garden and raised beds for your spring garden! Get Dirty and Let's Grow Together!

Potato Pre-Sales Now Open: http://tinyurl.com/mr9sdne6

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Hey Neighbor! The holiday season is approaching quickly this year. But, no need to fret - we're here to assist you in getting ready. What is the best gift for gardeners? We have a plethora of options available for the gardening enthusiast in your life. From seed collections to root pouches, we've got you covered. Join us as we showcase our top picks for gardening gifts!

Check out our Gift Guide: https://growhoss.com/pages/gift-guide

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Hey Neighbor! Today we are shedding some light on some recent changes to the USDA Hardiness Zones! Here in South Georgia, we went from Zone 8 to Zone 9a. Why did the USDA change the Hardiness Zone? The USDA updates the Hardiness Zones based on 30 years of data, which is re-evaluated and revised to ensure accuracy. Let's Grow Together and Get Dirty.

USDA Hardiness Zones Map - https://planthardiness.ars.usda.gov/

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Hey Neighbor! Join us for another great Row By Row Garden Show, lots of great things are happening here at Hoss HQ that we are excited to share with you all! We will also be chatting about Fall gardening! Yes, it is already that time! What materials you need to start your seeds? What seeds grow best in the Fall? What are some of our favorites to grow this time of year? Let's grow together and get dirty!

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We’re always excited to share our knowledge when it comes to gardening, whether that be how to control pests and diseases out in the garden, or how to preserve your harvest in the kitchen. Sometimes we also just need to share our top 5 favorite products. We are passionate about gardening and dedicated to helping you grow your own food and have your best garden ever – how can you be successful without knowing some of the items that make us successful? Join us and let’s grow together! Get Dirty!

SHEILA’S TOP 5 FAVORITE PRODUCTS Complete Fermentation Kit The Complete Fermentation Kit has everything you need to start fermenting your own vegetables today. Includes Pickle Packer Jar Tamper, Pickle Pipe Fermentation Lids, Pickle Pebble Fermentation Weights and Instructional Booklet. Fermented foods are a probiotic food source that’s rich in beneficial bacteria. When consumed, these beneficial bacteria can drastically improve the overall health of your digestive and immune systems. The Complete Fermentation Kit has all the necessary tools to begin fermenting your own food today. You can easily make your own sauerkraut, pickles and carrots from cabbage, cucumbers and other goodies from your garden.

Push Pull Hoe The Push Pull Hoe is absolutely our favorite hand hoe! With its unique V-shaped design, this garden hoe allows you to weed more effectively and efficiently with a push-pull motion. The Push Pull Hoe has changed the game when it comes to hand weeding. Amish-crafted in Lititz, Pennsylvania, this hoe has quickly become our favorite hand hoe in the garden shed. The V-shaped head allows you to weed with a push-pull motion which is much quicker and more effective than repeatedly lifting and impacting the soil with a traditional hoe. The hardened steel blade is sharpened on both sides which allows you to cut weeds in both forward and backward directions.

Raised Bed Irrigation Kit Our Raised Bed Irrigation Kit contains everything your need to water your raised bed gardens in the most effective and environmentally friendly way. Drip irrigation allows you to use less water while watering more effectively. This is because you are only placing water directly where your plants need it – at the roots. Because you’re not watering the leaves, disease pressure and pest pressure will be greatly reduced. This kit will support 8 (4 ft. by 8 ft.) raised beds with 4 feet between them.

Garden Fork This is the best digging fork on the market! The heat-treated steel tines provide superior strength for maximum penetration into the soil with minimal effort. Use the Garden Fork to break ground and cultivate the soil for small garden areas and raised beds. Also works great for incorporating compost into existing garden soil. This tool is a must have for those who grow potatoes. Easily lift red potatoes and sweet potatoes out of the soil for harvest with this digging fork. The comfortable, D-shaped handle and shaft are made of aircraft-quality tubing. The lightweight yet sturdy tubing gives the tool an incredible weight distribution that allows you to do more with less effort.

Hoss Pruning Shears Our Hoss Pruning Shears are simply the best! Perfect for trimming fruit trees, pruning vegetable and flower plants, and harvesting thick-stemmed vegetables like winter squash or pumpkins. Super-sharp blade with locking aluminum handles, a shock absorption system, and a sap groove to prevent the blade from sticking. Hoss Pruning Shears are the heavy-duty solution to pruning any vegetable plant or fruit tree around your garden or homestead. This Swiss-made design dates back to 1917 and has been a dependable solution for growers for decades. This is the only pair of pruners you will ever need!

GREG’S TOP 5 FAVORITE PRODUCTS Single Wheel Hoe The Hoss Single Wheel Hoe is the ultimate garden tool for growing food in your vegetable garden. Save time and energy by using a Wheel Hoe to cultivate and weed your garden. The Wheel Hoe is a time-tested tool that’s been a staple of backyard gardens and market farms for over 100 years. With a universal toolbar that allows you to attach a variety of implements. The Wheel Hoe is the most versatile tool to use in your vegetable garden.

The best way to prevent weeds in your garden is to perform shallow cultivation before they appear. Weed control in a vegetable garden is a preventative practice, not a reactive one. Weeds are easiest to eliminate when they are small and barely visible to the naked eye. With the Wheel Hoe, you can quickly and easily perform shallow cultivation to control and prevent weeds. You’ll never have to worry about putting gasoline in a Hoss Wheel Hoe or keeping the tires inflated.

Single Tine Cultivator Our Single Tine Cultivator is the perfect tool for weeding close to plants in your vegetable garden. The single 5/8″ wide blade allows you to weed closer to your vegetable crops without damaging the plants. It’s the ideal tool for weeding closely-spaced crops like onions, garlic, carrots, radishes or beets. The steel fingernail is sharpened to a point that allows you to navigate around your garden plants and remove weeds with ease. The Single Tine Cultivator is hand-forged and hand-sharpened by a 4th generation blacksmith in Missouri. The steel fingernail-style blade is tempered and hardened so that it can penetrate the toughest soils without bending or breaking. 

Garden Sprayer The Hoss Garden Sprayer has everything you want in a handheld sprayer. It is the only pump sprayer that is MADE IN THE USA and has a brass wand. It is available in two sizes – 1 gallon and 2 gallon. Both the 1 gallon and 2 gallon sprayer include a 12″ brass wand. The durable container on this pump sprayer is made of a thick polymer that is guaranteed not to dent or cave as a result of pressure changes. The translucent container allows for easy monitoring of fluid levels and the top of the container has a large, funnel-like opening to prevent spills during mixing and cleaning. The 40” chemical resistant spray hose allows you plenty of reach during applications.

Brass Siphon Mixer The Brass Siphon Mixer is a time-tested, accurate proportioning device designed for small scale growers and gardeners. We use these in our greenhouses to administer fertilizer and provide nutrients to all of our transplants that we start from seed. The Siphon Mixer dispenses fertilizers, insecticides, fungicides and other water soluble chemicals through a hose to the growing area. This is not a cheap, plastic siphon mixer that you may find in the big box stores. Note: Not compatible with hose over 50 feet. This is the only Siphon Mixer that’s made with brass and that’s MADE IN THE USA!

Small Drip Irrigation Kit Our Small Drip Irrigation Kit contains everything your need to water your vegetable garden in the most effective and environmentally friendly way. Drip irrigation allows you to use less water while watering more effectively. This is because you are only placing water directly where your plants need it – at the roots. Because you’re not watering the leaves, disease pressure and pest pressure will be greatly reduced. You will also have much fewer weeds between rows in your vegetable garden. With overhead watering, many areas of the garden are unnecessarily watered, which results in watering weed seeds and germinating weeds that you don’t want to grow. However, with drip irrigation, you only place water underneath or beside the plants and you don’t water those spaces between rows.

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Join us for a fun “Getting To Know Hoss” video! We thought we would switch it up this evening with something a little different. We are constantly told that many of you would love to know more about us, so here we go. On tonight’s Row By Row Show, we’re asking Hoss the tough questions and we’re getting to know him a little better! Some may have to do with gardening but others may not! We hope that you will enjoy this video as much as we enjoyed making it for you! We appreciate all of your constant support! Let’s Grow Together, Get To Know Hoss and Get Dirty!

GET TO KNOW HOSS – Part 1 If you were not an expert in gardening, what is one topic you wish you had more experience in? Greg: I would have to say science, I love science. Maybe some type of biology, soil science has always been interesting to me. I wouldn’t classify that as gardening but I would love to be a soil scientist.

If you could only plant one thing in the garden, what would it be? Greg: That’s a tough one right there, as much as I love tomato sandwiches, if I only had one thing to plant as a food source it would have to be corn.

What is your BIGGEST passion in life? Greg: I think a person’s passions change during the different time periods in their life. When you’re younger you have different passions (in my opinion) than you do as an adult. I would have to say that my biggest passion write now would have to be is helping others.

What hobby have you always wanted to learn that you haven’t been able to tackle? Greg: Years ago I bought me a violin, I love music and I’m not musically inclined. Some people have such a talent but I did not get that gene. I can play two songs on the violin but it took many lesson and lots of practice. It would be nice to just be able to pick up an instrument and not have to take so much time to learn it.

What do you enjoy the most about doing the Row By Row Show? Greg: I think the interaction and the feedback that we get back from everyone is so inspiring. It really lifts your spirits when we get emails, letters in the mail or comments that tell us how we’ve helped them in gardening and being successful at it. It means that we are doing something right.

GET TO KNOW HOSS – Part 2 What are your pet peeves? Greg: I get really irritated with people who have a talent and they don’t use it. Whether they are intellectual or they have a specific talent and they don’t use it, that really bothers me a lot.

If you could have one superpower, what would it be? Greg: I think it would be to turn back time.

If you could have dinner with anybody in the world across history, who would it be and why? Greg: I know this may be a strange one but I think I would have to go with President Ronald Reagan in his prime. I think during his “prime time” it was probably some of the most interesting times for America. I would love to have a conversation with him about that, I think that he is one of the Presidents that I look back and admire more so than a lot of the others.

What is on your bucket list? Greg: I feel like this has always been on my bucket list somewhat but more lately as I’m getting older but I want to travel more. We’re traveling to the Keys this month, Holland for a seed convention later this year and next year we would love to go to Alaska!

If you had a warning label, what would it say? Greg: I don’t have a clue.

Sheila: Do you want me to tell you what it would say?

Greg: Yes

Sheila: I’m not listening.

Greg: Yea, I do have this gift that I can be looking at you when you’re talking but when you get done talking I haven’t heard a thing you just said. You may think I’m listening but my mind is actually somewhere else thinking of something completely different.

GET TO KNOW HOSS – Part 3 What gave you the inspiration to start Hoss Tools and how did it begin? Greg: Well it began with the inspiration of us not being able to source quality garden tools. That was the beginning. In the early 2000s, just about everything was made in China and the quality was not good at all. We decided at that point we decided we wanted to make them!

What’s your favorite childhood memory and why? Greg: My grandfather had a farm and as a kid we used to be able to go out there and help him on the farm. It wasn’t one specific moment but I can remember certain things like him teaching me how to save tomato seeds.

What would be your “last” meal? Greg: I would say a ribeye steak, medium-well, baked potato, and a chef salad. Now I do love a good tomato sandwich, don’t get my wrong but a good ribeye steak would be my last meal.

Where do you see Hoss Tools in 10 years from now? Greg: I would love to think that we’re still around and still helping people. I would also love to think that we’re better at it. I’m constantly thinking about what we can do as a company to better serve the people out there that is trying to garden. I think there is going to be some pretty amazing things that happen technology wise that is going to help us and we’re going to use that to the best of our ability to help everyone.

Petals From The Past Ya’ll be sure to check out The Great Fall Garden Festival, it’s a Meet & Greet gathering of Homesteads, farms, and artisans who connect with others through their YouTube Channel. It’s FREE ADMISSION on September 9, 2023 from 9am-5pm in Jemison, Alabama. Check out the link here! This family friendly event will feature an educational speaker series, homemade and home grown fare at our participants booths, meet and greet, food truck vendors, and a harvest contest.

Product of the Week Seed Starting Supplies

Premium Garden Seeds

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We all know that spring gardens are everyone’s favorite to have BUT if you haven’t yet, you really should start planning your fall garden! So why exactly should you have a fall garden, let’s discuss a few reasons. Less work, less hands on, less pest pressure, less weed pressure, it’s cooler outside, and you need less water. Most big box stores do not have plants for fall gardening which is crazy to us because you can still gardening well into the fall and even the winter depending on where you are located, many of those people in warmer climates (like Florida) can almost garden year-round. So let’s talk planning a fall garden.

What Vegetables Can Be Planted In The Fall? We’ve got plenty of vegetable suggestions for you that are suited for the fall garden, with planting dates that run from late summer through fall itself. Here are just a few of Hoss favorites for fall growing! Arugula, beets, broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, collards, garlic, kale, mustard greens, kohlrabi, lettuce, onions, peas, radishes, spinach, celery, cilantro, and swiss chard. You can also add in some cool season flowers such as, Calendula Prince Mix!

When Should I Plant Fall Vegetables? | Planning A Fall Garden Obviously the best time for planting depends on the area where you live and what you plan to grow. The secret to fall vegetable gardening success is planning your harvest backwards. You will want to start with your frost date for the fall in your area. Then find out the number of days that you will need before you can harvest your fall vegetables. You can usually find that number on the back of the seed packet. Days to maturity. This will be different for direct seeds versus transplants.

How Should You Prepare For Your Fall Garden? Prepare your garden for the fall by making room for all the new plants that you are about to harvest. Start by ripping out all of the plants that you have already harvested, as well as plants that are no longer performing well (like tomatoes that have succumbed to disease or peas that have been burned by the sun). At this time, you will always want to pull up any weeds from the beds so that they don’t try to steal nutrients and moisture from your fall vegetables.

  • Tarps
  • Cover Crops
  • Get your spots ready for onions, garlic, and strawberries that you will overwinter.

Ya’ll be sure to check out The Great Fall Garden Festival, it’s a Meet & Greet gathering of Homesteads, farms, and artisans who connect with others through their YouTube Channel. It’s FREE ADMISSION on September 9, 2023 from 9am-5pm in Jemison, Alabama. Check out the link here! This family friendly event will feature an educational speaker series, homemade and home grown fare at our participants booths, meet and greet, food truck vendors, and a harvest contest.

Product of the Week Seed Starting Supplies

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Many gardeners, especially beginners, don’t necessarily always think about cover crops; summer cover crops are even more on the back burner, simply because many people do not typically “garden” in the cooler months therefore, they will plant a cover crop in the winter months to help improve your their soil. We’re trying to change that outlook! So how do we choose a warm season cover crop? Should you just leave your garden plot empty? What does planting summer cover crops actually do? Let’s talk about, grow together and get dirty!

Summer Cover Crops | What’s The Point? Pollinators! Summer Cover Crops are amazing for attracting beneficial pollinators. You need beneficial pollinators especially if you’re growing vegetables near your cover crop plots. If you don’t have pollinators, you won’t have food! Choosing the right cover crop is extremely important, you will want to choose a “flowering” cover crop that provides nectar and pollen. You will want to allow it to bloom before terminating the cover crop. Many only think of honey bees (we’re guilty of it too), but did you know that there are over 100,000 different animal species that provide free pollination services – including butterflies, moths, beetles, birds, etc. One third of human food comes from plants that are pollinated by wild pollinators.

What Should We Know For Summer Cover Crops? What we should know really depends on what you’re looking to accomplish, better yet, it’s always better to know as much as you can on a topic. Do you want a cover crop that’s tailored to your native pollinators or appeal to diversity of pollinators? Some are just looking for a honey production boost. Other benefits of habitat planting would be for providing shelter for other beneficial insects and songbirds, reducing runoff and soil erosion, or simply improving water quality. Some beneficial pollinators can travel great distances to forage for the nectar, while others cannot.

Product of the Week WARM SEASON COVER CROPS

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Why do we garden? Why do you garden? Since we’ve started Hoss, our mission has ALWAYS been “We Help You Grow Your Own Food” and that will never change. When we first started our Row By Row Garden Show we shared our Top 4 Reasons why we garden. Do you think they’ve changed since 2015? Let’s find out the Top 4 reasons why Greg and Sheila like to grow their own food! Let’s Grow Together!

Why We Garden | Top 4 Reasons – 2015 Back in 2015 on our Row By Row Show we shared our top 4 reasons of why we garden, first, it is to know what is in our food. Nice good, clean and healthy food straight to our table. Secondly, the taste straight from the garden is so much better than store bought; better quality and a lot more nutrients coming from your backyard grocery store. Third, passing your skills down to the next generation is SO important. You prevent the loss of certain gardening skills and you reinstall that skill set into the next generation and hopefully many generations to come. Last but definitely not least, self-satisfaction; we know we’re not the only ones who get a HUGE sense of accomplishment when we harvest what we’ve grown from seed. It’s a great feeling!

Greg’s Top 4 Reasons | Why We Garden 2023 1. Greg’s number one reason was to learn the skill-set! I’ve always been amazing at the skill set needed to grow a nice garden and grow their own food! 2. Self sufficiency is a huge thing for me, then and now! It may sound cliche but you never know when you’re going to need it. 3. Enjoyment, I’ve always enjoyed being out in the garden. When you enjoy a hobby, you go at it with enjoyment. It’s also my happy place, solitude is what I find in the garden. 4. Cleanliness of food, knowing what’s on your food and in your food is VERY important to me. Knowing how they’re harvested is a good thing to know as well.

Sheila’s Top 4 Reasons | Why We Garden 2023 1. Taste of fresh vegetables, the flavor. I know what the input is. I know that it is going to taste good, unlike the taste from grocery store. If you know you know.  Unless you have that homegrown tomato picked from your garden, ripen by the sunshine, picked in the heat of summer and tasted the concentrated sugars, you have never eaten a true tomato. 2. Garden Community.  It is fun to share knowledge, successes, failures. Comradery around the love of the garden. A hobby that is entertaining, growing, enriching and very rewarding. 3. Positive effects on our physical, mental and social well-being. Increase levels of physical activity through planting, watering, walking, maintaining. Gardening can help keep you mentally active, always providing opportunities to gain new knowledge. Gardening can reduce depression and stress. Increase feelings of hope and achievement. “I grew this”. 4. Food Security, Covid changed this experience. Supply chain issues, Food cost. Gardening is a process.  You can’t wait till an emergency to start. You need to start now to be prepared for an emergency. When you can afford to make mistakes and have time to learn.  Just start something. Then learn how to preserve it to enjoy all year long. Then learn how to preserve it to enjoy all year long.

Product of the Week PREMIUM GARDEN SEEDS

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Preserving food not only extends its shelf life but also allows us to enjoy seasonal flavors straight form the garden throughout the year. Some of the oldest methods of preservation are drying, refrigeration, and fermentation. More of the modern techniques include canning, freezing, dehydrating, and freeze drying. The goal is to prevent food spoilage from bacteria, yeast, and mold. We aim to empower you with the knowledge you need to grow your own food and how to preserve your harvest. An important note to remember is that improperly packages frozen foods lose small amounts of moisture during storage, resulting in surface dehydration (commonly called freezer burn).

Food Preservation Essential Techniques and Tips : Freezing You can freeze “almost” any food, frozen foods remain safe indefinitely. Two of our favorite vegetables to grow are corn and peas. Freezing preserves food for extended periods because it prevents the growth of microorganisms that cause both food spoilage and food-borne illness. Freezing to 0 °F inactivates any microbes — bacteria, yeasts and molds — present in food. Once thawed, however, these microbes can again become active, multiplying under the right conditions to levels that can lead to foodborne illness. Since they will then grow at about the same rate as microorganisms on fresh food, you must handle thawed items as you would any perishable food

Most vegetables that freeze well are low acid and require brief, partial cooking to prevent deterioration. This is called “blanching.” For successful freezing, blanch or partially cook vegetables in boiling water or in a microwave oven. Then rapidly chill the vegetables prior to freezing and storage. Blanching also inactivates enzymes that cause deterioration of foods during frozen storage. Blanching is carried out at temperatures close to 100 °C (212 °F) for two to five minutes in either a water bath or a steam chamber.

Essential Techniques and Tips : Canning Canning is a food preservation technique that involves sealing food in airtight containers, typically glass jars, to create a sterile environment that prevents the growth of bacteria, yeasts, and molds. Some of our favorties to can are tomatoes, green beans, potatoes, broth, and soups. The process typically involves placing prepared food into jars, sealing them with lids, and subjecting them to heat treatment. This heat treatment, often achieved through boiling or pressure canning, destroys microorganisms and enzymes that could cause spoilage, ensuring the long-term preservation of the food.

Water bath or Pressure Can? Depends on the acidity of the food. Low-acid foods are not acidic enough to prevent the growth of bacteria. Low acidic foods have pH values above 4.6. Acidic foods have pH of 4.6 or lower. You can acidify by adding lemon juice or citric acid. All low-acid foods should be sterilized at temperatures of 240° to 250°F, attainable with pressure canners. Begin with good-quality fresh foods. Discard any diseased and moldy food. Trim off any bad spots.

Hot packing, raw packing Hot-packing is the practice of heating freshly prepared food to boiling, simmering it 2 to 5 minutes, and promptly filling jars loosely with the boiled food.Raw-packing is the practice of filling jars tightly with freshly prepared, but unheated food.

Essential Techniques and Tips : Dehydration Dehydrating, also known as drying, is a food preservation method that involves removing the moisture from food to inhibit the growth of bacteria, yeast, and molds, thus extending its shelf life. It is accomplished by circulating warm air around the food, either through natural air drying or using specialized dehydrators. During the dehydration process, moisture is evaporated from the food, reducing its water content to a level where microorganisms cannot thrive. This preservation technique is commonly used for fruits, vegetables, herbs, meat, and even dairy products. Dehydrated foods are lightweight, compact, and have a significantly longer shelf life compared to fresh or frozen alternatives.

Dehydrated foods can be rehydrated by soaking them in water or adding them to recipes that involve cooking with liquids. Overall, dehydrating is a versatile and convenient method for preserving food while maintaining its flavor and nutritional value. Dehydrated foods can be healthier alternatives to many snacks, and you can add them to salads, oatmeal, baked goods, and so much more. Try dehydrating figs or herbs!

Product of the Week COMPLETE FERMENTATION KIT

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Over the last several days we have been getting hammered with bad storms and downpours of rain over several hours at a time. A break, maybe we’ve had a day of no rain in the last couple weeks but that’s about it. So, can you garden in the rain? What does all of this rain do to your vegetables? You would think that rain is good for your garden, right? BUT TOO MUCH rain isn’t good, it can cause all sorts of problems. The BEST solution is PREPARATION!

What problems do excessive amounts of rain cause? Does it ruin the foliage? What about roots? If you’re in the South, you know that hurricane season is upon us! Let’s grow together and get dirty!

Can Your Garden In The Rain? Preparation Is Key! Here are several tips that we hope will help you be prepared:

  1. Make sure your plants are tied up/supported.  Check trellis, reinforce if necessary.
  2. Harvest as much as you can prior to the rain/storms.
  3. Stop watering ahead of the rain!
  4. Observe how your garden drains and identify problems areas.
  5. Remove/Prune off bad leaves as soon as possible
  6. Increase fungal issues from plants being damp for too long. Stay on top of rust.
  7. Root erosion, add soil back around exposed roots.
  8. Increase in snails and slugs.
  9. Increase in weeds.  Perfect time to pull is after the rain and soil is soft.
  10. Rain will wash nutrients away. May need to fertilize more often.
  11. Hail damage, cover tender plants if possible.
  12. Mulch, too much can keep soil wet to long and be breeding ground.
  13. Plants in containers will typically suffer more.  Keep emptied and move to covered area if possible.
  14. Protect young seedlings with buckets/pots.

Product of the Week FERTILIZERS

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It’s all about the King Of The Garden tonight, TOMATOES! The winners and losers (in our opinion)! Time for the Tomato Tasting Review 2023! We’ve been harvesting lots of fruit already from the garden, some of which were “trials” for us and it sure has been interesting to say the least. From beefsteaks, slicers, to cherry tomatoes, we’re reviewing them all! Let’s Grow Together! Tell us, what’s your favorite variety you’ve grown! Be sure to check out our Tomato Growing Guide for lots of helpful tomato growing tips and tricks! Be sure to watch the video for the full review!

These are just a few examples of the many types of tomatoes available. Each variety has its own taste, texture, and culinary uses, so you can choose based on your preferences of growing habits and how you want to use them! Of course, one thing you should always remember is how much room you have in the garden for growth, this is important. Each of the different types of tomatoes below have different growth habits.

Tomato Review – The Different Types of Tomatoes Beefsteak Tomatoes Known for their large size and meaty texture, beefsteak tomatoes are commonly used for sandwiches and slicing. They come in various colors, including red, pink, yellow, and even striped varieties.

Heirloom Tomatoes Heirloom tomatoes are open-pollinated varieties that have been passed down through generations. They come in various colors, shapes, and sizes and are known for their unique flavors and vibrant appearances.

Roma Tomatoes They are popular for making sauces, pastes, and canning due to their low moisture content.

Cherry Tomatoes Small and round, cherry tomatoes are bite-sized and often used in salads or as a snack. They are available in different colors like red, yellow, and even black.

Growth Habits – Tomato Tasting Review 2023 Determinate Tomatoes Determinate tomatoes are often referred to as bush tomatoes. They have a compact growth habit and tend to reach a predetermined height, usually around 2 to 4 feet (60 to 120 centimeters). These tomatoes typically stop growing when fruit sets on the terminal bud, and they tend to produce a large crop of fruit over a relatively short period. Determinate tomatoes are suitable for container gardening or small garden spaces.

Indeterminate Tomatoes Indeterminate tomatoes have a vining or sprawling growth habit. They continue to grow and produce fruit throughout the growing season until frost or other unfavorable conditions. Indeterminate tomatoes can grow quite tall, often reaching 6 to 12 feet (180 to 360 centimeters) or even more under ideal conditions. They require support, such as stakes, cages, or trellises, to keep the plants upright and ensure proper air circulation.

Semi-determinate Tomatoes Semi-determinate tomatoes exhibit characteristics of both determinate and indeterminate types. They are more compact than indeterminate varieties, but they continue to grow and produce fruit for a longer period compared to determinate tomatoes. Semi-determinate tomatoes often benefit from some support but may not require as much as indeterminate varieties.

It’s important to note that these growth habits are general guidelines, and there can be variations within each tomato variety. Additionally, some heirloom varieties may have unique growth patterns that differ from the typical determinate or indeterminate habits. When selecting tomato varieties, it’s always a good idea to refer to specific plant information online and recommended growing conditions.

Product of the Week TOMATOES

FERTILIZERS

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It’s June and boy, is it getting hot in Georgia! The garden is in full-force and we are harvesting every day. The temptation to just harvest and cruise on through summer is also in full-force. Do not just let the garden go, there is still plenty of time to continue plantings. After you harvest your potatoes and garlic, have something prepare to go into these plots. Find out your first average frost date for the Fall, find days to maturity, subtract to see if you have time to plant/grow. If it will take longer than the days you have, it’s not worth risking. Be sure to add a week or so for harvesting to be safe. Let’s discuss your June Garden To-Do List, grow together, and Get Dirty!

Succession Planting – June Garden To-Do List Succession planting is a gardening technique that allows you to maximize your harvest and enjoy a continuous supply of fresh produce throughout the growing season. By carefully planning and timing your plantings, you can fill the gaps left by harvested crops with new ones, ensuring that your garden remains productive. Whether you have a small backyard plot or a large vegetable garden, succession planting is a smart and efficient way to make the most of your space and extend the bounty of your harvest.

Not only does it provide a constant supply of delicious vegetables and herbs, but it also helps prevent weeds from taking over and optimizes the use of resources such as water and fertilizer. Embracing succession planting can truly transform your garden into a year-round source of abundance and culinary delight. Here in USDA Zone 8, we still have time to plant okra, beans, and cucumbers.

Warm Season Cover Crops Planting and growing warm season cover crops can significantly benefit your garden and soil health. These cover crops, such as buckwheat, cowpeas, or sorghum-sudangrass, thrive in the heat of summer and offer numerous advantages. Firstly, they provide excellent weed suppression, smothering unwanted plants and reducing competition for resources. Additionally, warm season cover crops enhance soil fertility by fixing nitrogen, enriching the soil with this essential nutrient for future crops. They also improve soil structure and moisture retention, preventing erosion and enhancing the soil’s ability to hold water during hot and dry periods. Planting warm season cover crops not only boosts your garden’s productivity but also helps maintain its overall health and resilience, making it a valuable addition to any gardener’s summer planting strategy.

Herbs! Growing herbs like dill, basil, parsley, and oregano in your garden is a delightful and rewarding experience. These versatile herbs not only add incredible flavors to your culinary creations but also offer numerous health benefits. Dill, with its feathery leaves and distinct taste, is perfect for seasoning fish dishes and pickles. Basil, available in a variety of flavors, brings a burst of freshness to salads, pastas, and sauces. Parsley, both curly and flat-leaf varieties, is a must-have for its bright flavor and as a garnish. Oregano, with its robust and earthy taste, is a key ingredient in Mediterranean and Italian cuisine. Growing these herbs is relatively easy, and they thrive in containers or in the garden. They require well-drained soil, ample sunlight, and regular watering. Harvesting the leaves regularly not only encourages growth but also ensures a steady supply of aromatic and flavorful herbs for all your culinary adventures.

Product of the Week Herbs

Zinnias

Warm Season Cover Crops

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It’s NEVER fun when diseases attack the garden! We’re talking all about controlling spring garden pathogens, like the disease causing microorganisms like fungi, bacteria, and viruses. Below is our list of organic and non-organic controls. The MOST important thing to remember is prevention, prevention is key but we like to give you the helpful tips & tricks that can combat these diseases if they strike! Join us and let’s grow together!

Controlling Spring Garden Diseases: SUMMER & WINTER SQUASHLiquid cop – Downy Mildew, Powdery Mildew, Anthracnose, Alternaria Leaf Spot
Garden Phos –, Downy Mildew, Powdery Mildew; Anthracnose, Alternaria Leaf Blight

Fungi Max – Powdery Mildew
Vegetable, Flower, Fruit and Ornamental Fungicide – Downy Mildew, Powdery Mildew; Anthracnose, Alternaria Leaf Blight, Cercospora Leaf Spot

POTATOESOrganic ControlsCrop rotation and using certified – Bacterial wilt
Crop rotation and don’t overwater Common scab, late blight, bacterial wilt

Non-Organic Controls
Liquid cop – early blight, late blight
Garden Phos – early blight, late blight

CORNNon-Organic Controls
Fungi Max – common rust, grey leaf spot, blight

Organic Controls
Complete Disease Control – common rust, grey leaf spot, blight

TOMATOESCrop rotation and select resistant varieties – Fusarium Wilt, bacterial wilt, Tomato Mosaic virus, early blight and late blight
Complete Disease Control (Drench)- early blight

Fungi max – Bacterial wilt
Liquid cop – early blight, late blight, bacterial spot
Garden Phos – late blight, bacterial spot
Vegetable, flower, fruit and ornamental fungicide – early blight, late blight

WATERMELONSNon-Organic Controls
Liquid cop – downy mildew
Garden Phos – downey mildew, anthracnose, gummy stem blight, damping off (seed treatment)
Complete Disease Control – anthracnose
Vegetable, Flower, Fruit & Ornamental Fungicide – downey mildew, gummy stem blight, anthracnose

FOR MORE DISEASE CONTROL SUGGESTIONS, MAKE SURE YOU CHECK OUT THE VIDEO!! Product of the Week Disease Control

Turmeric

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It’s NEVER fun when those pests attack the garden! We’re talking all about controlling spring garden pests, the larger organisms like insects and mites (although some of these aren’t very big at all) and pathogens, like the disease causing microorganisms like fungi, bacteria, and viruses in a two part series. The MOST important thing to remember is prevention, prevention is key! Join us and let’s grow together!

Controlling Spring Garden Pests: BrassicasControlling spring garden pests in brassicas is crucial for maintaining the health and productivity of your plants. Start by implementing preventive measures such as crop rotation and companion planting to deter pests. Regularly inspect your brassicas for signs of infestation, such as chewed leaves or egg clusters, and promptly remove any affected plants or pests. Utilize pest control methods such as neem oil or insecticidal soaps to target specific pests while minimizing harm to beneficial insects. By staying vigilant and taking proactive steps, you can effectively manage pests in your spring garden and protect your brassicas.

Organic ControlsGarden Insect Spray– Thrips, Horn Worms, Cabbage Looper
Horticulture Oil– Aphids, Flea Beetle, Whiteflies
Bug Buster-O– Aphids, Flea Beetle, Whiteflies
Monterey BT– Hornworms, Cabbage Looper
Take Down Garden Spray– Aphids, Horn Worms, Flea Beetle, Whiteflies
Diatomaceous Earth– Cutworms
Neem Oil– Whiteflies, Aphids

Non-organic ControlsBug buster II– Aphids, Horn Worms, Flea Beetle, Whiteflies, Cabbage Looper

Controlling Spring Garden Pests: Summer SquashOne effective method is to regularly monitor your plants for signs of pest infestation, such as chewed leaves or wilting. Handpick any visible pests, such as squash bugs or cucumber beetles, and promptly remove them from your garden. Applying insecticides can help control pests while minimizing harm to beneficial insects.

Garden Insect Spray – Thrips, Pickleworms, leaf miners, Armyworms, mealy bugs
Horticultural Oil – Aphids, Squash bugs (Nymphs), Flea Beetle, Whiteflies, Spider Mites, Beetle larvae, leaf miners
Bug Buster-O – Aphids, Flea Beetle, Whiteflies, Cucumber beetles, Thrips, Mites, Armyworms
Monterey BT Armyworms, pickleworms
Take Down Garden Spray– Aphids, Army Worms, Flea Beetle, Whiteflies, Mites, Squash bugs(Nymphs)Vine borer ( Nymphs)
Diatomaceous Earth– Cutworms

Non-Organic Controls
Bug buster ll– Aphids, , Squash Bugs, Flea Beetle, Whiteflies, Spider Mites, Thrips, leaf Miner, Vine borer, Cucumber beetle, Armyworm

Controlling Spring Garden Pests: Sweet PotatoesSome of the worst pests that can take over your sweet potato plants are flea beetles, Colorado potato beetles, Leaf Hoppers, and/or potato tuber moths. Here are organic and non-organic controls.

Garden Insect Spray – Thrips, Hornworm, Armyworms
Horticulture Oil– Aphids, Stinkbugs, Flea Beetle, Whiteflies, Spider Mites
Bug Buster-O – Aphids, Flea Beetle, Whiteflies
Take Down Garden Spray – Aphids, Flea Beetle, Whiteflies
Diatomaceous Earth – Cutworms

Non-Organic ControlsBug buster ll – Aphids, Wireworms, Stinkbugs, Flea Beetle, Whiteflies, Grubs, Thrips, Armyworms

FOR MORE TIPS AND TRICKS, VISIT THE LINK! Product of the WeekPest and Disease Control

Turmeric

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SWEET POTATO TIME !! One of our favorite things and easiest vegetables to grow in the garden and even in Mama Hoss’ raised beds is sweet potatoes. We’re discussing everything you need to know to have a great harvest this season, soil preparation, planting techniques, watering and fertilization needs, and much more! Let’s grow together and get dirty!

What are Sweet Potatoes?Sweet potato loves heat, and are great to fill that spot during summer heat. Sweet potatoes are a root vegetable that is packed with nutrition. They usually have a long, tapered shape and can range in size from small to large. They are a good source of dietary fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, and many other vitamins and minerals. Sweet potatoes tend to be much more nutrient–dense than regular potatoes. They are a staple food in many countries and are used in a variety of dishes, including baked goods, casseroles, and soups. Sweet potatoes are a great vegetable to grow in the garden, as they are hardy, easy to grow, and have a long harvest season. Sweet potatoes are also a great choice for gardeners because they are relatively pest and disease-resistant, and can be stored for a long time. Additionally, sweet potatoes can be grown in a variety of climates, even in cooler regions.

Leaves are EdibleSweet potato greens are the leafy green tops of the sweet potato plant, which are edible and commonly consumed in many parts of the world. They are rich in nutrients, including vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron, calcium, and antioxidants. Sweet potato greens can be prepared in various ways, such as sautéing, stir-frying, steaming, or boiling. They have a slightly sweet and earthy flavor, similar to spinach or other leafy greens. They can be used in salads, soups, stews, or as a side dish. When choosing sweet potato greens, look for young, tender leaves that are bright green and not wilted. Wash them thoroughly before cooking and remove any tough stems.

Varieties Recommended by HossBeauregard: Highest yielding, most forgiving on fertility and watering

Covington: longer storage time, disease resistance, good size, sweeter than Beauregard

Georgia Jets: extremely fast growing, cold tolerant,

Murasaki: sweet nutty flavor great for roasting

How to start Growing Sweet Potato? Plant on the last day to order online. To grow sweet potatoes, you’ll need well-drained soil and a warm, sunny spot. Start by planting sweet potato slips in the spring after the last frost date. Plant slips outdoors 3 to 4 weeks after your last spring frost or once the soil has warmed to at least 65°F (18°C). Nighttime temperatures should be at least 55°F (13°C). The trick is to plant them early enough for them to have time to mature fully, but not so early that they get killed by a late spring frost. Bury each slip about a foot deep, with the top leaves sticking out of the soil.

MulchingMulching sweet potatoes is an important part of growing a successful crop. Mulch helps retain soil moisture, suppresses weeds, moderates soil temperature, and prevents the spread of diseases. Use a 2 to 3 inch layer of organic mulch, such as straw, dry grass clippings, shredded leaves, or wood chips, around the base of the sweet potato plants. Keep the mulch a few inches away from the stems to prevent rot. Reapply mulch as needed throughout the growing season.

Soil Requirements to Grow Sweet Potato• Well-draining, high phosphorous soil• pH between 6.0 to 6.5• Rich in organic materials• Good quality compost added to the soil

Sweet Potato Irrigation RequirementsSweet Potato plants need at least 1 inch of water per week. Using drip irrigation is always recommended to be sure that your plants are getting moisture directly to their root system. If you’re using conventional overhead watering techniques, try and use something like the Dramm Watering Can and water and fertilize at the base of the plant to keep moisture off the leaves.

Raised Bed Fertilizer ScheduleSeveral Weeks Before Planting
Test your soil at your local extension office.
1 Week Before Planting
After adjusting soil pH to 6.0 – 6.5, mix 1 1/2 cups per 10 ft. of row of Hoss Complete Organic Fertilizer with your soil.
2 Weeks After Planting
Side dress 2 cups of Hoss Complete Organic Fertilizer per 10 ft. of row.
Every 14 Days (After 1 Week Planting)
Mix 1 tablet each of Dr. Joe Nutri Bubble -AND- Dr. Joe Tomato & Vegetable Bubble into 1 gallon of water. Apply as a drench per 4 plants

In-Ground Fertilizer ScheduleSeveral Weeks Before Planting
Test your soil at your local extension office.
1 Week Before Planting
After adjusting soil pH to 6.0 – 6.5, mix 1 1/2 cups per 10 ft. of row of Hoss Complete Organic Fertilizer with your soil.
2 Weeks After Planting
Using the Hoss Fertilizer Injector, Mix 1 cup of Hoss Premium 20-20-20 Fertilizer -AND -1-2 cups of Hoss Micro-Boost Micronutrient Supplement per 20 ft. of row.
Alternate Every 14-21 Days
Mix 1 cup of Hoss Premium Calcium Nitrate -AND -1-2 cups of Hoss Micro-Boost Micronutrient Supplement per 20 ft. of row.

HarvestingHarvest the sweet potatoes when the vines begin to yellow and die back, usually in late summer or early fall. Carefully dig around the roots and gently remove the sweet potatoes from the soil. Allow them to cure in the sun for a few days before storing. To harvest sweet potatoes, wait until the foliage begins to yellow and die back, usually in late summer or early fall. Carefully dig around the roots with a garden fork or spade. Gently lift the sweet potatoes from the soil, being careful not to damage them. Brush off any excess soil and let the sweet potatoes cure in a warm, dry place for a few days to allow the skin to harden. This will improve their storage potential. Do NOT wash.

StoringTo store sweet potatoes, keep them in a cool, dry place with good air circulation, such as a pantry or root cellar. Avoid exposing them to temperatures below 55°F, as this can cause them to develop a sweet, woody flavor. Do not wash the sweet potatoes before storing, as moisture can encourage spoilage. Instead, simply brush off any excess soil and place them in a single layer in a paper or mesh bag. Sweet potatoes can be stored for several months in these conditions. To extend their shelf life, inspect them regularly and remove any that show signs of spoilage, such as soft spots or mold.

Products:SWEET POTATOES

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May has to be one of our busiest months in the garden and if you’re in the warmer growing zones, it is probably the same for you. Harvesting has started and we are already reaping the benefits of growing our own food. It is also one of the toughest on pests, tonight we’re discussing everything you need to stay on top of this month in your garden. Fertilization, pest control, succession planting, and much more is on the agenda tonight! Let’s grow together and get dirty!

What Should You Do in May?* Know your garden zone. * Stay on top of pests! * Stay on top of fertilization. * Stay on top of weed pressure. * Think about sccession planting. * Have watering systems in place. * Have flowers for pollinating insects.

Zones 9 & 10Weather is very warm, and everything should be planted and growing by now. Start planning your succession planting schedule if you haven’t already.

May is an ideal month for those across the U.S. to plant all your favorite annual and perennial herbs.

  • Direct sow herbs: dill, cilantro, chervil, fennel, & parsley
  • Take cuttings, 3 to 4 inches long, of marjoram, rosemary, sage, & thyme from last year’s growth to propagate new plants.
  • Divide and replant mint & thyme that has overgrown pots or has become straggly in the garden.
  • Set out basil seedlings when the danger of frost has passed. Set seedlings 12-15 inches apart and water well in the early stages until the plants are established.

Zones 7 & 8It is quite warm here in May. Harvest your garlic and onions, and harvest your potatoes at the end of May.

  • Sweet Potatoes (when soil temp reaches 70°F). They are best planted at least 4 weeks after the last frost date has passed. Some varieties need as much as 4 months of temperatures over 75°F. The hotter the weather and climate is, the better they grow.
  • Melons
  • Corn (if the corn is long-season, mid to late May is the last chance to plant these from seed to have them ready for harvesting before the last frost)
  • Beans
  • Cucumbers (The ideal temperature for seed germination for cucumbers is over 60°F.
  • Eggplant
  • Tomatoes (nightshade- invest in trellis, cages, and/or Florida weave)
  • Peppers (nightshade)

Zones 5 & 6If your weather is mild, you can get away with still planting a few cool season crops.

  • Tomatoes
  • Peppers
  • Eggplant
  • Melons
  • Squash (Summer & Winter)
  • Cucumbers
  • Potatoes
  • Beans
  • Herbs
  • Okra
  • Sweet Potatoes
  • Corn (10 days before your last threat of frost). Seeds take about 10 days to germinate so they will be protected in the soul from the frost. Soil needs to be above 55°F.
  • Flowers (marigolds, zinnias, sunflowers, nasturtium)

Zones 3 & 4Cool season crops can be started outdoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost.

  • Broccoli
  • Brussels Sprouts
  • Cabbage
  • Carrots
  • Cauliflower

Warm season crops can be started indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost.

  • Tomatoes
  • Peppers
  • Kale
  • Lettuce
  • Onions
  • Peas
  • Beets
  • Spinach
  • Cucumbers (end of May)
  • Winter squash (end of May)
  • Beans (pole and bush)
  • Corn (when soil is above 55°F).

Products:TURMERIC

FERTILIZER

DISEASE AND PEST CONTROL

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May has to be one of our busiest months in the garden and if you’re in the warmer growing zones, it is probably the same for you. Harvesting has started and we are already reaping the benefits of growing our own food. It is also one of the toughest on pests, tonight we’re discussing everything you need to stay on top of this month in your garden. Fertilization, pest control, succession planting, and much more is on the agenda tonight! Let’s grow together and get dirty!

What Should You Do in May?* Know your garden zone. * Stay on top of pests! * Stay on top of fertilization. * Stay on top of weed pressure. * Think about sccession planting. * Have watering systems in place. * Have flowers for pollinating insects.

Zones 9 & 10Weather is very warm, and everything should be planted and growing by now. Start planning your succession planting schedule if you haven’t already.

May is an ideal month for those across the U.S. to plant all your favorite annual and perennial herbs.

  • Direct sow herbs: dill, cilantro, chervil, fennel, & parsley
  • Take cuttings, 3 to 4 inches long, of marjoram, rosemary, sage, & thyme from last year’s growth to propagate new plants.
  • Divide and replant mint & thyme that has overgrown pots or has become straggly in the garden.
  • Set out basil seedlings when the danger of frost has passed. Set seedlings 12-15 inches apart and water well in the early stages until the plants are established.

Zones 7 & 8It is quite warm here in May. Harvest your garlic and onions, and harvest your potatoes at the end of May.

  • Sweet Potatoes (when soil temp reaches 70°F). They are best planted at least 4 weeks after the last frost date has passed. Some varieties need as much as 4 months of temperatures over 75°F. The hotter the weather and climate is, the better they grow.
  • Melons
  • Corn (if the corn is long-season, mid to late May is the last chance to plant these from seed to have them ready for harvesting before the last frost)
  • Beans
  • Cucumbers (The ideal temperature for seed germination for cucumbers is over 60°F.
  • Eggplant
  • Tomatoes (nightshade- invest in trellis, cages, and/or Florida weave)
  • Peppers (nightshade)

Zones 5 & 6If your weather is mild, you can get away with still planting a few cool season crops.

  • Tomatoes
  • Peppers
  • Eggplant
  • Melons
  • Squash (Summer & Winter)
  • Cucumbers
  • Potatoes
  • Beans
  • Herbs
  • Okra
  • Sweet Potatoes
  • Corn (10 days before your last threat of frost). Seeds take about 10 days to germinate so they will be protected in the soul from the frost. Soil needs to be above 55°F.
  • Flowers (marigolds, zinnias, sunflowers, nasturtium)

Zones 3 & 4Cool season crops can be started outdoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost.

  • Broccoli
  • Brussels Sprouts
  • Cabbage
  • Carrots
  • Cauliflower

Warm season crops can be started indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost.

  • Tomatoes
  • Peppers
  • Kale
  • Lettuce
  • Onions
  • Peas
  • Beets
  • Spinach
  • Cucumbers (end of May)
  • Winter squash (end of May)
  • Beans (pole and bush)
  • Corn (when soil is above 55°F).

Products:TURMERIC

FERTILIZER

DISEASE AND PEST CONTROL

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Hey Neighbor! We’ve got a great show tonight, Peiter from Seminis is back! We’re talking all things indeterminate tomatoes – debunking tomato growing myths, how to treat them, pruning tomatoes and so much more! Seminis is a HUGE player in the indeterminate seed breeder for the home gardener. Let’s grow together and get dirty, ya’ll!

The Difference Between Determinate & Indeterminate TomatoesDeterminate tomatoes grow their tomatoes all at once and grow in a “bush”, while indeterminate tomatoes grow fruit throughout the season and grow through vining.

Indeterminate TomatoesBetter Boy TomatoBetter Boy Tomato is one of the most-popular tomato varieties grown across the country, and for good reason! This hybrid, indeterminate tomato variety produces heavy yields of bright red tomatoes that can weigh up to 1 lb each. Better Boy is widely adapted and performs well across the country in any growing zone. It is also resistant to nematodes, making it a great option for home gardeners and small-scale farmers. Solanum lycopersicum. 75 days to maturity.

Better Boy Tomato is the perfect slicing tomato variety. Plants produce a significant amount of foliage that protect the fruits from sun scald damage. Fruits are extra-large and have that perfect tangy and acidic tomato flavor. In addition to slicing, this is also a great variety for canning and preserving.

Tomatoes are in the nightshade family along with peppers and eggplant. Plants in the nightshade family are susceptible to blossom end rot, which is a result of a calcium deficiency. To prevent or alleviate this problem, apply pelleted gypsum at the base of the plant at bloom set. Tomatoes do best when transplanted, as the germination time can be longer than most vegetable seed. They grow very well in our heavy-duty seed starting trays. Plants should be started 4-6 weeks before the intended outdoor planting date.

If conditions outside are favorable, transplants may be planted directly from our 162 cell trays. If conditions are still too cold for planting tomatoes, transplants may be “stepped-up” to 4″ pots to allow more room to grow. Tomatoes can produce heavy fruits and will require some form of support to keep the plant upright. This ensures that plants and fruits stay off the ground, reducing the possibility of disease and keeping fruits clean.

Better Boy Tomato Planting InformationPlanting Method: transplant

When to Plant: after last frost

Planting Depth: 1/4″

Seed Spacing: 2′

Row Spacing: 3-4′

Days to Maturity:75

Disease Resistance:Verticillium Wilt, Fusarium Wilt, Root Knot Nematodes

Big Beef TomatoBig Beef Tomato is a hybrid, indeterminate tomato variety that produces large, beefsteak tomatoes. This variety is considered the gold standard for big, fresh market tomatoes in many areas of the country. Big Beef has an excellent disease-resistance package that includes resistance to root knot nematodes and tobacco mosaic virus. Solanum lycopersicum. 75 days to maturity. TREATED.

Big Beef Tomato is an All America Selections winner for its plant vigor, consistent fruit size and excellent flavor. Indeterminate plants produce fruits that average 12 to 16 ounces. Compared to other indeterminate varieties, the fruits ripen early on vigorous vines. This variety is also known to continue to set fruit in cooler conditions, producing delicious tomatoes until the first frost in many regions.

Tomatoes are in the nightshade family along with peppers and eggplant. Plants in the nightshade family are susceptible to blossom end rot, which is a result of a calcium deficiency. To prevent or alleviate this problem, apply pelleted gypsum at the base of the plant at bloom set. Tomatoes do best when transplanted, as the germination time can be longer than most vegetable seed. They grow very well in our heavy-duty seed starting trays. Plants should be started 4-6 weeks before the intended outdoor planting date.

If conditions outside are favorable, transplants may be planted directly from our 162 cell trays. If conditions are still too cold for planting tomatoes, transplants may be “stepped-up” to 4″ pots to allow more room to grow. Tomatoes can produce heavy fruits and will require some form of support to keep the plant upright. This ensures that plants and fruits stay off the ground, reducing the possibility of disease and keeping fruits clean.

Big Beef Tomato Planting InformationPlanting Method: transplant

When to Plant: after last frost

Planting Depth: 1/4″

Seed Spacing: 2′

Row Spacing: 3-4′

Days to Maturity:75

Disease Resistance:Verticillium Wilt, Fusarium Wilt, Root Knot Nematode, Alternaria Stem Canker, Gray Leaf Spot, Tobacco Mosaic Virus

Purple Boy TomatoPurple Boy Tomato is a hybrid, indeterminate variety that offers exceptional flavor coupled with disease-resistance to perform in the harshest conditions. It offers the great heirloom tang that you’ve come to expect from varieties like Cherokee Purple, but with more plant vigor so that it can be grown later into the warmer months. Solanum lycopersicum. 80 days to maturity.

Purple Boy Tomato produces tomatoes with a deep purple color inside and out. Unlike its heirloom counterparts, fruits will be more uniform and symmetrically-shaped, making them easier to slice and prepare for that delicious tomato sandwich. It is resistant to Tobacco Mosaic Virus and Root Knot Nematodes, making it widely-adapted for a wide range of growing conditions.

Tomatoes are in the nightshade family along with peppers and eggplant. Plants in the nightshade family are susceptible to blossom end rot, which is a result of a calcium deficiency. To prevent or alleviate this problem, apply pelleted gypsum at the base of the plant at bloom set. Tomatoes do best when transplanted, as the germination time can be longer than most vegetable seed. They grow very well in our heavy-duty seed starting trays. Plants should be started 4-6 weeks before the intended outdoor planting date.

If conditions outside are favorable, transplants may be planted directly from our 162 cell trays. If conditions are still too cold for planting tomatoes, transplants may be “stepped-up” to 4″ pots to allow more room to grow. Tomatoes can produce heavy fruits and will require some form of support to keep the plant upright. This ensures that plants and fruits stay off the ground, reducing the possibility of disease and keeping fruits clean.

Purple Boy Tomato Planting InformationPlanting Method: transplant

When to Plant: after last frost

Planting Depth: 1/4″

Seed Spacing: 2′

Row Spacing: 3-4′

Days to Maturity:80

Disease Resistance:Root Knot Nematodes, Tobacco Mosaic Virus, Verticillium Wilt, Fusarium Wilt

Lemon Boy TomatoLemon Boy Tomato is a hybrid, indeterminate tomato variety that produces bright yellow fruits with the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. This variety is the yellow version of the popular Better Boy tomato variety. It has an excellent disease-resistance package including resistance to gray leaf spot and nematodes. Solanum lycopersicum. 75 days to maturity.

Unlike other gold tomato varieties, Lemon Boy Tomato has a bright yellow color like a lemon. It also is higher yielding than comparable gold tomato varieties. The eye-catching fruits average 6-8 ounces each and provide brilliant color to any salad or vegetable medley.

Tomatoes are in the nightshade family along with peppers and eggplant. Plants in the nightshade family are susceptible to blossom end rot, which is a result of a calcium deficiency. To prevent or alleviate this problem, apply pelleted gypsum at the base of the plant at bloom set. Tomatoes do best when transplanted, as the germination time can be longer than most vegetable seed. They grow very well in our heavy-duty seed starting trays. Plants should be started 4-6 weeks before the intended outdoor planting date.

If conditions outside are favorable, transplants may be planted directly from our 162 cell trays. If conditions are still too cold for planting tomatoes, transplants may be “stepped-up” to 4″ pots to allow more room to grow. Tomatoes can produce heavy fruits and will require some form of support to keep the plant upright. This ensures that plants and fruits stay off the ground, reducing the possibility of disease and keeping fruits clean.

Lemon Boy Tomato Planting InformationPlanting Method:transplant

When to Plant:after last frost

Planting Depth:1/4″

Seed Spacing:2′

Row Spacing:3-4′

Days to Maturity:75

Disease Resistance:Verticillium Wilt, Fusarium Wilt, Root Knot Nematode, Alternaria Stem Canker, Gray Leaf Spot

Pink Delicious Tomato Pink Delicious gets its name honestly, it’s as pink in color, as it is delicious in flavor! An early maturing, indeterminate tomato that has an heirloom look and flavor, Pink Delicious is a hybrid with an excellent disease-resistance package. We tried this in our trial garden in 2022, it produced well under high disease pressure. This variety stands on its own compared to similar varieties, being a 2022 AAS Regional Winner for great flavor, texture, and for an “heirloom” looking tomato but with all the benefits of a hybrid. Pink Delicious has a high Brix for a sweeter-than-normal pink tomato. Great for home and market gardeners alike, perfect for slicing with an average weight of 1/2 – 1 pound. Well-suited for different growing zones, trailed in Georgia and Ohio, both zones outperformed expectations. If you want to grow an heirloom-type tomato and have failed in the past, this is the one you will be successful with. Solanum lycopersicum.84 days to maturity

Tomatoes are in the nightshade family along with peppers and eggplant. Plants in the nightshade family are susceptible to blossom end rot, which is a result of a calcium deficiency. To prevent or alleviate this problem, apply pelleted gypsum at the base of the plant at the bloom set. Tomatoes do best when transplanted, as the germination time can be longer than most vegetable seeds. They grow very well in our heavy-duty seed-starting trays. Plants should be started 4-6 weeks before the intended outdoor planting date.

If conditions outside are favorable, transplants may be planted directly from our 162-cell trays. If conditions are still too cold for planting tomatoes, transplants may be “stepped-up” to 4″ pots to allow more room to grow. Tomatoes can produce heavy fruits and will require some form of support to keep the plant upright. This ensures that plants and fruits stay off the ground, reducing the possibility of disease and keeping fruits clean.

Pink Delicious Tomato Planting InformationPlanting Method: transplant

When to Plant: after last frost

Planting Depth: 1/4″

Seed Spacing: 2′

Row Spacing: 3-4′

Days to Maturity:84

Disease Resistance: Gray Leaf Spot, Tomato Mosaic Virus, Verticillium Wilt

Pink Girl TomatoPink Girl Tomato is a hybrid, indeterminate tomato variety that produces beautiful, pink-colored fruits. Because it has an indeterminate growth habit, it will produce throughout the entire warm growing season in moderate climates. Pink Girl has a solid disease-resistance package including resistance to gray leaf spot. Solanum lycopersicum. 75 days to maturity.

Pink Girl Tomato has vigorous vines that produce pink fruits averaging 8 ounces each. Fruits are resistant to cracking and absolutely beautiful when allowed to reach full ripeness on the vine. Because the fruits are pink, they have a lower acidity than traditional red tomato varieties.

Tomatoes are in the nightshade family along with peppers and eggplant. Plants in the nightshade family are susceptible to blossom end rot, which is a result of a calcium deficiency. To prevent or alleviate this problem, apply pelleted gypsum at the base of the plant at bloom set. Tomatoes do best when transplanted, as the germination time can be longer than most vegetable seed. They grow very well in our heavy-duty seed starting trays. Plants should be started 4-6 weeks before the intended outdoor planting date.

If conditions outside are favorable, transplants may be planted directly from our 162 cell trays. If conditions are still too cold for planting tomatoes, transplants may be “stepped-up” to 4″ pots to allow more room to grow. Tomatoes can produce heavy fruits and will require some form of support to keep the plant upright. This ensures that plants and fruits stay off the ground, reducing the possibility of disease and keeping fruits clean.

Pink Girl Tomato Planting InformationPlanting Method: transplant

When to Plant: after last frost

Planting Depth: 1/4″

Seed Spacing: 2′

Row Spacing: 3-4′

Days to Maturity:75

Disease Resistance:Verticillium Wilt, Fusarium Wilt, Alternaria Stem Canker, Gray Leaf Spot

SunSugar TomatoSunSugar Tomato is a hybrid, indeterminate cherry tomato variety that is known to be one of the best-tasting cherry tomato varieties in existence. SunSugar produces heavy yields of fruits that grow in clusters for easy harvesting. These fruits are rich in Vitamin A and taste like candy. You’ll probably eat them all before getting them in the house! Solanum lycopersicum. 65 days to maturity.

Unlike other cherry tomato varieties, SunSugar has a thinner skin and is crack-resistant, even in variable conditions. This provides a longer harvest window and more lenience in periods of heavy rainfall. Plants will bear fruits throughout the entire warm season until the first frost. Fruits may be harvested when they turn yellow and are slightly tart, or they can mature to a deep-orange color for a sweeter flavor.

Tomatoes are in the nightshade family along with peppers and eggplant. Plants in the nightshade family are susceptible to blossom end rot, which is a result of a calcium deficiency. To prevent or alleviate this problem, apply pelleted gypsum at the base of the plant at bloom set. Tomatoes do best when transplanted, as the germination time can be longer than most vegetable seed. They grow very well in our heavy-duty seed starting trays. Plants should be started 4-6 weeks before the intended outdoor planting date.

If conditions outside are favorable, transplants may be planted directly from our 162 cell trays. If conditions are still too cold for planting tomatoes, transplants may be “stepped-up” to 4″ pots to allow more room to grow. Tomatoes can produce heavy fruits and will require some form of support to keep the plant upright. This ensures that plants and fruits stay off the ground, reducing the possibility of disease and keeping fruits clean.

SunSugar Tomato Planting InformationPlanting Method: transplant

When to Plant: after last frost

Planting Depth: 1/4″

Seed Spacing: 2′

Row Spacing: 3-4′

Days to Maturity:65

Disease Resistance:Fusarium Wilt, Tobacco Mosaic Virus

Determinate TomatoesCelebrity TomatoThis tomato is everything you loved about the original Celebrity, plus an enhanced disease package! Celebrity Plus Tomato is a hybrid, determinate tomato variety that produces loads of delicious tomatoes in clusters. Celebrity has long been a favorite for backyard gardeners and homesteaders across the country, and Celebrity Plus has everything you love about the original with a bonus resistance to tomato spotted wilt virus. Also, this variety is widely adapted to all growing regions! Solanum lycopersicum. 80 days to maturity.

Celebrity Plus Tomato is a determinate variety but is sometimes characterized as semi-determinate. Although the plants are shorter resembling a determinate variety, it can often keep producing right until the first frost date. Tomatoes are medium to large and average 7-10 ounces. Fruits are uniform with no green shoulders and resistant to cracking.

Tomatoes are in the nightshade family along with peppers and eggplant. Plants in the nightshade family are susceptible to blossom end rot, which is a result of a calcium deficiency. To prevent or alleviate this problem, apply pelleted gypsum at the base of the plant at bloom set. Tomatoes do best when transplanted, as the germination time can be longer than most vegetable seed. They grow very well in our heavy-duty seed starting trays. Plants should be started 4-6 weeks before the intended outdoor planting date.

If conditions outside are favorable, transplants may be planted directly from our 162 cell trays. If conditions are still too cold for planting tomatoes, transplants may be “stepped-up” to 4″ pots to allow more room to grow. Tomatoes can produce heavy fruits and will require some form of support to keep the plant upright. This ensures that plants and fruits stay off the ground, reducing the possibility of disease and keeping fruits clean.

Celebrity Plus Tomato Planting InformationPlanting Method: transplant

When to Plant: after last frost

Planting Depth: 1/4″

Seed Spacing: 2′

Row Spacing: 3-4′

Days to Maturity:80

Disease Resistance:Verticillium Wilt, Fusarium Wilt, Root Knot Nematode, Tobacco Mosaic Virus, Tomato Spotted Wilt Virus

Florida 91 TomatoFlorida 91 Tomato is a hybrid, determinate tomato variety known for its ability to set fruit in hot and humid climates. This variety produces extra-large, round to oblate fruits that are smooth and consistently-uniform. Yields are prolific and fruits have an excellent flavor that makes it ideal for fresh market or backyard gardening. It performs well in warmer zones, but is also widely-adapted for any growing zone. Solanum lycopersicum. 75 days to maturity.

Florida 91 Tomato produces strong, vigorous vines can continue to produce well into the warmer months. It has a great disease-resistance package which includes resistance to gray leaf spot, alternaria, verticillium and fusarium. This is a go-to variety for preserving tomatoes in juices, sauces, salsas and more!

Tomatoes are in the nightshade family along with peppers and eggplant. Plants in the nightshade family are susceptible to blossom end rot, which is a result of a calcium deficiency. To prevent or alleviate this problem, apply pelleted gypsum at the base of the plant at bloom set. Tomatoes do best when transplanted, as the germination time can be longer than most vegetable seed. They grow very well in our heavy-duty seed starting trays. Plants should be started 4-6 weeks before the intended outdoor planting date.

If conditions outside are favorable, transplants may be planted directly from our 162 cell trays. If conditions are still too cold for planting tomatoes, transplants may be “stepped-up” to 4″ pots to allow more room to grow. Tomatoes can produce heavy fruits and will require some form of support to keep the plant upright. This ensures that plants and fruits stay off the ground, reducing the possibility of disease and keeping fruits clean.

Florida 91 Tomato Planting InformationPlanting Method: transplant

When to Plant: after last frost

Planting Depth: 1/4″

Seed Spacing: 2′

Row Spacing: 3-4′

Days to Maturity:75

Disease Resistance:Alternaria Stem Canker, Fusarium Wilt, Gray Leaf Spot, Verticillium Wilt

Products:INDETERMINATE TOMATOES

FERTILIZER

Watch the Full Video on Youtube:https://youtu.be/lAIQ3NARqzc

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Hey Neighbor! We’ve got a great show tonight, Peiter from Seminis is back! We’re talking all things indeterminate tomatoes – debunking tomato growing myths, how to treat them, pruning tomatoes and so much more! Seminis is a HUGE player in the indeterminate seed breeder for the home gardener. Let’s grow together and get dirty, ya’ll!

The Difference Between Determinate & Indeterminate TomatoesDeterminate tomatoes grow their tomatoes all at once and grow in a “bush”, while indeterminate tomatoes grow fruit throughout the season and grow through vining.

Indeterminate TomatoesBetter Boy TomatoBetter Boy Tomato is one of the most-popular tomato varieties grown across the country, and for good reason! This hybrid, indeterminate tomato variety produces heavy yields of bright red tomatoes that can weigh up to 1 lb each. Better Boy is widely adapted and performs well across the country in any growing zone. It is also resistant to nematodes, making it a great option for home gardeners and small-scale farmers. Solanum lycopersicum. 75 days to maturity.

Better Boy Tomato is the perfect slicing tomato variety. Plants produce a significant amount of foliage that protect the fruits from sun scald damage. Fruits are extra-large and have that perfect tangy and acidic tomato flavor. In addition to slicing, this is also a great variety for canning and preserving.

Tomatoes are in the nightshade family along with peppers and eggplant. Plants in the nightshade family are susceptible to blossom end rot, which is a result of a calcium deficiency. To prevent or alleviate this problem, apply pelleted gypsum at the base of the plant at bloom set. Tomatoes do best when transplanted, as the germination time can be longer than most vegetable seed. They grow very well in our heavy-duty seed starting trays. Plants should be started 4-6 weeks before the intended outdoor planting date.

If conditions outside are favorable, transplants may be planted directly from our 162 cell trays. If conditions are still too cold for planting tomatoes, transplants may be “stepped-up” to 4″ pots to allow more room to grow. Tomatoes can produce heavy fruits and will require some form of support to keep the plant upright. This ensures that plants and fruits stay off the ground, reducing the possibility of disease and keeping fruits clean.

Better Boy Tomato Planting InformationPlanting Method: transplant

When to Plant: after last frost

Planting Depth: 1/4″

Seed Spacing: 2′

Row Spacing: 3-4′

Days to Maturity:75

Disease Resistance:Verticillium Wilt, Fusarium Wilt, Root Knot Nematodes

Big Beef TomatoBig Beef Tomato is a hybrid, indeterminate tomato variety that produces large, beefsteak tomatoes. This variety is considered the gold standard for big, fresh market tomatoes in many areas of the country. Big Beef has an excellent disease-resistance package that includes resistance to root knot nematodes and tobacco mosaic virus. Solanum lycopersicum. 75 days to maturity. TREATED.

Big Beef Tomato is an All America Selections winner for its plant vigor, consistent fruit size and excellent flavor. Indeterminate plants produce fruits that average 12 to 16 ounces. Compared to other indeterminate varieties, the fruits ripen early on vigorous vines. This variety is also known to continue to set fruit in cooler conditions, producing delicious tomatoes until the first frost in many regions.

Tomatoes are in the nightshade family along with peppers and eggplant. Plants in the nightshade family are susceptible to blossom end rot, which is a result of a calcium deficiency. To prevent or alleviate this problem, apply pelleted gypsum at the base of the plant at bloom set. Tomatoes do best when transplanted, as the germination time can be longer than most vegetable seed. They grow very well in our heavy-duty seed starting trays. Plants should be started 4-6 weeks before the intended outdoor planting date.

If conditions outside are favorable, transplants may be planted directly from our 162 cell trays. If conditions are still too cold for planting tomatoes, transplants may be “stepped-up” to 4″ pots to allow more room to grow. Tomatoes can produce heavy fruits and will require some form of support to keep the plant upright. This ensures that plants and fruits stay off the ground, reducing the possibility of disease and keeping fruits clean.

Big Beef Tomato Planting InformationPlanting Method: transplant

When to Plant: after last frost

Planting Depth: 1/4″

Seed Spacing: 2′

Row Spacing: 3-4′

Days to Maturity:75

Disease Resistance:Verticillium Wilt, Fusarium Wilt, Root Knot Nematode, Alternaria Stem Canker, Gray Leaf Spot, Tobacco Mosaic Virus

Purple Boy TomatoPurple Boy Tomato is a hybrid, indeterminate variety that offers exceptional flavor coupled with disease-resistance to perform in the harshest conditions. It offers the great heirloom tang that you’ve come to expect from varieties like Cherokee Purple, but with more plant vigor so that it can be grown later into the warmer months. Solanum lycopersicum. 80 days to maturity.

Purple Boy Tomato produces tomatoes with a deep purple color inside and out. Unlike its heirloom counterparts, fruits will be more uniform and symmetrically-shaped, making them easier to slice and prepare for that delicious tomato sandwich. It is resistant to Tobacco Mosaic Virus and Root Knot Nematodes, making it widely-adapted for a wide range of growing conditions.

Tomatoes are in the nightshade family along with peppers and eggplant. Plants in the nightshade family are susceptible to blossom end rot, which is a result of a calcium deficiency. To prevent or alleviate this problem, apply pelleted gypsum at the base of the plant at bloom set. Tomatoes do best when transplanted, as the germination time can be longer than most vegetable seed. They grow very well in our heavy-duty seed starting trays. Plants should be started 4-6 weeks before the intended outdoor planting date.

If conditions outside are favorable, transplants may be planted directly from our 162 cell trays. If conditions are still too cold for planting tomatoes, transplants may be “stepped-up” to 4″ pots to allow more room to grow. Tomatoes can produce heavy fruits and will require some form of support to keep the plant upright. This ensures that plants and fruits stay off the ground, reducing the possibility of disease and keeping fruits clean.

Purple Boy Tomato Planting InformationPlanting Method: transplant

When to Plant: after last frost

Planting Depth: 1/4″

Seed Spacing: 2′

Row Spacing: 3-4′

Days to Maturity: 80

Disease Resistance: Root Knot Nematodes, Tobacco Mosaic Virus, Verticillium Wilt, Fusarium Wilt

Lemon Boy TomatoLemon Boy Tomato is a hybrid, indeterminate tomato variety that produces bright yellow fruits with the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. This variety is the yellow version of the popular Better Boy tomato variety. It has an excellent disease-resistance package including resistance to gray leaf spot and nematodes. Solanum lycopersicum. 75 days to maturity.

Unlike other gold tomato varieties, Lemon Boy Tomato has a bright yellow color like a lemon. It also is higher yielding than comparable gold tomato varieties. The eye-catching fruits average 6-8 ounces each and provide brilliant color to any salad or vegetable medley.

Tomatoes are in the nightshade family along with peppers and eggplant. Plants in the nightshade family are susceptible to blossom end rot, which is a result of a calcium deficiency. To prevent or alleviate this problem, apply pelleted gypsum at the base of the plant at bloom set. Tomatoes do best when transplanted, as the germination time can be longer than most vegetable seed. They grow very well in our heavy-duty seed starting trays. Plants should be started 4-6 weeks before the intended outdoor planting date.

If conditions outside are favorable, transplants may be planted directly from our 162 cell trays. If conditions are still too cold for planting tomatoes, transplants may be “stepped-up” to 4″ pots to allow more room to grow. Tomatoes can produce heavy fruits and will require some form of support to keep the plant upright. This ensures that plants and fruits stay off the ground, reducing the possibility of disease and keeping fruits clean.

Lemon Boy Tomato Planting InformationPlanting Method:transplant

When to Plant:after last frost

Planting Depth:1/4″

Seed Spacing:2′

Row Spacing:3-4′

Days to Maturity:75

Disease Resistance:Verticillium Wilt, Fusarium Wilt, Root Knot Nematode, Alternaria Stem Canker, Gray Leaf Spot

Pink Delicious TomatoPink Delicious gets its name honestly, it’s as pink in color, as it is delicious in flavor! An early maturing, indeterminate tomato that has an heirloom look and flavor, Pink Delicious is a hybrid with an excellent disease-resistance package. We tried this in our trial garden in 2022, it produced well under high disease pressure. This variety stands on its own compared to similar varieties, being a 2022 AAS Regional Winner for great flavor, texture, and for an “heirloom” looking tomato but with all the benefits of a hybrid. Pink Delicious has a high Brix for a sweeter-than-normal pink tomato. Great for home and market gardeners alike, perfect for slicing with an average weight of 1/2 – 1 pound. Well-suited for different growing zones, trailed in Georgia and Ohio, both zones outperformed expectations. If you want to grow an heirloom-type tomato and have failed in the past, this is the one you will be successful with. Solanum lycopersicum.84 days to maturity

Tomatoes are in the nightshade family along with peppers and eggplant. Plants in the nightshade family are susceptible to blossom end rot, which is a result of a calcium deficiency. To prevent or alleviate this problem, apply pelleted gypsum at the base of the plant at the bloom set. Tomatoes do best when transplanted, as the germination time can be longer than most vegetable seeds. They grow very well in our heavy-duty seed-starting trays. Plants should be started 4-6 weeks before the intended outdoor planting date.

If conditions outside are favorable, transplants may be planted directly from our 162-cell trays. If conditions are still too cold for planting tomatoes, transplants may be “stepped-up” to 4″ pots to allow more room to grow. Tomatoes can produce heavy fruits and will require some form of support to keep the plant upright. This ensures that plants and fruits stay off the ground, reducing the possibility of disease and keeping fruits clean.

Pink Delicious Tomato Planting InformationPlanting Method: transplant

When to Plant: after last frost

Planting Depth: 1/4″

Seed Spacing: 2′

Row Spacing: 3-4′

Days to Maturity:84

Disease Resistance: Gray Leaf Spot, Tomato Mosaic Virus, Verticillium Wilt

Pink Girl TomatoPink Girl Tomato is a hybrid, indeterminate tomato variety that produces beautiful, pink-colored fruits. Because it has an indeterminate growth habit, it will produce throughout the entire warm growing season in moderate climates. Pink Girl has a solid disease-resistance package including resistance to gray leaf spot. Solanum lycopersicum. 75 days to maturity.

Pink Girl Tomato has vigorous vines that produce pink fruits averaging 8 ounces each. Fruits are resistant to cracking and absolutely beautiful when allowed to reach full ripeness on the vine. Because the fruits are pink, they have a lower acidity than traditional red tomato varieties.

Tomatoes are in the nightshade family along with peppers and eggplant. Plants in the nightshade family are susceptible to blossom end rot, which is a result of a calcium deficiency. To prevent or alleviate this problem, apply pelleted gypsum at the base of the plant at bloom set. Tomatoes do best when transplanted, as the germination time can be longer than most vegetable seed. They grow very well in our heavy-duty seed starting trays. Plants should be started 4-6 weeks before the intended outdoor planting date.

If conditions outside are favorable, transplants may be planted directly from our 162 cell trays. If conditions are still too cold for planting tomatoes, transplants may be “stepped-up” to 4″ pots to allow more room to grow. Tomatoes can produce heavy fruits and will require some form of support to keep the plant upright. This ensures that plants and fruits stay off the ground, reducing the possibility of disease and keeping fruits clean.

Pink Girl Tomato Planting InformationPlanting Method: transplant

When to Plant: after last frost

Planting Depth: 1/4″

Seed Spacing: 2′

Row Spacing: 3-4′

Days to Maturity:75

Disease Resistance:Verticillium Wilt, Fusarium Wilt, Alternaria Stem Canker, Gray Leaf Spot

SunSugar TomatoSunSugar Tomato is a hybrid, indeterminate cherry tomato variety that is known to be one of the best-tasting cherry tomato varieties in existence. SunSugar produces heavy yields of fruits that grow in clusters for easy harvesting. These fruits are rich in Vitamin A and taste like candy. You’ll probably eat them all before getting them in the house! Solanum lycopersicum. 65 days to maturity.

Unlike other cherry tomato varieties, SunSugar has a thinner skin and is crack-resistant, even in variable conditions. This provides a longer harvest window and more lenience in periods of heavy rainfall. Plants will bear fruits throughout the entire warm season until the first frost. Fruits may be harvested when they turn yellow and are slightly tart, or they can mature to a deep-orange color for a sweeter flavor.

Tomatoes are in the nightshade family along with peppers and eggplant. Plants in the nightshade family are susceptible to blossom end rot, which is a result of a calcium deficiency. To prevent or alleviate this problem, apply pelleted gypsum at the base of the plant at bloom set. Tomatoes do best when transplanted, as the germination time can be longer than most vegetable seed. They grow very well in our heavy-duty seed starting trays. Plants should be started 4-6 weeks before the intended outdoor planting date.

If conditions outside are favorable, transplants may be planted directly from our 162 cell trays. If conditions are still too cold for planting tomatoes, transplants may be “stepped-up” to 4″ pots to allow more room to grow. Tomatoes can produce heavy fruits and will require some form of support to keep the plant upright. This ensures that plants and fruits stay off the ground, reducing the possibility of disease and keeping fruits clean.

SunSugar Tomato Planting InformationPlanting Method: transplant

When to Plant: after last frost

Planting Depth: 1/4″

Seed Spacing: 2′

Row Spacing: 3-4′

Days to Maturity:65

Disease Resistance:Fusarium Wilt, Tobacco Mosaic Virus

Determinate TomatoesCelebrity Tomato This tomato is everything you loved about the original Celebrity, plus an enhanced disease package! Celebrity Plus Tomato is a hybrid, determinate tomato variety that produces loads of delicious tomatoes in clusters. Celebrity has long been a favorite for backyard gardeners and homesteaders across the country, and Celebrity Plus has everything you love about the original with a bonus resistance to tomato spotted wilt virus. Also, this variety is widely adapted to all growing regions! Solanum lycopersicum. 80 days to maturity.

Celebrity Plus Tomato is a determinate variety but is sometimes characterized as semi-determinate. Although the plants are shorter resembling a determinate variety, it can often keep producing right until the first frost date. Tomatoes are medium to large and average 7-10 ounces. Fruits are uniform with no green shoulders and resistant to cracking.

Tomatoes are in the nightshade family along with peppers and eggplant. Plants in the nightshade family are susceptible to blossom end rot, which is a result of a calcium deficiency. To prevent or alleviate this problem, apply pelleted gypsum at the base of the plant at bloom set. Tomatoes do best when transplanted, as the germination time can be longer than most vegetable seed. They grow very well in our heavy-duty seed starting trays. Plants should be started 4-6 weeks before the intended outdoor planting date.

If conditions outside are favorable, transplants may be planted directly from our 162 cell trays. If conditions are still too cold for planting tomatoes, transplants may be “stepped-up” to 4″ pots to allow more room to grow. Tomatoes can produce heavy fruits and will require some form of support to keep the plant upright. This ensures that plants and fruits stay off the ground, reducing the possibility of disease and keeping fruits clean.

Celebrity Plus Tomato Planting InformationPlanting Method: transplant

When to Plant: after last frost

Planting Depth: 1/4″

Seed Spacing: 2′

Row Spacing: 3-4′

Days to Maturity:80

Disease Resistance:Verticillium Wilt, Fusarium Wilt, Root Knot Nematode, Tobacco Mosaic Virus, Tomato Spotted Wilt Virus

Florida 91 TomatoFlorida 91 Tomato is a hybrid, determinate tomato variety known for its ability to set fruit in hot and humid climates. This variety produces extra-large, round to oblate fruits that are smooth and consistently-uniform. Yields are prolific and fruits have an excellent flavor that makes it ideal for fresh market or backyard gardening. It performs well in warmer zones, but is also widely-adapted for any growing zone. Solanum lycopersicum. 75 days to maturity.

Florida 91 Tomato produces strong, vigorous vines can continue to produce well into the warmer months. It has a great disease-resistance package which includes resistance to gray leaf spot, alternaria, verticillium and fusarium. This is a go-to variety for preserving tomatoes in juices, sauces, salsas and more!

Tomatoes are in the nightshade family along with peppers and eggplant. Plants in the nightshade family are susceptible to blossom end rot, which is a result of a calcium deficiency. To prevent or alleviate this problem, apply pelleted gypsum at the base of the plant at bloom set. Tomatoes do best when transplanted, as the germination time can be longer than most vegetable seed. They grow very well in our heavy-duty seed starting trays. Plants should be started 4-6 weeks before the intended outdoor planting date.

If conditions outside are favorable, transplants may be planted directly from our 162 cell trays. If conditions are still too cold for planting tomatoes, transplants may be “stepped-up” to 4″ pots to allow more room to grow. Tomatoes can produce heavy fruits and will require some form of support to keep the plant upright. This ensures that plants and fruits stay off the ground, reducing the possibility of disease and keeping fruits clean.

Florida 91 Tomato Planting InformationPlanting Method: transplant

When to Plant: after last frost

Planting Depth: 1/4″

Seed Spacing: 2′

Row Spacing: 3-4′

Days to Maturity:75

Disease Resistance:Alternaria Stem Canker, Fusarium Wilt, Gray Leaf Spot, Verticillium Wilt

Products:INDETERMINATE TOMATOES

FERTILIZER

Watch the Full Video on Youtube:https://youtu.be/lAIQ3NARqzc

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The biggest mistake we encounter from our customers is planting okra seeds too soon in the season. There are many factors in getting it right when it comes to growing lots of Okra, for instance, starting seeds at the right time, choosing the right variety, fertilization, knowing when to harvest, and much more! Join us tonight as we discuss one of our favorite things to grow and eat! Okra! Let's Grow Together!

The Right Time: A major factor in starting your okra seeds is timing. If you are planning a Spring crop, okra seeds should be started indoors and transplanted. However, for a Summer and Fall okra harvest, you can easily direct seed because the soil temperature has had plenty of time to warm up. The biggest mistake we encounter from our customers is planting okra seeds too soon in the season. Okra seeds will not germinate if the soil is too cool. Be sure that your soil temperature has been consistently 70°F – 75°F and all danger of frost has passed before direct sowing or transplanting. Because okra is such a heat loving plant, it makes an excellent crop for succession planting. Wait for the soil to warm in the Spring to transplant, then easily have another crop direct sown behind it to enjoy okra all the way into summer and fall until the first frost hits. Okra seeds should be started indoors at least 6 weeks before the last frost date for your zone. We recommend using our 162 Seed Trays for best results. We have everything that you need to be successful starting okra seeds.

The Right Variety- Hybrid or Heirloom:Heirlooms are varieties that have not been crossbred for 40-50 years or more. These varieties can be passed down through generations and keep their characteristics through those generations because of the careful planting to prevent cross-pollination.

Hybrid varieties have been specifically bred to have characteristics that are desirable to the grower. These characteristics can be anything from size, color, flavor, or disease resistance.

Tried and True Okra Varieties

Jambalaya Okra is a hybrid variety that is the most productive we’ve ever tried. Plants produce heavy yields of green pods that are great for pickling, frying, and stewing.

Clemson Spineless Okra produce pods that can reach 7-9″ in length, but are best harvested between 3-4″ long. Large plants will grow as large as 6′ in optimally-warm growing conditions.

Green Fingers Okra is a unique hybrid variety that produces small, flavorful 3-4″ green pods and is ideal for gardens of all sizes but has been specifically bred to be small enough for container gardening.

Heirloom Okra

Star of David produces deeply ribbed pods that are shorter and thicker than the traditional okra varieties. Pods are best when picked around 3 to 4 inches long. Plants can get as large as 7 feet tall.

Cowhorn Okra: While other varieties may become tough when pods get long, this variety will maintain tenderness at 10″ long. Pods are at optimal tenderness when harvested about 6″ long.

Emerald Green Velvet Okra: This variety is a favorite in Louisiana where it can be found in a wide variety of Cajun dishes. Emerald Green Velvet produces long, ribbed pods that will tend to stay tender at longer lengths than other varieties.

Novelty Okra

Chinese Okra is an heirloom, multi-purpose variety that can be used as okra substitute when harvested young, or for making sponges and other household items if allowed to dry on the vine.

Jing Orange Okra is an Asian heirloom okra variety with beautiful red to orange pods that are spineless and stay tender at 6″ long. Great for frying or making stews.

Red Burgundy Okra: Developed by Clemson University, this okra variety produces beautiful, deep red pods with green tips. Plants can grow as tall as 6′ and are very productive, providing bountiful harvests when picked regularly.

Pests:Of all the pests, okra is the most susceptible to root knot nematodes. Home gardeners are limited to a few methods of controlling root knot nematodes in the garden. The best ways to control this issue is good crop rotation, succession planting and incorporating a good cover crop rotation.

Aphids: Look like ants that are eating your plant. Treat with neem oil, horticulture oil, dishwashing detergent

Stink Bugs: Appears as bumps on Okra. Treat with Bug Buster II

Watering: Drip irrigation will control the amount of water each plant gets and will push water into the soil slowly and precisely for maximum absorption. Too much water too fast can cause stress to the plants and keep oxygen from getting to the root systems. On the flip side, too little water can result in low yields and increased disease and pest issues, and a host of other problems. As a good rule of thumb, regardless of how you water your okra plants, be sure they’re getting at least 1 to 2 inches of water per week but checking in on your plants and watering as needed is really the best way to manage irrigation for okra.

Being sure to not only water enough, but the right way will be a major factor in your crop. Drip irrigation is the only method we recommend for irrigating your okra plants. Overhead watering is not a good option because having moisture on the leaves can introduce problems like disease and pest control resistance. Getting water directly to the base of the plant will help prevent excess evaporation, disease spreading through the crop from moisture on the leaves, and ensures water gets down into the soil directly to the root.

Fertilization: Several Weeks Before Planting

Test your soil at your local extension office.

1 Week Before Planting

After adjusting soil pH to 6.2 – 6.8, mix 1 1/2 cups per 10 ft. of row of Hoss Complete Organic Fertilizer with your soil.

2 Weeks After Planting

Using the Hoss Fertilizer Injector, Mix 1 cup of Hoss Premium 20-20-20 Fertilizer -AND -1-2 cups of Hoss Micro-Boost Micronutrient Supplement per 20 ft. of row.

Every 14 days After

Mix 1 cup of Hoss Premium 20-20-20 -AND -1-2 cups of Hoss Micro-Boost Micronutrient Supplement per 20 ft. of row.

Harvesting too early or too late:Okra should be harvested when the pods are still tender and haven’t gotten too large to become fibrous. Each variety, however, is different when it comes to what size is best for eating or preserving. Cowhorn Okra, for example, can stay tender with the pods being as long as 10 inches whereas Green Fingers Okra should be harvested when the pods are between 2 to 3 inches. Be sure to check the seed packet or the product page for the maturity date to give you a better idea of how long it takes that specific okra to reach full maturity. You can also keep an eye on the flowers and once they start to drop, it’s a good sign that you should start harvesting in the next couple of days.

The Best Method To Harvesting Okra

Harvest your okra using a sharp knife or pruning shears and be sure to make a clean cut. Don’t yank the fruit and damage the stem, as it can introduce harmful bacteria while storing. Okra pods are delicate so be careful when handling the pods so they don’t bruise. Because okra has spines and can cause irritation to your skin, we recommend wearing gloves while harvesting to avoid discomfort.

Storing and preserving okra:After harvesting your okra, be sure not to wash it right away if you’re intending to store it. Washing it will cause it to get slimy and will mold. You can store okra in the fridge for up to 3 days in a ventilated bag. Okra also stores well in the freezer either by just freezing the pods or blanching beforehand. Pickled okra is a staple in Southern kitchens and is a great way to enjoy your okra throughout the year.

Products:OKRA

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Tonight we're discussing common mistakes made when growing watermelons at home. When you are successful at growing watermelons, it can make any gardener feel great but sometimes there are many of us who have difficulty. We're here to discuss some of the major contributing factors when it comes to growing watermelon. Let's Grow Together! Get Dirty!

The Right Time to Plant Watermelon SeedlingsA major contributing factor to having a healthy watermelon crop is to know just how much they hate the cold. Making absolutely certain that any danger of frost has passed will help keep your watermelons healthy and happy. Check out Hoss University for planting dates/seed starting dates.

Over CrowdingPlanting watermelons too close may result in overcrowding and smaller fruit.

Transplanting Your Watermelon Seedlings

Watermelon Seedling Planting Depth:

Row Spacing – 4 to 6 feet

Plant Spacing – 2 to 3 feet

Planting Depth (Plants) – Soil Level

LocationWhen choosing a spot to plant your watermelons, make sure it has full sun and won’t be shaded by other plants. Plant in loose, well-draining sandy loam, with pH between 6.0 and 6.5, that is rich in organic materials. Add good quality compost to the soil.

Over wateringWatch for overwatering, especially when almost ripe/ripe. Overwatering can cause splitting, dilute the flavor, resulting in it being less sweet. If rainfall is heavy, watermelons may swell too quickly for the plant to keep up with the extra water content. When this happens, the rind of the watermelon may split or burst as a result of the excess water building up inside of it.

Under watering:May cause slow start, the fruit will not be able to grow to its full potential and may become stunted or fall off the vine. It is also important to be watering watermelons while they are establishing in the garden or during times of drought.

Lack of pollination:Watermelon mainly depends on honeybees for pollination. In general, if the pollination does not occur, female flower will grow initially but fall off later. bees are vital for pollinating watermelons not only for the plant to be able to produce an abundance of fruit, but also to ensure that the watermelons are healthy, and with a good shape. Pollination by bees also affects the sweetness of the fruit.

FertilizingFertilizing is determined by the current soil condition and, thereafter, by the stage at which the watermelon plant is growing. For example, is it an emergent seedling or is it in bloom? Both stages have different nutritional needs. When fertilizing watermelon plants, use nitrogen based fertilizer at the onset. Once the plant begins flowering, however, switch to feeding the watermelon a phosphorus and potassium based fertilizer. Watermelons require ample potassium and phosphorus for optimal melon production.

Harvesting too early or too late:Harvesting And Storing Your Watermelons

There are several telltale signs that you can tell a watermelon is ripe. There’s the “thump test” where you can hold your ear up to the melon and, after years of experience thumping melons and knowing exactly what to listen for, you can tell that it’s ripe just by the sound it makes. While this method may be great for some, the thought of thumping acres of melons to tell if they’re ready for harvest isn’t really feasible. So here’s the 2 best ways to tell if your melons are ready for harvest.

Look For The Curly Q

Where the stem of the watermelon meets the main vine, there is a small tendril that comes off of the plant that we call a curly q. This is the best indicator as to the ripeness of your watermelons. When that curly q has completely dried out all the way to the vine, you know that your watermelons are good to harvest. Check out the video in the Extra Credit section below for more detailed info on this method!

Check The Field Spot

While growing, the watermelon rests on the ground and develops what is known as a field spot. A good indication that you’re going to have a ripe and sweeter watermelon is checking the color of this spot. The color ranges from almost white to a deep yellow color. Typically, the darker the yellow spot, the sweeter your watermelon will be.

Choosing Sweet WatermelonsWhile you may think that a shiny, bright green watermelon that you see in photos is the best watermelon to choose, this may not always be the case. Dull melons are good sign that your watermelon is not only ripe, but also sweeter than average. Another good thing to look for are brown spots and lines throughout; this is called “webbing” . For every brown spot you see, that is how many times a bee has touched the pollinating parts of the watermelon flower. The more pollination, the sweeter your watermelon is likely to be.

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SHE'S BACK!! Tracey from Sakata Seeds is back at Hoss HQ for her annual Spring visit! Join us as we talk about garden updates, the difference between pelleted and primed seeds, what's going on in the tomato breeding world at Sakata, and much more. Let's Grow Together! Get Dirty!

Primed vs. Pelleted SeedsPrimed seeds are easier to germinate and must be used the growing season they are purchased. We carry primed Red Snapper, Bella Rosa, and Shelby tomato seeds. Pelleted seeds are easier to handle (usually for small or irregularly shaped seeds). We carry pelleted Shelby, Bella Rosa, Red Snapper, and Hossinator tomato seeds, as well as pelleted carrot, lettuce, and celery seeds.

What factors are important for Primed and Pelleted Seeds?Watering is the most important factor with pelleted seeds. Watering is important because underwatering and overwatering alike can harm seed growth. Underwatering won’t allow for the coating on the pellets to wash off, but overwatering will cause the coating to stick to itself, and either way, the plant will not be oxygenated enough. Also important is air circulation. Using a fan to circulate air in your greenhouse can help keep plants healthy. Lastly, use your seeds during the year you purchased them or keep them COMPLETELY dry because any pre-exposure to moisture will degrade the coating on the seeds.

Tomato Breeding at SakataSakata takes great pride in their breeding programs, particularly with tomato seeds. They breed in Florida and test their seeds extensively throughout the United States. Breeds can take years, even over a decade sometimes, to be perfected. Sakata focuses primarily on adaptability to wherever you may be growing, as well as the yields and sizes of tomatoes. Currently, Sakata is developing new breeds that also focus heavily on great tasting tomatoes, making it the top priority behind adaptability and yields/size. In fact, Tracy will be in Florida very soon to taste tomatoes developed by Sakata.

Tips from Tracy* Don’t sucker determinants! Unless you’re training your plant or growing large indeterminates, don’t sucker your tomatoes, as Sakata designed their determinate tomato breeds to be easy to maintain and will only cause unnecessary work for yourself. * If you’re looking for flavor over ease of growing, choose an indeterminate variety. * The best tomatoes for ultra-small spaces like porches or balconies are our mini determinants, i.e. the Little Birdie tomatoes (Red Robin, Rosy Finch and Yellow Canary tomatoes).

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April showers bring May flowers! April tends to be such a great time to grow flowers AND vegetables. Join us as we discuss what you should be planting! We are reviewing what you should be doing in the garden this April as warm weather and rain starts to settle in USDA zones 5-10. Let’s Grow Together!

In cold-winter regions, spring weather may be weeks away. In warm-winter regions, the last frost may already have passed. April is named for Aprilis, the Latin word meaning to open. This month you will see returning birds and soon their young. The first butterflies and bees should be about before the month is over. Only very far to the north will ice and snow still have their grip on the garden by month’s end.

What is Arbor Day?April is the traditional month in many countries for the celebration of tree planting. In the United States, many states celebrate Arbor Day in April. Planting trees has long been associated with various religious ceremonies and also as an activity to commemorate the birth of a child. When you sow out your first vegetable seeds this month, see if there is room for a new tree in your yard, neighborhood, or nearby park.

What should you do in your garden this month?April is a good month to harden off your plants. Now you need to get the plants ready to transplant outside without any issues. “Hardening off” means you are slowly taking the seedlings outside a few hours each day to get them used to sunlight, the dry air, and cold nights. And don’t forget to prepare your soil before you set out any transplants! You should be amending your soil and incorporating pre-plant fertilizer. This month, harvest onions and garlic. Take care and time to prune your garden plants that have succumbed to winter damage before the new shoots of spring emerge.

What should you plant this month?Here’s what you can plant in your garden based on your USDA growing zone.

Zone 9 and 10

April is like summer in zone 9 and 10. So, you will want to plant warm-weather plants. Here’s what to plant:

  • Bush Beans
  • Pole Beans
  • Cantaloupes
  • Corn
  • Cucumbers
  • Varieties of peas
  • Peppers
  • Pumpkins
  • Summer squash
  • Tomato transplants
  • Sweet potatoes
  • Watermelons

Zone 7 and 8

It is quite warm in zone 7 and 8 during April. Here are the things you may want to start planting:

  • Bush Beans
  • Poles Beans
  • Cantaloupe
  • Corn
  • Cucumbers
  • Eggplant
  • Peas
  • Peppers
  • Okra
  • All warm-season herbs
  • Squash
  • Sweet potatoes
  • Tomatoes
  • Watermelons

Zone 5 and 6

April is the perfect time to start planting stuff in zone 5 and 6. Here’s what you can start planting:

  • Asparagus
  • Beets
  • Broccoli
  • Cilantro
  • Cabbage
  • Carrots
  • Lettuce
  • Peas
  • Spinach
  • Strawberries

Zone 3 and 4

If you live in zone 3 or 4, it is best to wait until after April 15th to plant many of these in your garden. Here is what you can start indoors and move outdoors when there is no longer any frost:

  • Asparagus
  • Beets
  • Broccoli
  • Brussel Sprouts
  • Cabbage
  • Carrots
  • Cauliflower
  • Kale
  • Lettuce
  • Onions
  • Parsley
  • Peas
  • Potatoes
  • Radishes

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April showers bring May flowers! April tends to be such a great time to grow flowers AND vegetables. Join us as we discuss what you should be planting! We are reviewing what you should be doing in the garden this April as warm weather and rain starts to settle in USDA zones 5-10. Let’s Grow Together!

In cold-winter regions, spring weather may be weeks away. In warm-winter regions, the last frost may already have passed. April is named for Aprilis, the Latin word meaning to open. This month you will see returning birds and soon their young. The first butterflies and bees should be about before the month is over. Only very far to the north will ice and snow still have their grip on the garden by month’s end.

What is Arbor Day?April is the traditional month in many countries for the celebration of tree planting. In the United States, many states celebrate Arbor Day in April. Planting trees has long been associated with various religious ceremonies and also as an activity to commemorate the birth of a child. When you sow out your first vegetable seeds this month, see if there is room for a new tree in your yard, neighborhood, or nearby park.

What should you do in your garden this month?April is a good month to harden off your plants. Now you need to get the plants ready to transplant outside without any issues. “Hardening off” means you are slowly taking the seedlings outside a few hours each day to get them used to sunlight, the dry air, and cold nights. And don’t forget to prepare your soil before you set out any transplants! You should be amending your soil and incorporating pre-plant fertilizer. This month, harvest onions and garlic. Take care and time to prune your garden plants that have succumbed to winter damage before the new shoots of spring emerge.

What should you plant this month? Here’s what you can plant in your garden based on your USDA growing zone.

Zone 9 and 10

April is like summer in zone 9 and 10. So, you will want to plant warm-weather plants. Here’s what to plant:

  • Bush Beans
  • Pole Beans
  • Cantaloupes
  • Corn
  • Cucumbers
  • Varieties of peas
  • Peppers
  • Pumpkins
  • Summer squash
  • Tomato transplants
  • Sweet potatoes
  • Watermelons

Zone 7 and 8

It is quite warm in zone 7 and 8 during April. Here are the things you may want to start planting:

  • Bush Beans
  • Poles Beans
  • Cantaloupe
  • Corn
  • Cucumbers
  • Eggplant
  • Peas
  • Peppers
  • Okra
  • All warm-season herbs
  • Squash
  • Sweet potatoes
  • Tomatoes
  • Watermelons

Zone 5 and 6

April is the perfect time to start planting stuff in zone 5 and 6. Here’s what you can start planting:

  • Asparagus
  • Beets
  • Broccoli
  • Cilantro
  • Cabbage
  • Carrots
  • Lettuce
  • Peas
  • Spinach
  • Strawberries

Zone 3 and 4

If you live in zone 3 or 4, it is best to wait until after April 15th to plant many of these in your garden. Here is what you can start indoors and move outdoors when there is no longer any frost:

  • Asparagus
  • Beets
  • Broccoli
  • Brussel Sprouts
  • Cabbage
  • Carrots
  • Cauliflower
  • Kale
  • Lettuce
  • Onions
  • Parsley
  • Peas
  • Potatoes
  • Radishes

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  1. How much and when to plant sweet corn?

Sweet corn is a warm season crop and must be planted after the soil warms and there is no more danger of frost. It needs to be at least 55 degrees f (13 c). If you plant super sweet corn, be sure the soil is at least 65 f (18 c). Plant the sweet corn seeds about 1 inch deep and 3 to 4 inches apart in the row. Space the rows 2 ½ to 3 feet apart. After the plants are up, thin them to 1 foot apart. If you plant them closer, your corn will have small, poorly filled ears.

Each variety of corn has different quantities per pound based on the type of corn you’re growing. Also, the seed spacing and row spacing differ between field and popcorn vs. sweet corn. Be sure and check each product page for how many seeds per pound are include with that variety of corn to make sure you’re purchasing the right amount of seed for your space.

Field Corn & Popcorn

  • Based on 8 inch seed spacing with 36 inch row spacing and 5 extra seeds per row just in case.
  • 20 seeds per 10 ft row
  • 60 seeds per 10×10 plot with 3 rows
  • 600 seeds per 1000 square feet
  • This means you would need roughly 29,000 seeds of field corn or popcorn per acre.

Sweet Corn

  • Based on 6 inch seed spacing with 36 inch row spacing and 5 extra seeds per row just in case.
  • 25 seeds per 10 ft row
  • 75 seeds per 10×10 plot with 3 rows
  • 750 seeds per 1000 square feet
  • Do you advise transplanting corn?

We personally do not recommend transplanting corn. While it is certainly possible, corn is very finicky and only allows for a very small window of time between when the seedlings are big enough to transplant and when it is too late to transplant, and so it tends to be more likely to be a successful crop when directly sown.

  1. Spacing and Timing when planting different varieties

Different varieties produce pollen at different times, so you can isolate them by time. Since different varieties will respond individually to growing conditions, do not isolate them with less than two weeks until the given “days to maturity” in the variety description. You can also plant one variety earlier than another variety to achieve the needed difference in pollen production. If you garden in an agricultural area, try to plant your sweet corn 300 feet from the nearest cornfield. Large acreages of field corn will produce so much pollen that you could spoil your crop unless you plant your sweet corn far enough away. The only type of corn you don’t have to worry about cross pollination are the synergistic types of triple sweets and quad sweets. Field corn must be isolated from sweet corn so there is no cross pollination. Field corn should be planted 12 inches apart.

  1. What causes lack of pollination?

Sweet corn must self-pollinate or pollinate with a similar variety. Wind moves corn pollen from the tassel at the top of the plant to the silks of the ears, all the way to the lower parts of the plant. Always plant corn in blocks of at least four rows. Corn planted in a single row will have much of its pollen blown out of the row and will produce ears that have blank areas where kernels did not form. If you garden in an agricultural area, try to plant your sweet corn 300 feet from the nearest cornfield. Large acreages of field corn will produce so much pollen that you could spoil your crop unless you plant your sweet corn far enough away.

  1. Can I grow corn in raised beds and containers?

WE have been growing corn at HOSS for a long time. So, while you may see plenty of information on the internet that might suggest otherwise, growing corn in raised beds and containers is not something we personally recommend. Corn is pollinated by the wind, not by insects, so to have a good, healthy crop, you need to be able to plant a minimum of 5 rows of corn to get proper pollination between the plants. From a space standpoint, corn is just not well suited for raised beds or containers.

  1. What is your best advice to give when your corn gets blown over after a storm? What is the best way to upright?

The best thing to do is just leave it alone. If the stalks did not break, they will stand back up.

  1. How do I plant and how deep if using drip tape?

Water sweet corn as needed to keep it from wilting, and do not let sweet corn suffer from lack of water while the kernels are forming, or the quality of the corn will be vastly reduced. One inch of rainfall per week is good for your corn. You can plant the drip tape as deep as 6 inches. Corn should be planted 1 inch deep, best to place the drip tape under the soil 2 to 3 inches deep.

  1. When should I fertilize sweet corn?

When plants are about 2 feet tall, apply 1 cup of fertilizer for every 10 feet of garden row. Scatter the fertilizer evenly between the rows and mix it lightly with the soil. Water after fertilizing.

  1. When and how should I harvest sweet corn?

Corn is ready for harvest about 3 weeks after the tassel grows on top of the corn plant. Corn is ripe when juice from the kernels is milky white, the silk on the ears has turned dark brown. The best time to pick corn is in the early morning or evening when it is cool. Store corn in the husk. Place it uncovered in the refrigerator for 1 or 2 days. Corn stored for more than 2 days loses its sweetness. To preserve corn, you can can it, blanch and freeze it, or freeze-dry it.

  1. How do you choose sweet corn varieties?

If it is your first time growing corn, we recommend growing one of the standard varieties like Silver Queen, G90, Jubilee, etc. The reason is you have a longer growing period (about 15 days longer) than the maturity date. You have a little more leeway as a far as getting enough fertilizer and water to them. Three genes control sweetness in corn: Sugary (Su), Sugary Enhancer (Se), and Shrunken (Sh). Newer varieties contain either the Sugary Enhancer (Se) gene, or a combination of the two. You will see the code letters on packets of sweet corn seed or in catalog description that give information about growing each variety: su, se, sh, and sy. Sy is the code letters for hybrid corn varieties.

Sugary (Su) (Silver Queen, Stonewell, Evergreen, G90)

  • Has an average level of sugar (8 to 18%) that becomes starch quickly after harvest
  • Both hybrid and open-pollinated types are available
  • It is the traditional type of sweet corn.
  • Some describes sugary corn as having “old-fashioned” flavor.
  • Its kernels are tender and creamy. They can taste chewy as the sugar becomes starch.
  • It is important that you pick these varieties the same day that you plant to each them.
  • Gardeners who want to freeze or can corn typically prefer this type as the flavorful, creamy kernels hold up to processing.
  • Isolate from Shrunken (Sh) and Synergistic (Sy) types.

Sugary Enhanced (Se) (Peaches and Cream, Hone, Ambrosia, Incredible, Kandy Korn, Bodacious, Silver King, Argent)

  • Sugary enhanced has an increased sugar level (30% to 35%), and the kernels are tenderer.
  • The sugar is slower to become starch after the harvest.
  • Fully Sugary Enhanced (Se+) types are even sweeter. They will still be sweet after three or more days in the fridge.

Shrunken (Sh) (Obsession, Avalon, Passion, Devastation)

  • Shrunken have two to three times the amount of sugar (40 to 50%) compared to sugary varieties.
  • They have a crispy texture.
  • They can keep their sweetness for a week in the refrigerator.
  • Some people find shrunken corn lacking in “corn” flavor, and they are less creamy.
  • Seeds are smaller and lighter in weight and look shrunken when dry.
  • Isolate from all other sweet corn types.
  • Cross-pollination between Shrunken (Sh) and any other types will result in starchy, tough kernel.

Synergistic (Sy)

  • They have a combination of sweetness genes.
  • All have at least one Se gene.
  • They may be combined with Sh, Su, or both.
  • These varieties are crisp, very sweet, tender, and creamy.
  • Some also have longer storage life, lasting more than a week in the refrigerator.
  • Sugar content in these types take longer to build up than in sugary enhanced types, and kernels can be too watery if picked too early.

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If you haven’t heard of the “Dirty Dozen”, listen up! Tonight, we’re talking about something that has recently hit the news within the last week and not everyone seems to be talking about it! We think this is information you should know. We’re talking about the top dozen vegetables and fruits offered in grocery stores that are contaminated with pesticides that are extremely common to purchase for most consumers. Is this data correct? Let’s find out together!

The Dirty Dozen comes from a CNN article analyzing the results of a 292 page USDA report regarding pesticides in produce in the United States. The article by CNN lists the top 12 vegetables with the most contamination from pesticides at grocery stores, as well as 15 foods that are the best options for avoiding pesticides. So, according to this report, what foods should you avoid in your grocery cart?

Dirty DozenThe Dirty Dozen is the list of the vegetables with the most amount of pesticides found on them according to the USDA:

  1. Strawberries
  2. Spinach
  3. Kale/Collards/Mustard Greens
  4. Peaches
  5. Pears
  6. Nectarines
  7. Apples
  8. Grapes
  9. Bell & Hot Peppers
  10. Cherries
  11. Blueberries
  12. Green Beans

Clean FifteenThe Clean Fifteen is the list of the vegetables with the least amount of pesticides found on them according to the USDA:

  1. Avocados
  2. Sweet Corn
  3. Pineapple
  4. Onions
  5. Papaya
  6. Sweet Peas
  7. Asparagus
  8. Honeydew Melon
  9. Kiwi
  10. Cabbage
  11. Mushrooms
  12. Mangoes
  13. Sweet Potatoes
  14. Watermelon
  15. Carrots

How trustworthy is this information?It’s no secret that even when information seems accurate and thoroughly studied, flaws in the method of study and data collection can happen, especially when personal interests are involved. In this particular study, we found that the sample sizes were very small. For example, only 7 samples were pulled from Florida for this study. From California, only 13. Compared to how much produce comes from these states, such small sample pools can not possibly represent the whole of the industry. Also, Neonicotinoids are not mentioned in the report at all, despite how extremely prevalent it is in farming. So, should we really be worried about pesticides? It is true that exposure to pesticides can contribute many health issues including cancer and type 2 diabetes. However, this study claims that 99% of produce is below the USDA’s pesticides tolerance and 42.5% of produce had no detectable pesticide amount at all. Ultimately, it is impossible to draw conclusions from this study particularly. It is important to always look at information for yourself to determine how accurate or relevant it is. The only way to guarantee the safety of your produce from dangerous pesticides is to grow food for yourself, or purchase food from small local farms that you know the farming practices of.

Products:TOMATO PLUGS

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If you haven’t heard of the “Dirty Dozen”, listen up! Tonight, we’re talking about something that has recently hit the news within the last week and not everyone seems to be talking about it! We think this is information you should know. We’re talking about the top dozen vegetables and fruits offered in grocery stores that are contaminated with pesticides that are extremely common to purchase for most consumers. Is this data correct? Let’s find out together!

The Dirty Dozen comes from a CNN article analyzing the results of a 292 page USDA report regarding pesticides in produce in the United States. The article by CNN lists the top 12 vegetables with the most contamination from pesticides at grocery stores, as well as 15 foods that are the best options for avoiding pesticides. So, according to this report, what foods should you avoid in your grocery cart?

Dirty DozenThe Dirty Dozen is the list of the vegetables with the most amount of pesticides found on them according to the USDA:

  1. Strawberries
  2. Spinach
  3. Kale/Collards/Mustard Greens
  4. Peaches
  5. Pears
  6. Nectarines
  7. Apples
  8. Grapes
  9. Bell & Hot Peppers
  10. Cherries
  11. Blueberries
  12. Green Beans

Clean FifteenThe Clean Fifteen is the list of the vegetables with the least amount of pesticides found on them according to the USDA:

  1. Avocados
  2. Sweet Corn
  3. Pineapple
  4. Onions
  5. Papaya
  6. Sweet Peas
  7. Asparagus
  8. Honeydew Melon
  9. Kiwi
  10. Cabbage
  11. Mushrooms
  12. Mangoes
  13. Sweet Potatoes
  14. Watermelon
  15. Carrots

How trustworthy is this information?It’s no secret that even when information seems accurate and thoroughly studied, flaws in the method of study and data collection can happen, especially when personal interests are involved. In this particular study, we found that the sample sizes were very small. For example, only 7 samples were pulled from Florida for this study. From California, only 13. Compared to how much produce comes from these states, such small sample pools can not possibly represent the whole of the industry. Also, Neonicotinoids are not mentioned in the report at all, despite how extremely prevalent it is in farming. So, should we really be worried about pesticides? It is true that exposure to pesticides can contribute many health issues including cancer and type 2 diabetes. However, this study claims that 99% of produce is below the USDA’s pesticides tolerance and 42.5% of produce had no detectable pesticide amount at all. Ultimately, it is impossible to draw conclusions from this study particularly. It is important to always look at information for yourself to determine how accurate or relevant it is. The only way to guarantee the safety of your produce from dangerous pesticides is to grow food for yourself, or purchase food from small local farms that you know the farming practices of.

Products:TOMATO PLUGS

PEPPER PLUGS

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‘Tis The Gardening Season! Tonight we’re addressing some of the most asked gardening questions that we get this time of the year! No matter if it’s over the phone, emailed, or on social media, these are our Top 10 most-asked questions (for 2023 that is). We’re showing you how to step up your tomato plugs if you aren’t ready to transplant in the ground just yet, talking seedless watermelon germination, and much more! Join us and let’s grow together!

1.What do I do with plugs if I’m not ready to plant?

Put your plugs individually in a container or pot at least large enough to hold the plug and a bit of soil, such as a red solo cup (with draining holes punched in the bottom) or something of similar size. The roots of the plug will grow to fill the pot/cup as it grows. Keep them in the sun until ready to transplant to your raised beds or in-ground plots

2. When do I start fertilizing my plugs?

Fertilize your plugs once the seedlings develop their first “true” leaves. As seedlings grow, their first one or two leaves are “seed” leaves, which were the part of the stem surrounding the germinating seed. The leaves that grow afterwards are “true’ leaves, having the appearance and function all future leaves will have. Fertilize these seedlings with either our Complete Organic Fertilizer as directed or our Dr. Joe’s Tomato & Vegetable Bubble Tablets.

3. What do I do with potatoes with potential frost coming? What about other seedlings?

We recommend using a frost protection cover to protect your tomatoes, peppers, or squash if it gets below 40 degrees F, and your potatoes if it gets below 30 F. Brassicas should be fine at 20 degrees F.

4. When do I need to start my roselle?

Start your roselle indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost or direct seed after the last frost in your zone. Roselle is susceptible to frost so do not plant directly until the soil is consistently 75 degrees F or above.

5. Why won’t my seedless watermelon germinate?

Seedless watermelons grow from hollow seeds that are very susceptible to rupturing of the cell structure, making them finicky to germinate. Wet your soil and warm it with a heat mat the day before, and after you plant your seeds, DO NOT WATER until the seeds begin to germinate. The soil temperature needs to consistently be between 80 and 90 degrees F or the seeds will get too cold to germinate.

6. Why are my Shelby, Hossinator, and Red Snapper tomatoes taking so long to germinate?

Pelleted, primed seeds germinate differently than regular raw seeds do. Pelleted and primed seeds have been carried through part of the germination process already, and therefore do not act the same as regular seeds do. Regular seeds are more forgiving to improper watering and uneven moisture. The coating on pellets splits when exposed to water, allowing the seed within to germinate. Watering properly and consistently is the only way to ensure the pellets split open fully while also having proper respiration.

7. Can I still plant brassicas?

In most cases, yes, you can still plant your brassicas now.

8. Why is my brass siphon mixer not working?

The brass siphon mixer does not work with mist nozzles because they do not put out enough water to soften and run the fertilizer through.

9. Can sweet corn & field corn cross pollinate? How can I prevent cross pollination? Can I plant 2 varieties of sweet corn at the same time?

Yes, it is possible for field corn and sweet corn to cross pollinate, so we recommend not growing them at the same time together. Instead, wait until it is warm enough, then plant sweet corn, then wait 3 to 4 weeks before planting field corn. Same principle with two types of sweet corn: grow them 3 to 4 weeks apart to avoid cross-pollination.

10. When will the Thom Multiplying Onions be available?

They will likely be available in April, once our seed crop grows large enough bulbs. If you are currently growing your own multiplying onions, however, you are probably good to go on harvesting them.

Products:PLUGS

HOSS PRUNING SHEARS W/ SHEATH

HOSS SHEARS SHEATH

HOSS PRUNING SHEARS

SUPREME PLANT PROTECTION COVER

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It’s March, and the weather is quickly changing once again. Tonight, we are reviewing what you should be doing in the garden this month by USDA Growing Zones 6-10. Don’t forget – we have Tomato, Pepper, and Brassica Plugs available! Sweet Potato Slips are also on Pre-Sale! Let’s Grow Together and Get Dirty!

Zone 6:

  • Plant peas, Kale, Onions, Spinach, Broccoli, Radish and parsley towards the end of the month directly in the garden.
  • Plant Seed Potatoes
  • Start transplants indoors of tomatoes, peppers, and eggplant and any other cool season veg you’d like to grow.

Zone 7:

  • Start transplants indoors of tomatoes, peppers, and eggplant- try to get this done by March 15th.
  • Plant Seed Potatoes
  • By the end of March, you should be safe to start the process of hardening off for transplant outside of your onions, parsley, and any other cool season crops that are at least 5 weeks old. Select smaller rather than larger plants of the cold crops (broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, Brussels sprouts) since overly mature plants exposed to low temperatures early in the season tend to bolt into flower too early. (Order Brassica’s from Hoss)
  • Direct sow carrots, Swiss chard, peas, collards, kale, kohlrabi, leaf lettuce, onions, parsley, parsnips, beets, leaf lettuce, radishes, salsify and spinach as soil and weather conditions permit.
  • Start Sunflowers, Zinnias indoors

Zone 8:

  • Start transplants indoors of tomatoes, peppers, and eggplant- try to get this done by March 15th.
  • Plant Seed Potatoes now
  • Plant broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, Brussels sprouts outside. (Order Brassica’s from Hoss)
  • Direct sow carrots, Swiss chard, peas, collards, kale, kohlrabi, leaf lettuce, onions, parsley, parsnips, beets, leaf lettuce, radishes, salsify and spinach as soil and weather conditions permit.
  • Start Sunflowers, Zinnias indoors

Zone 9:

  • Warm-season crops, such as beans, peppers, squash, corn, tomatoes, eggplant, and others can be planted now. (If you need Tomato or peppers, order now)
  • Direct Seed Sunflowers, Zinnias

Zone 10:

  • This is the last month to plant arugula, beans, cantaloupe, carrots, celery sweet corn, endive, okra, radish, squashes, Swiss chard, and watermelon.
  • Direct Seed Sunflowers, Zinnias

Products:TOMATO PLUGS

PEPPER PLUGS

BRASSICA PLUGS

SWEET POTATO SLIPS

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Why do we LOVE squash at HOSS? Squash is a super popular and diverse vegetable to grown in the garden. Did you know that there are three different major species of squash? Like peppo, moschata, or maxima? Each squash species has different growth habits, storage lengths, days to maturity, and much more. What type of squash are you growing this season? Let’s Grow Together!

Summer vs Winter SquashWhat are the differences between summer and winter squash? Summer squash is soft-skinned, making it more tender and moist overall. Winter squash from summer squash in that it is harvested and eaten in the mature stage when the seeds (inside the vegetable) have fully matured. Unlike summer squash, which will only last 4-5 days with proper refrigeration, many winter squash varieties can be stored throughout the winter.

SpeciesPepoPepo squash includes summer squash like yellow zucchini and yellow squash, as well as winter squash such as scallop-type squash, sweeter-type squash, and some pumpkins like Blaze and Harvest Jack. They do not vine but instead form a “bush” with the fruits growing in the center of the plants. The winter squash types of this species will store for 30 days after harvesting. They take 100 days to reach maturity and do well in raised beds.

MoschataMoschata squash includes some pumpkin types like Long Island Cheese and Seminole, as well as butternut squash. They produce climbing vines that could benefit from a trellis in some cases. Since they are winter squashes, they will keep 4-6 months if stored properly. They tend to be more heat tolerant and less prone to the vine borer compared to other species.

MaximaMaxima squash includes some pumpkins, particularly our “competition” size varieties like the Prizewinner, and smaller types like the Cinderella pumpkin. Maxima also includes some winter squash like Hubbard squashes. They have lots of vines that are good for a trellis. Since they are winter squashes, they will keep 4-6 months if stored properly. They take 95-100 days to reach maturity. These squashes tend to have unique flavors and they tend to have less flowers than other species.

Products:Winter Squash

Summer Squash

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What is a grow light, and exactly what does it do? In order to grow strong, healthy seedlings, it’s super important to provide the proper lighting for them right from the start. Allows you to grow seedlings and transplants anywhere in your home, office, or garage. The natural light from a window is seldom enough for good, strong seedling growth. They will usually stretch and lean towards the light and will not produce sturdy plants. Most homes don’t have enough natural lighting for seedlings, and trying to grow them on a sunny windowsill will only result in disappointment and wasted time (and money!). Adequate lighting is a key part of successful seedling care, and it will give them a good start to life. When they don’t get enough, seedlings become weak and leggy, and may not survive for very long. The only way to prevent leggy seedlings is to use grow lights.

Frequently Asked Questions:What is benefits of putting seedlings under Lights:

  • Stronger and healthier seedlings– The main benefit of using artificial lights is that your seedlings will be much stronger, healthier, and stay more compact than they would just sitting near a sunny window.
  • Better survival rate– Once you provide enough light, you’ll find that the survival rate of your seedlings is much higher. So you won’t have to plant extras to make up for all the weak ones you would have ended up losing.
  • Less waste– Since you won’t have to plant extras to make up for those losses, there will be much less waste. You won’t waste any seeds or dirt… or your time. Because of this, you’ll find the lights will pay for themselves pretty quickly.
  • Much easier– Providing proper lighting for seedlings will make your life so much easier too. By using a timer, you can just set it and forget it, rather than having to constantly monitor and rotate your trays.
  • Prevents leggedness– The only way to prevent seedlings from getting tall and leggy is to provide adequate lighting.
  • Grow seeds anywhere in your house– Another benefit is that you can put your seedlings anywhere in the house. You don’t need to worry about keeping them in a room that gets tons of natural light.

What kind of light do seedings need?

It’s very important to make sure you get the right type of lighting for seedlings, and all bulbs are NOT created equal.

How much light do seedling need?

Seedlings need 14-16 hours of light every single day, without fail. Don’t leave them on for 24 hours a day though. Like us, they need to rest at night.

So, plan to keep your artificial lights on for 14-16 hours during the daytime, and turn them off overnight.

Use an outlet timer to make sticking to this schedule a snap, and ensure your seedlings get the perfect amount of light.

If you give them less than 14 hours of light per day, then make sure to monitor them closely. If they start getting tall or growing sideways, then give them another hour or two of light.

When do I put my seedlings under light?

The answer to this one is simple. Your grow lights should be turned on (or your seedlings should be put under lights) as soon as the first seed starts to sprout.

Many types of seedlings grow very fast, and they will begin reaching for the light as soon as they emerge. So, give them plenty of it right from the start.

How far should seedlings be from a grow light?

The grow light should not be very far from the seedlings. It’s best to keep it 2-3″ above the top of the leaves at all times.

So, at first, your fixture will hang directly above (but never touching!) the plastic lid on the tray.

Once your starts get taller, and you take the lid off, then you’ll need to adjust the lights on a regular basis so they are always right over the top.

The leaves should never touch the bulbs though, or they could burn. So, make sure to check on them every day, and move the light up as necessary. Using an adjustable hanger will make this job a whole lot easier!

Rotate the trays daily if you notice any of the seedlings around the edges are reaching, or aren’t growing as well as the ones that are directly under the light.

When to stop using lights on seedlings?

The only time you should stop using lights on your seedlings is when they are outside. As long as they are inside the house, they should be under the lights.

Once you’re in the process of hardening them, you can turn off the lights while your seedlings are outside during the day. But you shouldn’t stop using them completely until after you’ve moved the seedlings outside for good.

Just make sure you always put them under the lights each time you bring them back indoors, or they will quickly start to get leggy.

Products:Hanging Grow Light Kit

Indoor Seed Starting Kit

Kitchen Garden Light Kit

Sun Blaster Light Timer

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What is a heat mat for plants, and exactly what does it do?

Heat mats have one basic function which is to gently warm the soil, thus promoting faster germination and strong, healthy seedlings.

Most seeds germinate best in temperatures between 70 and 90 degrees F. To germinate, most seeds need water, air (oxygen), and warmth to break dormancy. There are exceptions, but most seeds do not need light until they have sprouted. In many climates, temperatures aren’t consistently warm enough to germinate seeds, especially in late winter or early spring, prime seed starting times. Keep in mind that damp soil is cooler than the air temperature, even in a warm room.

You may be advised to put seed trays in a sunny window, but windows aren’t consistently warm in early spring and they may be very cold at night. Heat mats, which use very little electricity, produce gentle, consistent heat. Some heat mats for plants even have thermostats to adjust the heat. The idea is to provide the right amount of warmth for the particular type of seed. Work off of ambient temperature.

The most important tip is to be sure to get a thermostat attachment. This may be an extra purchase unless it’s included as a set. The whole point is to be able to warm your soil to a specified, consistent temperature to make the seeds sprout. Without a thermostat to regulate things, some of these mats will heat way too hot. The one I tested recently went just beyond 112°F (44°C) when I left it running. That not only dries out the growing medium but wipes out any emerging seedlings.

Frequently Asked QuestionsHow long do you use heat mats for seed starting?

Heat mats, if needed at all, are useful for warming soil during the germination process only. They should be removed after several seeds have sprouted to avoid overheating the seedlings. Seeds sprout at warmer temperatures than their seedlings can cope with.

Can heat mats harm seedlings?

Yes, heat mats can harm seedlings by drying out the soil or new growth. Only use a heat mat with a thermostat to ensure you can regulate the temperature. Seeds have minimum and maximum growing temperatures. When too low, they won’t sprout.

Can I use grow lights instead of a heat mat?

No, a grow light does not act like a heat mat. Grow lights provide light and heat mats provide warmth by contact. Heat mats are used to help seeds sprout faster. Once sprouted, grow lights provide the light needed for seedlings to grow.

Hoss Germination Mat (100 Watt)$74.99

Our Hoss 100 Watt Germination Mat provides constant temperature to seed starting trays for germinating seedlings. 20.75″ wide x 48″ long. Large enough for our 162/338 Cell Seed Starting Trays or 6 of our 24 Cell Seed Starting Trays. UL Listed safe.

Hoss Germination Mat (17 Watt)$29.99

Our Hoss 17 Watt Germination Mat provides constant temperature to seed starting trays for germinating seedlings. 8.875″ wide x 19.5″ long. Will fit two of our 12 Cell Seed Starting Trays or one of our 24 Cell Seed Starting Trays. UL Listed safe.

Hoss Germination Mat (150 Watt)Hoss Germination Mat (150 Watt) – 60" x 21" MASTER MAT | $149.99

Hoss Germination Mat (150 Watt) – 60" x 21" ADD-ON MAT | $129.99

Our Hoss 150 Watt Germination Mat allows you to connect additional mats through the daisy chain feature. Each mat is 21″ wide x 60″ long. Connect up to 3 ADD-ON MATS to the MASTER MAT. ETL Listed safe.

MUST USE with our HOSS GERMINATION THERMOSTAT sold here.

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What is a heat mat for plants, and exactly what does it do?

Heat mats have one basic function which is to gently warm the soil, thus promoting faster germination and strong, healthy seedlings.

Most seeds germinate best in temperatures between 70 and 90 degrees F.

To germinate, most seeds need water, air (oxygen), and warmth to break dormancy. There are exceptions, but most seeds do not need light until they have sprouted.

In many climates, temperatures aren’t consistently warm enough to germinate seeds, especially in late winter or early spring, prime seed starting times. Keep in mind that damp soil is cooler than the air temperature, even in a warm room.

You may be advised to put seed trays in a sunny window, but windows aren’t consistently warm in early spring and they may be very cold at night. Heat mats, which use very little electricity, produce gentle, consistent heat. Some heat mats for plants even have thermostats to adjust the heat.

The idea is to provide the right amount of warmth for the particular type of seed.

Work off of ambient temperature.

The most important tip is to be sure to get a thermostat attachment. This may be an extra purchase unless it’s included as a set. The whole point is to be able to warm your soil to a specified, consistent temperature to make the seeds sprout.

Without a thermostat to regulate things, some of these mats will heat way too hot. The one I tested recently went just beyond 112°F (44°C) when I left it running. That not only dries out the growing medium but wipes out any emerging seedlings.

Frequently Asked QuestionsHow long do you use heat mats for seed starting?

Heat mats, if needed at all, are useful for warming soil during the germination process only. They should be removed after several seeds have sprouted to avoid overheating the seedlings. Seeds sprout at warmer temperatures than their seedlings can cope with.

Can heat mats harm seedlings?

Yes, heat mats can harm seedlings by drying out the soil or new growth. Only use a heat mat with a thermostat to ensure you can regulate the temperature. Seeds have minimum and maximum growing temperatures. When too low, they won’t sprout.

Can I use grow lights instead of a heat mat?

No, a grow light does not act like a heat mat. Grow lights provide light and heat mats provide warmth by contact. Heat mats are used to help seeds sprout faster. Once sprouted, grow lights provide the light needed for seedlings to grow.

Hoss Germination Mat (100 Watt)$74.99

Our Hoss 100 Watt Germination Mat provides constant temperature to seed starting trays for germinating seedlings. 20.75″ wide x 48″ long. Large enough for our 162/338 Cell Seed Starting Trays or 6 of our 24 Cell Seed Starting Trays. UL Listed safe.

Hoss Germination Mat (17 Watt)$29.99

Our Hoss 17 Watt Germination Mat provides constant temperature to seed starting trays for germinating seedlings. 8.875″ wide x 19.5″ long. Will fit two of our 12 Cell Seed Starting Trays or one of our 24 Cell Seed Starting Trays. UL Listed safe.

Hoss Germination Mat (150 Watt)Hoss Germination Mat (150 Watt) – 60″ x 21″ MASTER MAT | $149.99

Hoss Germination Mat (150 Watt) – 60″ x 21″ ADD-ON MAT | $129.99

Our Hoss 150 Watt Germination Mat allows you to connect additional mats through the daisy chain feature. Each mat is 21″ wide x 60″ long. Connect up to 3 ADD-ON MATS to the MASTER MAT. ETL Listed safe.

MUST USE with our HOSS GERMINATION THERMOSTAT sold here.

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Tonight, we are discussing landscape fabric and its pros and cons and introducing our fabric cover garden kits!

When used correctly, landscape fabric can be an effective way to limit weed growth and keep your garden beds looking pristine. It stifles weeds, locks in moisture, and helps with stability.

Pros of Landscape fabric

Keeps inorganic mulches like rocks from sinking into the soil. Landscape fabric helps to stabilize the soil.

Prevents weed seeds covered by fabric from sprouting for up to a year

Reduces the need for herbicides

Works well on slopes where erosion control is a problem

Helps the soil retain moisture and slows evaporation

You can choose from many different materials and thicknesses, which makes it customizable for different projects. Also, the variety of choices means you can control costs, buying the right type of material for each project or area of your lawn.

Warms the soil in winter. Clear plastic increases soil temperatures by up to 9 degrees Fahrenheit, black plastic by 5 degrees, and polypropylenes by about 2 degrees.

A popular product that can be found at most any garden center, superstore, or online retailer.

If landscape fabric is the right choice for your garden or other yard project, you’re ready to learn how to install landscape fabric.

Cons of Landscape fabric

Overtime, decomposing particles or mulch & soil clog the perforations in the cloth. As it becomes clogged, adequate amounts of water and air are unable to reach the plant roots, leading to the plant’s decline.

Unwanted weed growth eventually rears its ugly head despite the weed barrier.

The University of Florida says the long-term use of landscape fabric can negatively affect soil and plant health and is best used where ornamental plants aren’t growing like pathways or mailboxes.

Earthworms, which aerate the soil, don’t develop, leading to compacted & unhealthy soil.

The fabric acts as a barrier to organic materials biodegrading in the soil, which leads to an unhealthy soil structure.

Weeds can still grow in the mulch on top of the fabric.

Landscape fabric is time-consuming to install, especially around existing plantings.

Depending on the size of the area and the thickness of the material, it can be expensive. Organic mulches, such as grass clippings and mulched leaves are free and contribute to soil health as they break down.

If downsides to landscape fabric have you rethinking your options, there are landscape fabric alternatives to consider:

Cardboard (a great option for sheet mulching to remove part of your lawn)

Ground cover plants

Ground cover plants that flower

Ground cover plants that work well in shade

Newspaper

Organic mulch, such as wood chips, straw, burlap, pine needles, grass clippings, shredded leaves, and compost. They also decompose, adding valuable nutrients and organic matter to the soil.

Hoss Lazy Garden Ground CoverOur Lazy Garden Ground Cover is an easy way to keep weeds out of your garden! You won’t find another one like it. The ground cover is a heavy-duty, woven polypropylene fabric that provides many years of reliable results. It is resistant to punctures, tears, and weed growth. It is formulated to resist UV degradation, the design allows air, water, and nutrients to pass through. There’s no need to cut or burn holes for your plants; our Lazy Garden Ground Cover is a quick plant fabric with pre-cut slits for optimal plant spacing. Two sizes are available: 15 ft x 30 ft or 15 ft x 20 ft. Fabric pins included.

This ground cover is reusable with an expected lifespan of 8-10 years. The 15 ft. x 30 ft. ground cover has 7 rows of pre-cut slits that measure 12 inches in length with a 36-inch spacing in between each slit. These slits are perfect for planting carrots, garlic, radishes, swiss chard, and more; it also comes with 8 rows of pre-cut Xs that are spaced 24 inches apart, these spaces are great for planting vegetables such as lettuce, broccoli, tomatoes, cauliflower, peppers and more! Garden layout examples are provided below.

Want the complete kit with drip irrigation? Check out our Lazy Garden Kits!

Lazy Garden Ground Cover Includes:

  • fabric pins (32 pins: 15 ft x 20 ft) (40 pins: 15 ft x 30 ft)
  • pre-cut slits/X’s

Lazy Garden KitIf you are looking for an easy way to start your garden, you’ve found it! Our Lazy Garden Kit has everything you need to be successful at starting a new garden or making your current plot even better, including ground cover, customized drip irrigation system, and pins. The ground cover is a heavy-duty, woven polypropylene fabric that provides many years of reliable results, resistant to punctures, tears, and weed growth. It is formulated to resist UV degradation, the design allows air, water, and nutrients to pass through. There’s no need to cut or burn holes for your plants, this ground cover is a quick plant fabric with pre-cut slits for optimal plant spacing for your transplants or seeds. Two sizes are available: 15 ft x 30 ft or 15 ft x 20 ft. Fabric pins are provided.

This ground cover is reusable with an expected lifespan of 8-10 years. The 15 ft. x 30 ft. ground cover has 7 rows of pre-cut slits that measure 12 inches in length with a 36-inch spacing in between each slit. These slits are perfect for planting carrots, garlic, radishes, swiss chard, and more; it also comes with 8 rows of pre-cut Xs that are spaced 24 inches apart, these spaces are great for planting vegetables such as lettuce, broccoli, tomatoes, cauliflower, peppers and more!

Lazy Garden Kit 15′ x 20′ Includes:

1- Woven polypropylene fabric ground cover

72- fabric pins (for ground cover & irrigation components)

1 – 20 ft. Mainline Tubing

10- pre-cut drip lines –

10- goof plugs

10- transfer barbs

1 – Figure 8 end clamp

1 – 20 PSI Filter Regulator Combo

1 – Hole Punch

Lazy Garden Kit 15′ x 30′ Includes:

1- Woven polypropylene fabric ground cover

95- fabric pins (for ground cover & irrigation components)

1 – 30 ft. Mainline Tubing

15- pre-cut drip lines

15- goof plugs

15- transfer barbs

1 – Figure 8 end clamp

1 – 20 PSI Filter Regulator Combo

1 – Hole Punch

Drip Tape Irrigation Kit Requirements:

Water hose – connects to a 3/4″ water hose or 3/4″ spigot.

Pressure – PSI should be below 50 psi and 8 gallons per minute. Requires a flow rate between 0.4 to 8 gallons per minute. To calculate your flow rate, simply record the time (in minutes that it takes to fill a 5-gallon bucket with water. Then divide 5 by the time above to obtain your gallon-per-minute rate. For example, if it takes 30 seconds (0.5 minutes) to fill a 5-gallon bucket, your flow rate is 10 gallons per minute because:

5 gal / 0.5 min = 10 gal/min

Row length – Our tubing can be used on a maximum row length of 30 ft. at 20 psi. We don’t recommend using rows longer than 30 feet. If rows are too long, water will not be equally distributed throughout the tubing along the row.

Row number – With a flow rate of 5 gallons per minute, our tubing can support 300 feet of tubing. That’s the equivalent of 30 rows that are 10 feet long. To calculate how much tubing your system can support, first calculate your flow rate based on the example above. For example, if your flow rate is 8 gallons per minute, the maximum length of tape your system can support is 480 feet. The flow rate on the tubing is 0.5 gallons per emitter per hour. The emitter spacing is 6″. Flow rate per foot/1 gallon per hour.

Small Drip Irrigation KitOur Small Drip Irrigation Kit contains everything you need to water your small vegetable garden. Perfect for wanting to utilize drip irrigation, but have a small garden. Drip irrigation allows you to use less water while watering more effectively. This is because you are only placing water directly where your plants need it – at the roots. Because you’re not watering the leaves, disease pressure and pest pressure will be greatly reduced.

You will also have much fewer weeds between rows in your vegetable garden. With overhead watering, many areas of the garden are unnecessarily watered, which results in watering weed seeds and germinating weeds that you don’t want to grow. However, with drip irrigation, you only place water underneath or beside the plants and you don’t water those spaces between rows.

The Small Drip Irrigation Kit also makes it really easy to fertilize your garden while you water it, saving you time and energy. By installing a Fertilizer Injector between the spigot and your irrigation system, you can easily inject water-soluble fertilizer into your watering system so that you feed your vegetable plants while you water them.

Small Drip Irrigation Kit Includes:

1 – 30 ft. roll of mainline tubing

2 – 100 ft. roll 1/4 tubing with emitters

1 – 20 PSI Filter Regulator Combo

1 – Figure 8 End Clamp

1 – Green Hole Punch

10 – Transfer Barbs

10 – Goof Plugs

32 – garden pins

Small Drip Kit Irrigation Kit Requirements:

Water hose – connects to a 3/4″ water hose or 3/4″ spigot.

Pressure – PSI should be below 50 psi and 8 gallons per minute. Requires a flow rate between 0.4 to 8 gallons per minute. To calculate your flow rate, simply record the time (in minutes that it takes to fill a 5-gallon bucket with water. Then divide 5 by the time above to obtain your gallon-per-minute rate. For example, if it takes 30 seconds (0.5 minutes) to fill a 5-gallon bucket, your flow rate is 10 gallons per minute because:

5 gal / 0.5 min = 10 gal/min

Row length – Our tubing can be used on a maximum row length of 30 ft. at 20 psi. We don’t recommend using rows longer than 30 feet. If rows are too long, water will not be equally distributed throughout the tubing along the row.

Row number – With a flow rate of 5 gallons per minute, our tubing can support 300 feet of tubing. That’s the equivalent of 30 rows that are 10 feet long. To calculate how much tubing your system can support, first calculate your flow rate based on the example above. For example, if your flow rate is 8 gallons per minute, the maximum length of tape your system can support is 480 feet. The flow rate on the tubing is 0.5 gallons per emitter per hour. The emitter spacing is 6″. Flow rate per foot/1 gallon per hour.

Products of the Week

Lazy Garden Ground Cover

Lazy Garden Kits

Small Drip Irrigation Kit

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It’s important to know when the last frost date is in your area, especially when you’re gardening in the cold of February, so that you can time when to start your seeds. This will differ depending on if you’re growing warm or cool season crops. Also, keep the frost date in mind so you can time when to plant. We recommend keeping a schedule so you can keep track of when you should plant and keep it handy this time of year!

Frost dates:Warm- seeds can be started indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date

Cool- seeds can be started indoors 10 to 12 weeks before the last frost date

Cool- seeds can be started outdoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date

Zones 9 & 10Last frost date zone 9: February 15th

Last frost date zone 10: January 31st

Cool season, start outdoors: Broccoli, cabbage, onions, English peas, leafy greens, chard, spinach, kale, lettuce

Warm season: tomatoes, peppers, summer squash, cucumbers, melons, eggplant

Zone 7 & 8Last frost date zone 7: April 15th

Last frost date zone 8: March 15th

Indoors: Lettuce, Peppers, tomatoes, Onions, Celery, Flowers

Outdoors:

As transplants: Broccoli, cabbage, kale, onions

As seeds: Spinach, lettuce, Asian greens, swiss chard, beets, carrots, turnips, radishes, peas

Zones 5 & 6Last frost date zone 5: May 15th

Last frost date Zone 6: May 1st

Cool season, start Indoors (start 12 weeks before last frost date, around mid-February): Leafy greens, spinach, swiss chard, arugula, bok choy, kale, broccoli, cabbage, kohlrabi, brussels sprouts

Zones 3 & 4To garden in zones 3 and 4, you will need to have frost protection for your plants when they are ready to be transplanted outdoors because temperatures will be cold well past February.

Cool season, start indoors: leafy greens, spinach, swiss chard, arugula, bok choy, kale

Products of the WeekSeed Starting Supplies

Light Kits

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Join Us! Tonight, we’re discussing seed starting for February! Let’s Grow Together!

It’s important to know when the last frost date is in your area, especially when you’re gardening in the cold of February, so that you can time when to start your seeds. This will differ depending on if you’re growing warm or cool season crops. Also, keep the frost date in mind so you can time when to plant. We recommend keeping a schedule so you can keep track of when you should plant and keep it handy this time of year!

Frost dates:Warm- seeds can be started indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date
Cool- seeds can be started indoors 10 to 12 weeks before the last frost date
Cool- seeds can be started outdoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date

Zones 9 & 10Last frost date zone 9: February 15th
Last frost date zone 10: January 31st
Cool season, start outdoors: Broccoli, cabbage, onions, English peas, leafy greens, chard, spinach, kale, lettuce
Warm season: tomatoes, peppers, summer squash, cucumbers, melons, eggplant

Zone 7 & 8Last frost date zone 7: April 15th
Last frost date zone 8: March 15th
Indoors: Lettuce, Peppers, tomatoes, Onions, Celery, Flowers
Outdoors:
As transplants: Broccoli, cabbage, kale, onions
As seeds: Spinach, lettuce, Asian greens, swiss chard, beets, carrots, turnips, radishes, peas

Zones 5 & 6Last frost date zone 5: May 15th
Last frost date Zone 6: May 1st
Cool season, start Indoors (start 12 weeks before last frost date, around mid-February): Leafy greens, spinach, swiss chard, arugula, bok choy, kale, broccoli, cabbage, kohlrabi, brussels sprouts

Zones 3 & 4To garden in zones 3 and 4, you will need to have frost protection for your plants when they are ready to be transplanted outdoors because temperatures will be cold well past February.
Cool season, start indoors: leafy greens, spinach, swiss chard, arugula, bok choy, kale

Products of the WeekSeed Starting Supplies

Light Kits

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Join Us! Tonight, we’re discussing our new irrigation kits for the new year of 2023! Let’s Grow Together!

Raised Bed Irrigation Kit: Our Raised Bed Irrigation Kit contains everything you need to water your raised bed gardens in the most effective and environmentally friendly way. Drip irrigation allows you to use less water while watering more effectively. This is because you are only placing water directly where your plants need it – at the roots. Because you’re not watering the leaves, disease pressure and pest pressure will be greatly reduced. This kit will support 8 (4 ft. by 8 ft.) raised beds with 4 feet between them.

Raised Bed Irrigation Kit Includes:2- 100 ft. roll 1/4 tubing with emitters

1 – 20 PSI Filter Regulator Combo

1 – Figure 8 End Clamp

1 – Green Hole Punch

20 – Goof Plugs

10-transfer barbs

2 – 50 ft. 1/4″ tubing

40 – 1/4″ elbows

10 – 1/4″ flow valve

10 – 1/4″ tees

1 -30ft mainline tubing

100 – Tubing Stakes

10 – Garden Wire Pins

Raised Bed Irrigation Kit Requirements:Water hose – connects to a 3/4″ water hose or 3/4″ spigot.

Pressure – PSI should be below 50 psi and 8 gallons per minute. Requires a flow rate between 0.4 to 8 gallons per minute. To calculate your flow rate, simply record the time (in minutes that it takes to fill a 5-gallon bucket with water. Then divide 5 by the time above to obtain your gallon-per-minute rate. For example, if it takes 30 seconds (0.5 minutes) to fill a 5-gallon bucket, your flow rate is 10 gallons per minute because:

5 gal / 0.5 min = 10 gal/min

Row length – Our tubing can be used on a maximum row length of 30 ft. at 20 psi. We don’t recommend using rows longer than 30 feet. If rows are too long, water will not be equally distributed throughout the tubing along the row.

Row number – With a flow rate of 5 gallons per minute, our tubing can support 300 feet of tubing. That’s the equivalent of 30 rows that are 10 feet long. To calculate how much tubing your system can support, first calculate your flow rate based on the example above. For example, if your flow rate is 8 gallons per minute, the maximum length of tape your system can support is 480 feet. The flow rate on the tubing is 0.5 gallons per emitter per hour. The emitter spacing is 6″. Flow rate per foot/1 gallon per hour.

Small Drip Irrigation Kit: Our Small Drip Irrigation Kit contains everything your need to water your vegetable garden in the most effective and environmentally friendly way. Drip irrigation allows you to use less water while watering more effectively. This is because you are only placing water directly where your plants need it – at the roots. Because you’re not watering the leaves, disease pressure and pest pressure will be greatly reduced.

Small Drip Irrigation Kit Includes:1 – 30 ft. roll of mainline tubing

1 – 100 ft. roll 1/4 tubing with emitters

1 – 20 PSI Filter Regulator Combo

1 – Figure 8 End Clamp

1 – Green Hole Punch

10 – Transfer Barbs

10 – Goof Plugs

32 – garden pins

Small Drip Kit Irrigation Kit Requirements:Water hose – connects to a 3/4″ water hose or 3/4″ spigot.

Pressure – PSI should be below 50 psi and 8 gallons per minute. Requires a flow rate between 0.4 to 8 gallons per minute. To calculate your flow rate, simply record the time (in minutes that it takes to fill a 5-gallon bucket with water. Then divide 5 by the time above to obtain your gallon-per-minute rate. For example, if it takes 30 seconds (0.5 minutes) to fill a 5-gallon bucket, your flow rate is 10 gallons per minute because:

5 gal / 0.5 min = 10 gal/min

Row length – Our tubing can be used on a maximum row length of 30 ft. at 20 psi. We don’t recommend using rows longer than 30 feet. If rows are too long, water will not be equally distributed throughout the tubing along the row.

Row number – With a flow rate of 5 gallons per minute, our tubing can support 300 feet of tubing. That’s the equivalent of 30 rows that are 10 feet long. To calculate how much tubing your system can support, first calculate your flow rate based on the example above. For example, if your flow rate is 8 gallons per minute, the maximum length of tape your system can support is 480 feet. The flow rate on the tubing is 0.5 gallons per emitter per hour. The emitter spacing is 6″. Flow rate per foot/1 gallon per hour.

Seeder Repair Kit: Our Seeder Repair Kit includes everything you need to make your repairs on the Hoss Garden Seeder. It includes the seeder brush assembly, seeder chain, replacement gear set, seeder hopper, seeder hopper cap, and the seeder wooden cone. $40.99

Seeder Repair Kit Includes:1 – Seeder Brush Assembly – Replacement brush that sits inside the hopper of Hoss Garden Seeder and Seeder Attachment.

1 – Seeder Chain

1 – Replacement Seeder Gear Set (A & B) – Replacement gear set (A & B) for Hoss Garden Seeder and Seeder Attachment. These are the gears that sit underneath the hopper.

1 – Seeder Hopper

1 – Seeder Hopper Cap

1 – Seeder Wooden Cone

Supreme Plant Protection Cover: 1.5-ounce fabric that is ideal for protecting your flowering annuals, bedding plants, and/or vegetable gardens from severe cold, harsh winds, and freezing conditions. The protection cover keeps your plants warmer than the outside temperature and gives you peace of mind when those temps start to drop outside. The Plant Protection cover can also help lengthen harvest time and extend the flowering season. Two size variations are available: 6′ x 25′ or 6′ x 50′. Garden Pins Included. $29.99-$39.99

This pant cover is UV-treated fabric; its smart design is to keep plants protected in the summer and cooler months and allows ventilation to keep plants cool and protected. Reuse year after year, after using, the product can be rolled back onto the core and placed back in the plastic “sleeve” for storage. Our plant protection covers will include pins to properly stabilize your covers to the ground.

Products of the Week:Potatoes

Seeder Repair Kit

Raised Bed Irrigation Kit

Small Drip Irrigation Kit

Watch the Full Episode on Youtube:https://youtu.be/Ifu0qbceZxk

View Details

Join Us! Tonight, we're discussing our new irrigation kits for the new year of 2023! Let's Grow Together!

Raised Bed Irrigation Kit: Our Raised Bed Irrigation Kit contains everything you need to water your raised bed gardens in the most effective and environmentally friendly way. Drip irrigation allows you to use less water while watering more effectively. This is because you are only placing water directly where your plants need it - at the roots. Because you're not watering the leaves, disease pressure and pest pressure will be greatly reduced. This kit will support 8 (4 ft. by 8 ft.) raised beds with 4 feet between them.

Raised Bed Irrigation Kit Includes:2- 100 ft. roll 1/4 tubing with emitters

1 – 20 PSI Filter Regulator Combo

1 – Figure 8 End Clamp

1 – Green Hole Punch

20 – Goof Plugs

10-transfer barbs

2 – 50 ft. 1/4″ tubing

40 – 1/4″ elbows

10 – 1/4″ flow valve

10 – 1/4″ tees

1 -30ft mainline tubing

100 – Tubing Stakes

10 – Garden Wire Pins

Raised Bed Irrigation Kit Requirements:Water hose – connects to a 3/4″ water hose or 3/4″ spigot.

Pressure – PSI should be below 50 psi and 8 gallons per minute. Requires a flow rate between 0.4 to 8 gallons per minute. To calculate your flow rate, simply record the time (in minutes that it takes to fill a 5-gallon bucket with water. Then divide 5 by the time above to obtain your gallon-per-minute rate. For example, if it takes 30 seconds (0.5 minutes) to fill a 5-gallon bucket, your flow rate is 10 gallons per minute because:

5 gal / 0.5 min = 10 gal/min

Row length – Our tubing can be used on a maximum row length of 30 ft. at 20 psi. We don’t recommend using rows longer than 30 feet. If rows are too long, water will not be equally distributed throughout the tubing along the row.

Row number – With a flow rate of 5 gallons per minute, our tubing can support 300 feet of tubing. That’s the equivalent of 30 rows that are 10 feet long. To calculate how much tubing your system can support, first calculate your flow rate based on the example above. For example, if your flow rate is 8 gallons per minute, the maximum length of tape your system can support is 480 feet. The flow rate on the tubing is 0.5 gallons per emitter per hour. The emitter spacing is 6″. Flow rate per foot/1 gallon per hour.

Small Drip Irrigation Kit: Our Small Drip Irrigation Kit contains everything your need to water your vegetable garden in the most effective and environmentally friendly way. Drip irrigation allows you to use less water while watering more effectively. This is because you are only placing water directly where your plants need it – at the roots. Because you’re not watering the leaves, disease pressure and pest pressure will be greatly reduced.

Small Drip Irrigation Kit Includes:1 – 30 ft. roll of mainline tubing

1 – 100 ft. roll 1/4 tubing with emitters

1 – 20 PSI Filter Regulator Combo

1 – Figure 8 End Clamp

1 – Green Hole Punch

10 – Transfer Barbs

10 – Goof Plugs

32 – garden pins

Small Drip Kit Irrigation Kit Requirements:Water hose – connects to a 3/4″ water hose or 3/4″ spigot.

Pressure – PSI should be below 50 psi and 8 gallons per minute. Requires a flow rate between 0.4 to 8 gallons per minute. To calculate your flow rate, simply record the time (in minutes that it takes to fill a 5-gallon bucket with water. Then divide 5 by the time above to obtain your gallon-per-minute rate. For example, if it takes 30 seconds (0.5 minutes) to fill a 5-gallon bucket, your flow rate is 10 gallons per minute because:

5 gal / 0.5 min = 10 gal/min

Row length – Our tubing can be used on a maximum row length of 30 ft. at 20 psi. We don’t recommend using rows longer than 30 feet. If rows are too long, water will not be equally distributed throughout the tubing along the row.

Row number – With a flow rate of 5 gallons per minute, our tubing can support 300 feet of tubing. That’s the equivalent of 30 rows that are 10 feet long. To calculate how much tubing your system can support, first calculate your flow rate based on the example above. For example, if your flow rate is 8 gallons per minute, the maximum length of tape your system can support is 480 feet. The flow rate on the tubing is 0.5 gallons per emitter per hour. The emitter spacing is 6″. Flow rate per foot/1 gallon per hour.

Seeder Repair Kit: Our Seeder Repair Kit includes everything you need to make your repairs on the Hoss Garden Seeder. It includes the seeder brush assembly, seeder chain, replacement gear set, seeder hopper, seeder hopper cap, and the seeder wooden cone. $40.99

Seeder Repair Kit Includes:1 – Seeder Brush Assembly – Replacement brush that sits inside the hopper of Hoss Garden Seeder and Seeder Attachment.

1 – Seeder Chain

1 – Replacement Seeder Gear Set (A & B) – Replacement gear set (A & B) for Hoss Garden Seeder and Seeder Attachment. These are the gears that sit underneath the hopper.

1 – Seeder Hopper

1 – Seeder Hopper Cap

1 – Seeder Wooden Cone

Supreme Plant Protection Cover: 1.5-ounce fabric that is ideal for protecting your flowering annuals, bedding plants, and/or vegetable gardens from severe cold, harsh winds, and freezing conditions. The protection cover keeps your plants warmer than the outside temperature and gives you peace of mind when those temps start to drop outside. The Plant Protection cover can also help lengthen harvest time and extend the flowering season. Two size variations are available: 6' x 25' or 6' x 50'. Garden Pins Included. $29.99-$39.99

This pant cover is UV-treated fabric; its smart design is to keep plants protected in the summer and cooler months and allows ventilation to keep plants cool and protected. Reuse year after year, after using, the product can be rolled back onto the core and placed back in the plastic "sleeve" for storage. Our plant protection covers will include pins to properly stabilize your covers to the ground.

Products of the Week:Potatoes

Seeder Repair Kit

Raised Bed Irrigation Kit

Small Drip Irrigation Kit

Watch the Full Episode on Youtube:https://youtu.be/Ifu0qbceZxk

View Details

Spring Potato Planting

7 Types:

  • Russet
  • Red
  • White
  • Yellow
  • Blue/Purple
  • Fingerling
  • Petite

Early, Midseason, Late Season Potatoes:

Early Season Potatoes will get to full maturity usually in than 90 days or less. Midseason Potato Varieties will take 100+ days to mature. Late Season Potatoes need 110 days or more to reach full maturity.

Determinate and Indeterminate Potatoes:

The difference between the two types is that indeterminate potatoes tend to grow upward and have multiple layers as the plant grows and more soil gets added around the plant. Indeterminate varieties are better suited for those who are choosing to grow your potatoes in containers.

Schedule by Zone

Soil temperature and maturation timing is extremely important in growing your potatoes. Ideally, you want to get your seeds in the ground 2-4 weeks before the last frost in Spring. Growing Potatoes in Containers:

Growing In Containers

Potatoes are very well suited to grow in containers and make an excellent choice for small space gardens. While the process of growing potatoes in containers is similar to that of in-ground or raised bed planting, there are some differences in the process.

Depending on the size of your container, fill it with 4-6 inches of prepared soil and place it in full sun. Your seed potatoes need a good bit of room to grow so be sure and get the correct plant spacing. For example, our 15 gallon root pouch can comfortably grow 4 potato plants and give the root structure plenty of room for a big harvest.

The same way that in-ground and raised bed planting requires hilling, container planted potatoes require the same treatment, called layering. As the plant grows, you will continually add soil to the top of the plant to cover the new stems at the bottom until the container is full of soil.

Check out our growing guide for more detailed information.

Our Potato Varieties:

Irish Cobbler Potato- Irish Cobbler Potato is an heirloom variety introduced in the 1870s. Great for mashed potatoes and potato soups! Brick-shaped potatoes with deep eyes. Determinate. Early season maturity, 80 days.

Red Norland Potato- Red Norland Potato is a “new potato” variety that has been selected for darker skin color and excellent storage. Great for boiling and roasting. Resistant to scab and late blight. Solanum tuberosum. Determinate. Early season, 85 days.

Kennebec White Potato- Kennebec White Potato is the gold standard for frying potatoes. Dark brown skin with ivory white interior. High starch content makes for great storage. A great all-around potato! Solanum tuberosum. Determinate. Mid season maturity, 90 days.

Yukon Gold Potato- Yukon Gold Potato is one of the most popular and versatile potato varieties. Medium to large-sized potatoes with tan skin and buttery-yellow flesh. Solanum tuberosum. Determinate. Mid season maturity, 100 days.

German Butterball Potato- German Butterball Potato is a medium to large russet-style

potato with a buttery-yellow flesh. One of the best-tasting varieties you can grow. Excellent storage. Solanum tuberosum. Indeterminate. Late-season variety, 110-135 days.

Viking Potato- Viking Potato has a beautiful, mottled-red exterior with a creamy white interior. Compact plants produce loads of 2 lb potatoes that store very well. Solanum tuberosum. Determinate. Early season maturity, 90 days.

French Fingerling Potato- French Fingerling Potato is one of the best-tasting potatoes you’ll ever have. Elongated potatoes have red skin with a buttery-yellow inside that’s scattered with red flecks. Solanum tuberosum. Indeterminate. Mid to late season maturity, 100 days.

Austrian Crescent Potato- Austrian Crescent Potato is a large fingerling potato with a golden-yellow flesh that’s buttery and delicious. Potatoes may reach up to 10″ in length at full maturity. Solanum tuberosum. Indeterminate. Mid to late season, 90 days.

Purple Majesty Potato- Purple Majesty Potato couples beauty with exceptional flavor and texture. Widely-considered the best-tasting purple potato variety. High in antioxidants and great for you! Determinate. Early season maturity, 85 days.

Product of the Week

POTATOES

CALCIUM NITRATE

ROOT POUCH- 45 GALLON

Watch the Complete Show on YouTube Below:

https://youtu.be/zw75tsoW670

View Details

Spring Potato Planting 7 Types of Potatoes:

          • Russet + Red + White + yellow + Blue/Purple + Fingerling + Petite

Early, Midseason, Late Season Potatoes:

Early Season Potatoes will get to full maturity usually in than 90 days or less. Midseason Potato Varieties will take 100+ days to mature. Late Season Potatoes need 110 days or more to reach full maturity.

Determinate and Indeterminate Potatoes:

The difference between the two types is that indeterminate potatoes tend to grow upward and have multiple layers as the plant grows and more soil gets added around the plant. Indeterminate varieties are better suited for those who are choosing to grow your potatoes in containers.

Schedule by Zone

Soil temperature and maturation timing is extremely important in growing your potatoes. Ideally, you want to get your seeds in the ground 2-4 weeks before the last frost in Spring.

https://hosstools.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Hoss-Zones-Chart-Animation.mp4Zone 10 January 15– 31
Zone 9 February 1 – 15
Zone 8 February 15– 28
Zone 7 March 1 – 15Zone 6 March 15 –31
Zone 5 April 1 – 30
Zone 4 April 15– May 15Zone 3 May

Growing Potatoes in Containers:Potatoes are very well suited to grow in containers and make an excellent choice for small space gardens. While the process of growing potatoes in containers is similar to that of in-ground or raised bed planting, there are some differences in the process.

Depending on the size of your container, fill it with 4-6 inches of prepared soil and place it in full sun. Your seed potatoes need a good bit of room to grow so be sure and get the correct plant spacing. For example, our 15 gallon root pouch can comfortably grow 4 potato plants and give the root structure plenty of room for a big harvest.

The same way that in-ground and raised bed planting requires hilling, container planted potatoes require the same treatment, called layering. As the plant grows, you will continually add soil to the top of the plant to cover the new stems at the bottom until the container is full of soil.

Check out our growing guide for more detailed information. Our Potato Varieties:Irish Cobbler Potato- Irish Cobbler Potato is an heirloom variety introduced in the 1870s. Great for mashed potatoes and potato soups! Brick-shaped potatoes with deep eyes. Determinate. Early season maturity, 80 days.

Red Norland Potato- Red Norland Potato is a “new potato” variety that has been selected for darker skin color and excellent storage. Great for boiling and roasting. Resistant to scab and late blight. Solanum tuberosum. Determinate. Early season, 85 days.

Kennebec White Potato- Kennebec White Potato is the gold standard for frying potatoes. Dark brown skin with ivory white interior. High starch content makes for great storage. A great all-around potato! Solanum tuberosum. Determinate. Mid season maturity, 90 days.

Yukon Gold Potato- Yukon Gold Potato is one of the most popular and versatile potato varieties. Medium to large-sized potatoes with tan skin and buttery-yellow flesh. Solanum tuberosum. Determinate. Mid season maturity, 100 days.

German Butterball Potato- German Butterball Potato is a medium to large russet-style potato with a buttery-yellow flesh. One of the best-tasting varieties you can grow. Excellent storage. Solanum tuberosum. Indeterminate. Late-season variety, 110-135 days.

Viking Potato- Viking Potato has a beautiful, mottled-red exterior with a creamy white interior. Compact plants produce loads of 2 lb potatoes that store very well. Solanum tuberosum. Determinate. Early season maturity, 90 days.

French Fingerling Potato- French Fingerling Potato is one of the best-tasting potatoes you’ll ever have. Elongated potatoes have red skin with a buttery-yellow inside that’s scattered with red flecks. Solanum tuberosum. Indeterminate. Mid to late season maturity, 100 days.

Austrian Crescent Potato- Austrian Crescent Potato is a large fingerling potato with a golden-yellow flesh that’s buttery and delicious. Potatoes may reach up to 10″ in length at full maturity. Solanum tuberosum. Indeterminate. Mid to late season, 90 days.

Purple Majesty Potato- Purple Majesty Potato couples beauty with exceptional flavor and texture. Widely-considered the best-tasting purple potato variety. High in antioxidants and great for you! Determinate. Early season maturity, 85 days.

Product of the WeekPOTATOES

CALCIUM NITRATE

ROOT POUCH- 45 GALLON

Watch the Complete Show on YouTube Below:https://youtu.be/zw75tsoW670

View Details

It’s January! A new year and new gardening goals! Tonight, Greg and Sheila discuss more new products that are available on the website now, some upcoming new products, and what you should be doing or should you just be preparing. Let’s talk gardening in January. How to fight cabin fever! Let’s Grow Together!

Gardening In JanuaryGarden TasksGetting “cabin fever” is understandable this time of year. It’s cold outside, you’re stuck inside and you’re itching for spring! Don’t be fooled if there are a few warm days that pop up, you don’t want to get started too early. Figure out your planting dates: last frost date minus 6-8 weeks for transplants (consider germination time and hardening off). You’ll want to schedule out succession planting on a calendar rather than sowing everything all at once, sow a little at a time. A good rule of thumb is to spread out your zucchini, squash, cucumbers, etc. instead of having an explosion of vegetables all at once.

Can Anything Be Planted Now For An Early Spring Garden?Yes, you can grow now (depending on your zone, of course), we’re talking Zone 8 and higher here. From seed: mustards, turnips, and collards are a good choice! You can start more English and Snap peas, Cauliflower, Cabbage, Kohlrabi, or Broccoli to transplant.

Soil Testing, Review NotesYou’ll want to review any notes you took last year or from your growing season(s). What did well, what didn’t? What new varieties are you going to try this year? Check out our NEW FOR 2023 seeds!

Check Your InventoryAnother important tip – your seed inventory and prepare your order, some years there are seed shortages on certain crops so you want to make sure you order in time.

Prepare! Prepare!It’s time to start cleaning up that garden. You’ll want to cultivate, weed, and clean up. Top-dress the soil with organic matter/compost. Tarp it if needed and forget about it!

Product of the WeekSEED POTATOES

NEW FOR 2023

Hoss All-In-One Fertilizer

Watch the Complete Show on YouTube Below:https://youtu.be/IYmWGAm4L2k

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It's a new year, it's January and the weather is crazier than ever! Let's talk about new products, upcoming products, and what you should be doing in the garden this January.

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It’s now the beginning of 2023 and it’s the first episode of the year! To start us off right, we have some new seed varieties and collections this year!

New Seeds for 2023: + Hossinator Bell Pepper: is a hybrid, bell pepper variety with great disease resistance, has consistent production and is widely adapted to all growing regions. A great organic variety. It produces consistent yields of extra-large, uniform fruits that average 5″ long by 4″ wide. Fruits have a blocky appearance and thick walls. This variety produces large fruit and is a large plant type. Hossinator Bell Pepper is known for its continuous setting ability which makes it a great variety for long-term production throughout the warm growing season. Prolific plants have an extensive cover to protect fruits from sunburn. + Hossinator Slicer Cucumber: is a hybrid, great southern slicing cucumber with a comprehensive disease-resistance package. Extremely prolific. A great variety for both spring and fall. This slicing variety is resistant to just about any disease that could plague cucumbers. In addition to the disease resistance, the Hossinator Slicer has a vigorous, strong plant with hardy skin with fruits that average 8.4″ long and have an excellent texture and flavor. A refreshing choice for platters and salads, perfect for the home grower, and market gardeners. Hossinator Slicer Cucumber is a monoecious variety, meaning it produces both male and female flowers. + Hossinator Jalapeno Pepper: is a hybrid, moderate heat jalapeno pepper that offers growers a unique combination of size, quality, pungency, yield potential, and earliness. This variety produces very large fruit, and has moderate cracking; it is widely adaptive to most growing regions. This popular pepper has very consistent high fruit quality that delivers fruits with good size, smooth exterior with a dark green color. Plants will grow to 3-4′ tall and produce thick-walled fruits that are 3-4″ long. If left on the plant, fruits will mature from green to red. red jalapeños, which are also called “chipotles”, are more flavorful than the green fruits. + Texas Grano 502 Onion: is a short-day, open-pollinated variety that features white flesh and straw-colored skin. Its mild and sweet flavor gives it excellent eating quality and has been known as the “eat it like an apple” onion. It produces a large round, globe-shaped onion. The Texas Grano 502 grows especially well in Southern climates and is widely used for winter onion production. Sweet flavor and stores well for months. + Supersweet 100 Cherry Tomato: is an open-pollinated, indeterminate cherry variety that produces extremely, heavy clusters of super sweet cherry tomatoes. It is a favorite for home gardeners! Vigorous plants produce heavy yields of 1-1.5″ round cherry tomatoes that grow in clusters of 15-25. The clusters make these easy to harvest, although you’ll probably eat them all before you get inside! Plants are prolific and will continually produce tomatoes until the first frost in fall. These can be grown on a paneled trellis in a larger garden, but they also make a great patio plant. You can even plant them in a hanging pot and let them dangle towards the ground for easy harvesting. Great for snacking and salads! + Aspabroc Broccoli : also known as, broccolini in the produce section of your local grocery, resembles a broccoli raab with an asparagus-like stem and offers a sweet, mild taste and a slight peppery undertone. You get to capture the savory flavor of asparagus and broccoli in one plant; the whole plant is edible! This cut-and-come again, hybrid variety is easy to grow and requires very little space. Aspabroc is great for container growing. Great for roasting, boiling, sautéing, and steaming! 50-60 days to maturity. Aspabroc is a cross between two types of broccoli: Chinese Kale (or Gia Lan) and Italian Sprouting developed in the 1990s + Burgundy Broccoli: stunning, hybrid broccoli variety that has beautiful deep purple florets with pale green stems. This variety performs well when grown in the fall and early spring in northern, colder states. It also is a solid producer when overwintered throughout the fall and winter months in southern states. Grow it anywhere in the country with exceptional results! It’s tolerant of a wide arrange of temperatures. Burgundy is a sprouting broccoli variety; it creates one moderate to the small main head but then starts producing generous side shoots. Brassica oleracea.* 40 days to maturity. + Imperial Star Spinach: fast-growing, hybrid variety. This Asian type of spinach has smooth, medium-green leaves. Its relatively early maturity makes it a great spinach variety for succession planting throughout the cooler months. Imperial has an upright plant habit with strong sturdy petioles. Great spinach that will withstand colder temperatures with a low bolt tolerance. Great for the market farmer! Spinacia oleracea. 35 days to maturity + Black Oats: cover crop that works tremendously as a ground cover for weed suppression and nematode control. It is also known to be one of the best cover crops to grow for a beginner. Black Oats produce tons of biomass allowing it to break down quickly, and return valuable nutrients and organic particles back into the soil. This makes it a perfect cover crop to rotate before corn or other heavy-feeding vegetable crops. Black Oats make a great forager for livestock. Avena strigosa. 60 days to maturity + Southern Dolly (Flue Cured) Tobacco:* hybrid, flue-cured tobacco variety that was bred in North Carolina. Southern Dolly is rich in natural tannins which can create its distinct slightly sweet and mild flavor and aroma. A high-yield, medium to late maturing variety with excellent holding ability, with an orange-colored cure. Nicotiana tabacum. Pelleted. 66 days to maturity***.

Flue-cured tobacco tends to exhibit less mold than other types of tobacco; the term “flue-cured” tobacco refers to the type of curing barn used to dry, or cure, the tobacco leaves. Flue-curing barns contained a chimney-like flue with an externally-fed tinder box that allows the tobacco to dry out slowly without exposure to smoke.
+ **Shirey Dark Tobacco:**  open-pollinated, dark Virginian-type tobacco variety with a mild flavor – typically a richer flavor than Virginia Golds. It will produce a large leaf that air cures easily to medium brown color. Its hardy plant can reach up to 6 feet tall in height and withstand moderate to late season frosts. Shirey (sometimes pronounced as “Shirley”) is sweet-scented, produces ornamental flowers that are white to pink, and is wonderful for pollinators. *Nicotiana tabacum*. **Pelleted.** **65 days to maturity**
+ **Heritage Gold (Burley) Tobacco:** is one of the classic burley tobacco varieties, a medium to late maturity for light-air curing or drying, known for its extensive disease resistance package and strong yield. Among the most common tobacco variety cultivated today, Burley-type varieties do well in a wide range of climates. The growth habit of Heritage Gold is semi-upright. *Nicotiana tabacum*. **Pelleted.** **70 days to maturity**.
+ **Lemon Cutie Sunflower:** features loads of lemon-colored flowers, it won the Fleuroselect 2023 Gold Medal for Novelty! This sunflower is a unique, short-habit variety that will only reach around 1-2′ tall, creating a blanket of bright yellow in your garden. Use these to attract bees and other beneficial insects to your garden. The flowers are pollenless with the natural production of nectar for those pollinating insects. A semi-double flower that holds their freshness unusually long! Great for containers. *Helianthus annuus.* **55 Days to Maturity**
+ **Survival Seeds Collection:** premium assortment of 45 easy-to-grow seed varieties. It includes heirloom and open-pollinated varieties, from tomatoes, cover crops, beans, flowers, herbs, peas, squash, and so many more! The Survival Seed Collection is great for any gardener, beginner, or advanced. This kit has been curated for long-term storage from light, and moisture and to have a safety seed vault (just in case). Seed packets come in a large mylar (resealable) bag for safe and dry storage. **Includes 45 seed packs.** $181.56 Retail Value. $99.99
+ **Deluxe Medicinal Herb Collection:** hand-curated, comprehensive collection of premium herb seeds. This herb collection is a great starter collection for those who would like to get started in medicinal herb growing. You can continue to enjoy these herbs year after year. Each of the herbs in this collection has its own specific medicinal properties, each essential to every garden as well as attracting beneficial pollinators. In this deluxe collection, you will not only receive 10 medicinal herb seed packets, but you will also receive 10 heavy-duty, waterproof garden stakes, and 10 growing cards with information on each herb variety. Seeds are packed in a collectible tin that may be used for years.
+ **Premium Medicinal Herb Collection:** hand-curated, comprehensive collection of premium herb seeds. This herb collection is a great collection for those who would like to branch out in more unique varieties of medicinal herbs. You can continue to enjoy these herbs year after year. Each of the herbs in this collection has its own specific medicinal properties, each essential to every garden as well as attracting beneficial pollinators. In this deluxe collection, you will not only receive 9 medicinal herb seed packets, but you will also receive 9 heavy-duty, waterproof garden stakes, and 9 growing cards with information on each herb variety. Seeds are packed in a collectible tin that may be used for years.

How many tomato plants are our customers growing?

We recently took a poll from our customers on how many tomato plants they’re currently growing. Check out below how many plants our customers grow:

Plants Customers 6-12 Plants

52

13-20 Plants

73

21-30 Plants

74

31-40 Plants

31

41-50 Plants

21

51-100 Plants

46

101-200 Plants

20

201-300 Plants

3

301-400 Plants

1

Greater than 500 Plants

3

Product of the WeekPOTATOES PRE-ORDER

SURVIVAL SEEDS COLLECTION

HOSSINATOR SERIES

TOBACCO SEEDS

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Tonight it's all about resolutions! Garden Resolutions!

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It’s getting cooler, even where we are in Zone 8b in SW Georgia. We’re getting ready for Christmas and still harvesting from the garden. Tonight, we’re discussing some of our favorite cold-tolerant plants to grow in the garden. There are those that are cold-tolerant but can’t survive a hard frost, there are those that can do both. Let’s discuss and grow together!

Things To Keep In Mind When Growing Cold-Tolerant Plants* Know the Average Frost Date for your zone (USDA site) light frost 34-32, hard frost below 32 (water in those cells turns to ice, which expands and bursts the cell walls of the plant, plants look sad and wilted) * Variables that can affect: Wind, Humidity, size of the plant, soil moisture, mulching, row covers * Soil Moisture: water has high specific heat and takes more energy to freeze water, dry soil is the enemy. * Size of Plant: more mature plants and those that harden off do better. * Mulching can protect the plants as well row covers can make them colder tolerant and protect them from freeze damage. * Some will become sweeter and more delicious when they go through a frost.

Plants That Will Not Survive A FrostBasil, beans, corn, cucumbers, eggplant, melons, okra, peppers, potatoes, pumpkins, summer squash, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, and tomatillos.

Most Resistant/Cold-Tolerant: Hard FrostWhile we know that there are many plants that we can’t grow in the colder months (list above) due to the risk of frost but there are quite a few vegetables that you can grow and will survive cold weather! Check out the list below!

  • Carrots – roots are more tolerant than tops. Carrot roots can take down to 0 degrees, while the tops can take down to 18 degrees. You’ll want to mulch for more protection. Fun fact: the cooler temps make the roots sweeter.
  • Garlic – they actually really need cold temperatures and can take down to 0 degrees.
  • Beets/Chard – these vegetables can take down to 15 degrees
  • Brussels Sprouts – can handle temps down to 0 degrees, these also need cold temperatures
  • Collards – this truly depends on the variety, some varieties can tolerate down to 0 degrees
  • Spinach – spinach can take temperatures down to 20 degrees.
  • Leeks, Chives & Parsnips – these two varieties can also take temps down to 0 degrees
  • Onions – short-day onions can take temperatures down to 20 degrees , except for Walla-Walla or green onions, they can take much colder temps
  • Kale – most, if not all, Kale varieties can take temps down to 10 degrees
  • Kohlrabi – kohlrabi can take down to 15 degrees

Moderate Cold/Frost Tolerant Broccoli & Cauliflower will do ok with moderate cold temps but the heads can get spongy at times. If the heads are present. you will need to cover or harvest. Cabbage can take up to lows of 25 degrees, the heads have been known to bust if it freezes. The following varieties are great in moderately cold temperatures, cilantro, mustard, turnips, rutabagas, radishes, fava beans, and some lettuces that are bread for cold tolerance.

Cover CropsOur most cold-tolerant cover crop is Winter Rye, this variety can tolerate temperatures bottoming out at -30 degrees!! Frosty Berseem Clover is another variety that can survive pretty harsh temps of -20 degrees in the winter months. Hairy Vetch can typically handle down to -15 degrees, Australian Winter peas down to -10 degrees, Crimson Clover down to 0 degrees, and Daikon Radish down to 10 degrees.

Product of the WeekGIFT CERTIFICATES

SEED POTATOES

COVER CROPS

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Tonight, we're discussing some of our favorite cold-tolerant plants to grow in the garden.

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Tonight, we’ve got Ryan Thiessen of Thiessen Tillage on the show. Thiessen Tillage is our Canadian Dealer, if you are in Canada, be sure to order your garden tools from them for quick delivery. (link below) Hoss and Ryan are talking about gardening in Canada and the differences, the best garden tools to use, and much more! Let’s Grow Together!

Thiessen Tillage Equipment – Gardening In CanadaAre you gardening in Canada and want some Hoss garden tools? Check out our Canadian Dealer! Thiessen Tillage

Tilmor Farm EquipmentRyan also works with Tilmor (which is a fairly new company) in developing farming and tillage equipment for the small farmer, as well as the home gardener. He develops most of the implements for the larger equipment at Tilmor and Thiessen Tillage is a dealer of Tilmor Equipment. Be sure to check out their website!

What Is A Power Ox? Because the Power Ox 240 is the next generation of two-wheel tractors, it is designed with the small farmer in mind. Its spotlight features are a throttle control handle, Honda GX120 Engine, and a robust drive system. It has a 13.5″ ground clearance, quick handle height adjustment, and 4″ wide bar tires. It has three-width settings on the main frame. Hoss has a Power Ox and highly recommends them. It has got a great cultivation experience. Check it out here!

The finger weeder is an attachment for the Power Ox walk-behind tractor, plus it is the newest attachment that is used a lot in organic farming. Specifically designed for in-row cultivation and it uproots small and just emerging weeds. The attachment is suitable for most small crops planted in rows with (at least) 9 inches between each row and it is very effective on light to medium-heavy clay soils. It is also best when combined with implements such as vegetable knives or spyders that run in front. The weeder attachment has a ground-engaging steel drive plate that turns the flexible polyurethane fingers at a faster speed. Check it out here!

Product of the WeekSEED POTATOES

WHEEL HOES

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With Christmas on the way, we know this can be a stressful time of year for many reasons. Don’t let gift-giving be one of those reasons. Let’s talk gifts for gardeners. We’ve got so many ideas for you for the gardener in your life. There’s something for everyone! Get Dirty!

Gifts For GardenersRoot Pouch Grow BagsRoot Pouch Grow Bags are seriously the best grow bags we’ve found and used. They’re made from recycled plastic water bottles, the best part – is they’re reusable, UV-resistant, BPA-free, and non-toxic! Plus they come in several different sizes! Don’t have the land to grow? Grow in grow bags! Check them out!

Push Pull Hoe With its unique V-shaped design, this garden hoe allows you to weed more effectively and efficiently with a push-pull motion. MADE IN THE USA $74.99

Garden HodThe Garden Hodis a multifunctional harvesting bucket that allows you to harvest and rinse your vegetables all in one container. Constructed with weather-resistant wood and heavy-duty mesh wire. MADE IN THE USA! $59.99

Pruning ShearsOur Hoss Pruning Shears are simply the best! Perfect for trimming fruit trees, pruning vegetable and flower plants, and harvesting thick-stemmed vegetables like winter squash or pumpkins. Super-sharp blade with locking aluminum handles, a shock absorption system, and a sap groove to prevent the blade from sticking. $39.99

TubTrug Bundle (4 pack)The TubTrug Bundle is a collection of our favorite UV-resistant, virtually indestructible harvesting containers. Includes TubTrug Colander, Medium TubTrug, Small TubTrug, and Mini Shallow Tubtrug. Colors may vary. $69.99**

Hoe Dag Tool KitOur Hoe Dag Tool Kit includes everything you need to plant, weed, and cultivate your raised bed or container garden. Includes the Hoe Dag, Hand Rake and Hand Shovel. All tools have high-carbon steel blades, and seasoned hardwood handles and are built to last a lifetime! $89.99

Complete Fermentation KitThe Complete Fermentation Kit has everything you need to start fermenting your own vegetables today. Includes Pickle Packer Jar Tamper, Pickle Pipe Fermentation Lids, Pickle Pebble Fermentation Weights, and Instructional Booklet. $59.99

Seed CollectionsPollinator, Herb, Heirloom, Cool Season, Fresh Salad, Cog Hill Farm Sunflower Collection.

Light KitsKitchen Garden Light Kit: $99.99

Indoor Seed Starting Light Kit: $199.99

Microgreen Indoor Starter Kit: $276.99

Hanging Grow Light Kit: $199.99

Seed Starting Kits24 Cell Seed Starting Kit: $39.99

48 Cell Seed Starting Kit:$49.99

Deluxe Seed Starting Kit: $74.99

Premium Seed Starting Kit: $109.99

Product of the WeekLight Kits

Pruners

Seed Collections

Root Pouch Grow Bags

Garden Hod

Push Pull Hoe

Complete Fermintation Kit

Hoe Dag Tool Kit

Seed Starting Kits

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Christmas is approaching quickly! Holiday shopping can be stressful, so we want to help. Need some ideas? Tonight, Greg and Sheila give us the BEST tips for gifts for every gardener. Let's Grow Together! Happy Holidays ya'll!

GARDEN HOD - https://hosstools.com/product/garden-hod/

PUSH PULL HOE - https://bit.ly/3FB2M9S

ROOT POUCH GROW BAGS - https://bit.ly/3h4HiJj

HOSS PRUNING SHEARS - https://bit.ly/3BlK9nT

TUBTRUG BUNDLE (4 PACK) - https://bit.ly/3FyhApV

HOE DAG TOOL KIT - https://bit.ly/3uEej1O

COMPLETE FERMINTATION KIT - https://bit.ly/3iPmLbV

SEED COLLECTIONS - https://bit.ly/3Fbize7

LIGHT KITS - https://bit.ly/3FL3B0d

SEED STARTING KITS - https://bit.ly/3hcd334

WEBSITE - https://hosstools.com/

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December is arguably the quietest month in the garden but there is still much to do and prepare for. Tonight, we’re discussing December garden chores, what you can be planting, our garden updates, and more. Let’s Grow Together and talk about Gardening In December.

Gardening in December Prune and TrimIf you have fruit trees, bushes, shrubs, or roses, now’s the time to cut off dead branches and trim for shape. It’s easier to see what and where to prune in the winter when there’s less foliage.

Protect Fragile PlantsMost plants can weather the colder months just fine, but some need a layer of added protection. Spring-blooming shrubs such as azaleas and rhododendron, fragile blooms including dahlias, and citrus trees are some plants that could use an extra layer in the winter.

MulchGardeners add mulch in the spring to prevent weeds and lock in moisture, but mulch is also important in the winter. A layer of straw as mulch protects the soil from temperature fluctuations so that the ground stays frozen—and the plants.

Continue To CompostYes, decomposition slows down in winter, but there’s no reason to stop composting. When warm weather rolls around, your compost will start cooking again.

Turn Off SprinklersTo prevent frozen pipes, shut off the water supply to the sprinklers. If you have an automatic irrigation system, shut down the controller. Make sure to empty and store hoses so they don’t crack from freezing temperatures.

Order SeedsCompanies start sending out seed catalogs or putting their new seed varieties on their websites around December, just in time for some couch gardening! Make sure you spend time planning out your spring garden, then get a head start by actually ordering those seeds before they run out.

Prepare Your ToolsTake inventory of all your gardening tools. Replace or fix broken items, clean tools, and sharpen blades. When warmer weather rolls around, you’ll be ready to roll.

Plant Flowers/Trees/Fruit TreesPansies, violas, cyclamen, ivy, and heather are all great plants for a winter display. Sweet Peas can be sown from October to March. Planting them now gives you a better chance of having strong healthy plants when spring arrives. If you’d like to add some roses to your garden, bare-root plants are a cost-effective way to do it – and now’s the ideal time of year to get hold of them. You can plant bare-root roses from November to March, while they are in their dormant phase. Plant Bare Root, blackberries, blueberries, and Hedges: early winter is a good time to plant bare-root trees and hedges, as this is when they are in a dormant state. You can also plant pot-grown trees now. You can also grow herbs indoors throughout winter.

Product of the WeekLight Kits

Pruners

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Why are we talking about native plants? Well, we took a quick trip up the road from us to the Agrirama in Tifton, Georgia. We met with the President, Mary Alic Applegate, of the Coastal Plain Chapter. Their mission is to educate the public about the importance of native plants to our health and well-being as well as to pollinators and other wildlife. They also strive to promote the conservation and preservation of our native plant habitats by encouraging the planting of native plants in landscapes, woodlands, parks, and gardens. Let’s talk about the importance of native plants. https://cpcgnps.org/

What is a Native Plant? Those plants which have inhabited a particular region for thousands of years are arguably plants that were present in a particular area prior to European settlement. Grown naturally in a particular region without direct or indirect human intervention.

Why Choose Native Plants? * low-maintenance * eco-friendly to your area * easy to grow * easy to get (local nurseries)

Why Establish Native Plant/Wildflower Areas?* Native plants support native insects like butterflies, moths, and bees in ways that non-native plants cannot – through the food chain. Native insects, in turn, help bring in more native birds, lizards, toads, and turtles. * . Wildflowers and native plant areas help support crop pollinators when crops are not in the fields. This has a major impact on our farming communities. * Whether you are designing a new landscape or renovating your existing landscape, there is a wide array of native plants for every location and each landscape situation. By planting native plants, you not only will be perpetuating ecological diversity and providing wildlife habitat, but you will also be leaving a living legacy to your children and future generations.

Benefits of Native PlantsNative plants are healthier and stronger. They help the environment and help create wildlife habitats in your backyard. Most of them are low maintenance and add splendor to your landscape. With so many colors, textures, varying heights, and bloom times; it can give a stunning display over multiple seasons.

Product of the WeekOnion Plants

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Why are we talking about native plants? Well, we took a quick trip up the road from us to the Agrirama in Tifton, Georgia. We met with the President, Mary Alic Applegate, of the Coastal Plain Chapter. Their mission is to educate the public about the importance of native plants to our health and well-being as well as to pollinators and other wildlife. They also strive to promote the conservation and preservation of our native plant habitats by encouraging the planting of native plants in landscapes, woodlands, parks, and gardens. Let's talk about the importance of native plants and Let's Grow Together!

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Our short-day onion plants have officially arrived at Hoss HQ!! Since we are starting to ship out our onion bundles, we feel like this is a relevant topic, yet again! Knowing the type of onion to grow, spacing, irrigation, and more, it’s all about onions tonight!

Grow The Right Onions For Your Area 1. Short day (bulbs when day length reaches 10-12 hours) 2. Intermediate (bulbs when day length reaches 12-13 hours) 3. Long day (bulbs when day length reaches 14-16 hours)

Onion Phases * In the vegetative phase where they are producing green leaves, all energy is focused on growing the green tops * Bulbing phase: when the day length reaches a certain length, they start bulbing.

All About Onions – Nutrient Inputs * Before transplanting: Complete Organic fertilizer * 2 weeks post planting: 20-20-20 * 4 weeks post planting: 20-20-20 and micro boost – Alternating with Ammonium Sulfate * Bulbing: stop fertilizers

3 Big Secrets To Big Sweet Onions 1. Water requirements/irrigation 2. Nutrition: 3. Plant the right type for your area

*Keep weeds under control, b/w rows with wheel hoe weekly

*Between plants with Single time cultivator.

*Sulfur gives the plant the onion flavor

  • Correct amount of water gives them the sweetness

CHECK OUT OUR ONION-GROWING GUIDE! Product of the Week Onion Plants

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It’s November! What should you be doing in the garden this month? Is there anything to even be doing? Let’s talk gardening in November, based on your zone you may need a more ardent winterizing strategy than others. You should always know your hardiness zone! Find it here at Hoss University.

The Basics of Gardening In November – for every zone Bring tender plants inside, and cover vulnerable plants (remember to take off when the threat of frost passes so they do not overheat)

  1. Clean out annual vegetables and flowers. Some may harbor disease, pests, and funguses. Many bacteria and pest eggs can overwinter in debris, and they will take over your healthy plants once spring arrives.
  2. Remove weeds: Like plants, weeds left in the garden through winter can host many pests eggs, and pathogens.
  3. Soil Test:
  4. Nutrients: Lime, Potassium, Phosphorus, Nitrogen
  5. Amend your soil for Spring: Manure, compost, and organic fertilizers
  6. Plant Cover Crops: Helps prevent soil erosion, break up compacted areas, increase levels of organic matter, add nutrients
  7. Replenish Mulch: Helps regulate soil temperatures and moisture, and protects crops from frost, added mulch breaks down, and incorporates fresh organic material into the soil.
  8. Tarp
  9. Clean and Sharpen Tools:
  10. Shut off irrigation systems when a freeze is indicated

Zone 9 The weather is mild in USDA plant hardiness zone 9, and gardeners can grow nearly any delicious vegetable without the worry of hard winter freezes. All of November: Still plant your cold crops: Brassicas(transplants), Direct seed Spinach, Mustard, Turnips, Carrots, Beets, Radishes, Rutabagas, English Peas, lettuce, Kohlrabi, Kale, Strawberries, Elephant Garlic, Onion Starts, Plant till the end of November.

USDA Zone 8 First of November: Still plant your cold crops: Brassicas(transplants), Direct seed Spinach, Mustard, Turnips, Carrots, Beets, Radishes, Rutabagas, English Peas, lettuce, Kohlrabi, Kale, Strawberries, Elephant Garlic, Onion Starts, Plant till end of November. Cover Crops

Zone 7 Cole crops like Brussels sprouts, cabbage, broccoli, collards, and kale are made sweeter by frost so harvest them as long as possible. You can also use a cold frame or put up a low tunnel to extend the season. Last chance to plant garlic!

  • Be ready with blankets/ floating row cover fabric for covering lettuce and other half-hardy crops during the first hard freeze.
  • The end of the month should be consistently cold enough to start applying a 2-4” layer of protective mulch

Zone 6 First of November sow seeds directly outdoors for spinach, and Swiss Chard. Winterize irrigation systems, Frost protection material on hand.

Product of the Week Onion Plants

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Tonight we’re joined by a special guest and friend, Pieter. Pieter has worked in the seed industry for many years and tonight, we will discuss everything peppers! From the different types of peppers, seed germination tips, soil media information, transplanting tips, and so much more! We’re going to even debunk some “pepper myths”! If you want expert pepper gardening tips – you found them!

Different Types of Peppers Bell Pepper Bell peppers are the most commonly grown and used by home gardeners. Every bell pepper will turn to a color – depending on the variety, most green bell peppers will turn red. It depends on when you harvest them as well. Knowing when to harvest is important, with green bell peppers you’ll want the fruit to be firm. You can touch it and know if your bell peppers are mature. Red, yellow, and orange bell peppers are sweeter in taste.

Poblano Pepper Just like the bell pepper, you will want to harvest it once it is firm. The poblano pepper plants can get medium to large in size, they will need room to grow. Poblano peppers tend to range from 4″ to 6″ long once mature.

Anaheim Pepper Anaheim peppers tend to be only mildly spicy in flavor but can surprise you! They’re smaller in size but look similar to the poblano pepper. They can range anywhere from 6″ to 10″ in length at the mature stage. They are popular in Northern Africa and are mostly harvested when green.

Serrano Pepper Did you know that Serrano peppers are more widely used in Mexico than Jalapenos from a culinary perspective? It has an immediate heat, you want to harvest and consume when green. Harvest between 1″ to 4″ in length. It is a smaller version of the well-known jalapeno variety.

Habanero Pepper We’re taking it up a notch with the heat! There are so many different varieties of habanero peppers. Fun tip: choose a hybrid variety – you’ll get a quicker harvest! Typically, the habanero pepper will get 1″ to 2.5″ in length depending on the variety you grow. Harvest once the fruit is red or orange.

Cayenne Pepper Their origin is from Nothern Africa. There are longer, skinnier types and thicker varieties. The most common size once harvested is between 2″ to 5″ in length. The scoville heat units for the cayenne are 30,000 to 50,000 units. Mainly used when making hot sauces.

Rocoto Pepper Originating from South America, it’s also called an “apple pepper” due to its shape and color. Rocoto peppers are not overwhelmingly hot, scoville scale puts them around 30,000 to 75,000. Extremely flavored and should be tried by everyone at least once!

Peri Peri Another pepper originating from Africa, the Peri Peri registers at 300,000 scoville units. If you like a pepper with a quick, stinging bite… this is for you! This type has a large plant but small peppers… alot of peppers! They only get 3/4″ to 1 1/4″ in length.

Pepper Seed Germination – Expert Pepper Gardening Tips Germinating peppers can be a challenge for any gardener. Peppers take longer to germinate, so be patient. When starting pepper seeds, you always want to use a new, good soil media, one that does not hold a lot of moisture. Heat is very important when it comes to starting pepper seeds. Use a heat mat! 85 -90 degrees is the best temperature for germination. Always make sure you do not overwater! The hotter the pepper, the longer it takes to germinate.

Growing Tips: Common Insects, Common Diseases Peppers can be susceptible to insect damage and a lot of different diseases. With the proper selection of disease-resistant varieties and a good pest control program, you can have success in growing healthy peppers. Some common pepper plant pests are thrips, hornworms, aphids, stink bugs, whiteflies, flea beetles, cutworms, and spider mites. Bug Buster II can treat all of these pests.

Organic controls for common diseases include crop rotation and select resistant varieties. Peppers are susceptible to bacterial wilt and spot, blight, tomato mosaic virus, and fusarium wilt. Fungi max is good at treating bacterial wilt. Liquid copper and garden phosphorous are used to treat blight and bacterial spot. If your pepper plants just have blight, use Vegetable, flower, fruit, and ornamental fungicide. Always treat as needed using label instructions.

When To Transplant and Harvest Don’t direct sow pepper seeds – always start them in trays! Commercial growers tend to go by how sturdy the stem of the plant is, this seems to be the best way. If you go by height, you can have a leggy plant and it may not withstand certain weather. Make sure the stem of your plants is firm before transplanting.

CHECK OUT THE PEPPER GROWING GUIDE! Product of the Week Peppers

Elephant Garlic

Onion Plants

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Tonight we're joined by a special guest and friend, Pieter from Seminis. Pieter has worked in the seed industry for many years and tonight, we will discuss everything peppers! From the different types of peppers, seed germination tips, soil media information, transplanting tips, and so much more! We're going to even debunk some "pepper myths"!

For more pepper-growing information, check out the Hoss University Pepper Growing Guide: https://bit.ly/3DCjsNd

PEPPERS - https://bit.ly/3W8zZzH

SHORT-DAY ONION PLANTS - https://bit.ly/3NeylZe

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JOIN OUR ROW BY ROW COMMUNITY:

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FOLLOW US:

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It’s that time of year again, we always get excited when it’s time for growing strawberries at home. Don’t have a big garden? You can grow them too! Tonight, we give you tips on how you should be growing strawberries in-ground, in containers, towers, and much more!

Growing Strawberries At Home Yes, there are many ways to grow strawberries at home. We’ve tried both in-ground and in containers, and both did well BUT did one do better than the other? Growing strawberries throughout the fall and winter months, you can grow them in USDA Hardiness Zones 6-10. Zone 6, you should plant earlier, in September to get them well established before the cold hits. In Zones 7 & 8, plant in October, and in Zones 9 & 10, plant in late October or November.

The TWO Major Struggles With Growing Strawberries * Weeds – They tend to take over. Using a good hand tool like the push-pull hoe is a great option for raised beds. * Birds – keep the birds off the berries! Use netting or some type of cover. A fellow gardener told us she painted rocks to look like strawberries, when the birds “tried” the rocks, they realized this isn’t edible, so they eventually left the actual fruit alone once it started producing. We may try that in our raised beds this year!

Soil & Fertilizer Requirements Always check to make sure your pH levels are between 6.0 and 6.5. Don’t stress if it’s off a little. Fertilize heavy up-front, and give them plenty of food early on. Visit Hoss University for more information on fertilizer. (link below) Add complete organic about 1 week before planting.

For more information like spacing and irrigation, visit the Hoss Strawberry Growing Guide!

CHECK OUT THE STRAWBERRY GROWING GUIDE!! Product of the Week Elephant Garlic

Onion Plants

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Let's talk about growing strawberries at home! We are going to discuss some best practices when planting for the fall for both in-ground gardens and raised beds, including when you should be planting, how you should be planting, as well as how you should be fertilizing your strawberries.

CHANDLER STRAWBERRY PLUGS - https://bit.ly/3gpeY3A

15 GALLON ROOT POUCH - https://bit.ly/3eRdWgo

STRAWBERRY GROW GUIDE - https://bit.ly/3gqa2v4

ONION PLANTS - https://bit.ly/3girlOF

ELEPHANT GARLIC - https://bit.ly/3F0NFXG

WEBSITE - https://hosstools.com/

EMAIL NEWSLETTER SIGN-UP - https://bit.ly/3CXsBAl

JOIN OUR ROW BY ROW COMMUNITY:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/rowbyrow

FOLLOW US:

Facebook - https://facebook.com/hosstools​

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We went to Front Royal, Virginia a few days ago to the 2022 Homesteaders of America conference. We were blessed to be able to visit with old and new friends. Greg and Sheila got to meet with some of our affiliates that attended and met new homesteaders, customers, and even fans of Hoss Tools.

2022 Homesteaders of America Greg and Sheila both agreed that it was a truly magical and heartwarming experience to be able to meet and see everyone at the Homesteaders of America Conference. “We were surrounded by so many great, knowledgable people – from YouTubers, Affiliates, and Hoss Tools Family, we are truly blessed.”, Greg Says. “It was so heartwarming to be able to hug, shake hands, share stories, and finally meet a lot of these people we’ve known for years face to face and also add to our Hoss Tools family.”, Sheila added. We took a lot of our affiliates that were there out to dinner and had a wonderful time with everyone. They have given us much advice on how to get started in raising pigs.

4 Kids and A Farm Rachel and Aaron, from Northern California, and have 4 amazing kids. Aaron is a nurse, he could not say enough about Rachel and how she has such a major role in their homestead. We had a wonderful time talking to them and their commitment to raise their own food and be self-sustainable. They love to garden and share their knowledge about raising pigs, sheep, goats, and chickens. Plus, being in northern California, they get to grow year-round! Give them a follow here!

Whispering Willow Farm Jill and Nathan are from rural Arkansas. She is a self-taught gardener, which is so amazing to see in a new generation. They have recently purchased Roots and Refuge farm and are growing quickly. Sheila really enjoys watching her videos, Jill is down to earth and has the most calming voice. Give them a follow!

Stivers Homestead Zack and Gen are from the Appalachian Mountains in Kentucky. We also had the pleasure of meeting their daughter Ray Ray. They have a passion for preserving food, raising animals, homesteading, and gardening. They are known for their Calendula Salve! Great stuff. They also have an Airbnb. Tons of animals, including Kune Kune pigs. Y’all should check them out!

2 Quacks & 5 Clucks Farm Scott is one of our newest affiliates, mainly on TikTok. Scott and his wife are from Virginia. We thoroughly enjoyed meeting him. He is extremely knowledgeable in gardening and has a big following. He teaches you the easy ways to garden and gives you the skills you need. They have pasteurized chickens and a growing garden! Give him a follow!

The Honeystead Kaylee from Quail Hollow Farm is a beekeeper, gardener, and forager. On her farm, she has chickens, goats, cows, honeybees, and pigs. She is extremely knowledgeable in beekeeping and has a wealth of knowledge of herbs. She spoke at the conference as well, her topic was “How to keep your bees alive and healthy through the winter.” If you are wanting to get into beekeeping, Kaylee is the one to follow!

https://hosstools.com/hoss-tools-university/ Product of the Week Elephant Garlic

Onion Plants

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We took a road trip to Front Royal, Virginia a few days ago to attend the Homesteaders of America Conference. We were able to see old friends and meet new ones, share stories with customers, give garden advice, and see our affiliates and other YouTubers! The homesteading community is unlike any other, we continue to learn so much when we are able to attend these conferences and watch everyone's videos. We appreciate your continued support as a family-owned business! Get Dirty!

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Carrots come in all shapes and sizes. From the small Chantenay type to the long, straight Imperator type carrot; will they grow in your garden? We’re reviewing what types of carrots work best in what specific types of soils, and how to be successful growing carrots this season! GET DIRTY! So, are you growing the right carrots for your soil type?

Tips For Growing Carrots: The Right Carrots For Your Soil Type You need a sunny spot, with plenty of organic matter, free of weeds, clumps, debris, and rocks. Your soil should have good drainage. Fine tilth is the desired consistency.

  1. 2 weeks prior to planting: Add complete organic fertilizer
  2. work soil every couple of days
  3. begin watering to condition the soil.

Water before you mark off your rows. Plant ¼ inch deep. Very Shallow, cover with soil and water gently.

Keep soil moist until seeds germinate (usually 10-20 days) Moist throughout the germination process. Carrots take longer than most crops to germinate. Thin out in Stages, weed regularly, and water minimally after germination. Planting them thicker will help weed suppression, but will need to thin out later. Since they take longer to germinate, weeds can quickly take over outpacing the sprouts. Must stay on top of weeds.

Shapes and Types of Carrots * Nantes: Blunt, great for storage, uniform and fits well into jars, almost perfectly cylindrical and smooth, great for juicing and fresh eating. Need loose, well-draining garden soil. * Danvers: Bugs bunny type, broad shoulders fairly sharp taper, classic medium length. * Chantenay: Short stubby, great for hard or clay soils, short, conical roots that can power through clay and rocky soils. * Imperator: long slender, can pack a lot of these in small space, long roots up to 10 inches (baby carrots found in stores) Need loose deep soil.

Hard, Clay Soils, Muck Soil Part 1 Scarlet Nantes Carrot is a widely-adapted variety that works great in many soil types. Great for full-size or baby carrot production. Crisp texture and sweet flavor. Broad shoulders and blunt ends. It has a cylindrical shape with very little tapering from top to bottom. This variety is well-adapted and performs nicely in a wide variety of soil types, including harder, clay soils. Envy Carrot is a hybrid variety that produces 10-12″, bright-orange carrots that grow well even in clay or muck soils. Kuroda Carrot is an heirloom, chantenay-type carrot known for its exceptional sweetness and ability to be grown in hard or rocky soils.

Purple Elite Carrot is a hybrid, imperator-type carrot that produces tapered, 7-9″ carrots. Carrots have a distinct coloration with a purple exterior and a bright yellow core Chantenay Royal Carrot is an heirloom, open-pollinated variety that works great in heavy or clay soils. produces uniform carrots that are thick and chunky. Orange Blaze is a high-yield carrot that is adaptable across multiple soil conditions, muck, mineral, and deep peat. Easy to harvest, average length 9-10″ with a very smooth skin texture and bright orange color.

Part 2 The Oxheart Carrot is an open-pollinated heirloom variety that hails originally from France. The stout roots have a distinct heart shape and feature a bright orange flesh and have a mild crisp texture despite their hefty size. These massive carrots have been known to weigh as much as one pound each and measure between 5-6”. This is a great variety for gardeners with heavy soils or clay soils that might usually present struggles for carrot growers.

Malbec Carrot is a hybrid variety. It produces smooth, uniform 10″ long roots. A great texture with strong tops that have good tolerance to blight and bolting. A beautiful medium red in color, the small core allows consistent, rich internal color for multiple ends uses, including marketing as whole roots, sliced, or mini carrots. Danvers 126 Carrot is an open-pollinated variety with broad shoulders and a sharp taper. Performs well in all soil types. Strong tops for easy harvesting.

https://hosstools.com/hoss-tools-university/ Check out our Carrot Growing Guide for more tips and tricks!

Product of the Week Carrots

Elephant Garlic

Onion Plants

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Carrots come in all shapes and sizes. From the small Chantenay type to the long, straight Imperator type carrot; but will they grow in your garden? We’re reviewing what types of carrots work best in what specific types of soils, and how to be successful growing carrots this season! GET DIRTY!

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Garlic is one of the easiest crops to grow in the home garden. You can plant a large amount in a small space, it doesn’t have many pests or diseases, and it loves cold weather. In fact, it’s so simple to grow that you can plant it and basically forget about it until you harvest it nine months later. Let’s discuss choosing the right garlic to grow!

It’s the perfect vegetable for beginning gardeners because it’s so forgiving; start searching early as garlic tends to sell out rather quickly. Most of the world’s garlic is grown in China, and most of the garlic grown in the United States is in California. There are over 700 cultivated varieties in the world.

History On Garlic In ancient times Garlic was celebrated as a source of great strength. Greek Olympians ate before competitions, Roman soldiers ate before battle, and during WW2 when penicillin was a shortage, was used on soldiers’ wounds to prevent infection. Today considered a superfood, stimulating the immune system and helping to fight disease. Chemical Allicin:

  • Reduces Blood Pressure
  • Lowers Cholesterol
  • Contains Antioxidants
  • Boost immune system

Because of the combination of heart-related benefits and antioxidants, has been said to help with the prevention of Alzheimer’s and dementia. (One clove twice a day)

Types Of Garlic – Choosing The RIGHT Garlic To Grow Hard Neck Garlic Forms cloves around the center of the stalk have a central core. Easier to peel, Ideal for Northern climates and cold, harsher winters. Does not braid well due to the hard stalk. More Flavorful. Because the outer paper on the bulb is thinner, they won’t store as long as soft neck garlic. It creates a scape that’s great for stir fry, and pesto. You need to cut this off when appears so energy will go to the bulb and not to the flower.

German White garlic is a very large hard neck, porcelain type botanically classified as Allium sativum. This variety is widely grown for both its garlic scapes, which are false flower stalks that can be eaten as vegetables, and for their silvery white, papery bulbs. German White garlic is sometimes called Northern White garlic and German Extra-Hardy. German White garlic is believed to be native to northern Germany. It is a very hardy variety and grows best in climates with cooler winters, though it will grow well in any climate. Differences in the growing environment will have a direct impact on the size of the cloves.

Soft Neck Garlic The mild flavor usually has more cloves but is smaller. Ideal for milder winters and fewer chill hours. Most commonly found in Grocery stores. The garlic that most of us cook with is the soft neck, so called because its neck is soft and braid-able. Soft neck garlic contains a circle of plump cloves shrouding the second circle of smaller cloves, all enveloped by many papery layers. Longer storage life, due to more layers of paper. It can be stored for up to a year. Drainage biggest issue with soft neck, needs well-drained soil, wet feet in cold wet winter causes damage

Elephant Garlic Not really garlic, but technically and botanically a leek. Looks like giant garlic. Super mild flavor, less medicinal, more bang for your buck. The very mild flavor is ideal for soups, salads, and sauces leaving no garlic aftertaste. The cloves are milder and sweeter than true garlic varieties and have a yellow hue. Elephant garlic can have the flavor of onion and leeks mixed with soft notes of garlic.

Growing Tips & Tricks – Choosing The RIGHT Garlic To Grow How much garlic to plant (1 bulb = 8 cloves or 8 plants, 8 bulbs – 68 plants) If you think you use one garlic bulb a week, then you might want to grow around 65 bulbs. Enough for 1 per week and some to replant in the fall.

When to plant garlic * USDA Zone 3 – plant in early to late September * Zones 3b to 5b – plant in late Sept. to early Oct. * Zones 5b to 7b – plant in mid to late Oct. * Zones 7b to 9b – plant in late Oct. to Nov.

Where to plant garlic Sunny Spot, rich soil amended with compost and well-balanced complete organic fertilizer. Does not like acidic soil. Don’t break apart until you are ready to plant. Inspect cloves and don’t plant any with issues. Pointed side up. 4-6 inches apart, Row 1 foot apart.

Can you plant garlic from the grocery store? You can try it, but it may have a growth inhibitor, or it might be carrying diseases, and also not the right type for your area. Don’t plant the garlic you buy from the grocery store. It’s possible that it could have been sprayed by an anti-sprouting agent and it’s likely a soft neck type grown in either California or China.

https://hosstools.com/hoss-tools-university/ Check out our Elephant Garlic Growing Guide for more tips and tricks!

Product of the Week Elephant Garlic

Onion Plants

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Garlic is one of the easiest crops to grow in the home garden. You can plant a large amount in a small space, it doesn’t have many pests or diseases, and it loves cold weather. In fact, it’s so simple to grow that you can plant it and basically forget about it until you harvest it nine months later. Let's discuss choosing the right garlic to grow!

It's the perfect vegetable for beginning gardeners because it's so forgiving; start searching early as garlic tends to sell out rather quickly. Most of the world's garlic is grown in China, and most of the garlic grown in the United States is in California. There are over 700 cultivated varieties in the world.

ELEPHANT GARLIC - https://bit.ly/3E3W9Ng

STRAWBERRY PLUGS - https://bit.ly/3BLQeti

ELEPHANT GARLIC GROWING GUIDE - https://bit.ly/3CjPBZx

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Since it is almost onion planting time, we decided to take our top 10 onion growing questions that are usually asked by viewers, customers, or fellow gardeners. Why are onions a great crop for homesteaders and home gardeners? They’re low maintenance, rarely have any pest or disease pressure, and they have great storage! One key tip is to know what type of onion you need to be growing for your zone, short, intermediate, or long-day onions. Don’t know? Check out our onion map!

Top 10 Onion Growing Questions 1. Can I Grow A Vidalia Onion? Vidalia onions can only be grown in Georgia. According to the Vidalia Onion Act of 1986, there are only 20 counties in the United States that are allowed to grow Vidalia onions and sell them under the trademarked name. All of those counties are in Georgia, centered around the small town of Vidalia, Ga.

  1. How Do You Cure Onions? Spread the onions out in a single layer, taking care not to bump or bruise them. Leave them to spread out in a single layer. Warm (75-80 degrees F), dry and breezy is ideal. As the onions are curing, their necks will gradually wither and the papery skins will tighten around the bulbs.

  2. How Do You Store? How Long Will They Keep? You should store onions outside the refrigerator in a dry, dark, and cool place with good air circulation.

  3. How Do You Know When To Harvest Onions? It’s time to pull up your onion plants when at least half of the tops have turned mostly yellow and are laying down. As far as size is concerned, you can pull them out of the ground when they get as large as you’d like. The crop will need to be pulled and cured on the ground in the sunlight for at least 2 – 4 days

After 2 – 4 days, gently shake off the dirt from the roots being careful not to bruise the bulbs, and get them prepared for curing. Ideally, you’ll want to harvest your onion crop in the morning on a sunny day and the temperature is between 75°F – 80°F.While harvesting, be sure to pull out the onion by the bulb and not by the stems. Breaking the stems could leave the onion plant vulnerable to rot during the curing process. Also, if any of your onion plants have bolted (grown flower stalks) try to leave them intact. Trimming them could also introduce bacteria causing them to rot.

  1. What is the difference between an onion set and an onion slip? Individual onion plants are known as “slips” and when onions plants are in bunches, that is when they are called “bunches”.

  2. Does Trimming The Onion Green Tops Improve Bulb Growth? When seedlings are young, trimming the tops will force more of the plant’s energy into the root system and also the bulb forming just above it. Adding nitrogen, calcium nitrate, and potassium, when the onions are growing, helps to increase the bulb size.

  3. Should I Transplant or Direct Seed? Transplanting small onion plants can give you more control over your results in the garden. Transplants give you a huge jumpstart on the season because they typically mature sooner and will end up giving you an earlier harvest.

  4. How Much Water Do Onions Need? Overhead Watering – Water 1 1/2″ per week using 2 applications of 3/4″ each time. Drip Tape Irrigation – Run irrigation 3 times per week for 1 hour each time. Account for any rain that has occurred and adjust irrigation schedules accordingly and you should top watering 7-14 days before harvesting to let the onions start drying out

  5. What Fertilizer Should I use? Onions are heavy feeders, you should not fertilize during the bulbing process. 1 week before planting – after adjusting your soil pH to 6.0 – 6.5, mix 1.5 cups per 10 ft. of row of Hoss Complete Organic Fertilizer with your soil. 2 weeks after planting – add 1 cup of Hoss 20-20-20 Premium Fertilizer per 20 ft. row. 4 weeks after planting – Mix 2 cup of 20-20-20 and 1-2 cups of Hoss Micro-Boost Micronutrient Supplement per 20 ft. row. Every 7 days alternate Hoss Ammonium Sulfate and Mirco-Boost. You should discontinue fertilizing 30 days before harvesting.

  6. What Variety Should I Grow? Best Time To Plant?

  7. Short day (bulbs when day length reaches 10-12 hours) planted in late winter/early spring. (Plethora, Sofire, Savannah Sweet, Red Creole, Texas Super sweet)
  8. Intermediate (bulbs when day length reaches 12-14 hours) should be planted in the fall. (Candy, Red Floyd, Sierra Blanca)
  9. Long day (bulbs when day length reaches 14-16 hours) planted in late winter/early spring. (Walla Walla, Sterling, Red Nugent)

https://hosstools.com/hoss-tools-university/ Product of the Week Strawberry Plugs

Elephant Garlic

German White Garlic

Onion Plants

Watch the Complete Show on YouTube Below:

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Since it is almost onion planting time, we decided to take our top 10 onion growing questions that are usually asked by viewers, customers, or fellow gardeners. Why are onions a great crop for homesteaders and home gardeners? They're low maintenance, rarely have any pest or disease pressure, and they have great storage! One key tip is to know what type of onion you need to be growing for your zone, short, intermediate, or long-day onions.

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Let’s talk about Controlled Environment Agriculture and how it’s shaping the future! So, why is CEA becoming so popular? What are the benefits of CEA? Our special guest, Tracy from Sakata Seeds joins us to discuss some insights on the topic of the indoor growing model. And we will also be doing a rapid-fire chat about which fall seeds you should be growing! It’s a growing trend! It’s a new way of gardening!

A New Way Of Gardening – Controlled Environment Agriculture What is CEA? Simply put, it is bringing traditional field agriculture indoors and so, you are controlling as many of the elements as you can when you are growing indoors. More and more fruits and vegetables are being grown indoors, some examples are tomatoes (mainly cherry and grape tomato varieties), cucumbers, strawberries, etc. In a controlled environment, you can grow all year long! CEA productions help to increase plant productivity and expand growing areas. Some methods may not be easy for the home gardener, but they are definitely worth a try! Like, as hydroponics, aeroponics, and aquaponics. Types of structures can include greenhouses, high tunnels and hoop houses, container farms, in-home systems, and CEA Vertical farms.

  • CHECK OUT THE SAKATA MASTER GUIDE

Benefits of CEA There are many benefits to growing in a controlled environment, especially for large growers. Of course, the key reason for starting more controlled greenhouses is more local produce, reduced transportation costs, and more traceability of where your vegetables come from. Food safety is a huge benefit, many of the larger controlled greenhouses are considered “no touch”. In an enclosed facility, such as a hydroponic greenhouse or an artificially lighted vertical farm, growers can precisely control lighting, temperature, humidity, CO2, water, and nutrients.

  • lower inputs and high yields
  • expand grow areas
  • precise harvest timing
  • crop reliability
  • high-value crops

Fall Seed Varieties * MERLIN BEETS * GREEN MAGIC BROCCOLI * BOBCAT CABBAGE * CHINA STAR CABBAGE * TOP BUNCH 2.0 COLLARDS * QUICKSTAR KOHLRABI * RED TIDE LETTUCE * BRAVE HEART ROMAINE LETTUCE * FENG QING PAK CHOI * EASTER EGG RADISH * ALL TOP TURNIPS * BLUE RIDE KALE * CILANTRO * BOUQUET DILL * ITALIAN PARSLEY * SAVANNA MUSTARDS

https://hosstools.com/hoss-tools-university/ Product of the Week Strawberry Plugs

Elephant Garlic

German White Garlic

Onion Plants

Watch the Complete Show on YouTube Below:

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Let's talk about Controlled Environmental Agriculture and how it's shaping the future! Why is CEA becoming so popular? What are the benefits of CEA? Our special guest, Tracy from Sakata Seeds joins us to discuss some insights on the topic of the indoor growing model. We will also be doing a rapid-fire chat about which fall seeds you should be growing!

SAKATA MASTER GUIDE 2022- https://bit.ly/3qLiSFC

REVOL GREENHOUSE - https://bit.ly/3BIgV3j

AEROFARMS - https://bit.ly/3eSUQWM

MERLIN BEETS - https://bit.ly/3djqk82

GREEN MAGIC BROCCOLI - https://bit.ly/3Bn8U2t

BOBCAT CABBAGE - https://bit.ly/3UfxI4M

CHINA STAR CABBAGE - https://bit.ly/3LkSU5p

TOP BUNCH 2.0 COLLARDS - https://bit.ly/3eHqdDu

QUICKSTAR KOHLRABI - https://bit.ly/3eHpJ08

RED TIDE LETTUCE - https://bit.ly/3DxtEat

BRAVE HEART ROMAINE LETTUCE - https://bit.ly/3qGJDep

FENG QING PAK CHOI - https://bit.ly/3RMYqQO

EASTER EGG RADISH - https://bit.ly/3qLlGm8

ALL TOP TURNIPS - https://bit.ly/3RNGllG

BLUE RIDE KALE - https://bit.ly/3S72Kdn

CILANTRO - https://bit.ly/3eM20fj

BOUQUET DILL - https://bit.ly/3djVmfZ

ITALIAN PARSLEY - https://bit.ly/3eVHEAB

SAVANNA MUSTARDS- https://bit.ly/3Bmpj74

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00:00 Introduction

00:40 What is Controlled Environment Agriculture

05:28 Hydroponic Growing

06:21 Aeroponic Growing

07:55 Benifits of Controled Environment Agriculture

09:49 Microgreens

12:00 Sakata CEA Guide

13:45 what to plant in the fall

14:12 Beet

14:53 Broccoli

15:33 Cabbage

16:57 Collard Greens

17:48 kohlrabi

18:34 Lettuce

19:27 Bok Choi

20:05 Radish

21:04 Turnip

21:30 kale

21:58 Cilantro

22:09 parsley

22:35 Mustard

23:29 Old Goat

24:17 Corny Joke

24:45 Garden Spotlight

25:50 Updates

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Why grow cover crops? This is a topic many gardeners need help with. When growing any cover crop, even fall and winter cover crops is extremely important to know which you should be growing in your garden. Before planting a cover crop, identify which benefits or goals (weed suppression, fall grazing, taking up excess nutrients, reducing soil compaction, etc.) are most important. Since it is early September, it is time to start thinking about fall and winter cover crops; also, a good tip is to “broadcast” the seeds when planting your cover crops.

Why Grow Cover Crops? Here are many reasons you should consider growing fall and winter cover crops (or just cover crops in general).

  • Improving soil structure by increasing soil microbial activity
  • Weed Suppression (by direct competition or allelopathy)
  • Increases water filtration and reduces soil compaction
  • Increases organic matter and reduces soil erosion from wind and rain (crop residues/mulch)
  • Activity against bacteria, fungi, insects, nematodes, and weeds
  • Nutrient cycling (plants take up nutrients that may leach out of the soil profile)
  • Protects soil surface solar energy, and conserves soil moisture

When Should You Plant Fal and Winter Cover Crops? Zone 7 – September 15th through October 1st

For Zone 8 – October 1st through October 15th

If You’re In Zone 9 – October 15th through November 1st

Legumes Crimson Clover provides excellent ground cover and adds nitrogen to the soil. Seeds are coated to make seeding/broadcasting easier. OMRI inoculated. Austrian Winter Pea is an abundant nitrogen fixer, it’s a ground cover for erosion control and weed suppression. Hairy Vetch is easy to get rid of, bees/pollinators love it and it adds nitrogen back into the soil. White Dutch Clover is a heat tolerant and drought tolerant cover crop; it has an annual in the south and a perennial in the northern states.

Marvel Chickpea is a nitrogen-fixing cover crop that performs well when planted in early fall or spring. It has deep tap roots that condition the soil, and its dense foliage suppresses weeds and prevents erosion. Frosty Berseem Clover will get you improved nitrogen fixation, and it also has a great cold tolerance compared to other clover varieties. It germinates fast and is a multi-cut variety. OMRI coated for easy planting.

Other Cover Crops Super Bee Phacelia is a heat-loving variety that can be used as a cut flower or cover crop. It attracts pollinators, builds soil, scavenges nitrogen, and reduces harmful nematodes by up to 30%. Impact Forage Collard breaks up hardpans, scavenges nutrients from the deep, suppresses weeds, and also provides significant forage for livestock; it is very cold and heat tolerant.

Tillage Radish penetrates deeply to break up and aerate hard soils, improving soil structure and drainage. Broadleaf Mustard releases chemicals into the soil to suppress and reduce nematodes, fungi, insects, and weeds. Kodiak Brown Mustard is a biofumigant used to reduce soil pests, pathogens, and diseases; it is “hotter” than traditional Florida Broadleaf Mustard. It is a great cover crop to plant prior to planting potatoes.

Using Cover Crop Mixes Yes, you can mix cover crops to get the ultimate benefits! By planting a mix of different cover crop varieties you have the ability to address multiple objectives at the same time. You should choose plants with complementing growth forms to reduce competition between the species. Another tip is to combine shallow and deep-rooted species to use a greater portion of the soil.

Check out Hoss University for more tips and tricks on growing your own food!

https://hosstools.com/hoss-tools-university/ Product of the Week Strawberry Plugs

Elephant Garlic

German White Garlic

Onion Plants

Watch the Complete Show on YouTube Below:

https://youtu.be/4_lSNO3xAhk

View Details

Why grow cover crops? This is a topic many gardeners need help with. When growing any cover crop, even fall and winter cover crops is extremely important to know which you should be growing in your garden. Before planting a cover crop, identify which benefits or goals (weed suppression, fall grazing, taking up excess nutrients, reducing soil compaction, etc.) are most important. Since it is early September, it is time to start thinking about fall and winter cover crops!

COVER CROPS - https://bit.ly/3KYZwX5

CHANDLER STRAWBERRY PLUGS - https://bit.ly/3AHMW9Q

SHORT-DAY ONION PLANTS- https://bit.ly/3Q1lmu1

ELEPHANT GARLIC - https://bit.ly/3e7ATLn

GERMAN WHITE GARLIC - https://bit.ly/3R9Qett

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No, we don’t mean you should be growing less, just think about other smaller uses to grow your own food. There is a lot more focus on the container and raised bed gardens lately. More and more people are starting to learn how to garden and become more sustainable. One of our favorite times to garden using containers and raised beds is in the fall. Container, vertical, and raised bed gardening is ideal for those with little to no in-ground garden space. Problems with soil-borne diseases, nematodes, or poor soil conditions can be easily overcome by switching to a container garden.

Did you know that raised beds are one of the most popular ways to garden? Vertical gardening is also growing in popularity with people using new or existing structures in their homes. Think of the space you can save with vertical growing! Let’s look at some reasons why you should be growing small in the fall!

Container Gardening, Growing Small in the Fall Reason #1 you should be growing in containers: easy access! You can grow right outside your kitchen, or even inside your kitchen! Grow in spaces like balconies, patios, doorsteps, window sills, driveways, etc. It makes it easy growing small in the fall.

Sizes: Important to know how large, and deep the container must be. Consider the size and shape of the plant’s root system, and how rapidly it grows. Light-colored containers keep the soil cooler than dark containers. Container Drainage: Drainage holes are essential

Prep: Put in desired space before filling and planting. Check the appropriate shade/sun according to plant requirements. Plain garden soil can be too dense.

Fall plants great for containers: Lettuce, Herbs, All-Top Turnips, Kale, Collards, Beets, Broccoli, Cauliflower, Mustards

Container Materials – Growin Small In The Fall * Clay or terracotta are attractive but breakable and easily damaged by freezing and thawing * Cast concrete is long-lasting but can be heaving and hard to move. * Plastic and fiberglass are lightweight and become brittle with cold or age. * Wood: Choose a naturally rot-resistant wood. Don’t use creosote (toxic to plants) * Root Pouch Grow Bags: Allows the plant roots to breathe and grow but make sure you have the right size!

Raised Bed Gardening One of the most popular ways to garden. Knowing the tips & tricks will help you be more successful!

  • Location: Survey your sun exposure throughout the day. Note the number of hours of full sun, part shade
  • Irrigation: Plan how you are going to irrigate
  • Soil: Don’t start with bad soil, invest in your soil because the soil is what feeds the plant. Crappy soil, crappy plants. Need soil with good nutrition, good water retention, good drainage
  • Compost 1/3 of the mix, aeration component 1/3 mix (perlite) 1/3 water retention material (peat moss, coconut coir)
  • Mulch: Organic covering for the top of your soil that’s going to help protect your soil, and help keep it nice and moist. Buffer layer to the top of the soil. (straw) be aware of wood chips
  • Placement of plants: Plan ahead and think about how the plant is going to grow and its size once it matures. Will it shade out other plants? Low growers up front, bigger ones in the back.
  • Bed Preparation: Soil testing, amend, cover crops, Mulch, tarping, don’t let it stay bare.
  • Label your plants, and document what and when you planted them.

Vertical Gardening – Best way to grow small When you’re limited on space, grow up! Vertical gardening is growing rapidly in popularity. People are planting wherever they can. Pots suspended on a wall, stair step structures, vertical towers, arches, fence panels, trellis, and cages. Why? Here’s why:

  • Saves space
  • Harvesting is easier when upright
  • Plants are healthier, up out of the soil, no splash back, leaves do not stay moist
  • Beautiful spaces
  • Fall Plants For Vertical Growing: pole beans, gourds, cucumbers, tomatoes, winter squash, peas
  • Fall Plants for Vertical Towers: Strawberries, Bush beans, herbs, lettuce

Check out Hoss University for more tips and tricks on growing your own food!

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Elephant Garlic

German White Garlic

Onion Plants

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More and more people are starting to learn how to garden and become more sustainable. One of our favorite times to garden using containers and raised beds is in the fall. Container, vertical, and raised bed gardening is ideal for those with little to no in-ground garden space. Problems with soil-borne diseases, nematodes, or poor soil conditions can be easily overcome by switching to a container garden.

Did you know that raised beds are one of the most popular ways to garden? Vertical gardening is also growing in popularity with people using new or existing structures in their homes. Think of the space you can save with vertical growing! Let's look at some reasons why you should be growing small in the fall!

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So which is it… do you transplant or direct sow fall seeds? Well, obviously it’s going to depend on the variety. Most gardeners plant a combination of seeds and transplants. There are advantages and disadvantages to each method and a lot depends on the vegetable and the time of year. There are some plants that will do fine planted either way, depending on the season. 

Crops that we grow for their roots, like carrots, beets, and turnips do not transplant well. Often the large taproot is lost, and we’re left with a plant with a fibrous root system. Lettuce is a good example of a vegetable that will be fine transplanted or direct sown.  In the spring, when the soil is cool, it is best to use transplants.  If planting in late August for a fall crop, feel free to direct seed.  Lettuce seed will take two weeks to germinate in cold April soil but 3 to 4 days in the summer. 

What Fall Seeds To Direct Sow Direct seeded crops require less labor and tend to mature faster than transplanted crops. They can be riskier, contending with weather and weed pressure. Of course, you will want to be prepared to thin. (crowed plants compete for light, water, and nutrients). They’re not subjected to stresses such as being pulled from the soil and having to re-establish roots. Start and finish in same place.

  • Beans
  • Beets
  • Carrots
  • Melons
  • Peas
  • Radish
  • Spinach
  • Squash
  • Turnips
  • Zucchini

What Fall Seeds To Transplant Starting with “baby” plants in the garden can give you more control and predictable results. Transplants give you a huge jumpstart on the season because they will mature sooner and give you an earlier harvest. They can be more resistant to insect and other pest pressure because they are more mature and stronger when you first put them into your garden. Be sure to harden off your transplants, which means exposing them to slightly cooler temps and some dryer conditions before putting them out into your garden. Some plants can suffer from “transplant shock”. Unfortunately, some crops respond poorly to transplanting.  Beans and peas for example, often succumb to transplant shock and even those that survive will be weak and poor-yielding.

  • Celery
  • Eggplant
  • Collards
  • Kale
  • Broccoli
  • Kohlrabi
  • Leeks
  • Onion
  • Peppers
  • Scallions
  • Tomato
  • Brussel Sprouts
  • Cauliflower

What Fall Seeds Can Be Direct Sown or Transplanted * Kale * Chard * Collards * Lettuce * Turnips * Beets

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So which is it... do you transplant or direct sow fall seeds? Well, obviously it's going to depend on the variety. Most gardeners plant a combination of seeds and transplants. There are advantages and disadvantages to each method and a lot depends on the vegetable and the time of year. There are some plants that will do fine planted either way, depending on the season. Tonight, we discuss which is best for your fall garden season!

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Can you really turn bad soil into good soil? We're discussing one of the most important aspects of growing healthy plants, getting good production, and harvesting the highest quality food you could possibly eat! Maintaining healthy soil is the foundation of a successful garden. It helps our crops to be consistent, disease and pest resistant as much as possible, and produce the healthiest, most nutritious food you possibly can.

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Fall is quickly approaching! Many of us have already started our seeds for our fall gardens, which means that we are thinking ahead about fertilizing, fall garden pests, and common diseases that happen in the fall.

The fall is a great time to take a soil test and apply soil amendments to prepare the garden for spring planting. Fall soil testing is preferred by many growers because it allows the entire winter to plan crop rotations and to budget for cover crops and soil amendments for the following season. It’s a great time to clean up old debris, till areas that may be harboring pests and put our mulch to drive away overwintering adults.

Natural Ways To Help With Fall Garden Pests * Start with clean soil * Buy disease and pest-resistant seeds * Selectively and Aggressively thin out plants * Control Weeds * Keep Garden Clean * Trap Crops * Beneficial Insects * Crop Rotation

Top 6 Fall Garden Pests To Watch Out For Fall Garden Pests Aphids 1. small, soft-bodied insects that feed by sucking the nutrient-rich liquids out of plants. In large numbers, they can weaken plants significantly, harming flowers and fruit. Aphids multiply quickly, so it’s important to get them under control before reproduction starts. Many generations can occur in one season. 2. Look for misshapen, curling, stunted, or yellowing leaves. Be sure to check the undersides of leaves; aphids love to hide there. 3. Garden Insect Spray, Neem oil, insecticidal soaps, and horticultural oils are effective against aphids, but these substances need to come into contact with the aphids in order to work. 4. PREVENTION: Trap crops (mustard, Nasturtium), Beneficial insects, Companion Planting (garlic and chives repel aphids)

Snails and Slugs Snails can be a difficult pest to get rid of because they are hermaphrodites, which means all of them can lay hundreds of eggs at a time with a gestation period of only 2-3 weeks. They lay more than half of their eggs in the fall making them a prime garden pest. They are most active at night or during rainy days and will feed on anything green. If you don’t get these guys under control, they’ll quickly overrun your garden.

Cabbage Loopers Cabbage loopers emerge from overwintered cocoons that produce egg-laying moths with brown wings and distinct white markings. These eggs will hatch in late spring with white-striped green larvae. You’ll know you have a cabbage looper in your garden when you find large irregular-shaped holes in the leaves of the lower half of your entire plant and other vegetable crops. Although these predatory insects love cabbages, broccoli, and kale, they’re also known to eat tomatoes, potatoes, radishes, and other garden vegetables. Treat leaf undersides with a safe herbicide as a protective shield against these pests. If you’re unable to remove these plant bugs before fall and you don’t clear.

Whiteflies Whiteflies are yet another type of sap-sucking pest. Small numbers are relatively harmless but large infestations can cause yellow or dry leaves that may fall off the plants. Like other sap-sucking pests, the sweet substance created by whiteflies attracts ants and sooty mold. To control whiteflies, try sticky traps and insecticidal soap or neem oil. Do this early in the day or later in the evening, when temperatures are cooler.

Thrips Thrips are tiny flying insects with fringed wings. The sap-sucking insects discolor and distort nearly any type of plant. They leave tiny black specks of excrement on the leaves and often create white patches on leaves and petals. Thrips are difficult to control and often require a combination of methods such as sticky traps and insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Cutworms Cutworms are the larval stage of certain moths. The destructive pests hide under leaves or other plant debris, emerging to lay masses of eggs on plants. They eat nearly anything in their paths, often cutting through stems of young plants at ground level.

Check out Hoss University for more growing tips & tricks! Product of the Week Pest Control

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Fall is a great time to garden. However, there are some things to look out for! So what should you be doing this fall in your garden? First, it's a great time to take a soil test, clean up old debris, apply soil amendments to start prepping your area, and till the areas that may be harboring pests. Secondly, watch out for those fall pests and start taking action! There are natural ways to help with pests in your fall garden and there are ways to fight back fast! Join us tonight, we will be discussing all the ways you'll beat these nasty insects.

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Tonight, we are talking all about Microgreens and indoor growing. There are vegetables that are packed with nutrients, and typically only take a couple of weeks to maturity. With endless varieties to choose from that have different textures and tastes, Microgreens – you can grow this all year long!

Some people mistake growing microgreens as the same process as growing sprouts, but that’s not the case. Microgreens are grown in soil and are usually ready to eat within a few weeks of planting. Microgreens are more mature seedlings than sprouts. Study results on the nutritional benefits of microgreens have been published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry.

Microgreens Broccoli Don’t soak these seeds, blackout time for these seeds is around 2-4 days. It typically takes 10 days for growing time. The yield with our Broccoli microgreen seeds is 8-12 oz per 1020 Microgreen Tray. Of course, we recommend Waltham 29 broccoli.

Black Oil Sunflower The Black Oil Sunflower has to be one of the most popular and easiest microgreens to grow. We typically soak these seeds before planting for 4-8 hours and we recommend 2-3 days of blackout time. There are normally ready in 10 days and the yield per tray is 1-2 lbs.

Peas We love peas as microgreens! Of course, our two favorites are Sugar Prince Pea and Dunn Pea. The recommended soaking time before planting is 12 hours, and typically requires 1-2 days of blackout time. Only 10-12 days of growing time!

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Microgreen Seeds

1020 Microgreen Trays

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Greg and Sheila are talking all about controlled environmental agriculture. Want something that you can grow all year long? How about something that has tons of nutrition and only takes a couple of weeks to grow? You should be growing Microgreens! There are so many options to try with varying tastes and textures. You can grow microgreens right in your home or on your porch! One of the easiest things any of us can grow - this is a must if you haven't already jumped on the microgreen wagon!

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It’s time to start thinking about your fall garden! Time is quickly approaching, you need to be planning your fall garden now! Be sure to check out the latest Row By Row Episode to get all the details.

Planning Your Fall Garden Now By Zone Zone 9 – Here’s What You Need To Be Planning In Your Fall Garden Now: Continue planting flowers and cover crops! You can plant fall corn until the end of August, you should also be getting ready for fall planting of Brassicas. Between September 15th – September 30th, start your “short day” onion seed.

Zone 8 If you are in Zone 8, it’s now time to plant fall sweet corn and start your first planting of Cabbage and Brussel Sprouts in trays. September 1st is a good time to plant your 2nd round of Brassicas. Zinnias, sunflowers, and cover crops (ex. Buckwheat, Sorghum Sudan Grass, Kodiak Brown Mustard) can also be planted again around September 1st. Planting your onion seed between September 1st – September 15th is your optimal time. Be sure to plant short-day onions for your zone.

Zone 7 – Planning Your Fall Garden Start first planting Cabbage and Brussel Sprouts in trays, you can plan to plant another round of brassicas around September 1st. You can also plant more zinnias, sunflowers, and cover crops at that time! Cover crops such as Buckwheat, Sorghum Sudan Grass, and Kodiak Brown Mustard.

Zone 6 Zone 6, it is your time to plant beans, English peas, Collards, Turnips, Mustards, Beets, and Radishes. Around September 1st start your cool season cover crops!

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Don't know when to start your fall garden in your zone? You're in luck! Tonight, Greg and Sheila discuss "What To Do Now" for you to get prepared. Zone 6 through Zone 9, all the information you will need, from what you can plant and the best varieties with the shortest maturity dates. Talking cover crops, flowers, brassicas, and much more! Don't miss it!

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Join Greg and Sheila for another great episode of gardening tips and tricks. This show is packed full of great information on growing fall corn and how fermenting vegetables is so easy, even you can do it! Greg does a deep dive into what corn varieties you should be planting for fall, when to plant and how to be successful. Sheila has an abundance of peppers and gives us a demonstration of the easiest way to ferment vegetables for preserving!

Growing Fall Corn and Fermenting Vegetables Growing Fall Corn If you have not been growing corn for a long time or just beginning, fall corn can work great for your rotation planting. Corn is a monocot. Planting fall corn helps cleanse the soil and will get some of the diseases out. Planting behind beans and peas is best. Unlike other vegetables that can easily be planted in one long row, corn should be planted in blocks of at least 5 rows. Visit Hoss University and check out our Corn Growing Guide for more information on growing corn!

Types of Sweet Corn You don’t want to choose a corn variety that has long maturity dates. These are the top 3 varieties we recommend.

Sugar Buns

Silver Queen

Ambrosia

When To Plant Fall Corn By August 1st, that’s when you folks in Zone 7 should plant your fall corn. Zone 8, you should plant your fall sweet corn between July 15th through August 15th. In Zone 9, planting fall corn should be done between August 1st through August 21st.

Click here to check out our Growing Guides for tons of growing tips and tricks! Fermenting Vegetables Why you should be fermenting vegetables! Fresh fruits and Vegetables are naturally covered in microorganisms. Good and Bad. When we Ferment, we are choosing to let the good guys or Lactic acid-forming bacteria take over permanently. We use salt brine to enhance the texture, helping to retain crispness.

Temperature and Light You want to keep your jars between 55-75 degrees and out of direct sunlight. Keep the vegetables submerged and monitor for scum/mold. If some appears, skim off and add more brine.

Let’s Talk Brine 1. Between 2% to 5% for home fermenters.Less than 2% run risk of not fermenting, and Greater than 5% risk of stopping the fermentation. 2. The type of vegetable usually determines the salt to water ratio. (Cucumbers full of water, shredded cabbage is less dense 3. Use unchlorinated water as chlorine can inhibit fermentation

Equipment Needed Fermentation Vessel – (You can go fancy or simple) Crock, food-grade buckets, jars. Make sure any equipment you use is non-reactive

Primary Follower – Goes on top of ferment, acts as a barrier (grape leaf, cabbage leaf

Secondary Follower or weight – If you do not have a weight, you can fill a zip lock bag with water and zip tight.

Covering – Lets air escape while keeping out bugs, dust, or other contaminates. Lid and band not screwed on tightly, cheesecloth, muslin. Airlock systems

Find more information on Hoss University!! Product of the Week Complete Fermenting Kit

Corn

Peppers

Tomatillos

Be sure to check out our latest Row By Row Show on Growing Fall Corn and Fermenting Vegetables!

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