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Vegetable Brochure

Freshly harvested vegetables, radiant from the sun and fragrant from the earth, are becoming essential ingredients of a quality modern life-style. Gardening in the mountains can seem impossible at first to gardeners from warmer climates. An unexpected frost in June or even July or August can discourage mountain gardeners from ever growing normally indestructible favorites such as zucchini or green beans. High Altitude Gardens has always seen its role as one of educating new mountain gardeners. The following information from customer correspondence and our own trials and testing over the past 16 years is offered to help mountain gardeners achieve spectacular successes year after year.


Variety Selection

The first distinction gardeners new to the mountains should make is between what Sandra Perin (author of Organic Gardening in Cold Climates) calls "cold season" and "warm season" vegetables.
1) Cold Season Vegetables. Cold season vegetables are vegetables that will survive unexpected snow, frost and cold weather during a normal summer growing season. We encourage gardeners new to the mountains to grow exclusively, cold season vegetables. Arugula, asparagus, fava bean, beet, broccoli, brussels sprout, cabbage, carrot, cauliflower, Chinese celery, chicory, corn salad, kale, leek, lettuce, oriental mustard, onion, pac choi, parsnip, pea, radish, spinach, Swiss chard and turnip are all examples of cold season vegetables. Some are indestructible in all forms of frost and snow while others such as broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower need some protection when very young. Generally all will allow a gardener to ignore mid-summer frost danger.
2) Warm Season Vegetables. Warm season vegetables such as green bean, corn, cucumber, pepper, squash and tomato are native to warmer climates. They require protection from all frosts and will not tolerate long-term exposure to cold weather if any reasonable harvest is expected. In the past, the production of warm season vegetables required constant vigilance. This requirement has been relaxed somewhat with the advent of new technologies. Spun fiber row covers, Wall o' Waters and automatically opening cold frames offer freedom from having to stay close enough to a garden to prepare for unexpected frosts. (See site selection and frost protection below.)


Soil

It is common knowledge that healthy soil is the foundation for all successful gardens. At high altitudes, soils reach their extremes and are inherently more fragile, more alkaline or more acidic and more deprived of organic matter than soil in more moderate climes. Top soil is often non-existent or subject to rapid degradation by being exposed to severe wind and intense sun. We encourage gardeners to build up and care for soil by:
1) Adding organic matter. We continually obtain the best yields in our gardens after focusing upon feeding first our soil and secondly the plants growing in it. Feed soil with copious amounts of fully decomposed compost. Be aware that overly fresh manure and other undigested organic matter may take too long in cold, spring soil to decompose, aggravating already acidic pH levels and lowering nitrogen levels. If necessary, add overly fresh manure as early in the fall as possible.
2) Adding nutrients. The optimum method for building a supply of available nutrients in garden soil is to add organic soil aids each spring. Organic soil aids decompose slowly over the years thereby preventing overdose damage. The necessary macro and micro nutrients are assured. Testing and fine tuning for specific nutrients becomes unnecessary. Balance between nitrogen and phosphorous is preserved when both are added at the same time at recommended amounts.
3) Testing soil pH. An unbalanced soil pH can bind nutrients into garden soil and prevent them from being made available to plants. A test for soil pH (acidity or alkalinity) is fast, simple, accurate and inexpensive. We test our garden beds each spring with the Lamotte pH test kit. Order #80500 Lamotte pH.
4) Minimizing tillage. Tillage increases the biological activity in the soil. We double dig our beds once each spring. We try to minimize a turning or mixing of the different levels of soil. Over-tilling leads to rapid breakdown of organic matter in soil. For a complete discussion of proper soil care, we suggest How to Grow More Vegetables by John Jeavons.
5) Keeping garden soil covered. In between crops or after harvest, plant a cover crop such as Austrian winter pea or rye to minimize erosion and to add organic matter.
6) Rotating crops. Occasionally allow one or more seasons for a nitrogen-fixing crop such as alfalfa or clover to replenish the soil.


Weeds

We believe weeds should be "managed" rather than "eradicated". Weeds can help prevent erosion and help keep soil moist. Certain weeds provide habitat for beneficial insects. Pulled and left on the ground or moved to a compost pile, they become an important source of organic matter.


Site Selection

Extend the growing seasons of cold mountain gardens by creating small, warm mini-climates. Choose or create well-protected, south-facing sites. Even a small angle of slope to the south can dramatically increase soil warmth. Surround warm season crops with large rocks or concrete walls that collect the sun's heat during the day and protect from frost at night. Tall-growing crops or permanent hedges will protect larger gardens and fields. It is worthy to note an old Chinese saying: "Select proper site for garden and half the work is done."


Frost Protection

New technology has provided a number of new devices that protect warm season crops from frost damage. New fabrics such as Reemay ® or Typar® completely cover beds or rows while Wall o' Waters provide protection for individual plants. Remay Garden Blanket ® is the best selling cover on the market today and is backed by years of research at 22 different state colleges. The spunbonded polyester provides 2-7· F. protection depending on the wind and is light enough to rest on top of fragile crops without support. Water and sunshine can penetrate the cover allowing it to remain on crops for 4-6 weeks or more. When installed correctly, no insects can penetrate. Our test tomatoes have survived an extra month in the fall under Reemay®. With proper storage Reemay® will last two or more seasons.

Typar ® is a heavy-duty, multi-year blanket that is extremely durable yet porous enough for water and sunlight to penetrate. Made from spunbonded polypropylene, Typar ® provides the most protection for a product of this type when used on top of newly planted crops in the spring, mature crops in the fall or as a winter mulch.

Wall o'Water's heavy vinyl, sectioned, cylindrical tubes filled with water hold warmth from the sun to warm plants at night allowing a garden to be started outside, 6-8 weeks early. If water freezes, heat still will be released as water gives off heat when it cools. Perfect for peppers, squashes, tomatoes and other warm season crops. Protects small plants down to 16· F. Each self-standing Wall o'Water is 18" x 18" and holds 3 gallons of water. Lasts for years. Order #80230 3 units Wall o'Water.


Soil Temperature

Soil temperature that is a few degrees too cold can delay germination for days, even weeks. We advise gardeners in high altitudes to take careful soil temperature readings before planting. Waiting until the soil warms to the right temperature not only speeds germination, but also helps prevent seed rot. (See guide on inside front cover.) After years of searching, we finally found a versatile, pocket-sized thermometer that lets cold-climate gardener's monitor soil temperatures indoors in propagation flats or outdoors in the garden. Order #80600 Propagation Thermometer.


Cold Season Vegetables


Generally, cold season vegetables will survive sudden summer frosts, snows and cold. We recommend cold season vegetables for beginning mountain gardeners.

ASPARAGUS (P) Asparagus officinalis

Long-considered a delicacy in Europe, asparagus cultivation is becoming evermore popular. A "must" for edible landscapes. Scatter single plants throughout your garden, or place selectively for backdrops or borders. Provides delicate, lacy, summer foliage and fine, tender, tasty spears.
FROST TOLERANCE: Good.
CULTURE: Takes up to 10 weeks to germinate in cold soil. Plant in flats 8-10 weeks early, or when soil reaches 60· F. Transplant small plants into shallow trenches rich in compost. Hill as they grow. If using root crowns, fill bottom of 6" trench with compost; spread roots; bury 4". Compost heavily each year.
HARVEST and STORAGE: Carefully cut young shoots early spring, third year. Do not disturb root crowns. Store 2-3 weeks at 32-36· F., in humid environment.
INSECTS and DISEASES: Control asparagus beetles with pyrethrum. Asparagus rust (appears as reddish or black blisters on stems and foliage) is associated with very damp conditions. Remove all above-ground plant material to avoid disease. Diseased tops should be cut and burned.
REPRODUCTION: Asparagus produces both male and female plants. Late summer, female plants produce red berries that can be dried and saved as seed, or allowed to fall on ground to reseed. Propagate male plants by dividing root crowns in early spring or late fall. Male plants yield larger number of shoots for eating.
SPACING: rows 48"; plants in rows 9-15"; plants in beds 12"
SOIL PH: 6.0-7.5 SEEDS PER GRAM: 24 PER OUNCE: 1200

FAVA BEAN (A) Vicia faba

We first discovered the delicious fava bean high in the mountains of Guatemala. No mountain garden should be without these frost-hardy jewels. Expect large, meaty, brown beans to eat fresh like tender, green lima beans, or store for hearty, mid-winter meals.
FROST TOLERANCE: Good.
CULTURE: Plant seeds in early spring as soon as ground can be worked. Companion plants include: potatoes, cucumbers, corn. Dislikes: onions and garlic.
INSECTS AND DISEASES: Control beetles with rotenone or pyrethrum. Blights, mosaic and mold can be minimized by watering deeply at base, keeping tops dry. Rotate in at least 3-year cycles.
HARVEST AND STORAGE: Harvest for use as fresh beans, or allow to dry for winter storage. Store fresh 2 weeks at 35-40· F., in humid environment. Keep dry beans in cool, dry, place with air circulation.
SEED PRODUCTION: Fava or broad beans, unlike green beans, have showy flowers, often pollinated by bees. Separate different varieties 100 feet if some crossing is tolerable, 1000 yards if purity is desired.
SPACING: rows: 24"; plants in rows: 8"; plants in beds: 8"
SOIL PH: 6.5-7.5 SEEDS PER OUNCE: 20-25 POUND: 275-400

BEET (B) Beta vulgaris

FROST TOLERANCE: Tolerates moderate frosts. Expect slow growth until temperatures rise.
CULTURE: Cold-tolerant crop after germination. Avoid planting until soil reaches 60· F. Transplanting not recommended. Beets prefer deep, rich, well-composted soil, but tolerate average soil, if provided enough trace minerals and sun. For larger, more uniform roots, thin to 1 plant every 4". Companion plants include: onions.
HARVEST AND STORAGE: For steady supply of fresh, young greens, plant every 2-3 weeks. Store beets with greens still attached up to several weeks in cold, humid environment. Roots will last for several months in cold, dry sand or sawdust.
DISEASES: To minimize scab, provide rich, well-composted soil.
SEED PRODUCTION: Flowers contain both male and female parts, but do not self-pollinate before flowers open. As pollen is carried long distances by wind, grow seeds for only one variety at a time. Note: beets will cross with Swiss chard. Since beets are biennials, pull first-year roots before ground freezes. Store at 40· F., and replant best roots early next spring (18" spacing).
SPACING: rows 12-24"; plants in rows 4"; plants in beds 3-4"
SOIL PH: 6.5-7.5 SEEDS PER GRAM: 55 OUNCE: 2100

BROCCOLI (B) Brassica oleracea, var. botrytis

A wonderful vegetable that actually grows better in cooler climes and higher altitudes than in warmer lowlands!
FROST TOLERANCE: Mature plants survive temperatures as low as 10· F. Protect very young plants from frost.
CULTURE: Plant seeds in flats 4-7 weeks early, or after soil reaches 45· F. Demands soil high in nitrogen and phosphorus. To reach full size, space heading varieties at least 18". Water frequently and consistently throughout growing season, increasing amount of water when flowers appear. Stagger plantings of hybrid, heading varieties. Companion plants include: dill, chamomile, sage, peppermint, beets, onions. Dislikes: tomatoes.
INSECTS AND DISEASES: Cabbage worms can be controlled by Bacillus thuringiensis, if applied early and frequently. If root maggots become problem in extremely wet weather, carefully mix diatomaceous earth or wood ashes into soil, or protect soil from rain. Tar paper placed around base of plants deters flies that lay eggs which hatch into root maggots. Control aphids with pyrethrum. Disease is rare in higher and drier climes. Keep soil healthy. Rotate in at least 3-year cycles.
HARVEST AND STORAGE: Harvest flower buds before they begin to open. To encourage continued production, harvest regularly when side shoots appear. Harvest hybrid, heading varieties (10-14 day field life) early. DeCicco and other sprouting varieties, left in ground until cooler fall days, come into an especially productive second season. Store fresh up to 2 weeks at near-freezing temperatures.
SEED PRODUCTION: Although broccoli flowers contain both female and male flowers, individual plants do not self-fertilize. Provide at least two or more flowering plants to assure seed formation. Since bees can cross-pollinate broccoli with other brassicas (cabbage, cauliflower, kale and brussels sprouts), if purity is desired, isolation distances should be 1000 yards or more.
SPACING: rows 24"; plants in rows 12-24"; plants in beds 18"
SOIL PH: 6.5-7.5 SEEDS PER GRAM: 315

BRUSSELS SPROUT (B) Brassica oleracea var. gemnifera

Perfect for the mountain garden! Brussels sprouts become tastier after temperatures fall below freezing.
FROST TOLERANCE: Mature plants survive temperatures as low as 10· F. Protect very young plants from frost.
CULTURE: See Broccoli.
INSECTS AND DISEASES: See Broccoli.
HARVEST AND STORAGE: Harvest bottom sprouts first. Leave some for winter when they will taste extra mild and buttery. (Remember to mark plants so they can be found in deep snow.) Store up to 4 weeks in near-freezing, humid environment.
SEED PRODUCTION: See Broccoli.
SPACING: rows 30"; plants in rows 18"; plants in beds 18"
SOIL PH: 6.0-6.7 SEEDS PER GRAM: 300

CABBAGE (B) Brassica oleracea var. capitata

This "prince of plants" is an amazing addition to every mountain garden! We have harvested heads at 10· F., and stored them the entire winter.
FROST TOLERANCE: Protect young plants from frost, especially after transplanting. Mature plants can withstand temperatures as low as 10· F.
CULTURE: Plant seeds in flats 4-7 weeks early, or after soil reaches 50· F. Provide enough light to avoid long, thin stems that will restrict later growth. (Twenty watts of artificial light per-square foot is sufficient.) Cabbage is less demanding than either cauliflower or broccoli, but still benefits from nitrogen-rich, nutritious soil. Water heavily when heads begin to form. Stagger plantings of same variety every 2 weeks.
INSECTS AND DISEASES: Avoid top watering. Rotate in at least 3-year cycles. See Broccoli.
HARVEST AND STORAGE: We have had some success storing cabbage fresh in the garden by twisting the head until stem cracks. This procedure arrests further growth, but cabbage remains alive and fresh. Once harvested, store trimmed heads for months in near-freezing, humid environment. As field life of hybrids is limited, harvest hybrids as soon as ready.
SEED PRODUCTION: See Broccoli. Heads brought in for winter can be replanted early following spring. Allow bottom of head to rest on top of soil. 1" deep cuts across top of head will facilitate emergence of second-year growth.
SPACING: rows 30"; plants in rows 18"; plants in beds 15-18"
SOIL PH: 6.5-7.5 SEEDS PER GRAM: 300

CARROT (B) Daucus carota

When skeptics ask, "Why have a vegetable garden in a short-season climate?", simply have them experience a freshly-picked carrot!
FROST TOLERANCE: Excellent
CULTURE: Because of tap root, it is advisable to avoid starting carrots in flats for transplanting. Plant seeds after soil reaches 55· F. Carrots do best in rich (high in phosphorus and potassium with only moderate levels of nitrogen), uncompacted soil. Plant into firm, even seedbed. Weed continuously. (Because carrot seed usually takes 10 days to germinate, fast germinating weeds in a large bed can be controlled by burning with a torch without harming carrots.) Hill with dirt to avoid green shoulders and to protect from fall frosts. Companion plants include: peas, leaf lettuce, onions, garlic, tomatoes, sage. Dislikes: dill.
DISEASES: Provide fertile soil and rotate in least 3-year cycles to avoid most problems. In the mountains above 5,000 feet, we've never had fungus, blight or insects.
HARVEST AND STORAGE: For best taste and highest quality, harvest within 2 weeks of reaching maturity. Although carrots can be left in the garden protected by heavy mulch and deep snow, we prefer harvesting before ground freezes, and storing for winter in cold, dry sawdust or sand.
SEED PRODUCTION: Carrots are biennial with perfect flowers (each flower has both male and female parts). As insects are major pollinating agent, separate different varieties at least 100 yards if some crossing is tolerable, 1000 yards for purity. Beware that carrots will cross with Queen Anne's Lace (wild carrot)! Store best roots for replanting following year. Since flowering tops are quite large, leave minimum 2' between each carrot.
SPACING: rows 18-24"; plants in rows 1-3"; plants in beds 2"
SOIL PH: 5.5-6.7 SEEDS PER GRAM: 600 OUNCE: 9600

CAULIFLOWER (B) Brassica oleracea var. botrytis

FROST TOLERANCE: Mature plants survive temperatures as low as 10· F. Protect very young plants from frost.
CULTURE: The key to growing beautiful cauliflowers is consistency. Protect young plants from frosts. Water frequently. Side-dress with fertilizer or compost. Best results are obtained when plants are given at least 24" spacing. See Cabbage.
INSECTS AND DISEASES: See Broccoli.
HARVEST AND STORAGE: When white heads begin to appear, tie outer leaves together over top to preserve color and texture. See Broccoli.
SEED PRODUCTION: See Broccoli.
SPACING: rows 24"; plants in rows 12-24"; plants in beds 15"
SOIL PH: 6.5-7.5 SEEDS PER GRAM: 315

KALE (B) Brassica oleracea var. acephala

In harsh, high altitude gardens, one of the most dependable sources for vitamins and minerals. Frost improves rich flavor. Mark in fall to facilitate harvesting fresh and green in waist-deep snow.
FROST TOLERANCE: Very good.
CULTURE: Plant in flats 4-6 weeks early, or as soon as ground can be worked in spring. Fall crop can be planted 2-3 months before growing season ends. See Cabbage for companion plants.
INSECTS: Cabbage worms are rarely a problem but can be controlled with Bacillus thuringiensis.
HARVEST AND STORAGE: Pick outside leaves first to stimulate continued production. Store 2 weeks at near-freezing temperatures, in humid environment.
SEED PRODUCTION: See Brussels Sprouts.
SPACING: rows 24-36"; plants in rows 18-24"; plants in beds: 16"
SOIL PH: 6.0-7.0 SEEDS PER GRAM: 300

LETTUCE (A) Latuca sativa

FROST TOLERANCE: Good to around 20· F., if hardened properly.
CULTURE: Plant seeds in flats 3-4 weeks early, or as soon as ground can be worked. Harden before transplanting by lowering temperature. Provide nitrogen-rich soil. (Add extra compost or chicken manure, if needed.) Water heavily in hot weather, but make sure leaves dry out before dark. Water head lettuce at base and keep in shade to avoid rot. Stagger plantings every 10 days, planting smaller amounts more often as weather becomes hot. For full heads, thin to 8". Companion plants include: carrots, radishes.
HARVEST AND STORAGE: Harvest young and tender. As long as weather is cool, outside leaves on looseleaf varieties can be continually picked as they mature. Store 1-2 weeks in refrigerator with stems submerged in bowl of water.
SEED PRODUCTION: Lettuce produces perfect yellow flowers on tall, bushy seed stalks. Since flowers self-pollinate, there is little chance of cross-pollination between varieties. For purity, separate at least 25 yards with other crops.
SPACING: rows 12-24"; plants in rows or beds 8-12"
SOIL PH: 6.5-7.5 SEEDS PER GRAM: 800 OUNCE: 23,750

BUNCHING ONION (B) Allium cepa L.

FROST TOLERANCE: Good.
CULTURE: Plant seeds in spring as soon as ground can be worked. Prefers well-drained, rich soil, high in organic matter. Water frequently, especially during dry spells. Companion plants include: beets, lettuce, tomatoes, strawberries, chamomile. Dislikes: peas, beans.
DISEASES: To avoid most problems, rotate crops and eliminate standing water.
HARVEST AND STORAGE: Leave a few bunching onions in garden to self-divide and reproduce perennially. Store fresh in refrigerator or in cool, not too humid environment.
SEED PRODUCTION: See Leeks. Bunching onions can be left in ground through winter. Bulb onions are best stored inside. In early spring, replant largest bulbs 4" apart, covering firmly with 1/2" soil. If onions are blooming at same time as wild onions, cage domestic plants to prevent cross-pollination by bees.
SPACING: rows 18-24"; plants in rows 2-4"; plants in beds 1-3"
SOIL PH: 6.5-7.5 SEEDS PER GRAM: 325 OUNCE: 12,500

PEA (A) Pisum sativum L.

FROST TOLERANCE: Good.
CULTURE: Plant seeds as soon as soil reaches 40· F. Provide slightly limed soil that has plenty of phosphorus and potassium. To increase nitrogen fixation, which in turn will increase yields, inoculate seed or soil with rhizobium bacteria. In high altitude gardens, speed germination and prevent seed rot by starting peas in cold frames or poly tubes. Companion plants include: beans, corn, carrots, turnips, radishes. Dislikes: onions, garlic.
DISEASES: Prevent pea root rot by planting in well-drained soils and rotating crops frequently. If mildew or wilt are problems, use resistant varieties.
HARVEST: To assure steady supply, plant at 2 week intervals throughout season. Stimulate continuous production by harvesting mature peas.
SEED PRODUCTION: Peas produce self-pollinating flowers. Cross-pollination by insects is rare as pollination is complete before flower opens. To assure purity, separate different varieties with another (PEA (PEA continued)
flowering crop. Maturity is complete when seeds rattle in dry pods (about 30 days after eating stage).
SPACING: rows 24-36"; plants in rows 3"; plants in beds 3-4"
SOIL PH: Above 6.5 SEEDS PER OUNCE: 80 POUND: 2000

RADISH (A) Raphanus sativus L.

This vegetable is one of the easiest to grow.
FROST TOLERANCE: Very good.
CULTURE: Plant seeds when soil temp. reaches 40· F. Radishes love cool weather. Plant early and often. Provide shade in summer. Plant with crops that take longer to mature (e.g. carrots or broccoli) and harvest first. Companion plants include: cucumbers, peas, cabbage, lettuce, nasturtiums. Dislikes: hyssop.
INSECTS AND DISEASES: Control flea beetles in their pursuit of radish greens with pyrethrum. Allow radishes to attract cabbage root maggots away from cabbage family crops. Use of wood ashes and diatomaceous earth will irritate and discourage small worms. Use resistant varieties to avoid Fusarium wilt. Avoid infected soil.
HARVEST AND STORAGE: For best results, harvest when young. Store 1-2 weeks in sealed container in refrigerator. Store Daikon varieties for winter in cold sand or sawdust.
SEED PRODUCTION: Radish is an annual, primarily pollinated by bees. Select best roots and replant 12-18" apart early same summer. For purity, separate different varieties 1000 yards. As daikon radish is a biennial, replant roots following spring. Allow most of seed pods to turn brown before pulling plant.
SPACING: rows 8-16"; plants in rows 1-3"; plants in beds 2-3"
SOIL PH: 6.0-7.0 SEEDS PER GRAM: 75 OUNCE: 2500

SPINACH (A) Spinacia oleracea L.

FROST TOLERANCE: Very good.
CULTURE: Plant seeds in flats 3-4 weeks early, or as soon as ground can be worked. Provide moist, fertile soil. Water frequently, especially during dry spells. Occasionally feed with manure tea. To assure a season-long supply, plant every 2 weeks. In hot, summer weather, plant bolt-resistant varieties.
INSECTS: Control aphids with pyrethrum.
HARVEST AND STORAGE: For continued production, carefully harvest mature, outside leaves. Store 2 weeks in refrigerator with stems submerged in bowl of water.
SEED PRODUCTION: Spinach is a dioecious annual, producing male and female plants. To improve quality of strain, remove plants that bolt first (they are usually males). Because spinach pollen is extremely fine, hard to contain in cages and easily carried long distances by the wind, plant a single variety of spinach for seed per year.
SPACING: rows 12-24"; plants in rows 2-6"; plants in beds 4"
SOIL PH: 6.5-7.5 SEEDS PER GRAM: 100 OUNCE: 2500

SWISS CHARD (B) Beta vulgaris var. Cicla

When it's too hot in your garden for spinach, look for the deep-dark leaves of Swiss chard! These delicious greens taste like spinach!
FROST TOLERANCE: Fair. Chard will withstand fall frosts to 15-20· F. If left to winter, protect with mulch.
CULTURE: Plant seeds as soon as soil reaches 50· F. See Beets. Companion plants include: onions. Dislikes: pole beans.
HARVEST AND STORAGE: To stimulate continued production, harvest mature, outer leaves first. See Spinach.
SEED PRODUCTION: See Beets. Swiss chard is classified in same species as beets, and will cross-pollinate. Be very careful if trying to produce seed for both at same time.
SPACING: rows 24"; plants in rows 8-12"; plants in beds 10-12"
SOIL PH: 6.5-7.5 SEEDS PER GRAM: 60

TURNIP (B) Brassica rapa L.

FROST TOLERANCE: Good.
CULTURE: Plant directly when soil reaches 50· F. Turnips grow in wide variety of soils but produce best in rich, loam. Water sufficiently, not allowing soil to dry out. Companion plants include: peas.
INSECTS: Control flea beetles with pyrethrum and rotenone. Use wood ash or diatomaceous earth to discourage root maggots.
HARVEST AND STORAGE: Begin harvesting greens and small turnips within 4 weeks. See Carrots.
SEED PRODUCTION: Turnips are biennials with perfect flowers. Store best roots to replant (12" spacing) next spring. Since turnips are pollinated by bees, and cross with numerous domestic and wild plants, including mustard, Chinese cabbage and horseradish, caging is recommended.
SPACING: rows 12-24"; plants in rows 2-5"; plants in beds 3"
SOIL PH: 6.0-7.0 SEEDS PER GRAM: 500


Warm Season Vegetables

Warm season vegetables must be protected from frost and cold weather if any harvest is expected.

GREEN BEAN (A) Phaseolus vulgaris L.

FROST TOLERANCE: None.
CULTURE: Plant seeds after last frost when soil reaches 60· F. Beans prosper in rich, light, well-drained soil with warm temperatures and full sun. Soil can be warmed with black plastic mulch. Protect from cold weather under plastic row cover. Use seed inoculant to provide rhizobium bacteria to fix nitrogen near roots and increase yields. If necessary to plant in damp, cold conditions, treat bean seed with fungicide to prevent rot. Companion plants include: potatoes, carrots, beets, cauliflower, cucumbers, corn. Dislikes: onions, garlic.
INSECTS AND DISEASES: Control beetles with rotenone or pyrethrum. Water deeply at base of plant, keeping tops dry. To minimize blights, mosaic and mold, rotate in at least 3-year cycles.
HARVEST AND STORAGE: For continuous supply, plant seeds every 2-3 weeks until mid-summer. Harvest mature beans to stimulate continuous production. If season is long enough, second, even third, harvests from same plants are possible. Store 7-10 days at 40-45· F., in humid environment.
SEED PRODUCTION: Cross-pollination is minor problem. As bean blossoms contain both male and female organs, pollination takes place before opening. For purity, separate different varieties at least 100
yds. with another flowering crop.
SPACING: rows 18-36"; plants in rows 3-8"; plants in beds 6"
SOIL PH: 6.5-7.5 SEEDS PER OUNCE: 100 POUND: 1400

CORN (A) Zea may

Hardy, short-season varieties make this indigenous, New World food a possibility in high altitude gardens.
CORN CODE: (sh-2) Contains the shrunken-2 gene first discovered in 1950, and named because of the appearance of the shrunken, dry kernels. Sugar in kernels turns to starch very slowly. This corn stays sweet for fourteen days after picking! Sh-2 corn must be isolated to prevent cross-pollination.
(se) Contains the sugar-enhancer gene discovered when a wild, South American corn was crossed with regular sweet corn. Corn with the se gene stays sweet for five or more days after picking. Kernels with the se gene start with more sugar than those containing the sh-2 gene, but turn to starch faster. This corn does not require complete isolation to prevent cross-pollination.
(su) Regular sweet corn. Sugar in kernels of corn labelled "su" begins to turn to starch immediately upon picking.
FROST TOLERANCE: Fair. Cover young plants. Mature plants often survive sudden, summer frosts to approximately 27· F.
CULTURE: Plant seeds in late spring after soil reaches 60·F. If soil is overly wet, we suggest treating seed with a fungicide. Corn is a heavy feeder and demands soil high in nitrogen and phosphorus. Plant in blocks with at least 4 rows, or in circles, to assure pollination. Until plants are knee-high, remove weeds by hoeing. (Hoeing might damage shallow roots of taller plants.) Hill plants to encourage additional root development and to provide support against hard winds.
HARVEST AND STORAGE: To enjoy its true, sweet flavor, sweet corn should be eaten as soon as it is picked. Store 1 week at temperatures just above freezing, or place in freezer after blanching.
SEED PRODUCTION: Corn is monoecious, producing separate male and female blossoms on the same plant. Tassels on top of plant supply pollen that silk on ears receive. As pollen is carried by wind, if purity is desired, separate different varieties minimum 1000 ft. Harvest seed ears 3-5 weeks after eating stage. Allow to dry completely.
SPACING: rows 24-36"; plants in rows 12"; plants in beds 8-12"
SOIL PH: 6.5-7.0 SEEDS PER OUNCE: 150 POUND: 2500

CUCUMBER (A) Cucumis sativus L.

Fresh cucumber salad and warm, sunny, summer days are synonymous.
FROST TOLERANCE: None.
CULTURE: Plant seeds after last frost when soil reaches 60· F. Cucumbers prefer direct sun and warm growing conditions. Plant in rich, warm, not necessarily deep, soil. Keep well-watered. To maintain vigorous growth, feed with manure tea or add well-rotted manure. Companion plants include: sunflowers, corn, peas, beans, radishes. Dislikes: aromatic herbs and potatoes.
INSECTS AND DISEASES: Control beetles with continuous spraying of pyrethrum or rotenone. To prevent mosaic and scab, do not allow greenhouse or cold frame to become too damp and refrain from top-watering plants. Remove diseased plants immediately, and compost.
HARVEST AND STORAGE: To encourage continued production, harvest mature plants daily. Store 10 days at cool (45· F.) temperature, in humid environment.
SEED PRODUCTION: Cucumbers produce separate male and female flowers. Females, not as numerous as males, can be recognized by their ovaries which look like small cucumbers inside the blossoms. Unless hand-pollinating techniques are used, bees are primary pollinating agents. Purity demands at least 1/4 mile separation between different varieties. Slightly immature fruits, not extensively frosted, may be stored for a couple of weeks to finish ripening for seed.
SPACING: rows 36"; plants in rows 8-12"; plants in beds 12"
SOIL PH: 6.0-7.0 SEEDS PER GRAM: 40

PEPPER (A) Capsicum annuum var. annuum

FROST TOLERANCE: None.
CULTURE: Plant seeds in flats 6-8 weeks early. Wall o'waters or plastic row covers (see page 3) will raise temperatures and increase yields. Provide light, rich, well-drained loam, rich in phosphorus and calcium. (We add bonemeal and eggshells.) Too much nitrogen will over-stimulate plant growth and inhibit fruit formation.
INSECTS AND DISEASES: Cut worms can be discouraged with paper collars at base of each plant. Control other insects with pyrethrum, dipel or rotenone. To minimize disease, provide well-drained, well-fed soil and rotate in 3-4 year cycles.
HARVEST AND STORAGE: Harvest continuously to stimulate constant production. Hot peppers should be pickled or dried. Green peppers can be stored fresh for 3 weeks at cool (45· F.) temperature.
SEED PRODUCTION: Flowers produced by peppers usually pollinate themselves before opening. However, since they are often visited by bees, to assure purity (if not hand-pollinated) separate at least 500 yards from other varieties. Select seeds from fruit ripened on plant or from fruit matured indoors,
SPACING: rows 24-36"; plants in rows 12-24"; plants in beds 12-16" SOIL PH: 6.0-7.0 SEEDS PER GRAM: 100

SQUASH (A) Cucurbita pepo var. L.

FROST TOLERANCE: None.
CULTURE: Plant seeds after soil reaches 70· F. In extremely cold areas, use black plastic mulch to raise soil temperature. Best yields come from well-composted and well-drained soil. Companion plants include: corn, nasturtiums.
INSECTS AND DISEASES: Control pests with rotenone and pyrethrum. To best prevent blossom end rot, water at base of plant and provide slightly alkaline soil, rich in calcium.
HARVEST AND STORAGE: Harvest summer squash when young and tender. Winter squash stores best after cured in sun for 10 days. Store at cool (45· F.) temperatures with good air circulation.
SEED PRODUCTION: Squash plants are annual and monoecious (each plant produces separate male and female blossoms). As bees are major pollinating agent, isolate 1/4 mile for purity. Note: Many commonly grown squashes and pumpkins can be grown next to each other with little fear of cross-pollination as they are from four of the following different species: 1) C. mixta: the Cushaw squashes. 2) C. pepo: all summer squashes, all acorn types, pumpkins, Golden Nugget, and Spaghetti. 3) C. maxima: buttercup, banana and hubbard. 4) C. moschata: butternut. (This is not a complete list.) Hand-pollinating techniques also allow seed production from more than one variety in a small garden. (See Basic Seed Saving, page 8.)
SPACING: summer varieties 16"; winter varieties 32"
SOIL PH: 6.5-7.5 SEEDS PER GRAM: 8-10 OUNCE: 250-350

TOMATO (A) Lycopersicon lycopersicum (L.) Farwell

FROST TOLERANCE: Supposedly none. However, all our selected tomatoes have survived 29· F. frosts with no protection. (Possibly a result of supplementing soil with kelp meal, a product now being studied for its frost-tolerance effect on crops.)
CULTURE: Plant seeds in flats 6-8 weeks early. Allow for unrestricted growth. Transplant when ready, or growth can be stunted. Provide plenty of light to avoid tall, leggy growth (which later restricts nutrients' movement through stem). Avoid top-watering with cold water. Prefers well-composted (if possible, include composted tomato plants), slightly acidic, calcium-rich soil. Too nitrogen-rich soil will over-stimulate plant growth, delaying fruit production. Companion plants include: onions, parsley, asparagus, carrots, marigolds.
INSECTS AND DISEASES: Pick off harmful insects or spray with pyrethrum or rotenone. Many tomato diseases are associated with hot, moist weather and are not a threat in higher, drier climes (except in greenhouses). To prevent most problems, provide healthy transplants, fertile soil and plenty of calcium.
HARVEST AND STORAGE: Continued harvesting stimulates continued production. Unripe fruits can be saved from first frost by pulling entire plant and hanging upside down in dry environment. If not damaged, these tomatoes will ripen slowly, but fully.
SEED PRODUCTION: Because tomatoes produce perfect, self-pollinating flowers, two or more varieties can be grown in same garden with reasonable assurance of purity.
SPACING: rows 36-48"; plants in rows 12-24"; plants in beds 18-24" SOIL PH: 6.0-7.0 SEEDS PER GRAM: 300
See tomato brocuhre.

 


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