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Growing InstructionsGrowing Instructions<div class="ExternalClass0E86B18639DD425FA90DE931EB093C2A"><p>​Find Seed Library growing instructions here and plant with confidence.<br></p><p>Printable growing instructions included.<br></p></div>

 

 

 

 

Grow your seeds confidently and successfully.Grow your seeds confidently and successfully.https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/images/Services/SeedLibrary-Instructions_web.jpg621

 

 

Growing Instructions for Basil - GenoveseGrowing Instructions for Basil - Genovese<i class="fa-solid fa-seedling"></i>https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/services/unique/seed-library/growing-instructions/basil-genovese<div class="ExternalClass2FCC92AD4AF44D8BBDE7A5703D5104DF"><h2>Sowing<br></h2><h4>Direct seed (recommended): Plant seeds 1/4" deep, 2-3 seeds per inch, in rows 18" apart.</h4><h4>Firm the soil over the seeds. Thinning is not necessary, but a final spacing of 4-8" apart produces healthy, full plants. Transplant: Sow indoors 6 weeks prior to setting out. Plant 1/4" deep and keep at 70°F (21°C) for best germination.<br></h4><h2>Harvest<br></h2><h4>Begin light harvesting after plants have become established. It is best done in the early morning when the temperature is cooler, and the leaves are less likely to wilt. A full harvest should be completed just before the plants start to flower. Cut the entire plant 4-6" above the ground to promote a second growth. Leaves are easily bruised when picking,​<br></h4><p><br></p></div>basil-genovese
Growing Instructions for Beets - Red AceGrowing Instructions for Beets - Red Ace<i class="fa-solid fa-seedling"></i>https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/services/unique/seed-library/growing-instructions/beets-red-ace<div class="ExternalClassF8259EA7000747F3B1CB450C137BC2B5"><h2>Culture<br></h2><h4>First-rate crops grow quickly in light or loamy soils with a pH over 6.0. In general, cool</h4><div><h4>temperatures produce the best flesh color. Acute weather fluctuations will cause zoning (white rings) in the roots.</h4>​​<br></div><h2>Direct Seeding<br></h2><h4>Begin early sowings when soil has warmed to 45°F (7°C). Sow 15 seeds/ft. 1/2” deep, rows 12–18” apart. Thin to 1 plant per 3”. For a continuous supply of greens and small tender beets, sow seed at 2-week intervals until 8 weeks before regular heavy frosts are expected.<br><br></h4><h2>Harvest and Storage<br></h2><h4>Harvest when roots reach desired size, wash, and store bunches up to 10 days at 32°F (0°C).<br></h4><p><br></p></div>beets-red-ace
Growing Instructions for Carrots - NavalGrowing Instructions for Carrots - Naval<i class="fa-solid fa-seedling"></i>https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/services/unique/seed-library/growing-instructions/carrots-naval<div class="ExternalClassCDB65E14E27246C69DD70FEB55F1E28B"><h2>Culture<br></h2><h4>Carrots require well-drained soils, with a pH range of 6.0-6.8. Deep, loose, and fertile sandy loams and peat soils with good moisture-holding capacity grow the straightest and smoothest roots.<br><br></h4><h2>Planting<br></h2><h4>Sow 3/4–1” apart, 1/4– 1/2” deep, in a 2”-wide band, or single rows 16–24” apart. For minimum soil compaction, use raised beds with 2 or 3 rows 16–24” apart, beds 5–6’ on center. Sprinkle</h4><h4>the soil surface to keep moist. Do not allow soil to crust before the emergence of seedlings, which takes 1–3 weeks, depending on temperature and moisture. If necessary, thin young seedlings to 3/4–2” apart, depending on root size desired. Keep weed-free by tine weeding and shallow hoeing. To prevent greening, cover exposed crowns.<br></h4><div><br></div><h2>Harvest and Storage<br></h2><h4>Carrots may be dug any time after they reach the desired size. Generally, the best harvest period</h4><h4>lasts about 3 weeks, after which time the roots may crack or the taste and appearance may decline. Make a few sowings at 3-week intervals for a continuous supply of tender carrots at their prime.​<br></h4><p><br></p></div>carrots-naval
Growing Instructions for Cilantro - SantoGrowing Instructions for Cilantro - Santo<i class="fa-solid fa-seedling"></i>https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/services/unique/seed-library/growing-instructions/cilantro-santo<div class="ExternalClassF24C5F901ADB41FEB4AF55BE5A08B788"><h2>​Sowing<br></h2><h4>Direct seed (recommended) - Sow 1/4- 1/2” deep, 1/4- 1/2” apart in rows at least 3” apart. For leaf harvest, there is no need to thin, as cilantro continues to grow well even when sown thickly. For coriander seed production, thin to stand 2-4” apart. Successive sowings can be done every 2-3 weeks for continual harvest of leaves.<br><br></h4><h2>Harvest<br></h2><h4>Harvestable at every stage. Leaves may be harvested once the plants have become established and before flowering begins. The immature seeds are sweet and fresh and can be harvested after they form on the flowers, until they become brown and dry. Mature seeds are produced about 3 months after planting and are harvested when dry on the plant.​<br></h4><p><br></p></div>cilantro-santo
Growing Instructions for Cosmos Sensation MixGrowing Instructions for Cosmos Sensation Mix<i class="fa-solid fa-seedling"></i>https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/services/unique/seed-library/growing-instructions/cosmos-sensations-mix<div class="ExternalClassDBE4E8DFF0EC425FA353DEF2FEFE30B9"><h2>Sowing</h2><h4>1/4 lb. covers approximately 1000 sq ft if broadcast. Loosen the top two inches of soil. Mix seed with 10 parts vermiculite. Broadcast this mix over the area to be planted. Compress soil and lightly cover with compost or straw. ​<br><br></h4><h4>Days to Germinate: 7-21 Days <br></h4><h4>Height at Maturity: 2'-3' </h4><h4>Sun/Shade Requirements: Full Sun </h4><h4>Water Needs: Light Water <br></h4><br><h2>Soil Requirements<br></h2><div><h4>Adaptable to various soil types.</h4><br></div><h2>Harvest<br></h2><h4>Harvest the Cosmos before they are pollinated. Keep an eye out for buds that are beginning to crack open or recently open.  <br></h4><p><br></p></div>cosmos
Growing Instructions for Cucumber - Marketmore 76Growing Instructions for Cucumber - Marketmore 76<i class="fa-solid fa-seedling"></i>https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/services/unique/seed-library/growing-instructions/cucumber-marketmore-76<div class="ExternalClass9A4B27333E8444DCA89061B2E149296C"><h2>Culture<br></h2><h4>Requires warm, well-drained soil high in fertility, with a pH of 6–6.8. Consistent, adequate</h4><h4>irrigation is needed to produce an abundant crop. Cucumbers are very sensitive to cold. Make sure both soil and air temperatures have warmed prior to planting.​<br><br></h4><h2>Direct Seeding<br></h2><h4>Wait until soil is warm, at least 70°F (21°C). Cucumber seeds will not germinate at a soil</h4><h4>temperature below 50°F (10°C). Sow 2 seeds/ft., 1/2” deep, in rows 6’ apart. Thin to 12” apart.<br><br></h4><h2>Harvest<br></h2><h4>Once fruit bearing begins, pick daily.​<br><br></h4></div>cucumber-marketmore-76
Growing Instructions for Desert Colors Wildflower MixGrowing Instructions for Desert Colors Wildflower Mix<i class="fa-solid fa-seedling"></i>https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/services/unique/seed-library/growing-instructions/desert-colors-wildflower-mix<div class="ExternalClassEBDBD354D8E94D42A8B930A48D3A7F24"><h4>​In this mix are non-Sonoran old-time garden regulars that are non-invasive.</h4><h4><br>Seeds may be planted any time of year, as different species in the mix may germinate in any season<br></h4><div><h4>in the event of a substantial rainfall. Most of these species’ bloom from late Winter through Spring, so that plantings from late September through February will provide the best results.</h4><br></div><h2>Natives<br></h2><h4>Bahia, Desert Bluebells, Desert Marigold, Desert Senna, Dyssodia, Mexican Gold Poppy, Fendler ​Bl<span style="font-size:1em;">adderpod, Gordon’s Bladderpod, Desert Lupine, Parry’s Penstemon, Prairie Coneflower, Pygmy Aster, Silverbells, Thimblehead, Paperflower, Colored Globemallow, Indian Blanketflower, Wild Sunflower.</span></h4><h4><br></h4><h2>Exotics<br></h2><h4>California Poppy, Scarlet Flax, Coreopsis, Cosmos, Shirley Poppy, Arroyo Lupine, Five-spot, Baby Snapdragons, Lemon Beebalm, Showy Evening Primrose.​</h4><p><br></p></div>desert-colors-wildflower-mix
Growing Instructions for Dill - HeraGrowing Instructions for Dill - Hera<i class="fa-solid fa-seedling"></i>https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/services/unique/seed-library/growing-instructions/dill-hera<div class="ExternalClassD20D4BA06EFD4654A18866D83DFD5C2D"><h2>Sowing​</h2><h4>Direct seed (recommended) - Sow as soon as the soil can be worked. Sow seeds 1/8- 1/4” deep, 1/4- 1/2” apart, in rows at least 3” apart. Thinning is not necessary. Successive sowings can be done every three weeks to harvest fresh greens continuously.<br><br></h4><div><h4>Transplant - Dill can be started indoors in containers or cell trays. Sow 3-5 seeds per cell. Transplant out using 2-4” spacing in rows at least 4” apart.<br></h4><br></div><h2>Harvest<br></h2><h4>Foliage may be harvested once the plants have become established right up to flowering.<br><br></h4><h4>Harvest seed heads just as the seeds begin to turn a golden brown. Foliage and seeds can both be dried and stored for future use. Dry foliage in the dark to preserve flavor and color.​​​<br><br></h4></div>dill-hera
Growing Instructions for Jalapeno - EarlyGrowing Instructions for Jalapeno - Early<i class="fa-solid fa-seedling"></i>https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/services/unique/seed-library/growing-instructions/jalapeno-early<div class="ExternalClassCB1B6AA808B94C6B9134247BC9F08B41"><h2>Culture</h2><h4>Peppers thrive in well-drained, fertile soils with a pH of 6.5.<br><br></h4><h2>Growing Seedlings<br></h2><h4>Sow seed in 20-row or shallow flats, 4 seeds/in., 1/4” deep, about 8 weeks prior to transplanting. If possible, maintain soil temperatures at 80-90°F (27-32°C). Pepper seeds germinate very slowly in cooler soil. When the first true leaves appear, transplant seedlings into 2” cell-type containers or 4” pots. Grow plants at approx. 70°F (21°C) day and 60°F (16°C) nights.<br></h4><div><br></div><h2>Harvest and Storage<br></h2><div><h4>Pick the first peppers promptly when they reach full size to​​​ encourage further fruit set. Wash and hold at 45°F (7°C).</h4></div><p>​<br></p></div>jalapeno-early
Growing Instructions for Kale - Dazzling BlueGrowing Instructions for Kale - Dazzling Blue<i class="fa-solid fa-seedling"></i>https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/services/unique/seed-library/growing-instructions/kale-dazzling-blue<div class="ExternalClass0883E810EFDB4A9BADEECEFF0F66E7CA"><h2>Culture<br></h2><h4>Kale prefers a fertile, well-drained soil high in organic matter with a pH range of 6.0–7.5. Consistent moisture will produce the highest-quality leaves.<br><br></h4><h2>Direct Seeding<br></h2><h4>For bunching: Sow 3–4 seeds every 12–18”, ½” deep, in rows 18–36” apart.<br>Thin to 1 plant per g<span style="color:#444444;">roup.<br></span><br></h4><h2>Harvest and Storage<br></h2><h4>Beginning about 2 months after planting, harvest by clipping individual leaves.​​<br></h4><p><br></p></div>kale-dazzling-blue
Growing Instructions for Lettuce - Red CrossGrowing Instructions for Lettuce - Red Cross<i class="fa-solid fa-seedling"></i>https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/services/unique/seed-library/growing-instructions/lettuce-red-cross<div class="ExternalClass507D0549160E4846B114B15D66EA138F"><h2>Culture<br></h2><h4>Lettuce is a hardy, cool-weather crop and can be planted with your earliest worked soil.</h4><h4>Sow every 2–3 weeks for a continuous supply of either full heads or salad mix.</h4><h2>Direct Seeding<br></h2><h4>Seeds can germinate well in soils as low as 40°F (4°C) but often poorly above 75°F (24°C).</h4><h4>Sow 4–6 seeds/inch in rows at least 2” apart. Cover lightly to 1/8” and firm gently. Dry soil must be watered to ensure coolness and moisture for uniform germination.</h4><h2>Harvest<br></h2><h4>Head Lettuce: Cut at base, keeping wrapper leaves for handling loss. Consider cutting alternating plants to extend harvest window, allowing remaining plants to continue to grow. Pack heads in layers facing cut ends away. Wash off sap and cool immediately to prevent staining and dehydration.<br></h4><h4>Baby Leaf: Harvest about 1” above the growing point when leaves reach desired harvestable length, about 3–4” long. Remove harvest debris to improve regrowth quality.​<br></h4><p><br></p></div>lettuce-red-cross
Growing Instructions for Melon - AravaGrowing Instructions for Melon - Arava<i class="fa-solid fa-seedling"></i>https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/services/unique/seed-library/growing-instructions/melon-arava<div class="ExternalClass9DCC933426484ED3B829AF574EEB2AF2"><h2>Culture<br></h2><h4>A light, well-drained soil with a pH of 7.0 and a southern exposure is ideal. Good soil moisture is important in early stages of growth and during pollination when fruits are setting. After this point do not water the last week before fruits are ripe, as overwatering can cause bland fruit.<br><br></h4><h2>Direct Seeding<br></h2><h4>Sow 1-2 weeks after last frost when soil is warm, above 70°F (21°C), 3 seeds every 18”, 1/2” deep, thinning to 1 plant/cell or pot.<br><br></h4><h2>Harvest<br></h2><h4>Ripeness indicators vary by melon type. Most cantaloupes are ready when the gray-green color begins to change to buff-yellow and are harvested at “full slip” or when a light tug separates the fruit from the vine. Some types, like Canary and Crenshaw, require a bit more pressure to separate the fruit and are harvested at “forced slip.” Others, like Honeydew, Charentais, and Piel de Sapo, are overripe by the time the stem can be tugged from the fruit; these must be cut from the vine.​<br></h4><p><br></p></div>melon-arava
Growing Instructions for Radish - SoraGrowing Instructions for Radish - Sora<i class="fa-solid fa-seedling"></i>https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/services/unique/seed-library/growing-instructions/radish-sora<div class="ExternalClass2642A80CBE8A4751B524AE8682CE7728"><h2>Culture<br></h2><h4>Radishes require friable, well-drained soils with a pH range of 5.8–6.8. Sow at any time during the season, seeds about 3/4–1” apart For longer, straighter French Breakfast radishes, sow 15–20% more seeds per row than round radishes, 1/2 to 1 cm deeper, and do not irrigate unless absolutely necessary. Radishes are adversely affected by hot, dry weather. They remain in prime condition only a few days and should be grown rapidly with plenty of moisture to be</h4><div><h4>mild, tender, and attractive. If growth is checked, roots may become tough, pithy, and too spicy.<br><br></h4><h2>Harvest and Storage<br></h2></div><h4>Harvest promptly to avoid pithiness, beginning at about 3-4 weeks when roots are the size of a large marble. Bunch or top, hydrocool, and refrigerate. Topped radishes will keep 3–4 weeks in good, crisp condition if kept at 32°F (0°C), 95% relative humidity, and​ in breathable packaging. See product descriptions for longer storage of specialty types.​<br></h4><p><br></p></div>radish-sora
Growing Instructions for Sage - CommonGrowing Instructions for Sage - Common<i class="fa-solid fa-seedling"></i>https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/services/unique/seed-library/growing-instructions/sage-common<div class="ExternalClass50AC38B0B9834B19B5D99F9A3B46D78C"><h2>Sowing<br></h2><h4>Transplant (recommended): Start seeds 6-8 weeks before the last frost. Sow 2-3 seeds 1/4” deep in individual containers, thinning to one plant per container after germination. Transplant outside after the last frost, spacing 12” apart, in rows 18” apart. Direct seed: Sow in spring as soon as the soil can be worked. Plant seeds 1/4” deep, 1 seed every 1-2”. Thin to 6-12” apart.<br><br></h4><h2>Harvest<br></h2><h4>Individual leaves may be harvested the first year once plants have become established. In the second and following years, cut stems to within 6” of the base of the plant just as flowers are starting to open. Hang small bunches of sage upside down to dry in a well-ventilated location out of direct sunlight​​​.<br></h4><p><br></p></div>sage-common
Growing Instructions for Spinach - SpaceGrowing Instructions for Spinach - Space<i class="fa-solid fa-seedling"></i>https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/services/unique/seed-library/growing-instructions/spinach-space<div class="ExternalClass13D6C3663C984D25AA58CB15D4BCD2F7"><h2>Culture<br></h2><h4>Spinach grows in a wide range of soils if moist and fertile but is sensitive to acidity; pH should be at least 6.0, preferably 6.5–7.5. Spinach germinates best in cool soil.<br><br></h4><h2>Direct Seeding<br></h2><h4>For baby leaf: Sow 3–5 seeds/inch in rows at least 2” apart.</h4><h4>For bunching and full size: Sow 10 seeds/ft., 1/2” deep in rows 12–18” apart.<br><br></h4><h2>Harvest<br></h2><h4>For baby leaf: Harvest when leaves reach desired size in 3–5 weeks, depending on time of year and speed of growth, making sure to cut above the basal plate for cut-and-come-again harvests. A second cut is possible by choosing appropriate varieties in all the seasonal slots. Triple-rinse leaves, sort out cut and broken leaves, and package. For full size: Harvest the long stems just above the basal plate, or, by cutting just below the basal plate for whole-plant harvest. When growing winter spinach, harvest largest leaves and allow the smaller ones​ to size-up for later harvests. Full-size spinach can be sold as loose leaves or bunched.<br></h4><p><br></p></div>spinach-space
Growing Instructions for ZinniaGrowing Instructions for Zinnia<i class="fa-solid fa-seedling"></i>https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/services/unique/seed-library/growing-instructions/zinnia<div class="ExternalClass022DD2AD9C204290A0E14339A0E9DCD8"><h2>Sowing<br></h2><h4>Transplant (recommended) - Sow into 72-cell flats, or preferred seedling container, 4 weeks before last frost. Cover seeds. A heat mat will help maintain an accurate temperature.</h4><h4>Lower temperatures will result in slower germination: 5-7 days at 70-75°F (21-24°C). Harden off and transplant out after last frost. Do not allow plants to become root bound and avoid disturbing roots; transplant shock or other stress events may cause double-flowering varieties to produce single blooms for a period following stress. Direct seed - After last frost, sow 1/4” deep. Succession-sow/plant every 2 weeks for prolonged yields of high-quality stems. Pinching of initial bud or bloom and subsequent deadheading is recommended to encourage strong branching and bloom production.<br></h4><div><br></div><h2>Soil Requirements<br></h2><div><h4>Fertile soil rich in organic matter. pH: 6.3-6.8 preferred.</h4><br></div><h2>Harvest<br></h2><h4>Before completely open. Stem is firm from point of cut to just below the bloom.​<br></h4><p><br></p></div>zinnia
Southwest Wildflower MixSouthwest Wildflower Mix<i class="fa-solid fa-seedling"></i>https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/services/unique/seed-library/growing-instructions/southwest-wildflower-mix<div class="ExternalClass8905AA582B0744DB9DC037DBEE0012C2"><h2>Sowing</h2><h4>Loosen the top two inches of soil. Mix seed with 10 parts vermiculite. Broadcast this mix over the area to be planted. Compress soil and lightly cover with compost or straw. <br></h4><h4>Days to Germinate: 10-30 Days </h4><h4>Height At Maturity: 9-36” </h4><h4>Sun/Shade Requirements: Full sun </h4><h4>Water Needs: Moderate Water <br></h4><h2>Soil Requirements</h2><div>Prefers native soil. <br></div><h2>Harvest</h2><h4>Harvest after plants have matured. <br></h4></div>southwest-wildflower-mix