{ "$schema_version": "0.2", "meta": { "name": "Sproutopia KB — comprehensive plant dataset", "provenance": "Crop roster from John Seymour's 'The Complete Book of Self-Sufficiency' + comprehensive common US food crops. Clean-room (our own words, no verbatim). US-localized: timing is FROST-RELATIVE, resolved per user's zone/frost dates (FR-1).", "status": "FIRST-PASS values — verify every planting window, spacing, DTM, chill-hour and food-safety figure against Cooperative Extension / NCHFP before shipping (NFR-16).", "categories": [ "vegetable", "herb", "fruit", "grain", "cover" ], "planting_window_model": { "anchor": [ "last_frost", "first_frost", "soil_temp", "daylength" ], "offset_weeks": "[min,max] signed weeks from anchor (negative = before)", "mode": [ "direct", "indoor", "transplant", "set", "tuber", "crown", "slip", "bareroot" ] }, "rotation_groups": { "legume": { "trail_color": "gold" }, "brassica": { "trail_color": "blue" }, "nightshade": { "trail_color": "dark-red" }, "allium": { "trail_color": "green" }, "root": { "trail_color": "violet" }, "cucurbit": { "trail_color": "orange" }, "leafy": { "trail_color": "teal" }, "grass": { "trail_color": null }, "perennial": { "trail_color": null }, "cover": { "trail_color": null } }, "variety_schema": { "name": "str", "days_to_maturity": "int (0 = n/a for perennials)", "type": "str", "traits": "str", "beginner": "bool" }, "fruit_fields": { "chill_hours": "[min,max] winter chill needed", "pollination": "self-fertile | needs pollinizer | varies", "years_to_bear": "int", "bearing": "tree|bush|cane|vine|ground|crown|shrub" }, "family_gap_years": 3, "hardiness": { "hardy": "tolerates frost", "half_hardy": "light frost only", "tender": "frost kills" }, "record_count": 155, "by_category": { "vegetable": 80, "herb": 31, "fruit": 30, "grain": 7, "cover": 7 }, "$schema_version": "0.6", "cultivation_fields": [ "soil_climate", "propagation", "care", "pests_diseases", "harvest_storage" ], "cultivation_note": "Per-crop cultivation detail derived from each record's data + rotation-group templates + per-crop specifics, informed by Seymour (both editions) and modern US practice. Re-expressed clean-room. FIRST-PASS — verify against Cooperative Extension before shipping (NFR-16).", "extra_sections_note": "Optional `extra_sections` = crop-specific one-off techniques. Book-driven: checklisted from the US 2018 edition's highlighted technique call-outs (per crop) and re-expressed clean-room in our own words. Garden crops covered; the set is first-pass for the NFR-16 content-verification gate.", "extra_sections_coverage": "97 of 155 crops carry one-off techniques (176 sections). The remaining crops have no distinct one-off — their needs are fully covered by the five standard cultivation fields. Book-driven + clean-room; first-pass for the NFR-16 content gate.", "small_space_value_note": "small_space_value (high|medium|low): worthwhileness per unit area for a small/urban food garden where space is the limiting factor (Seymour's 'make the most of all three dimensions'). high=excellent return per sq ft / vertical / cut-and-come-again / high-value-fresh; low=space-hungry, slow, or field/soil-scale (grains, cover crops, big standard trees) better grown elsewhere. Drives the Beds recommender's beginner/small-space steering. Source: 2018 US edition, Urban Garden & Cultivation guidance.", "small_space_value_counts": { "medium": 57, "high": 50, "low": 48 } }, "plants": [ { "id": "onion", "common_name": "Onion", "aka": [], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Amaryllidaceae", "rotation_group": "allium", "trail_color": "green", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "first_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "set" } ], "spacing_in": 4, "sqft_count": 9, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": [ 90, 110 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [ "onion_fly", "white_rot" ], "storage": [ "cure_dry" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "CRITICAL: choose long-day (north), short-day (south), or intermediate variety by US latitude.", "varieties": [ { "name": "Walla Walla", "days_to_maturity": 125, "type": "long-day sweet", "traits": "North; sweet, poor keeper", "beginner": false }, { "name": "Yellow Sweet Spanish", "days_to_maturity": 110, "type": "long-day storage", "traits": "North; stores well", "beginner": false }, { "name": "Texas Early Grano", "days_to_maturity": 110, "type": "short-day", "traits": "South; sweet", "beginner": false }, { "name": "Red Burgundy", "days_to_maturity": 95, "type": "short-day red", "traits": "South; mild red", "beginner": false } ], "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate water. Soil: fertile, firm, well-drained, pH 6.0–7.0. Climate: cool-season, hardy. DAY-LENGTH matters — long-day (north), short-day (south), intermediate (middle US).", "propagation": "Plant sets 4–2 weeks before the first fall frost; space 4 in apart (9/sq ft).", "care": "Keep weed-free; ease off water as bulbs mature and tops fall.", "pests_diseases": "Watch for onion fly, white rot. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 90–110 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: cure and store dry." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Ripening the tops", "content": "As bulbs mature and tops start to flop, bend the necks fully over and ease off water to finish ripening for storage." }, { "title": "Remove flower stems", "content": "Pull out any bolted flower stalks promptly — a flowered onion won't store; use it fresh." }, { "title": "Curing & stringing", "content": "Lift on a dry day, cure 2–3 weeks until the necks are papery, then rope/string or net and hang cool and dry." } ] }, { "id": "bunching_onion", "common_name": "Bunching onion", "aka": [ "scallion", "green onion" ], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Amaryllidaceae", "rotation_group": "allium", "trail_color": "green", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "direct" }, { "anchor": "first_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -8, -6 ], "mode": "direct" } ], "spacing_in": 1, "sqft_count": 16, "small_space_value": "high", "days_to_maturity": [ 60, 70 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [], "source": "general", "us_adaptation_note": "Day-length neutral; succession-sow.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: fertile, well-drained, firm soil, pH 6.0–7.0. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 4–2 weeks before the last frost; Direct-sow 8–6 weeks before the first fall frost; space 1 in apart (16/sq ft).", "care": "Keep weed-free; ease off water as bulbs mature and tops fall.", "pests_diseases": "Onion fly, thrips, and white/neck rot. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 60–70 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: use fresh." } }, { "id": "shallot", "common_name": "Shallot", "aka": [], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Amaryllidaceae", "rotation_group": "allium", "trail_color": "green", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "first_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "set" } ], "spacing_in": 6, "sqft_count": 4, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": [ 90, 120 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "cure_dry" ], "source": "seymour", "us_adaptation_note": "Same day-length note as onion.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: fertile, well-drained, firm soil, pH 6.0–7.0. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Plant sets 4–2 weeks before the first fall frost; space 6 in apart (4/sq ft).", "care": "Keep weed-free; ease off water as bulbs mature and tops fall.", "pests_diseases": "Onion fly, thrips, and white/neck rot. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 90–120 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: cure and store dry." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Curing", "content": "Cure like onions after the tops die back; store dry." } ] }, { "id": "garlic", "common_name": "Garlic", "aka": [], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Amaryllidaceae", "rotation_group": "allium", "trail_color": "green", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "first_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "set" } ], "spacing_in": 5, "sqft_count": 4, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": [ 240, 300 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [ "white_rot" ], "storage": [ "cure_dry" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Fall-plant, mulch; hardneck for cold zones, softneck for mild/south.", "varieties": [ { "name": "Music", "days_to_maturity": 280, "type": "hardneck porcelain", "traits": "Cold-hardy, big cloves, scapes", "beginner": true }, { "name": "German Extra Hardy", "days_to_maturity": 280, "type": "hardneck", "traits": "Very cold-hardy", "beginner": false }, { "name": "California Early", "days_to_maturity": 260, "type": "softneck", "traits": "Mild/south; stores long, braids", "beginner": false } ], "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: fertile, well-drained, firm soil, pH 6.0–7.0. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Plant sets 4–2 weeks before the first fall frost; space 5 in apart (4/sq ft).", "care": "Keep weed-free; ease off water as bulbs mature and tops fall.", "pests_diseases": "Watch for white rot. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Lift when lower leaves brown (early–mid summer); cure 2–3 weeks in a dry, airy place; store cool and dry (braid softnecks)." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Curing", "content": "Lift when lower leaves brown; cure 2–3 weeks in a dry, airy place, then trim and store cool and dry (braid softnecks)." } ] }, { "id": "elephant_garlic", "common_name": "Elephant garlic", "aka": [], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Amaryllidaceae", "rotation_group": "allium", "trail_color": "green", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "first_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "set" } ], "spacing_in": 8, "sqft_count": 1, "small_space_value": "low", "days_to_maturity": [ 240, 300 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [], "source": "general", "us_adaptation_note": "Mild; a leek relative, not true garlic.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: fertile, well-drained, firm soil, pH 6.0–7.0. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Plant sets 4–2 weeks before the first fall frost; space 8 in apart (1/sq ft).", "care": "Keep weed-free; ease off water as bulbs mature and tops fall.", "pests_diseases": "Onion fly, thrips, and white/neck rot. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 240–300 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: use fresh." } }, { "id": "leek", "common_name": "Leek", "aka": [], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Amaryllidaceae", "rotation_group": "allium", "trail_color": "green", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -4 ], "mode": "indoor" }, { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -3, -2 ], "mode": "transplant" } ], "spacing_in": 6, "sqft_count": 4, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": [ 100, 120 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "in_ground" ], "source": "seymour", "us_adaptation_note": "Hill to blanch; very cold-hardy.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: fertile, well-drained, firm soil, pH 6.0–7.0. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Start indoors 6–4 weeks before the last frost; transplant out 3–2 weeks before the last frost; space 6 in apart (4/sq ft).", "care": "Keep weed-free; ease off water as bulbs mature and tops fall.", "pests_diseases": "Onion fly, thrips, and white/neck rot. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 100–120 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: leave in ground under mulch." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Blanching", "content": "Plant deep in a dibbed hole (drop the seedling in and water — don't backfill) or earth up as they grow, to lengthen the white blanched shank." } ] }, { "id": "pea", "common_name": "Pea", "aka": [], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Fabaceae", "rotation_group": "legume", "trail_color": "gold", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "direct" } ], "spacing_in": 2, "sqft_count": 8, "small_space_value": "high", "days_to_maturity": [ 55, 70 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": true, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [ "powdery_mildew", "pea_moth" ], "storage": [ "freeze", "dry" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Spring + fall in hot zones; likes lime.", "varieties": [ { "name": "Sugar Snap", "days_to_maturity": 62, "type": "snap edible-pod", "traits": "Sweet, eat whole, needs support", "beginner": true }, { "name": "Oregon Sugar Pod II", "days_to_maturity": 60, "type": "snow", "traits": "Flat edible pod, compact", "beginner": false }, { "name": "Green Arrow", "days_to_maturity": 70, "type": "shelling", "traits": "Heavy yield, disease-resistant", "beginner": false }, { "name": "Little Marvel", "days_to_maturity": 60, "type": "shelling", "traits": "Compact, early", "beginner": true } ], "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: well-drained, moderately fertile soil, pH 6.0–7.0; needs no extra nitrogen (fixes its own). Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 4–2 weeks before the last frost; space 2 in apart (8/sq ft).", "care": "Support climbers; keep evenly moist at flowering/podding; pick often to keep producing.", "pests_diseases": "Watch for powdery mildew, pea moth. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 55–70 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: freeze, dry." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Support & training", "content": "Give all but the shortest peas support as they grow — twiggy 'pea sticks' or netting on a wire frame — so tendrils can climb and pods stay off the ground." }, { "title": "Bird protection", "content": "Net or cover newly sown rows and seedlings; birds pull up sprouting peas and strip young shoots." } ] }, { "id": "fava_bean", "common_name": "Fava bean", "aka": [ "broad bean" ], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Fabaceae", "rotation_group": "legume", "trail_color": "gold", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "direct" } ], "spacing_in": 5, "sqft_count": 4, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": [ 75, 90 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [ "black_aphid" ], "storage": [ "freeze", "dry" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Fall-sow only where winters mild.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: well-drained, moderately fertile soil, pH 6.0–7.0; needs no extra nitrogen (fixes its own). Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 4–2 weeks before the last frost; space 5 in apart (4/sq ft).", "care": "Support climbers; keep evenly moist at flowering/podding; pick often to keep producing.", "pests_diseases": "Watch for black aphid. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 75–90 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: freeze, dry." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Support", "content": "Stake the corners of a double row and run string around the block to keep the tall, brittle plants upright." }, { "title": "Pinching tops", "content": "When the lowest pods set and blackfly appear, pinch out (and eat) the tender growing tips to check the aphids and speed podding." } ] }, { "id": "green_bean", "common_name": "Green bean", "aka": [ "bush bean", "snap bean", "French bean" ], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Fabaceae", "rotation_group": "legume", "trail_color": "gold", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ 1, 2 ], "mode": "direct", "soil_temp_min_f": 60 } ], "spacing_in": 4, "sqft_count": 9, "small_space_value": "high", "days_to_maturity": [ 50, 65 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "tender", "succession": true, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [ "mexican_bean_beetle" ], "storage": [ "freeze", "can_pressure", "dry" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Succession every 2-3 wk; pressure-can only (low-acid).", "varieties": [ { "name": "Provider", "days_to_maturity": 50, "type": "bush snap", "traits": "Fast, cold-soil tolerant", "beginner": true }, { "name": "Blue Lake 274", "days_to_maturity": 58, "type": "bush snap", "traits": "Classic flavor, heavy", "beginner": true }, { "name": "Kentucky Wonder", "days_to_maturity": 65, "type": "pole snap", "traits": "Vigorous climber", "beginner": false }, { "name": "Contender", "days_to_maturity": 50, "type": "bush snap", "traits": "Early, heat-tolerant", "beginner": false } ], "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: well-drained, moderately fertile soil, pH 6.0–7.0; needs no extra nitrogen (fixes its own). Climate: warm-season; frost kills it.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 1–2 weeks after the last frost once soil is ≥60°F; space 4 in apart (9/sq ft).", "care": "Support climbers; keep evenly moist at flowering/podding; pick often to keep producing.", "pests_diseases": "Watch for mexican bean beetle. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 50–65 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: freeze, pressure-can (low-acid), dry." } }, { "id": "pole_bean", "common_name": "Pole bean", "aka": [], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Fabaceae", "rotation_group": "legume", "trail_color": "gold", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ 1, 2 ], "mode": "direct", "soil_temp_min_f": 60 } ], "spacing_in": 6, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "high", "days_to_maturity": [ 60, 70 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "tender", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "freeze", "dry" ], "source": "general", "us_adaptation_note": "Climbing; long harvest window; needs support.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: well-drained, moderately fertile soil, pH 6.0–7.0; needs no extra nitrogen (fixes its own). Climate: warm-season; frost kills it.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 1–2 weeks after the last frost once soil is ≥60°F; space 6 in apart.", "care": "Support climbers; keep evenly moist at flowering/podding; pick often to keep producing.", "pests_diseases": "Aphids, powdery mildew. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 60–70 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: freeze, dry." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Support", "content": "Provide poles or a tripod at sowing; pole beans crop over a longer window than bush types." } ] }, { "id": "lima_bean", "common_name": "Lima bean", "aka": [ "butter bean" ], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Fabaceae", "rotation_group": "legume", "trail_color": "gold", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ 2, 3 ], "mode": "direct", "soil_temp_min_f": 65 } ], "spacing_in": 4, "sqft_count": 9, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": [ 65, 90 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "tender", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [], "source": "general", "us_adaptation_note": "Needs long warm season; US south/mid.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: well-drained, moderately fertile soil, pH 6.0–7.0; needs no extra nitrogen (fixes its own). Climate: warm-season; frost kills it.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 2–3 weeks after the last frost once soil is ≥65°F; space 4 in apart (9/sq ft).", "care": "Support climbers; keep evenly moist at flowering/podding; pick often to keep producing.", "pests_diseases": "Aphids, powdery mildew. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 65–90 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: use fresh." } }, { "id": "runner_bean", "common_name": "Runner bean", "aka": [], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Fabaceae", "rotation_group": "legume", "trail_color": "gold", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ 1, 2 ], "mode": "direct", "soil_temp_min_f": 60 } ], "spacing_in": 6, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "high", "days_to_maturity": [ 60, 70 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "tender", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "freeze" ], "source": "seymour", "us_adaptation_note": "Climbing; sets poorly in extreme heat.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: well-drained, moderately fertile soil, pH 6.0–7.0; needs no extra nitrogen (fixes its own). Climate: warm-season; frost kills it.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 1–2 weeks after the last frost once soil is ≥60°F; space 6 in apart.", "care": "Support climbers; keep evenly moist at flowering/podding; pick often to keep producing.", "pests_diseases": "Aphids, powdery mildew. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 60–70 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: freeze." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Support", "content": "Set up tall poles, a tripod, or a netted A-frame at sowing — runner beans climb hard and yield over a long season." }, { "title": "Picking", "content": "Pick regularly and young; a few pods left to mature will stop the plant setting more." } ] }, { "id": "cowpea", "common_name": "Cowpea", "aka": [ "southern pea", "black-eyed pea" ], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Fabaceae", "rotation_group": "legume", "trail_color": "gold", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ 2, 3 ], "mode": "direct", "soil_temp_min_f": 65 } ], "spacing_in": 4, "sqft_count": 9, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": [ 60, 90 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "tender", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [], "source": "general", "us_adaptation_note": "US-south heat/drought tolerant; also cover crop.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: well-drained, moderately fertile soil, pH 6.0–7.0; needs no extra nitrogen (fixes its own). Climate: warm-season; frost kills it.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 2–3 weeks after the last frost once soil is ≥65°F; space 4 in apart (9/sq ft).", "care": "Support climbers; keep evenly moist at flowering/podding; pick often to keep producing.", "pests_diseases": "Aphids, powdery mildew. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 60–90 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: use fresh." } }, { "id": "edamame", "common_name": "Edamame", "aka": [ "soybean" ], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Fabaceae", "rotation_group": "legume", "trail_color": "gold", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ 1, 2 ], "mode": "direct", "soil_temp_min_f": 60 } ], "spacing_in": 3, "sqft_count": 9, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": [ 75, 100 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "tender", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "freeze" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Warm-season legume; fixes nitrogen.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: well-drained, moderately fertile soil, pH 6.0–7.0; needs no extra nitrogen (fixes its own). Climate: warm-season; frost kills it.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 1–2 weeks after the last frost once soil is ≥60°F; space 3 in apart (9/sq ft).", "care": "Support climbers; keep evenly moist at flowering/podding; pick often to keep producing.", "pests_diseases": "Aphids, powdery mildew. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 75–100 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: freeze." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Seed inoculation", "content": "Where soybeans haven't grown before, coat the seed with nitrogen-fixing (Rhizobium) inoculant at sowing — it can lift yield markedly and enrich the soil." } ] }, { "id": "peanut", "common_name": "Peanut", "aka": [], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Fabaceae", "rotation_group": "legume", "trail_color": "gold", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ 2, 3 ], "mode": "direct", "soil_temp_min_f": 65 } ], "spacing_in": 8, "sqft_count": 1, "small_space_value": "low", "days_to_maturity": [ 120, 150 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "tender", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [], "source": "seymour", "us_adaptation_note": "Needs long warm season & sandy soil; US south.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: well-drained, moderately fertile soil, pH 6.0–7.0; needs no extra nitrogen (fixes its own). Climate: warm-season; frost kills it.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 2–3 weeks after the last frost once soil is ≥65°F; space 8 in apart (1/sq ft).", "care": "Support climbers; keep evenly moist at flowering/podding; pick often to keep producing.", "pests_diseases": "Aphids, powdery mildew. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 120–150 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: use fresh." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Earthing up / pegging", "content": "After flowering, draw loose soil up around each plant so the fertilized flower stalks ('pegs') can bury themselves — the nuts only ripen underground." } ] }, { "id": "chickpea", "common_name": "Chickpea", "aka": [ "garbanzo" ], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Fabaceae", "rotation_group": "legume", "trail_color": "gold", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "direct" } ], "spacing_in": 4, "sqft_count": 9, "small_space_value": "low", "days_to_maturity": [ 90, 100 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "half_hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "dry" ], "source": "general", "us_adaptation_note": "Cool-then-dry season; drought tolerant.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: well-drained, moderately fertile soil, pH 6.0–7.0; needs no extra nitrogen (fixes its own). Climate: cool-season; only light frost.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 4–2 weeks before the last frost; space 4 in apart (9/sq ft).", "care": "Support climbers; keep evenly moist at flowering/podding; pick often to keep producing.", "pests_diseases": "Aphids, powdery mildew. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 90–100 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: dry." } }, { "id": "potato", "common_name": "Potato", "aka": [], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Solanaceae", "rotation_group": "nightshade", "trail_color": "dark-red", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -2, 0 ], "mode": "tuber" } ], "spacing_in": 12, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "low", "days_to_maturity": [ 70, 120 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "half_hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [ "colorado_potato_beetle", "late_blight", "scab", "eelworm" ], "storage": [ "root_cellar" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "No fresh lime (scab). Rotate with ALL nightshades (shared blight).", "varieties": [ { "name": "Yukon Gold", "days_to_maturity": 80, "type": "mid all-purpose", "traits": "Yellow, versatile", "beginner": true }, { "name": "Kennebec", "days_to_maturity": 90, "type": "mid", "traits": "Disease-resistant, high yield", "beginner": true }, { "name": "Red Norland", "days_to_maturity": 70, "type": "early red", "traits": "Fast new potatoes", "beginner": false }, { "name": "Russet Burbank", "days_to_maturity": 110, "type": "late baking", "traits": "Storage/baking; long season", "beginner": false } ], "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate even water. Soil: loose, slightly acid, pH 5.0–6.5 — NEVER add fresh lime (causes scab). Climate: cool-season; frost-tender tops.", "propagation": "Plant tubers 2–0 weeks before the last frost; space 12 in apart.", "care": "Hill soil over stems as they grow (blocks light/greening); mulch; even water. Rotate with ALL nightshades.", "pests_diseases": "Watch for colorado potato beetle, late blight, scab, eelworm. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "New potatoes at flowering; main crop after tops die. Cure 1–2 weeks in the dark, then root-cellar cool, dark, humid." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Chitting", "content": "For early crops, 'chit' seed potatoes: stand them eyes-up in a cool, light place 4–6 weeks before planting to grow short, sturdy green sprouts." }, { "title": "Earthing up", "content": "Draw soil up over the stems in stages as they grow — this blanks tubers from light (green tubers are toxic), suppresses weeds, and lifts yield." }, { "title": "Growing in containers", "content": "No dig-space? Grow in bins, sacks, or on top of compost, adding material as the haulm grows, then tip out to harvest." }, { "title": "Blight management", "content": "In warm, wet spells watch for late blight; remove the haulm at the first sign so spores don't wash down to the tubers." }, { "title": "Storing (clamping)", "content": "Cure lifted tubers a week or two in the dark, then store in a clamp or in the dark in a cool, frost-free, humid place." } ] }, { "id": "tomato", "common_name": "Tomato", "aka": [], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Solanaceae", "rotation_group": "nightshade", "trail_color": "dark-red", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -4 ], "mode": "indoor" }, { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ 1, 2 ], "mode": "transplant", "soil_temp_min_f": 60 } ], "spacing_in": 24, "sqft_count": 0.5, "small_space_value": "high", "days_to_maturity": [ 60, 85 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "tender", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [ "late_blight", "early_blight", "hornworm", "blossom_end_rot" ], "storage": [ "can_waterbath_acidified", "freeze", "dry" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "DTM from transplant. Heat >90F drops fruit-set. Water-bath canning needs added acid.", "varieties": [ { "name": "Early Girl", "days_to_maturity": 55, "type": "indeterminate slicer", "traits": "Reliable, early", "beginner": true }, { "name": "Celebrity", "days_to_maturity": 70, "type": "determinate slicer", "traits": "Disease-resistant VFNT", "beginner": true }, { "name": "Sungold", "days_to_maturity": 57, "type": "indeterminate cherry", "traits": "Very sweet, crack-prone", "beginner": true }, { "name": "Roma", "days_to_maturity": 75, "type": "determinate paste", "traits": "Meaty; canning/sauce", "beginner": false }, { "name": "Cherokee Purple", "days_to_maturity": 80, "type": "indeterminate heirloom", "traits": "Rich flavor, disease-prone", "beginner": false }, { "name": "San Marzano", "days_to_maturity": 80, "type": "indeterminate paste", "traits": "Classic sauce", "beginner": false } ], "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: rich, well-drained soil, pH 6.0–6.8. Climate: warm-season; frost kills it.", "propagation": "Start indoors 6–4 weeks before the last frost; transplant out 1–2 weeks after the last frost once soil is ≥60°F; space 24 in apart (0.5/sq ft).", "care": "Stake or cage; prune suckers on indeterminates; mulch and water evenly to prevent blossom-end rot and cracking.", "pests_diseases": "Watch for late blight, early blight, hornworm, blossom end rot. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Pick as they color up. Water-bath can ONLY with added acid (lemon/citric), or freeze/dry; green tomatoes ripen indoors." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Planting out", "content": "Set plants deep (lowest leaves near the soil) so the buried stem roots; drive a tall stake in first when transplanting so you don't spear the roots later." }, { "title": "Stopping & side-shooting", "content": "On indeterminate (cordon) types, pinch out the side-shoots in each leaf axil and 'stop' the plant (remove the tip) a few leaves above the top truss. Determinate/bush types are left alone." }, { "title": "Ring culture", "content": "Under glass, grow in bottomless pots of compost stood on gravel — water the aggregate to feed the roots and the pot to feed the plant, which curbs soil disease." }, { "title": "Grow bags", "content": "Where there's no bed, plant two or three to a grow bag; watch watering, as bags dry out fast and can't be over-filled." }, { "title": "Keeping plants low", "content": "In a small plot, plant close, stop each plant after one truss, and allow no side-shoots — ruthless, but it can give more early ripe fruit." }, { "title": "Ripening", "content": "At season's end pick sound green fruit to ripen indoors, or lift and hang the whole plant under cover." } ] }, { "id": "pepper", "common_name": "Pepper", "aka": [ "capsicum", "chili" ], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Solanaceae", "rotation_group": "nightshade", "trail_color": "dark-red", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -8, -7 ], "mode": "indoor" }, { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ 2, 3 ], "mode": "transplant", "soil_temp_min_f": 65 } ], "spacing_in": 15, "sqft_count": 1, "small_space_value": "high", "days_to_maturity": [ 60, 90 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "tender", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [ "aphid", "blossom_end_rot" ], "storage": [ "freeze", "dry" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Needs warm soil; slow start; thrives US south.", "varieties": [ { "name": "California Wonder", "days_to_maturity": 75, "type": "sweet bell", "traits": "Standard bell", "beginner": true }, { "name": "Jalapeno", "days_to_maturity": 70, "type": "hot chili", "traits": "Reliable medium heat", "beginner": true }, { "name": "Shishito", "days_to_maturity": 60, "type": "sweet frying", "traits": "Early, mild, prolific", "beginner": false }, { "name": "Habanero", "days_to_maturity": 90, "type": "very hot", "traits": "Long season, needs heat", "beginner": false } ], "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: rich, well-drained soil, pH 6.0–6.8. Climate: warm-season; frost kills it.", "propagation": "Start indoors 8–7 weeks before the last frost; transplant out 2–3 weeks after the last frost once soil is ≥65°F; space 15 in apart (1/sq ft).", "care": "Mulch and water evenly to prevent blossom-end rot; support/stake tall types.", "pests_diseases": "Watch for aphid, blossom end rot. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Pick green or leave to ripen red/colored (sweeter). Freeze, dry, or pickle." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Support", "content": "Stake or cage laden plants; pinch the first flower to build a bushier, more productive plant." } ] }, { "id": "eggplant", "common_name": "Eggplant", "aka": [ "aubergine" ], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Solanaceae", "rotation_group": "nightshade", "trail_color": "dark-red", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -8, -7 ], "mode": "indoor" }, { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ 2, 3 ], "mode": "transplant", "soil_temp_min_f": 65 } ], "spacing_in": 20, "sqft_count": 1, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": [ 70, 90 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "tender", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [ "flea_beetle" ], "storage": [ "freeze" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Most heat-loving nightshade; marginal in cool-summer areas.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: rich, well-drained soil, pH 6.0–6.8. Climate: warm-season; frost kills it.", "propagation": "Start indoors 8–7 weeks before the last frost; transplant out 2–3 weeks after the last frost once soil is ≥65°F; space 20 in apart (1/sq ft).", "care": "Mulch and water evenly to prevent blossom-end rot; support/stake tall types.", "pests_diseases": "Watch for flea beetle. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 70–90 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: freeze." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Support & pinching", "content": "Stake the plants; pinch the growing tip once several fruit have set and remove extra flowers so the fruit sizes." } ] }, { "id": "tomatillo", "common_name": "Tomatillo", "aka": [], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Solanaceae", "rotation_group": "nightshade", "trail_color": "dark-red", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -4 ], "mode": "indoor" }, { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ 1, 2 ], "mode": "transplant", "soil_temp_min_f": 60 } ], "spacing_in": 24, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": [ 75, 100 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "tender", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "freeze" ], "source": "general", "us_adaptation_note": "Needs 2+ plants for pollination.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: rich, well-drained soil, pH 6.0–6.8. Climate: warm-season; frost kills it.", "propagation": "Start indoors 6–4 weeks before the last frost; transplant out 1–2 weeks after the last frost once soil is ≥60°F; space 24 in apart.", "care": "Mulch and water evenly to prevent blossom-end rot; support/stake tall types.", "pests_diseases": "Blights, flea beetles, hornworms/potato beetles. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 75–100 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: freeze." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Support & harvest", "content": "Cage the sprawling plants; harvest when the papery husk fills out and splits — fruit inside should be firm." } ] }, { "id": "ground_cherry", "common_name": "Ground cherry", "aka": [ "husk cherry" ], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Solanaceae", "rotation_group": "nightshade", "trail_color": "dark-red", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -4 ], "mode": "indoor" }, { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ 1, 2 ], "mode": "transplant", "soil_temp_min_f": 60 } ], "spacing_in": 24, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": [ 70, 90 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "tender", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [], "source": "general", "us_adaptation_note": "Sprawling; self-seeds.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: rich, well-drained soil, pH 6.0–6.8. Climate: warm-season; frost kills it.", "propagation": "Start indoors 6–4 weeks before the last frost; transplant out 1–2 weeks after the last frost once soil is ≥60°F; space 24 in apart.", "care": "Mulch and water evenly to prevent blossom-end rot; support/stake tall types.", "pests_diseases": "Blights, flea beetles, hornworms/potato beetles. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 70–90 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: use fresh." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Harvesting", "content": "Gather the husked fruit as it drops to the ground fully ripe and sweet." } ] }, { "id": "cabbage", "common_name": "Cabbage", "aka": [], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Brassicaceae", "rotation_group": "brassica", "trail_color": "blue", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -4 ], "mode": "indoor" }, { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -3, -2 ], "mode": "transplant" } ], "spacing_in": 15, "sqft_count": 1, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": [ 70, 100 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [ "flea_beetle", "cabbage_worm", "club_root" ], "storage": [ "fresh" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "3-yr club-root gap; spring + fall.", "varieties": [ { "name": "Golden Acre", "days_to_maturity": 65, "type": "early green", "traits": "Small, quick", "beginner": true }, { "name": "Copenhagen Market", "days_to_maturity": 70, "type": "green", "traits": "Uniform", "beginner": false }, { "name": "Red Acre", "days_to_maturity": 75, "type": "red", "traits": "Keeper; kraut/pickle", "beginner": false }, { "name": "January King", "days_to_maturity": 100, "type": "savoy overwinter", "traits": "Very cold-hardy", "beginner": false } ], "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: firm, fertile soil limed to pH 6.5–7.5 (sweet soil deters club-root). Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Start indoors 6–4 weeks before the last frost; transplant out 3–2 weeks before the last frost; space 15 in apart (1/sq ft).", "care": "Firm the soil, keep moist, and net or row-cover against cabbage moths; hoe weeds.", "pests_diseases": "Watch for flea beetle, cabbage worm, club root. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 70–100 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: use fresh." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Firm planting", "content": "Plant brassicas FIRM and deep with a dibber to the depth they grew in the seed-bed, then heel the soil in hard — loose planting gives loose, poor heads. Dipping roots in a limy mud slurry aids establishment." }, { "title": "Earthing up", "content": "Draw soil up around the stems as plants grow for extra anchorage." }, { "title": "Clearing the stems", "content": "Pull each root out after cutting (leaving it invites disease) and crush/chop the stem for compost." } ] }, { "id": "broccoli", "common_name": "Broccoli", "aka": [ "calabrese" ], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Brassicaceae", "rotation_group": "brassica", "trail_color": "blue", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -4 ], "mode": "indoor" }, { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -3, -2 ], "mode": "transplant" } ], "spacing_in": 16, "sqft_count": 1, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": [ 60, 85 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "half_hardy", "succession": true, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [ "flea_beetle", "cabbage_worm", "club_root" ], "storage": [ "fresh" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Heat makes it button - time for cool.", "varieties": [ { "name": "Waltham 29", "days_to_maturity": 74, "type": "fall heading", "traits": "Cold-tolerant, side shoots", "beginner": true }, { "name": "Di Cicco", "days_to_maturity": 65, "type": "heirloom", "traits": "Small heads + side shoots", "beginner": false }, { "name": "Calabrese", "days_to_maturity": 70, "type": "heirloom", "traits": "Italian sprouting", "beginner": false } ], "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: firm, fertile soil limed to pH 6.5–7.5 (sweet soil deters club-root). Climate: cool-season; only light frost.", "propagation": "Start indoors 6–4 weeks before the last frost; transplant out 3–2 weeks before the last frost; space 16 in apart (1/sq ft).", "care": "Firm the soil, keep moist, and net or row-cover against cabbage moths; hoe weeds.", "pests_diseases": "Watch for flea beetle, cabbage worm, club root. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 60–85 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: use fresh." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Protection & support", "content": "Net against cabbage-white butterflies in summer and pigeons in winter; stake tall sprouting types and mulch for winter." } ] }, { "id": "cauliflower", "common_name": "Cauliflower", "aka": [], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Brassicaceae", "rotation_group": "brassica", "trail_color": "blue", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -4 ], "mode": "indoor" }, { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -3, -2 ], "mode": "transplant" } ], "spacing_in": 18, "sqft_count": 1, "small_space_value": "low", "days_to_maturity": [ 70, 90 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "half_hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [ "flea_beetle", "cabbage_worm", "club_root" ], "storage": [ "fresh" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Fussy on heat/moisture - not a beginner crop.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: firm, fertile soil limed to pH 6.5–7.5 (sweet soil deters club-root). Climate: cool-season; only light frost.", "propagation": "Start indoors 6–4 weeks before the last frost; transplant out 3–2 weeks before the last frost; space 18 in apart (1/sq ft).", "care": "Firm the soil, keep moist, and net or row-cover against cabbage moths; hoe weeds.", "pests_diseases": "Watch for flea beetle, cabbage worm, club root. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 70–90 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: use fresh." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Cull 'blind' seedlings", "content": "At planting, discard any seedling with no tiny central bud ('blind') — it will never form a curd." }, { "title": "Protecting the curds", "content": "Shade the developing white curd by snapping or bending a few outer leaves over it (or tie them), keeping it white and tight." } ] }, { "id": "romanesco", "common_name": "Romanesco", "aka": [], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Brassicaceae", "rotation_group": "brassica", "trail_color": "blue", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -4 ], "mode": "indoor" }, { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -3, -2 ], "mode": "transplant" } ], "spacing_in": 18, "sqft_count": 1, "small_space_value": "low", "days_to_maturity": [ 75, 100 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "half_hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [ "flea_beetle", "cabbage_worm", "club_root" ], "storage": [ "fresh" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Fractal cauliflower; long, cool season.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: firm, fertile soil limed to pH 6.5–7.5 (sweet soil deters club-root). Climate: cool-season; only light frost.", "propagation": "Start indoors 6–4 weeks before the last frost; transplant out 3–2 weeks before the last frost; space 18 in apart (1/sq ft).", "care": "Firm the soil, keep moist, and net or row-cover against cabbage moths; hoe weeds.", "pests_diseases": "Watch for flea beetle, cabbage worm, club root. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 75–100 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: use fresh." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Curd protection", "content": "Shade the developing head by bending a few outer leaves over it, as for cauliflower." } ] }, { "id": "brussels_sprouts", "common_name": "Brussels sprouts", "aka": [], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Brassicaceae", "rotation_group": "brassica", "trail_color": "blue", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "first_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -16, -13 ], "mode": "transplant" } ], "spacing_in": 20, "sqft_count": 0.25, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": [ 90, 120 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [ "flea_beetle", "cabbage_worm", "club_root" ], "storage": [ "fresh" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Long season; frost sweetens; target first-frost.", "varieties": [ { "name": "Long Island Improved", "days_to_maturity": 100, "type": "heirloom", "traits": "Standard", "beginner": true }, { "name": "Diablo", "days_to_maturity": 110, "type": "hybrid", "traits": "Uniform, high yield", "beginner": false } ], "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: firm, fertile soil limed to pH 6.5–7.5 (sweet soil deters club-root). Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "transplant out 16–13 weeks before the first fall frost; space 20 in apart (0.25/sq ft).", "care": "Firm the soil, keep moist, and net or row-cover against cabbage moths; hoe weeds.", "pests_diseases": "Watch for flea beetle, cabbage worm, club root. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 90–120 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: use fresh." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Firm the bed", "content": "Sprouts need firm soil or they grow loose and 'blown' — roll or tread the bed before planting." }, { "title": "Earthing up", "content": "Draw soil up around the base as plants grow; good earthing-up usually gives enough support on its own." }, { "title": "Staking", "content": "In windy, exposed spots stake each tall stem as well." }, { "title": "Strip lower leaves", "content": "Remove the lowest leaves as they yellow; pick sprouts from the bottom of the stem upward." } ] }, { "id": "kale", "common_name": "Kale", "aka": [], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Brassicaceae", "rotation_group": "brassica", "trail_color": "blue", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "direct" }, { "anchor": "first_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -8, -6 ], "mode": "direct" } ], "spacing_in": 15, "sqft_count": 1, "small_space_value": "high", "days_to_maturity": [ 55, 75 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": true, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [ "flea_beetle", "cabbage_worm", "club_root" ], "storage": [ "fresh" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Very cold-hardy; frost sweetens; overwinters in mild zones.", "varieties": [ { "name": "Winterbor", "days_to_maturity": 60, "type": "curly", "traits": "Very cold-hardy", "beginner": true }, { "name": "Lacinato", "days_to_maturity": 60, "type": "Tuscan", "traits": "Flat, tender", "beginner": false }, { "name": "Red Russian", "days_to_maturity": 50, "type": "Russian", "traits": "Tender, sweet after frost", "beginner": false } ], "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: firm, fertile soil limed to pH 6.5–7.5 (sweet soil deters club-root). Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 4–2 weeks before the last frost; Direct-sow 8–6 weeks before the first fall frost; space 15 in apart (1/sq ft).", "care": "Firm the soil, keep moist, and net or row-cover against cabbage moths; hoe weeds.", "pests_diseases": "Watch for flea beetle, cabbage worm, club root. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 55–75 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: use fresh." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Harvesting", "content": "Pick lower leaves from the bottom up, leaving the growing crown; flavor sweetens markedly after frost." } ] }, { "id": "collards", "common_name": "Collards", "aka": [], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Brassicaceae", "rotation_group": "brassica", "trail_color": "blue", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "direct" }, { "anchor": "first_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -8, -6 ], "mode": "direct" } ], "spacing_in": 18, "sqft_count": 1, "small_space_value": "high", "days_to_maturity": [ 60, 75 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": true, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [ "flea_beetle", "cabbage_worm", "club_root" ], "storage": [ "fresh" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "US-south staple; both heat- AND cold-tolerant; frost sweetens.", "varieties": [ { "name": "Georgia Southern", "days_to_maturity": 75, "type": "heirloom", "traits": "Heat-tolerant classic", "beginner": true }, { "name": "Champion", "days_to_maturity": 60, "type": "compact", "traits": "Bolt-resistant", "beginner": true } ], "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: firm, fertile soil limed to pH 6.5–7.5 (sweet soil deters club-root). Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 4–2 weeks before the last frost; Direct-sow 8–6 weeks before the first fall frost; space 18 in apart (1/sq ft).", "care": "Firm the soil, keep moist, and net or row-cover against cabbage moths; hoe weeds.", "pests_diseases": "Watch for flea beetle, cabbage worm, club root. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 60–75 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: use fresh." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Harvesting", "content": "Pick lower leaves as needed, working up the stem; harvest through cold — frost improves them." } ] }, { "id": "kohlrabi", "common_name": "Kohlrabi", "aka": [], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Brassicaceae", "rotation_group": "brassica", "trail_color": "blue", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "direct" }, { "anchor": "first_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -8, -6 ], "mode": "direct" } ], "spacing_in": 6, "sqft_count": 4, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": [ 45, 60 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": true, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [ "flea_beetle", "cabbage_worm", "club_root" ], "storage": [ "fresh" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Fast; harvest young/tender.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: firm, fertile soil limed to pH 6.5–7.5 (sweet soil deters club-root). Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 4–2 weeks before the last frost; Direct-sow 8–6 weeks before the first fall frost; space 6 in apart (4/sq ft).", "care": "Firm the soil, keep moist, and net or row-cover against cabbage moths; hoe weeds.", "pests_diseases": "Watch for flea beetle, cabbage worm, club root. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 45–60 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: use fresh." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Thinning", "content": "Thin early to spacing and harvest young and tender — old bulbs turn woody. Watch for boron deficiency (hollow, corky flesh) on poor soils." } ] }, { "id": "turnip", "common_name": "Turnip", "aka": [], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Brassicaceae", "rotation_group": "brassica", "trail_color": "blue", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "direct" }, { "anchor": "first_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -8, -6 ], "mode": "direct" } ], "spacing_in": 3, "sqft_count": 9, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": [ 40, 55 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": true, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [ "flea_beetle", "cabbage_worm", "club_root" ], "storage": [ "fresh" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Brassica - club-root gap; strong fall crop.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: firm, fertile soil limed to pH 6.5–7.5 (sweet soil deters club-root). Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 4–2 weeks before the last frost; Direct-sow 8–6 weeks before the first fall frost; space 3 in apart (9/sq ft).", "care": "Firm the soil, keep moist, and net or row-cover against cabbage moths; hoe weeds.", "pests_diseases": "Watch for flea beetle, cabbage worm, club root. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 40–55 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: use fresh." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Thinning", "content": "Thin early for round roots; the thinnings' tops are edible greens." } ] }, { "id": "rutabaga", "common_name": "Rutabaga", "aka": [ "swede" ], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Brassicaceae", "rotation_group": "brassica", "trail_color": "blue", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "first_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -14, -12 ], "mode": "direct" } ], "spacing_in": 7, "sqft_count": 0.5, "small_space_value": "low", "days_to_maturity": [ 90, 110 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [ "flea_beetle", "cabbage_worm", "club_root" ], "storage": [ "fresh" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "UK 'swede'; fall/storage; frost improves flavor.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: firm, fertile soil limed to pH 6.5–7.5 (sweet soil deters club-root). Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 14–12 weeks before the first fall frost; space 7 in apart (0.5/sq ft).", "care": "Firm the soil, keep moist, and net or row-cover against cabbage moths; hoe weeds.", "pests_diseases": "Watch for flea beetle, cabbage worm, club root. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 90–110 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: use fresh." } }, { "id": "radish", "common_name": "Radish", "aka": [], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Brassicaceae", "rotation_group": "brassica", "trail_color": "blue", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "direct" }, { "anchor": "first_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -8, -6 ], "mode": "direct" } ], "spacing_in": 1, "sqft_count": 16, "small_space_value": "high", "days_to_maturity": [ 25, 30 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": true, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [ "flea_beetle", "cabbage_worm", "club_root" ], "storage": [ "fresh" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "MICRO-WIN crop (FR-55); brassica - counts in club-root rotation.", "varieties": [ { "name": "Cherry Belle", "days_to_maturity": 24, "type": "spring globe", "traits": "Fastest, mild", "beginner": true }, { "name": "French Breakfast", "days_to_maturity": 25, "type": "spring oblong", "traits": "Mild", "beginner": false }, { "name": "Daikon", "days_to_maturity": 60, "type": "winter", "traits": "Large fall/storage", "beginner": false } ], "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: firm, fertile soil limed to pH 6.5–7.5 (sweet soil deters club-root). Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 4–2 weeks before the last frost; Direct-sow 8–6 weeks before the first fall frost; space 1 in apart (16/sq ft).", "care": "Firm the soil, keep moist, and net or row-cover against cabbage moths; hoe weeds.", "pests_diseases": "Watch for flea beetle, cabbage worm, club root. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 25–30 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: use fresh." } }, { "id": "bok_choy", "common_name": "Bok choy", "aka": [ "pak choi" ], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Brassicaceae", "rotation_group": "brassica", "trail_color": "blue", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "direct" }, { "anchor": "first_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -8, -6 ], "mode": "direct" } ], "spacing_in": 8, "sqft_count": 4, "small_space_value": "high", "days_to_maturity": [ 45, 55 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "half_hardy", "succession": true, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [ "flea_beetle", "cabbage_worm", "club_root" ], "storage": [ "fresh" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Asian green; bolts in heat (spring/fall).", "varieties": [ { "name": "Joi Choi", "days_to_maturity": 50, "type": "full-size", "traits": "Bolt-resistant", "beginner": true }, { "name": "Toy Choi", "days_to_maturity": 30, "type": "baby", "traits": "Fast, containers", "beginner": true } ], "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: firm, fertile soil limed to pH 6.5–7.5 (sweet soil deters club-root). Climate: cool-season; only light frost.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 4–2 weeks before the last frost; Direct-sow 8–6 weeks before the first fall frost; space 8 in apart (4/sq ft).", "care": "Firm the soil, keep moist, and net or row-cover against cabbage moths; hoe weeds.", "pests_diseases": "Watch for flea beetle, cabbage worm, club root. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 45–55 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: use fresh." } }, { "id": "napa_cabbage", "common_name": "Napa cabbage", "aka": [ "Chinese cabbage" ], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Brassicaceae", "rotation_group": "brassica", "trail_color": "blue", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "first_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -4 ], "mode": "direct" } ], "spacing_in": 12, "sqft_count": 1, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": [ 70, 80 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "half_hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [ "flea_beetle", "cabbage_worm", "club_root" ], "storage": [ "fresh" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "FALL crop (bolts spring); for kimchi.", "varieties": [ { "name": "Michihili", "days_to_maturity": 72, "type": "tall", "traits": "Classic", "beginner": false }, { "name": "Bilko", "days_to_maturity": 54, "type": "barrel", "traits": "Disease-resistant", "beginner": true } ], "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: firm, fertile soil limed to pH 6.5–7.5 (sweet soil deters club-root). Climate: cool-season; only light frost.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 6–4 weeks before the first fall frost; space 12 in apart (1/sq ft).", "care": "Firm the soil, keep moist, and net or row-cover against cabbage moths; hoe weeds.", "pests_diseases": "Watch for flea beetle, cabbage worm, club root. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 70–80 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: use fresh." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Tying to blanch", "content": "Never let it dry out; once the heart forms, tie the leaves together top and bottom to conserve moisture and blanch the pale inner leaves." } ] }, { "id": "mustard_greens", "common_name": "Mustard greens", "aka": [], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Brassicaceae", "rotation_group": "brassica", "trail_color": "blue", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "direct" }, { "anchor": "first_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -8, -6 ], "mode": "direct" } ], "spacing_in": 6, "sqft_count": 4, "small_space_value": "high", "days_to_maturity": [ 40, 50 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": true, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [ "flea_beetle", "cabbage_worm", "club_root" ], "storage": [ "fresh" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "US-south staple; heat->pungent/bolt.", "varieties": [ { "name": "Southern Giant Curled", "days_to_maturity": 50, "type": "curled", "traits": "Southern classic", "beginner": true }, { "name": "Red Giant", "days_to_maturity": 45, "type": "purple", "traits": "Spicy", "beginner": false } ], "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: firm, fertile soil limed to pH 6.5–7.5 (sweet soil deters club-root). Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 4–2 weeks before the last frost; Direct-sow 8–6 weeks before the first fall frost; space 6 in apart (4/sq ft).", "care": "Firm the soil, keep moist, and net or row-cover against cabbage moths; hoe weeds.", "pests_diseases": "Watch for flea beetle, cabbage worm, club root. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 40–50 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: use fresh." } }, { "id": "mizuna", "common_name": "Mizuna", "aka": [], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Brassicaceae", "rotation_group": "brassica", "trail_color": "blue", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "direct" }, { "anchor": "first_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -8, -6 ], "mode": "direct" } ], "spacing_in": 6, "sqft_count": 4, "small_space_value": "high", "days_to_maturity": [ 40, 45 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": true, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [ "flea_beetle", "cabbage_worm", "club_root" ], "storage": [ "fresh" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Mild, fast, cut-and-come-again; winter under cover.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: firm, fertile soil limed to pH 6.5–7.5 (sweet soil deters club-root). Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 4–2 weeks before the last frost; Direct-sow 8–6 weeks before the first fall frost; space 6 in apart (4/sq ft).", "care": "Firm the soil, keep moist, and net or row-cover against cabbage moths; hoe weeds.", "pests_diseases": "Watch for flea beetle, cabbage worm, club root. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 40–45 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: use fresh." } }, { "id": "tatsoi", "common_name": "Tatsoi", "aka": [], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Brassicaceae", "rotation_group": "brassica", "trail_color": "blue", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "direct" }, { "anchor": "first_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -8, -6 ], "mode": "direct" } ], "spacing_in": 6, "sqft_count": 4, "small_space_value": "high", "days_to_maturity": [ 45, 50 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": true, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [ "flea_beetle", "cabbage_worm", "club_root" ], "storage": [ "fresh" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Cold-hardy rosette; strong winter crop.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: firm, fertile soil limed to pH 6.5–7.5 (sweet soil deters club-root). Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 4–2 weeks before the last frost; Direct-sow 8–6 weeks before the first fall frost; space 6 in apart (4/sq ft).", "care": "Firm the soil, keep moist, and net or row-cover against cabbage moths; hoe weeds.", "pests_diseases": "Watch for flea beetle, cabbage worm, club root. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 45–50 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: use fresh." } }, { "id": "arugula", "common_name": "Arugula", "aka": [ "rocket" ], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Brassicaceae", "rotation_group": "brassica", "trail_color": "blue", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "direct" }, { "anchor": "first_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -8, -6 ], "mode": "direct" } ], "spacing_in": 4, "sqft_count": 9, "small_space_value": "high", "days_to_maturity": [ 30, 40 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": true, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [ "flea_beetle", "cabbage_worm", "club_root" ], "storage": [ "fresh" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Fast peppery green; bolts in heat.", "varieties": [ { "name": "Astro", "days_to_maturity": 38, "type": "cultivated", "traits": "Milder, fast", "beginner": true }, { "name": "Sylvetta", "days_to_maturity": 50, "type": "wild", "traits": "Slower, spicier", "beginner": false } ], "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: firm, fertile soil limed to pH 6.5–7.5 (sweet soil deters club-root). Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 4–2 weeks before the last frost; Direct-sow 8–6 weeks before the first fall frost; space 4 in apart (9/sq ft).", "care": "Firm the soil, keep moist, and net or row-cover against cabbage moths; hoe weeds.", "pests_diseases": "Watch for flea beetle, cabbage worm, club root. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 30–40 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: use fresh." } }, { "id": "watercress", "common_name": "Watercress", "aka": [], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Brassicaceae", "rotation_group": "brassica", "trail_color": "blue", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "direct" }, { "anchor": "first_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -8, -6 ], "mode": "direct" } ], "spacing_in": 6, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": [ 50, 60 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [ "flea_beetle", "cabbage_worm", "club_root" ], "storage": [ "fresh" ], "source": "seymour", "us_adaptation_note": "Needs clean water. SAFETY: wild carries liver-fluke - cultivate.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: firm, fertile soil limed to pH 6.5–7.5 (sweet soil deters club-root). Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 4–2 weeks before the last frost; Direct-sow 8–6 weeks before the first fall frost; space 6 in apart.", "care": "Firm the soil, keep moist, and net or row-cover against cabbage moths; hoe weeds.", "pests_diseases": "Few pests in clean water. SAFETY: wild watercress can carry liver fluke — only eat cultivated, clean-water crops.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 50–60 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: use fresh." } }, { "id": "horseradish", "common_name": "Horseradish", "aka": [], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Brassicaceae", "rotation_group": "brassica", "trail_color": "blue", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "crown" } ], "spacing_in": 18, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "low", "days_to_maturity": [ 365, 365 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [ "flea_beetle", "cabbage_worm", "club_root" ], "storage": [ "fresh" ], "source": "seymour", "us_adaptation_note": "Perennial root; SPREADS - contain. Very pungent.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: firm, fertile soil limed to pH 6.5–7.5 (sweet soil deters club-root). Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Plant crowns/divisions 4–2 weeks before the last frost; space 18 in apart.", "care": "Firm the soil, keep moist, and net or row-cover against cabbage moths; hoe weeds.", "pests_diseases": "Watch for flea beetle, cabbage worm, club root. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Store by: use fresh." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Containment", "content": "Grow in a sunk container or bed edge; every root scrap regrows, so it spreads." }, { "title": "Harvesting", "content": "Dig the pungent roots from fall on; leave a piece to regrow next year." } ] }, { "id": "carrot", "common_name": "Carrot", "aka": [], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Apiaceae", "rotation_group": "root", "trail_color": "violet", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -3, 8 ], "mode": "direct" } ], "spacing_in": 3, "sqft_count": 16, "small_space_value": "high", "days_to_maturity": [ 60, 80 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": true, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [ "carrot_fly" ], "storage": [ "root_cellar", "in_ground" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Loose, stone-free soil; no fresh manure (forking).", "varieties": [ { "name": "Danvers 126", "days_to_maturity": 75, "type": "Danvers", "traits": "Tolerates heavier soil", "beginner": true }, { "name": "Scarlet Nantes", "days_to_maturity": 70, "type": "Nantes", "traits": "Sweet, tender", "beginner": true }, { "name": "Chantenay Red Core", "days_to_maturity": 70, "type": "Chantenay", "traits": "Short; heavy soils", "beginner": false }, { "name": "Little Finger", "days_to_maturity": 55, "type": "baby", "traits": "Fast, containers", "beginner": false } ], "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, loose, stone-free soil, pH 6.0–6.8; avoid freshly manured ground (roots fork). Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 3–8 weeks before the last frost; space 3 in apart (16/sq ft).", "care": "Thin to spacing; keep evenly moist to prevent splitting; sprinkle soil to hide the scent from carrot fly.", "pests_diseases": "Watch for carrot fly. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Pull young anytime; lift main crop before hard frost and store in damp sand in a root cellar (washed roots rot)." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Thinning & carrot fly", "content": "Thin on a still, damp evening and firm the soil back — the crushed-carrot scent draws carrot fly; a fine mesh or low barrier keeps the low-flying fly off." }, { "title": "Storing", "content": "Lift the main crop before hard frost and store the unwashed roots in damp sand in a cool cellar; washed roots rot fast." } ] }, { "id": "parsnip", "common_name": "Parsnip", "aka": [], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Apiaceae", "rotation_group": "root", "trail_color": "violet", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "direct" } ], "spacing_in": 4, "sqft_count": 9, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": [ 100, 120 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [ "carrot_fly" ], "storage": [ "in_ground", "root_cellar" ], "source": "seymour", "us_adaptation_note": "Frost sweetens; use fresh seed.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, loose, stone-free soil, pH 6.0–6.8; avoid freshly manured ground (roots fork). Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 4–2 weeks before the last frost; space 4 in apart (9/sq ft).", "care": "Thin seedlings to spacing; keep evenly watered to avoid splitting; hoe carefully.", "pests_diseases": "Watch for carrot fly. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 100–120 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: leave in ground under mulch, root-cellar." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Thinning", "content": "Thin early to final spacing (crowded roots stay small and forked); use fresh seed as it germinates slowly and erratically." }, { "title": "Canker", "content": "Guard against parsnip canker (brown/black shoulder rot) with rotation, resistant varieties, and avoiding fresh manure." } ] }, { "id": "beet", "common_name": "Beet", "aka": [ "beetroot" ], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Amaranthaceae", "rotation_group": "root", "trail_color": "violet", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, 8 ], "mode": "direct" } ], "spacing_in": 3, "sqft_count": 9, "small_space_value": "high", "days_to_maturity": [ 50, 65 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "half_hardy", "succession": true, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [ "leaf_miner" ], "storage": [ "root_cellar", "pickle" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Tolerates some heat; greens edible.", "varieties": [ { "name": "Detroit Dark Red", "days_to_maturity": 58, "type": "round red", "traits": "Dual-purpose standard", "beginner": true }, { "name": "Chioggia", "days_to_maturity": 55, "type": "heirloom", "traits": "Pink-white rings", "beginner": false }, { "name": "Golden", "days_to_maturity": 55, "type": "yellow", "traits": "Sweet, non-bleeding", "beginner": false }, { "name": "Cylindra", "days_to_maturity": 60, "type": "cylindrical", "traits": "Uniform slices", "beginner": false } ], "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, loose, stone-free soil, pH 6.0–6.8; avoid freshly manured ground (roots fork). Climate: cool-season; only light frost.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 4–8 weeks before the last frost; space 3 in apart (9/sq ft).", "care": "Thin seedlings to spacing; keep evenly watered to avoid splitting; hoe carefully.", "pests_diseases": "Watch for leaf miner. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 50–65 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: root-cellar, pickle." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Thinning", "content": "Each beet 'seed' is a cluster — thin the seedlings to one per station for well-shaped roots." } ] }, { "id": "celery", "common_name": "Celery", "aka": [], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Apiaceae", "rotation_group": "root", "trail_color": "violet", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -4 ], "mode": "indoor" }, { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -3, -2 ], "mode": "transplant" } ], "spacing_in": 8, "sqft_count": 4, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": [ 100, 130 ], "sun": "partial", "water": "high", "hardiness": "half_hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [], "source": "seymour", "us_adaptation_note": "Thirsty; self-blanching types easier; no lime.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun to partial shade; generous, never let it dry out water. Soil: deep, loose, stone-free soil, pH 6.0–6.8; avoid freshly manured ground (roots fork). Climate: cool-season; only light frost.", "propagation": "Start indoors 6–4 weeks before the last frost; transplant out 3–2 weeks before the last frost; space 8 in apart (4/sq ft).", "care": "Thin seedlings to spacing; keep evenly watered to avoid splitting; hoe carefully.", "pests_diseases": "Carrot/root fly and forking in rough soil. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 100–130 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: use fresh." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Trenching & blanching", "content": "Trench types: plant in a prepared trench and draw soil up (or wrap collars) around the stems in stages over the last weeks to blanch them pale and mild." }, { "title": "Self-blanching types", "content": "Self-blanching celery is grown at close spacing in a block on the flat — no trenching needed, but less hardy." } ] }, { "id": "celeriac", "common_name": "Celeriac", "aka": [ "celery root" ], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Apiaceae", "rotation_group": "root", "trail_color": "violet", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -4 ], "mode": "indoor" }, { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -3, -2 ], "mode": "transplant" } ], "spacing_in": 8, "sqft_count": 4, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": [ 100, 120 ], "sun": "partial", "water": "high", "hardiness": "half_hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "root_cellar" ], "source": "seymour", "us_adaptation_note": "Long season.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun to partial shade; generous, never let it dry out water. Soil: deep, loose, stone-free soil, pH 6.0–6.8; avoid freshly manured ground (roots fork). Climate: cool-season; only light frost.", "propagation": "Start indoors 6–4 weeks before the last frost; transplant out 3–2 weeks before the last frost; space 8 in apart (4/sq ft).", "care": "Thin seedlings to spacing; keep evenly watered to avoid splitting; hoe carefully.", "pests_diseases": "Carrot/root fly and forking in rough soil. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 100–120 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: root-cellar." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Removing side growth", "content": "Unlike celery, don't earth it up — instead remove side-shoots and stray side roots and draw soil away from the swelling crown so it forms cleanly." } ] }, { "id": "fennel_bulb", "common_name": "Fennel (Florence)", "aka": [ "finocchio" ], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Apiaceae", "rotation_group": "root", "trail_color": "violet", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "direct" } ], "spacing_in": 6, "sqft_count": 4, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": [ 65, 80 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "half_hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [], "source": "general", "us_adaptation_note": "Bulbing fennel; bolts in heat - grow for fall.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, loose, stone-free soil, pH 6.0–6.8; avoid freshly manured ground (roots fork). Climate: cool-season; only light frost.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 4–2 weeks before the last frost; space 6 in apart (4/sq ft).", "care": "Thin seedlings to spacing; keep evenly watered to avoid splitting; hoe carefully.", "pests_diseases": "Carrot/root fly and forking in rough soil. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 65–80 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: use fresh." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Blanching the bulb", "content": "Draw soil up around the swelling bulb (or wrap it) to keep it white, sweet, and tender." } ] }, { "id": "salsify", "common_name": "Salsify", "aka": [ "oyster plant" ], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Asteraceae", "rotation_group": "root", "trail_color": "violet", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "direct" } ], "spacing_in": 3, "sqft_count": 9, "small_space_value": "low", "days_to_maturity": [ 120, 150 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "in_ground" ], "source": "seymour", "us_adaptation_note": "Long-season root; frost sweetens.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, loose, stone-free soil, pH 6.0–6.8; avoid freshly manured ground (roots fork). Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 4–2 weeks before the last frost; space 3 in apart (9/sq ft).", "care": "Thin seedlings to spacing; keep evenly watered to avoid splitting; hoe carefully.", "pests_diseases": "Carrot/root fly and forking in rough soil. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 120–150 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: leave in ground under mulch." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Thinning", "content": "Thin seedlings to spacing early; crowded roots stay thin and forky." }, { "title": "Harvesting", "content": "Lift as needed through winter — flavor improves after frost; roots can also stay in the ground under mulch." } ] }, { "id": "sweet_potato", "common_name": "Sweet potato", "aka": [], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Convolvulaceae", "rotation_group": "root", "trail_color": "violet", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ 2, 3 ], "mode": "slip", "soil_temp_min_f": 65 } ], "spacing_in": 12, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "low", "days_to_maturity": [ 90, 120 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "tender", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "cure_store" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "US-ADVANTAGE (marginal in UK); long warm season; cure before storing.", "varieties": [ { "name": "Beauregard", "days_to_maturity": 90, "type": "orange", "traits": "Fast, reliable", "beginner": true }, { "name": "Georgia Jet", "days_to_maturity": 90, "type": "orange", "traits": "Short-season, north-friendly", "beginner": true } ], "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, loose, stone-free soil, pH 6.0–6.8; avoid freshly manured ground (roots fork). Climate: warm-season; frost kills it.", "propagation": "Plant slips 2–3 weeks after the last frost once soil is ≥65°F; space 12 in apart.", "care": "Thin seedlings to spacing; keep evenly watered to avoid splitting; hoe carefully.", "pests_diseases": "Carrot/root fly and forking in rough soil. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 90–120 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: cure, then store cool." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Curing", "content": "Cure dug roots ~10 days warm (80°F) and humid to heal skins and sweeten, then store cool — never refrigerate." }, { "title": "Raising slips", "content": "Start 'slips' (rooted shoots) from a tuber in a warm spot, then detach and plant them after the soil warms." }, { "title": "Ridging", "content": "Plant on warm ridges/mounds for drainage and heat; keep vines from rooting at every node so energy goes to the crop." } ] }, { "id": "jerusalem_artichoke", "common_name": "Jerusalem artichoke", "aka": [ "sunchoke" ], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Asteraceae", "rotation_group": "root", "trail_color": "violet", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -2, 0 ], "mode": "tuber" } ], "spacing_in": 12, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "low", "days_to_maturity": [ 120, 150 ], "sun": "full", "water": "low", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "in_ground" ], "source": "seymour", "us_adaptation_note": "Easy; SPREADS AGGRESSIVELY - contain.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; low, drought-tolerant once established water. Soil: deep, loose, stone-free soil, pH 6.0–6.8; avoid freshly manured ground (roots fork). Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Plant tubers 2–0 weeks before the last frost; space 12 in apart.", "care": "Thin seedlings to spacing; keep evenly watered to avoid splitting; hoe carefully.", "pests_diseases": "Carrot/root fly and forking in rough soil. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 120–150 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: leave in ground under mulch." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Containment", "content": "Plant where you can control it — any tuber left behind regrows, so it spreads fast; a bed edge or buried barrier helps." }, { "title": "Cutting down & harvest", "content": "Cut the tall stems down after frost (they double as a windbreak/support first); dig tubers as needed through winter." } ] }, { "id": "radish_daikon", "common_name": "Daikon radish", "aka": [], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Brassicaceae", "rotation_group": "root", "trail_color": "violet", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "first_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -4 ], "mode": "direct" } ], "spacing_in": 3, "sqft_count": 4, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": [ 50, 70 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [ "club_root" ], "storage": [], "source": "general", "us_adaptation_note": "Large fall/winter radish; also a soil-busting cover crop.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, loose, stone-free soil, pH 6.0–6.8; avoid freshly manured ground (roots fork). Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 6–4 weeks before the first fall frost; space 3 in apart (4/sq ft).", "care": "Thin seedlings to spacing; keep evenly watered to avoid splitting; hoe carefully.", "pests_diseases": "Watch for club root. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 50–70 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: use fresh." } }, { "id": "lettuce", "common_name": "Lettuce", "aka": [], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Asteraceae", "rotation_group": "leafy", "trail_color": "teal", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, 6 ], "mode": "direct" } ], "spacing_in": 6, "sqft_count": 4, "small_space_value": "high", "days_to_maturity": [ 45, 60 ], "sun": "partial", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "half_hardy", "succession": true, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [ "slug", "aphid" ], "storage": [ "fresh" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Bolts in US summer heat - shade/succession or spring+fall.", "varieties": [ { "name": "Buttercrunch", "days_to_maturity": 55, "type": "butterhead", "traits": "Heat-tolerant, slow bolt", "beginner": true }, { "name": "Black Seeded Simpson", "days_to_maturity": 45, "type": "looseleaf", "traits": "Fast", "beginner": true }, { "name": "Parris Island", "days_to_maturity": 70, "type": "romaine", "traits": "Upright, heat-tolerant", "beginner": false }, { "name": "Salad Bowl", "days_to_maturity": 50, "type": "looseleaf", "traits": "Long cutting", "beginner": false } ], "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun to partial shade; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: moist, fertile soil rich in organic matter, pH 6.0–7.0. Climate: cool-season; only light frost.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 4–6 weeks before the last frost; space 6 in apart (4/sq ft).", "care": "Keep moist and growing fast; harvest young; provide afternoon shade in heat to slow bolting.", "pests_diseases": "Watch for slug, aphid. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Cut whole heads or pick outer leaves (cut-and-come-again). Use fresh — does not store; sow every 2–3 weeks." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Preventing bolting", "content": "In heat, keep it growing fast with water and light afternoon shade, choose heat-tolerant/bolt-resistant types, and sow little-and-often rather than all at once." } ] }, { "id": "spinach", "common_name": "Spinach", "aka": [], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Amaranthaceae", "rotation_group": "leafy", "trail_color": "teal", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -4 ], "mode": "direct" }, { "anchor": "first_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -8, -6 ], "mode": "direct" } ], "spacing_in": 3, "sqft_count": 9, "small_space_value": "high", "days_to_maturity": [ 40, 50 ], "sun": "partial", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": true, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [ "leaf_miner", "downy_mildew" ], "storage": [ "freeze" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Bolts with heat/long days; strong US fall/overwinter crop.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun to partial shade; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: moist, fertile soil rich in organic matter, pH 6.0–7.0. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 6–4 weeks before the last frost; Direct-sow 8–6 weeks before the first fall frost; space 3 in apart (9/sq ft).", "care": "Keep moist and growing fast; harvest young; provide afternoon shade in heat to slow bolting.", "pests_diseases": "Watch for leaf miner, downy mildew. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 40–50 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: freeze." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Cut-and-come-again", "content": "Pick outer leaves and let the center keep producing; whole-plant cut a young stand for repeated flushes." } ] }, { "id": "chard", "common_name": "Swiss chard", "aka": [ "spinach beet" ], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Amaranthaceae", "rotation_group": "leafy", "trail_color": "teal", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "direct" } ], "spacing_in": 8, "sqft_count": 4, "small_space_value": "high", "days_to_maturity": [ 50, 60 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "half_hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [ "leaf_miner" ], "storage": [ "fresh", "freeze" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Heat-tolerant beet relative; cut-and-come-again all season.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: moist, fertile soil rich in organic matter, pH 6.0–7.0. Climate: cool-season; only light frost.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 4–2 weeks before the last frost; space 8 in apart (4/sq ft).", "care": "Keep moist and growing fast; harvest young; provide afternoon shade in heat to slow bolting.", "pests_diseases": "Watch for leaf miner. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 50–60 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: use fresh, freeze." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Cut-and-come-again", "content": "Snap or cut outer stalks and leaves; the plant regrows all season from the center." } ] }, { "id": "endive", "common_name": "Endive", "aka": [ "escarole" ], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Asteraceae", "rotation_group": "leafy", "trail_color": "teal", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "direct" } ], "spacing_in": 8, "sqft_count": 4, "small_space_value": "high", "days_to_maturity": [ 80, 100 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "half_hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [], "source": "general", "us_adaptation_note": "Blanch to reduce bitterness; fall crop.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: moist, fertile soil rich in organic matter, pH 6.0–7.0. Climate: cool-season; only light frost.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 4–2 weeks before the last frost; space 8 in apart (4/sq ft).", "care": "Keep moist and growing fast; harvest young; provide afternoon shade in heat to slow bolting.", "pests_diseases": "Slugs, aphids, leaf miners, and bolting in heat. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 80–100 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: use fresh." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Blanching", "content": "Cover a mature plant (an inverted plate or pot) for 2–3 weeks to blanch the heart and take out the bitterness." } ] }, { "id": "radicchio", "common_name": "Radicchio", "aka": [ "chicory" ], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Asteraceae", "rotation_group": "leafy", "trail_color": "teal", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "direct" } ], "spacing_in": 8, "sqft_count": 4, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": [ 80, 100 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "half_hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [], "source": "seymour", "us_adaptation_note": "Heads best in cool fall; can force chicons.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: moist, fertile soil rich in organic matter, pH 6.0–7.0. Climate: cool-season; only light frost.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 4–2 weeks before the last frost; space 8 in apart (4/sq ft).", "care": "Keep moist and growing fast; harvest young; provide afternoon shade in heat to slow bolting.", "pests_diseases": "Slugs, aphids, leaf miners, and bolting in heat. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 80–100 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: use fresh." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Forcing chicons", "content": "Lift roots in fall, trim, and force in the dark for tight pale 'chicons'; or let heads firm up in cool fall weather." } ] }, { "id": "corn_salad", "common_name": "Corn salad", "aka": [ "mache" ], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Caprifoliaceae", "rotation_group": "leafy", "trail_color": "teal", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "first_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -4 ], "mode": "direct" } ], "spacing_in": 3, "sqft_count": 16, "small_space_value": "high", "days_to_maturity": [ 45, 60 ], "sun": "partial", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [], "source": "seymour", "us_adaptation_note": "Cold-hardy winter salad under cover.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun to partial shade; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: moist, fertile soil rich in organic matter, pH 6.0–7.0. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 6–4 weeks before the first fall frost; space 3 in apart (16/sq ft).", "care": "Keep moist and growing fast; harvest young; provide afternoon shade in heat to slow bolting.", "pests_diseases": "Slugs, aphids, leaf miners, and bolting in heat. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 45–60 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: use fresh." } }, { "id": "orach", "common_name": "Orach", "aka": [ "mountain spinach" ], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Amaranthaceae", "rotation_group": "leafy", "trail_color": "teal", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "direct" } ], "spacing_in": 6, "sqft_count": 4, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": [ 40, 60 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "half_hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [], "source": "general", "us_adaptation_note": "Heat-tolerant spinach substitute.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: moist, fertile soil rich in organic matter, pH 6.0–7.0. Climate: cool-season; only light frost.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 4–2 weeks before the last frost; space 6 in apart (4/sq ft).", "care": "Keep moist and growing fast; harvest young; provide afternoon shade in heat to slow bolting.", "pests_diseases": "Slugs, aphids, leaf miners, and bolting in heat. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 40–60 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: use fresh." } }, { "id": "nz_spinach", "common_name": "New Zealand spinach", "aka": [], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Aizoaceae", "rotation_group": "leafy", "trail_color": "teal", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ 1, 2 ], "mode": "direct", "soil_temp_min_f": 60 } ], "spacing_in": 12, "sqft_count": 1, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": [ 55, 70 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "tender", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [], "source": "general", "us_adaptation_note": "Heat-loving spinach substitute for US summer.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: moist, fertile soil rich in organic matter, pH 6.0–7.0. Climate: warm-season; frost kills it.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 1–2 weeks after the last frost once soil is ≥60°F; space 12 in apart (1/sq ft).", "care": "Keep moist and growing fast; harvest young; provide afternoon shade in heat to slow bolting.", "pests_diseases": "Slugs, aphids, leaf miners, and bolting in heat. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 55–70 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: use fresh." } }, { "id": "malabar_spinach", "common_name": "Malabar spinach", "aka": [], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Basellaceae", "rotation_group": "leafy", "trail_color": "teal", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ 2, 3 ], "mode": "direct", "soil_temp_min_f": 65 } ], "spacing_in": 12, "sqft_count": 1, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": [ 60, 70 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "tender", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [], "source": "general", "us_adaptation_note": "Vining heat-lover; US south summer green.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: moist, fertile soil rich in organic matter, pH 6.0–7.0. Climate: warm-season; frost kills it.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 2–3 weeks after the last frost once soil is ≥65°F; space 12 in apart (1/sq ft).", "care": "Keep moist and growing fast; harvest young; provide afternoon shade in heat to slow bolting.", "pests_diseases": "Slugs, aphids, leaf miners, and bolting in heat. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 60–70 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: use fresh." } }, { "id": "amaranth_greens", "common_name": "Amaranth (greens)", "aka": [ "callaloo" ], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Amaranthaceae", "rotation_group": "leafy", "trail_color": "teal", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ 1, 2 ], "mode": "direct", "soil_temp_min_f": 60 } ], "spacing_in": 6, "sqft_count": 4, "small_space_value": "high", "days_to_maturity": [ 40, 60 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "tender", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [], "source": "general", "us_adaptation_note": "Heat-tolerant summer green; also grain type.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: moist, fertile soil rich in organic matter, pH 6.0–7.0. Climate: warm-season; frost kills it.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 1–2 weeks after the last frost once soil is ≥60°F; space 6 in apart (4/sq ft).", "care": "Keep moist and growing fast; harvest young; provide afternoon shade in heat to slow bolting.", "pests_diseases": "Slugs, aphids, leaf miners, and bolting in heat. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 40–60 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: use fresh." } }, { "id": "sorrel", "common_name": "Sorrel", "aka": [], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Polygonaceae", "rotation_group": "leafy", "trail_color": "teal", "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "crown" } ], "spacing_in": 12, "sqft_count": 1, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": [ 60, 60 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [], "source": "seymour", "us_adaptation_note": "Perennial tangy green.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: moist, fertile soil rich in organic matter, pH 6.0–7.0. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Plant crowns/divisions 4–2 weeks before the last frost; space 12 in apart (1/sq ft).", "care": "Keep moist and growing fast; harvest young; provide afternoon shade in heat to slow bolting.", "pests_diseases": "Slugs, aphids, leaf miners, and bolting in heat. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Store by: use fresh." } }, { "id": "asparagus", "common_name": "Asparagus", "aka": [], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Asparagaceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "crown" } ], "spacing_in": 18, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "low", "days_to_maturity": null, "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [ "asparagus_beetle" ], "storage": [ "fresh", "freeze" ], "source": "seymour", "us_adaptation_note": "Permanent 15+ yr bed; no harvest until year 3.", "years_to_bear": 3, "bearing": "crown", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Plant crowns/divisions 4–2 weeks before the last frost; space 18 in apart.", "care": "Keep the permanent bed weed-free; mulch; let ferns grow all summer; cut down in late fall.", "pests_diseases": "Watch for asparagus beetle. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Do NOT cut in years 1–2. From year 3, snap spears for ~6–8 weeks each spring, then let ferns feed the crowns. Use fresh or freeze." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Planting the crowns", "content": "Set crowns on a ridge in a trench of rich, weed-free soil in spring, spreading the roots, and never harvest in years 1–2." }, { "title": "Cutting down ferns", "content": "Let the summer ferns grow to feed the crowns; cut them down only when they yellow in late fall, then mulch." }, { "title": "Blanching (white spears)", "content": "For white asparagus, mound soil over the crowns and cut the spears below ground before they green up." } ] }, { "id": "rhubarb", "common_name": "Rhubarb", "aka": [], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Polygonaceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "crown" } ], "spacing_in": 36, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": null, "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "freeze" ], "source": "seymour", "us_adaptation_note": "SAFETY: leaves toxic (oxalic acid) - stalks only. Needs winter chill.", "years_to_bear": 2, "bearing": "crown", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Plant crowns/divisions 4–2 weeks before the last frost; space 36 in apart.", "care": "Feed heavily each spring; remove flower stalks; divide every 5–6 years. Leaves toxic.", "pests_diseases": "Generally trouble-free once established. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Pull (don't cut) stalks from year 2, stopping mid-summer. Eat STALKS ONLY — leaves are toxic. Freeze or make into sauce." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Cutting off flowers", "content": "Snap out any flower stalk as it appears so the plant's energy goes to stalks, not seed." }, { "title": "Forcing", "content": "For early, tender pink stalks, cover a dormant crown to exclude light in late winter; rest a forced crown the following year." }, { "title": "Harvesting", "content": "Pull (don't cut) stalks from year 2, twisting them free; stop by mid-summer. Eat STALKS ONLY — the leaves are poisonous." } ] }, { "id": "globe_artichoke", "common_name": "Globe artichoke", "aka": [], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Asteraceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "crown" } ], "spacing_in": 36, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "low", "days_to_maturity": null, "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "half_hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [], "source": "seymour", "us_adaptation_note": "Tender - grow as annual or overwinter-protect below zone 7.", "years_to_bear": 1, "bearing": "crown", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: cool-season; only light frost.", "propagation": "Plant crowns/divisions 4–2 weeks before the last frost; space 36 in apart.", "care": "Weed and mulch the permanent bed; feed each year; divide when crowded.", "pests_diseases": "Generally trouble-free once established. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "First real crop around year 1. Store by: use fresh." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Overwinter protection", "content": "Cut down and mulch crowns heavily below ~zone 7; renew the planting from spring offsets." }, { "title": "Harvesting heads", "content": "Cut the fat terminal buds while still tight and green, before the scales open; the small side-buds follow." } ] }, { "id": "cardoon", "common_name": "Cardoon", "aka": [], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Asteraceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -4 ], "mode": "indoor" }, { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -3, -2 ], "mode": "transplant" } ], "spacing_in": 18, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "low", "days_to_maturity": [ 120, 150 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "half_hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [], "source": "seymour", "us_adaptation_note": "Blanch stems; eat like celery.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: cool-season; only light frost.", "propagation": "Start indoors 6–4 weeks before the last frost; transplant out 3–2 weeks before the last frost; space 18 in apart.", "care": "Weed and mulch the permanent bed; feed each year; divide when crowded.", "pests_diseases": "Generally trouble-free once established. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 120–150 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: use fresh." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Blanching", "content": "Wrap and earth up the stalks for several weeks in fall to blanch them tender before harvest." } ] }, { "id": "cucumber", "common_name": "Cucumber", "aka": [], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Cucurbitaceae", "rotation_group": "cucurbit", "trail_color": "orange", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ 1, 2 ], "mode": "direct", "soil_temp_min_f": 60 } ], "spacing_in": 12, "sqft_count": 1, "small_space_value": "high", "days_to_maturity": [ 50, 70 ], "sun": "full", "water": "high", "hardiness": "tender", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [ "cucumber_beetle", "powdery_mildew" ], "storage": [ "pickle" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Trellis vertically to save space & cut disease.", "varieties": [ { "name": "Marketmore 76", "days_to_maturity": 65, "type": "slicing", "traits": "Disease-resistant", "beginner": true }, { "name": "Boston Pickling", "days_to_maturity": 55, "type": "pickling", "traits": "Prolific", "beginner": false }, { "name": "Bush Champion", "days_to_maturity": 60, "type": "compact slicing", "traits": "Container-friendly", "beginner": true } ], "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; generous, never let it dry out water. Soil: rich, warm, well-drained soil high in compost, pH 6.0–6.8. Climate: warm-season; frost kills it.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 1–2 weeks after the last frost once soil is ≥60°F; space 12 in apart (1/sq ft).", "care": "Feed and water heavily; mulch; train up a trellis where possible.", "pests_diseases": "Watch for cucumber beetle, powdery mildew. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 50–70 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: pickle." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Training & pinching", "content": "Train up netting or a cane and pinch the tip at the top; pinch side-shoots to a couple of leaves past a fruit." }, { "title": "Greenhouse types", "content": "On seedless (all-female) greenhouse cucumbers, remove male flowers — pollinated fruit turns bitter and swollen." }, { "title": "Pickling types", "content": "Grow gherkins/picklers for small fruit and harvest them young and often." } ] }, { "id": "zucchini", "common_name": "Zucchini", "aka": [ "courgette", "summer squash" ], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Cucurbitaceae", "rotation_group": "cucurbit", "trail_color": "orange", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ 1, 2 ], "mode": "direct", "soil_temp_min_f": 60 } ], "spacing_in": 30, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": [ 45, 60 ], "sun": "full", "water": "high", "hardiness": "tender", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [ "squash_vine_borer", "powdery_mildew" ], "storage": [ "fresh", "freeze" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "UK 'courgette'; 'marrow' = matured. Very productive.", "varieties": [ { "name": "Black Beauty", "days_to_maturity": 50, "type": "summer squash", "traits": "Classic dark", "beginner": true }, { "name": "Yellow Crookneck", "days_to_maturity": 50, "type": "summer squash", "traits": "Heirloom yellow", "beginner": false }, { "name": "Costata Romanesco", "days_to_maturity": 55, "type": "summer squash", "traits": "Ribbed, nutty", "beginner": false } ], "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; generous, never let it dry out water. Soil: rich, warm, well-drained soil high in compost, pH 6.0–6.8. Climate: warm-season; frost kills it.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 1–2 weeks after the last frost once soil is ≥60°F; space 30 in apart.", "care": "Feed and water heavily; mulch; train up a trellis where possible.", "pests_diseases": "Watch for squash vine borer, powdery mildew. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 45–60 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: use fresh, freeze." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Hand pollination", "content": "In cool, dull spells set fruit by hand-transferring pollen male-to-female; poor pollination gives shriveled, aborting fruitlets." } ] }, { "id": "winter_squash", "common_name": "Winter squash / pumpkin", "aka": [], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Cucurbitaceae", "rotation_group": "cucurbit", "trail_color": "orange", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ 1, 2 ], "mode": "direct", "soil_temp_min_f": 60 } ], "spacing_in": 42, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "low", "days_to_maturity": [ 80, 120 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "tender", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [ "squash_vine_borer", "squash_bug" ], "storage": [ "long_cure_store" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Sprawling; excellent long-storage crop.", "varieties": [ { "name": "Waltham Butternut", "days_to_maturity": 95, "type": "butternut", "traits": "Stores months, sweet", "beginner": true }, { "name": "Table Queen Acorn", "days_to_maturity": 80, "type": "acorn", "traits": "Good keeper", "beginner": false }, { "name": "Spaghetti", "days_to_maturity": 90, "type": "spaghetti", "traits": "Strand flesh", "beginner": false }, { "name": "Sugar Pie", "days_to_maturity": 100, "type": "pie pumpkin", "traits": "Small, sweet, cooking", "beginner": false } ], "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: rich, warm, well-drained soil high in compost, pH 6.0–6.8. Climate: warm-season; frost kills it.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 1–2 weeks after the last frost once soil is ≥60°F; space 42 in apart.", "care": "Feed and water heavily; mulch; train up a trellis where possible.", "pests_diseases": "Watch for squash vine borer, squash bug. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 80–120 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: cure and store for winter." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Hand pollination", "content": "If bees are scarce, transfer pollen from a male flower to each female (the one with a tiny fruit behind it) by hand in the morning." }, { "title": "Training & supporting", "content": "Train vines up a strong tripod/trellis to save space; sling or shelf heavy fruit so it doesn't tear the vine." }, { "title": "Curing", "content": "Cut with a stub of stem, cure 1–2 weeks warm and dry to harden the skin, then store cool for winter." } ] }, { "id": "melon", "common_name": "Melon", "aka": [ "muskmelon", "cantaloupe" ], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Cucurbitaceae", "rotation_group": "cucurbit", "trail_color": "orange", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -8, -7 ], "mode": "indoor" }, { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ 2, 3 ], "mode": "transplant", "soil_temp_min_f": 65 } ], "spacing_in": 36, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "low", "days_to_maturity": [ 70, 100 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "tender", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "US-ADVANTAGE; long hot season.", "varieties": [ { "name": "Hale's Best", "days_to_maturity": 80, "type": "cantaloupe", "traits": "Classic, reliable", "beginner": true }, { "name": "Minnesota Midget", "days_to_maturity": 70, "type": "cantaloupe", "traits": "Short-season, north", "beginner": true } ], "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: rich, warm, well-drained soil high in compost, pH 6.0–6.8. Climate: warm-season; frost kills it.", "propagation": "Start indoors 8–7 weeks before the last frost; transplant out 2–3 weeks after the last frost once soil is ≥65°F; space 36 in apart.", "care": "Feed and water heavily; mulch; train up a trellis where possible.", "pests_diseases": "Cucumber beetles, squash bugs/vine borers, and powdery mildew. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 70–100 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: use fresh." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Pinching / stopping", "content": "Pinch the main shoot to push fruiting laterals; limit each plant to a few fruit so they size and sweeten." }, { "title": "Hand pollination", "content": "Under cover or with few pollinators, pollinate female flowers by hand." }, { "title": "Supporting fruit", "content": "Rest fruit on a tile/board, or net individually if grown vertically, to prevent rot and vine damage." } ] }, { "id": "watermelon", "common_name": "Watermelon", "aka": [], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Cucurbitaceae", "rotation_group": "cucurbit", "trail_color": "orange", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -8, -7 ], "mode": "indoor" }, { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ 2, 3 ], "mode": "transplant", "soil_temp_min_f": 65 } ], "spacing_in": 48, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "low", "days_to_maturity": [ 70, 90 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "tender", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [], "source": "general", "us_adaptation_note": "Long hot season; short-season types for the north.", "varieties": [ { "name": "Sugar Baby", "days_to_maturity": 75, "type": "icebox", "traits": "Small, short-season", "beginner": true }, { "name": "Crimson Sweet", "days_to_maturity": 85, "type": "picnic", "traits": "Large, classic", "beginner": false } ], "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: rich, warm, well-drained soil high in compost, pH 6.0–6.8. Climate: warm-season; frost kills it.", "propagation": "Start indoors 8–7 weeks before the last frost; transplant out 2–3 weeks after the last frost once soil is ≥65°F; space 48 in apart.", "care": "Feed and water heavily; mulch; train up a trellis where possible.", "pests_diseases": "Cucumber beetles, squash bugs/vine borers, and powdery mildew. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 70–90 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: use fresh." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Supporting fruit", "content": "Rest fruit on a board off damp soil; in short seasons limit the number of fruit per vine." } ] }, { "id": "gherkin", "common_name": "Gherkin", "aka": [ "pickling cucumber" ], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Cucurbitaceae", "rotation_group": "cucurbit", "trail_color": "orange", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ 1, 2 ], "mode": "direct", "soil_temp_min_f": 60 } ], "spacing_in": 12, "sqft_count": 1, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": [ 50, 60 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "tender", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "pickle" ], "source": "seymour", "us_adaptation_note": "Harvest young for pickling.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: rich, warm, well-drained soil high in compost, pH 6.0–6.8. Climate: warm-season; frost kills it.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 1–2 weeks after the last frost once soil is ≥60°F; space 12 in apart (1/sq ft).", "care": "Feed and water heavily; mulch; train up a trellis where possible.", "pests_diseases": "Cucumber beetles, squash bugs/vine borers, and powdery mildew. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 50–60 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: pickle." } }, { "id": "sweet_corn", "common_name": "Sweet corn", "aka": [], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Poaceae", "rotation_group": "grass", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ 1, 2 ], "mode": "direct", "soil_temp_min_f": 60 } ], "spacing_in": 10, "sqft_count": 1, "small_space_value": "low", "days_to_maturity": [ 60, 100 ], "sun": "full", "water": "high", "hardiness": "tender", "succession": true, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [ "corn_earworm", "raccoon" ], "storage": [ "freeze" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Plant in BLOCKS for wind pollination; heavy feeder; own rotation slot.", "varieties": [ { "name": "Golden Bantam", "days_to_maturity": 80, "type": "heirloom SU", "traits": "Old-fashioned corn flavor", "beginner": false }, { "name": "Ambrosia", "days_to_maturity": 75, "type": "bicolor SE", "traits": "Sweet, tender", "beginner": true }, { "name": "Silver Queen", "days_to_maturity": 90, "type": "white SU", "traits": "Classic late white", "beginner": false } ], "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; generous, never let it dry out water. Soil: rich, warm soil, pH 6.0–6.8; a heavy feeder. Climate: warm-season; frost kills it.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 1 week after last frost once soil ≥60°F, in blocks of 4+ short rows; space 10 in.", "care": "Plant in BLOCKS (not single rows) for wind pollination; feed heavily; water at silking. Watch for raccoons.", "pests_diseases": "Watch for corn earworm, raccoon. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 60–100 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: freeze." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Block planting", "content": "Plant in a block of short rows, not one long row, so wind carries pollen from the tassels to every silk." }, { "title": "Earthing up", "content": "Earth up the stem bases for support and to encourage prop-roots in windy sites; a gentle shake at pollen-shed aids set." }, { "title": "Harvest timing", "content": "Pick when silks brown and a punctured kernel runs milky — sweetness drops fast after, so cook or freeze quickly." } ] }, { "id": "popcorn", "common_name": "Popcorn", "aka": [], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Poaceae", "rotation_group": "grass", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ 1, 2 ], "mode": "direct", "soil_temp_min_f": 60 } ], "spacing_in": 10, "sqft_count": 1, "small_space_value": "low", "days_to_maturity": [ 90, 110 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "tender", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "dry" ], "source": "general", "us_adaptation_note": "Isolate from sweet corn (cross-pollination).", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: rich, warm soil, pH 6.0–6.8; a heavy feeder. Climate: warm-season; frost kills it.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 1–2 weeks after the last frost once soil is ≥60°F; space 10 in apart (1/sq ft).", "care": "Feed well; keep watered at tasseling/silking; earth-up or block-plant for support.", "pests_diseases": "Corn earworm, and (in the US) raccoons and birds. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 90–110 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: dry." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Isolation", "content": "Keep well away from sweet and other corn — cross-pollination spoils the popping quality." }, { "title": "Drying", "content": "Leave the ears on the plant until fully dry, then cure them further indoors before shelling and popping." } ] }, { "id": "okra", "common_name": "Okra", "aka": [], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Malvaceae", "rotation_group": "leafy", "trail_color": "teal", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ 2, 3 ], "mode": "direct", "soil_temp_min_f": 65 } ], "spacing_in": 15, "sqft_count": 1, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": [ 55, 65 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "tender", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "freeze", "pickle" ], "source": "general", "us_adaptation_note": "US-south staple; loves heat.", "varieties": [ { "name": "Clemson Spineless", "days_to_maturity": 55, "type": "standard", "traits": "Reliable, spineless", "beginner": true }, { "name": "Red Burgundy", "days_to_maturity": 60, "type": "red", "traits": "Ornamental-edible", "beginner": false } ], "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: moist, fertile soil rich in organic matter, pH 6.0–7.0. Climate: warm-season; frost kills it.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 2–3 weeks after the last frost once soil is ≥65°F; space 15 in apart (1/sq ft).", "care": "Keep moist and growing fast; harvest young; provide afternoon shade in heat to slow bolting.", "pests_diseases": "Slugs, aphids, leaf miners, and bolting in heat. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 55–65 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: freeze, pickle." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Harvesting", "content": "Cut pods young and often (every day or two in heat) — older pods turn woody and stringy; wear sleeves against the prickly plants." } ] }, { "id": "sunflower", "common_name": "Sunflower (seed)", "aka": [], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Asteraceae", "rotation_group": "leafy", "trail_color": "teal", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ 1, 2 ], "mode": "direct", "soil_temp_min_f": 60 } ], "spacing_in": 18, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "low", "days_to_maturity": [ 70, 100 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "tender", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "dry" ], "source": "seymour", "us_adaptation_note": "Edible seed; also pollinator/bird crop.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: moist, fertile soil rich in organic matter, pH 6.0–7.0. Climate: warm-season; frost kills it.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 1–2 weeks after the last frost once soil is ≥60°F; space 18 in apart.", "care": "Keep moist and growing fast; harvest young; provide afternoon shade in heat to slow bolting.", "pests_diseases": "Slugs, aphids, leaf miners, and bolting in heat. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 70–100 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: dry." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Protecting & drying heads", "content": "Net or bag the ripening seed heads against birds, then cut and hang them to finish drying before rubbing out the seed." } ] }, { "id": "basil", "common_name": "Basil", "aka": [], "category": "herb", "botanical_family": "Lamiaceae", "rotation_group": "leafy", "trail_color": "teal", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -4 ], "mode": "indoor" }, { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ 1, 2 ], "mode": "transplant", "soil_temp_min_f": 60 } ], "spacing_in": 8, "sqft_count": 4, "small_space_value": "high", "days_to_maturity": [ 50, 70 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "tender", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "dry" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Frost-tender; pinch to bush.", "varieties": [ { "name": "Genovese", "days_to_maturity": 60, "type": "sweet", "traits": "Classic pesto", "beginner": true }, { "name": "Sweet Thai", "days_to_maturity": 65, "type": "Thai", "traits": "Anise notes", "beginner": false }, { "name": "Lemon", "days_to_maturity": 60, "type": "citrus", "traits": "Bright scent", "beginner": false } ], "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: moist, fertile soil rich in organic matter, pH 6.0–7.0. Climate: warm-season; frost kills it.", "propagation": "Start indoors 6–4 weeks before the last frost; transplant out 1–2 weeks after the last frost once soil is ≥60°F; space 8 in apart (4/sq ft).", "care": "Keep moist and growing fast; harvest young; provide afternoon shade in heat to slow bolting.", "pests_diseases": "Slugs, aphids, leaf miners, and bolting in heat. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 50–70 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: dry." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Pinching", "content": "Pinch out the growing tips regularly for bushy plants, and remove flower spikes to keep the leaves coming." } ] }, { "id": "parsley", "common_name": "Parsley", "aka": [], "category": "herb", "botanical_family": "Apiaceae", "rotation_group": "leafy", "trail_color": "teal", "life_cycle": "biennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "direct" } ], "spacing_in": 8, "sqft_count": 4, "small_space_value": "high", "days_to_maturity": [ 70, 90 ], "sun": "partial", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "dry" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Slow to germinate; often overwinters.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun to partial shade; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: moist, fertile soil rich in organic matter, pH 6.0–7.0. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 4–2 weeks before the last frost; space 8 in apart (4/sq ft).", "care": "Keep moist and growing fast; harvest young; provide afternoon shade in heat to slow bolting.", "pests_diseases": "Slugs, aphids, leaf miners, and bolting in heat. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 70–90 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: dry." } }, { "id": "cilantro", "common_name": "Cilantro", "aka": [ "coriander" ], "category": "herb", "botanical_family": "Apiaceae", "rotation_group": "leafy", "trail_color": "teal", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "direct" } ], "spacing_in": 8, "sqft_count": 4, "small_space_value": "high", "days_to_maturity": [ 45, 70 ], "sun": "partial", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "half_hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "dry" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Bolts fast in heat; succession. Leaf=cilantro, seed=coriander.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun to partial shade; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: moist, fertile soil rich in organic matter, pH 6.0–7.0. Climate: cool-season; only light frost.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 4–2 weeks before the last frost; space 8 in apart (4/sq ft).", "care": "Keep moist and growing fast; harvest young; provide afternoon shade in heat to slow bolting.", "pests_diseases": "Slugs, aphids, leaf miners, and bolting in heat. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 45–70 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: dry." } }, { "id": "dill", "common_name": "Dill", "aka": [], "category": "herb", "botanical_family": "Apiaceae", "rotation_group": "leafy", "trail_color": "teal", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "direct" } ], "spacing_in": 8, "sqft_count": 4, "small_space_value": "high", "days_to_maturity": [ 40, 60 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "half_hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "dry" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Self-seeds; classic with pickles.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: moist, fertile soil rich in organic matter, pH 6.0–7.0. Climate: cool-season; only light frost.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 4–2 weeks before the last frost; space 8 in apart (4/sq ft).", "care": "Keep moist and growing fast; harvest young; provide afternoon shade in heat to slow bolting.", "pests_diseases": "Slugs, aphids, leaf miners, and bolting in heat. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 40–60 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: dry." } }, { "id": "chives", "common_name": "Chives", "aka": [], "category": "herb", "botanical_family": "Amaryllidaceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "crown" } ], "spacing_in": 8, "sqft_count": 4, "small_space_value": "high", "days_to_maturity": [ 80, 90 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "dry" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Hardy perennial; divide every few years.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Plant crowns/divisions 4–2 weeks before the last frost; space 8 in apart (4/sq ft).", "care": "Weed and mulch the permanent bed; feed each year; divide when crowded.", "pests_diseases": "Generally trouble-free once established. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 80–90 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: dry." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Division", "content": "Lift and split congested clumps every few years to keep them vigorous; snip flowers to prolong leaf." } ] }, { "id": "thyme", "common_name": "Thyme", "aka": [], "category": "herb", "botanical_family": "Lamiaceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "crown" } ], "spacing_in": 8, "sqft_count": 4, "small_space_value": "high", "days_to_maturity": [ 90, 90 ], "sun": "full", "water": "low", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "dry" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Drought-tolerant; well-drained soil.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; low, drought-tolerant once established water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Plant crowns/divisions 4–2 weeks before the last frost; space 8 in apart (4/sq ft).", "care": "Weed and mulch the permanent bed; feed each year; divide when crowded.", "pests_diseases": "Generally trouble-free once established. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Store by: dry." } }, { "id": "sage", "common_name": "Sage", "aka": [], "category": "herb", "botanical_family": "Lamiaceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "crown" } ], "spacing_in": 18, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "high", "days_to_maturity": [ 75, 75 ], "sun": "full", "water": "low", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "dry" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Woody perennial; drought-tolerant.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; low, drought-tolerant once established water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Plant crowns/divisions 4–2 weeks before the last frost; space 18 in apart.", "care": "Weed and mulch the permanent bed; feed each year; divide when crowded.", "pests_diseases": "Generally trouble-free once established. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Store by: dry." } }, { "id": "oregano", "common_name": "Oregano", "aka": [ "marjoram" ], "category": "herb", "botanical_family": "Lamiaceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "crown" } ], "spacing_in": 8, "sqft_count": 4, "small_space_value": "high", "days_to_maturity": [ 80, 80 ], "sun": "full", "water": "low", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "dry" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Perennial oregano hardy; sweet marjoram tender.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; low, drought-tolerant once established water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Plant crowns/divisions 4–2 weeks before the last frost; space 8 in apart (4/sq ft).", "care": "Weed and mulch the permanent bed; feed each year; divide when crowded.", "pests_diseases": "Generally trouble-free once established. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Store by: dry." } }, { "id": "mint", "common_name": "Mint", "aka": [ "spearmint", "peppermint", "lemon balm" ], "category": "herb", "botanical_family": "Lamiaceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "crown" } ], "spacing_in": 18, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "high", "days_to_maturity": [ 90, 90 ], "sun": "partial", "water": "high", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "dry" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "SPREADS AGGRESSIVELY - contain in pot/barrier.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun to partial shade; generous, never let it dry out water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Plant crowns/divisions 4–2 weeks before the last frost; space 18 in apart.", "care": "Weed and mulch the permanent bed; feed each year; divide when crowded.", "pests_diseases": "Generally trouble-free once established. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Store by: dry." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Containment", "content": "Sink a bottomless bucket or grow in a pot — mint runs aggressively and will take a bed." } ] }, { "id": "rosemary", "common_name": "Rosemary", "aka": [], "category": "herb", "botanical_family": "Lamiaceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -4 ], "mode": "indoor" }, { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ 1, 2 ], "mode": "transplant", "soil_temp_min_f": 60 } ], "spacing_in": 24, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "high", "days_to_maturity": [ 120, 120 ], "sun": "full", "water": "low", "hardiness": "half_hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "dry" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Tender below ~zone 7 - pot/overwinter or annual.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; low, drought-tolerant once established water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: cool-season; only light frost.", "propagation": "Start indoors 6–4 weeks before the last frost; transplant out 1–2 weeks after the last frost once soil is ≥60°F; space 24 in apart.", "care": "Weed and mulch the permanent bed; feed each year; divide when crowded.", "pests_diseases": "Generally trouble-free once established. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Store by: dry." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Overwintering", "content": "Below ~zone 7, pot it and overwinter indoors in a bright, cool spot, or grow it as an annual." } ] }, { "id": "tarragon", "common_name": "Tarragon", "aka": [], "category": "herb", "botanical_family": "Asteraceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "crown" } ], "spacing_in": 8, "sqft_count": 4, "small_space_value": "high", "days_to_maturity": [ 90, 90 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "dry" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "French tarragon is grown from division (no seed).", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Plant crowns/divisions 4–2 weeks before the last frost; space 8 in apart (4/sq ft).", "care": "Weed and mulch the permanent bed; feed each year; divide when crowded.", "pests_diseases": "Generally trouble-free once established. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Store by: dry." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Propagation", "content": "French tarragon sets no viable seed — increase it by division or cuttings in spring." } ] }, { "id": "fennel_herb", "common_name": "Fennel (herb)", "aka": [], "category": "herb", "botanical_family": "Apiaceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "crown" } ], "spacing_in": 8, "sqft_count": 4, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": [ 90, 90 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "dry" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Perennial herb fennel (vs bulbing type).", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Plant crowns/divisions 4–2 weeks before the last frost; space 8 in apart (4/sq ft).", "care": "Weed and mulch the permanent bed; feed each year; divide when crowded.", "pests_diseases": "Generally trouble-free once established. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Store by: dry." } }, { "id": "chervil", "common_name": "Chervil", "aka": [], "category": "herb", "botanical_family": "Apiaceae", "rotation_group": "leafy", "trail_color": "teal", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "direct" } ], "spacing_in": 8, "sqft_count": 4, "small_space_value": "high", "days_to_maturity": [ 60, 70 ], "sun": "partial", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "half_hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "dry" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Cool-season; bolts in heat.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun to partial shade; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: moist, fertile soil rich in organic matter, pH 6.0–7.0. Climate: cool-season; only light frost.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 4–2 weeks before the last frost; space 8 in apart (4/sq ft).", "care": "Keep moist and growing fast; harvest young; provide afternoon shade in heat to slow bolting.", "pests_diseases": "Slugs, aphids, leaf miners, and bolting in heat. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 60–70 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: dry." } }, { "id": "summer_savory", "common_name": "Summer savory", "aka": [], "category": "herb", "botanical_family": "Lamiaceae", "rotation_group": "leafy", "trail_color": "teal", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ 1, 2 ], "mode": "direct", "soil_temp_min_f": 60 } ], "spacing_in": 8, "sqft_count": 4, "small_space_value": "high", "days_to_maturity": [ 60, 70 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "tender", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "dry" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Classic bean herb.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: moist, fertile soil rich in organic matter, pH 6.0–7.0. Climate: warm-season; frost kills it.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 1–2 weeks after the last frost once soil is ≥60°F; space 8 in apart (4/sq ft).", "care": "Keep moist and growing fast; harvest young; provide afternoon shade in heat to slow bolting.", "pests_diseases": "Slugs, aphids, leaf miners, and bolting in heat. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 60–70 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: dry." } }, { "id": "winter_savory", "common_name": "Winter savory", "aka": [], "category": "herb", "botanical_family": "Lamiaceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "crown" } ], "spacing_in": 8, "sqft_count": 4, "small_space_value": "high", "days_to_maturity": [ 90, 90 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "dry" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Perennial, peppery.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Plant crowns/divisions 4–2 weeks before the last frost; space 8 in apart (4/sq ft).", "care": "Weed and mulch the permanent bed; feed each year; divide when crowded.", "pests_diseases": "Generally trouble-free once established. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Store by: dry." } }, { "id": "bay", "common_name": "Bay laurel", "aka": [], "category": "herb", "botanical_family": "Lauraceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -4 ], "mode": "indoor" }, { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ 1, 2 ], "mode": "transplant", "soil_temp_min_f": 60 } ], "spacing_in": 36, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": [ 365, 365 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "half_hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "dry" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Tender tree - pot/overwinter in cold zones.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: cool-season; only light frost.", "propagation": "Start indoors 6–4 weeks before the last frost; transplant out 1–2 weeks after the last frost once soil is ≥60°F; space 36 in apart.", "care": "Weed and mulch the permanent bed; feed each year; divide when crowded.", "pests_diseases": "Generally trouble-free once established. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Store by: dry." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Overwintering", "content": "In cold zones grow in a pot and move it under cover for winter; clip to shape in summer." } ] }, { "id": "borage", "common_name": "Borage", "aka": [], "category": "herb", "botanical_family": "Boraginaceae", "rotation_group": "leafy", "trail_color": "teal", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "direct" } ], "spacing_in": 8, "sqft_count": 4, "small_space_value": "high", "days_to_maturity": [ 50, 60 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "dry" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Self-seeds; edible flowers; pollinator magnet.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: moist, fertile soil rich in organic matter, pH 6.0–7.0. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 4–2 weeks before the last frost; space 8 in apart (4/sq ft).", "care": "Keep moist and growing fast; harvest young; provide afternoon shade in heat to slow bolting.", "pests_diseases": "Slugs, aphids, leaf miners, and bolting in heat. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 50–60 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: dry." } }, { "id": "chamomile", "common_name": "Chamomile", "aka": [], "category": "herb", "botanical_family": "Asteraceae", "rotation_group": "leafy", "trail_color": "teal", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "direct" } ], "spacing_in": 8, "sqft_count": 4, "small_space_value": "high", "days_to_maturity": [ 60, 65 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "dry" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "German (annual) / Roman (perennial); tea.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: moist, fertile soil rich in organic matter, pH 6.0–7.0. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 4–2 weeks before the last frost; space 8 in apart (4/sq ft).", "care": "Keep moist and growing fast; harvest young; provide afternoon shade in heat to slow bolting.", "pests_diseases": "Slugs, aphids, leaf miners, and bolting in heat. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 60–65 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: dry." } }, { "id": "lavender", "common_name": "Lavender", "aka": [], "category": "herb", "botanical_family": "Lamiaceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -4 ], "mode": "indoor" }, { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ 1, 2 ], "mode": "transplant", "soil_temp_min_f": 60 } ], "spacing_in": 24, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": [ 100, 100 ], "sun": "full", "water": "low", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "dry" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Well-drained, dry; pollinator + apothecary.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; low, drought-tolerant once established water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Start indoors 6–4 weeks before the last frost; transplant out 1–2 weeks after the last frost once soil is ≥60°F; space 24 in apart.", "care": "Weed and mulch the permanent bed; feed each year; divide when crowded.", "pests_diseases": "Generally trouble-free once established. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Store by: dry." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Pruning", "content": "Trim lightly after flowering into green growth; never cut back into old bare wood, which won't reshoot." } ] }, { "id": "lovage", "common_name": "Lovage", "aka": [], "category": "herb", "botanical_family": "Apiaceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "crown" } ], "spacing_in": 24, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": [ 90, 90 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "dry" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Large celery-flavored perennial.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Plant crowns/divisions 4–2 weeks before the last frost; space 24 in apart.", "care": "Weed and mulch the permanent bed; feed each year; divide when crowded.", "pests_diseases": "Generally trouble-free once established. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Store by: dry." } }, { "id": "hyssop", "common_name": "Hyssop", "aka": [], "category": "herb", "botanical_family": "Lamiaceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "crown" } ], "spacing_in": 8, "sqft_count": 4, "small_space_value": "high", "days_to_maturity": [ 90, 90 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "dry" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Perennial; pollinator + apothecary.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Plant crowns/divisions 4–2 weeks before the last frost; space 8 in apart (4/sq ft).", "care": "Weed and mulch the permanent bed; feed each year; divide when crowded.", "pests_diseases": "Generally trouble-free once established. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Store by: dry." } }, { "id": "angelica", "common_name": "Angelica", "aka": [], "category": "herb", "botanical_family": "Apiaceae", "rotation_group": "leafy", "trail_color": "teal", "life_cycle": "biennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "crown" } ], "spacing_in": 8, "sqft_count": 4, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": [ 90, 90 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "dry" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Biennial; candied stems; apothecary.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: moist, fertile soil rich in organic matter, pH 6.0–7.0. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Plant crowns/divisions 4–2 weeks before the last frost; space 8 in apart (4/sq ft).", "care": "Keep moist and growing fast; harvest young; provide afternoon shade in heat to slow bolting.", "pests_diseases": "Slugs, aphids, leaf miners, and bolting in heat. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Store by: dry." } }, { "id": "anise", "common_name": "Anise", "aka": [], "category": "herb", "botanical_family": "Apiaceae", "rotation_group": "leafy", "trail_color": "teal", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ 1, 2 ], "mode": "direct", "soil_temp_min_f": 60 } ], "spacing_in": 8, "sqft_count": 4, "small_space_value": "high", "days_to_maturity": [ 120, 120 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "tender", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "dry" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Warm season; seed spice.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: moist, fertile soil rich in organic matter, pH 6.0–7.0. Climate: warm-season; frost kills it.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 1–2 weeks after the last frost once soil is ≥60°F; space 8 in apart (4/sq ft).", "care": "Keep moist and growing fast; harvest young; provide afternoon shade in heat to slow bolting.", "pests_diseases": "Slugs, aphids, leaf miners, and bolting in heat. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Store by: dry." } }, { "id": "caraway", "common_name": "Caraway", "aka": [], "category": "herb", "botanical_family": "Apiaceae", "rotation_group": "leafy", "trail_color": "teal", "life_cycle": "biennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "direct" } ], "spacing_in": 8, "sqft_count": 4, "small_space_value": "high", "days_to_maturity": [ 90, 90 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "dry" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Biennial; seed spice.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: moist, fertile soil rich in organic matter, pH 6.0–7.0. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 4–2 weeks before the last frost; space 8 in apart (4/sq ft).", "care": "Keep moist and growing fast; harvest young; provide afternoon shade in heat to slow bolting.", "pests_diseases": "Slugs, aphids, leaf miners, and bolting in heat. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Store by: dry." } }, { "id": "catnip", "common_name": "Catnip", "aka": [], "category": "herb", "botanical_family": "Lamiaceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "crown" } ], "spacing_in": 8, "sqft_count": 4, "small_space_value": "high", "days_to_maturity": [ 80, 80 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "dry" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Vigorous perennial; tea/cats.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Plant crowns/divisions 4–2 weeks before the last frost; space 8 in apart (4/sq ft).", "care": "Weed and mulch the permanent bed; feed each year; divide when crowded.", "pests_diseases": "Generally trouble-free once established. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Store by: dry." } }, { "id": "comfrey", "common_name": "Comfrey", "aka": [], "category": "herb", "botanical_family": "Boraginaceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "crown" } ], "spacing_in": 24, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": [ 90, 90 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "dry" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Perennial; compost/mulch accelerator; SPREADS. Topical apothecary only (not for tea).", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Plant crowns/divisions 4–2 weeks before the last frost; space 24 in apart.", "care": "Weed and mulch the permanent bed; feed each year; divide when crowded.", "pests_diseases": "Generally trouble-free once established. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Store by: dry." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Containment", "content": "Site it permanently — root fragments regrow, so it's hard to remove once in." }, { "title": "Cutting for mulch", "content": "Cut the leaves several times a season for a fast, potassium-rich compost activator or liquid feed (topical apothecary use only)." } ] }, { "id": "echinacea", "common_name": "Echinacea", "aka": [], "category": "herb", "botanical_family": "Asteraceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "crown" } ], "spacing_in": 18, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": [ 365, 365 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "dry" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Perennial coneflower; apothecary + pollinator.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Plant crowns/divisions 4–2 weeks before the last frost; space 18 in apart.", "care": "Weed and mulch the permanent bed; feed each year; divide when crowded.", "pests_diseases": "Generally trouble-free once established. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Store by: dry." } }, { "id": "calendula", "common_name": "Calendula", "aka": [], "category": "herb", "botanical_family": "Asteraceae", "rotation_group": "leafy", "trail_color": "teal", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "direct" } ], "spacing_in": 8, "sqft_count": 4, "small_space_value": "high", "days_to_maturity": [ 50, 60 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "half_hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "dry" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Edible flower; apothecary salves; self-seeds.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: moist, fertile soil rich in organic matter, pH 6.0–7.0. Climate: cool-season; only light frost.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 4–2 weeks before the last frost; space 8 in apart (4/sq ft).", "care": "Keep moist and growing fast; harvest young; provide afternoon shade in heat to slow bolting.", "pests_diseases": "Slugs, aphids, leaf miners, and bolting in heat. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 50–60 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: dry." } }, { "id": "nasturtium", "common_name": "Nasturtium", "aka": [], "category": "herb", "botanical_family": "Tropaeolaceae", "rotation_group": "leafy", "trail_color": "teal", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ 1, 2 ], "mode": "direct", "soil_temp_min_f": 60 } ], "spacing_in": 10, "sqft_count": 1, "small_space_value": "high", "days_to_maturity": [ 50, 60 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "tender", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "dry" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Edible flower/leaf; trap crop for aphids.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: moist, fertile soil rich in organic matter, pH 6.0–7.0. Climate: warm-season; frost kills it.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 1–2 weeks after the last frost once soil is ≥60°F; space 10 in apart (1/sq ft).", "care": "Keep moist and growing fast; harvest young; provide afternoon shade in heat to slow bolting.", "pests_diseases": "Slugs, aphids, leaf miners, and bolting in heat. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 50–60 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: dry." } }, { "id": "lemongrass", "common_name": "Lemongrass", "aka": [], "category": "herb", "botanical_family": "Poaceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -4 ], "mode": "indoor" }, { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ 1, 2 ], "mode": "transplant", "soil_temp_min_f": 60 } ], "spacing_in": 24, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": [ 100, 100 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "tender", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "dry" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Tender - annual/pot in cold zones.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: warm-season; frost kills it.", "propagation": "Start indoors 6–4 weeks before the last frost; transplant out 1–2 weeks after the last frost once soil is ≥60°F; space 24 in apart.", "care": "Weed and mulch the permanent bed; feed each year; divide when crowded.", "pests_diseases": "Generally trouble-free once established. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Store by: dry." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Overwintering", "content": "Lift a clump into a pot and keep it frost-free indoors over winter, or treat as an annual." } ] }, { "id": "stevia", "common_name": "Stevia", "aka": [], "category": "herb", "botanical_family": "Asteraceae", "rotation_group": "leafy", "trail_color": "teal", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -4 ], "mode": "indoor" }, { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ 1, 2 ], "mode": "transplant", "soil_temp_min_f": 60 } ], "spacing_in": 8, "sqft_count": 4, "small_space_value": "high", "days_to_maturity": [ 90, 90 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "tender", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "dry" ], "source": "both", "us_adaptation_note": "Sweet-leaf; tender, grow as annual.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: moist, fertile soil rich in organic matter, pH 6.0–7.0. Climate: warm-season; frost kills it.", "propagation": "Start indoors 6–4 weeks before the last frost; transplant out 1–2 weeks after the last frost once soil is ≥60°F; space 8 in apart (4/sq ft).", "care": "Keep moist and growing fast; harvest young; provide afternoon shade in heat to slow bolting.", "pests_diseases": "Slugs, aphids, leaf miners, and bolting in heat. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Store by: dry." } }, { "id": "apple", "common_name": "Apple", "aka": [], "category": "fruit", "botanical_family": "Rosaceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -2 ], "mode": "bareroot" } ], "spacing_in": 180, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": null, "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [ "codling_moth", "apple_scab", "cedar_apple_rust" ], "storage": [ "fresh", "can", "freeze", "dry" ], "source": "seymour", "us_adaptation_note": "Choose variety by chill hours & disease resistance for your region.", "varieties": [ { "name": "Honeycrisp", "days_to_maturity": 0, "type": "dessert", "traits": "Crisp; needs pollinizer; scab-prone", "beginner": false }, { "name": "Liberty", "days_to_maturity": 0, "type": "dessert", "traits": "Disease-resistant", "beginner": true }, { "name": "Enterprise", "days_to_maturity": 0, "type": "dessert/keeper", "traits": "Disease-resistant, stores", "beginner": false }, { "name": "Gravenstein", "days_to_maturity": 0, "type": "cooking/sauce", "traits": "Early heirloom", "beginner": false } ], "chill_hours": [ 400, 1000 ], "pollination": "needs pollinizer", "years_to_bear": 3, "bearing": "tree", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Plant bare-root/dormant 6–2 weeks before the last frost; space 180 in apart.", "care": "Weed and mulch the permanent bed; feed each year; divide when crowded.", "pests_diseases": "Watch for codling moth, apple scab, cedar apple rust. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "First real crop around year 3. Store by: use fresh, can, freeze, dry." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Planting a tree", "content": "Plant a bare-root tree in the dormant season at the old soil mark, staked, with the graft union above ground." }, { "title": "Formative pruning & shapes", "content": "Prune young trees to a chosen shape (open-center bush, spindle, cordon, or espalier); thereafter renew fruiting spurs and keep the center open." }, { "title": "Fruit thinning", "content": "After the natural 'June drop', thin clusters to one or two fruit per spur for size and to curb biennial bearing." }, { "title": "Grafting & budding", "content": "Propagate a variety onto a chosen rootstock (which sets final size) by whip-and-tongue grafting in spring or bud-grafting in summer." } ] }, { "id": "pear", "common_name": "Pear", "aka": [], "category": "fruit", "botanical_family": "Rosaceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -2 ], "mode": "bareroot" } ], "spacing_in": 180, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": null, "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [ "fireblight", "codling_moth" ], "storage": [ "fresh", "can", "freeze", "dry" ], "source": "seymour", "us_adaptation_note": "Needs a second variety; fireblight-aware.", "varieties": [ { "name": "Bartlett", "days_to_maturity": 0, "type": "dessert/can", "traits": "Classic", "beginner": true }, { "name": "Bosc", "days_to_maturity": 0, "type": "dessert/keeper", "traits": "Firm, stores", "beginner": false }, { "name": "Kieffer", "days_to_maturity": 0, "type": "cooking", "traits": "Fireblight-tolerant, hardy", "beginner": true } ], "chill_hours": [ 400, 800 ], "pollination": "needs pollinizer", "years_to_bear": 4, "bearing": "tree", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Plant bare-root/dormant 6–2 weeks before the last frost; space 180 in apart.", "care": "Weed and mulch the permanent bed; feed each year; divide when crowded.", "pests_diseases": "Watch for fireblight, codling moth. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "First real crop around year 4. Store by: use fresh, can, freeze, dry." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Pruning & thinning", "content": "Prune and thin much like apples; pears fruit on long-lived spurs and train well as espaliers and cordons." }, { "title": "Grafting", "content": "Worked onto pear or quince rootstock to control vigor and size." } ] }, { "id": "asian_pear", "common_name": "Asian pear", "aka": [], "category": "fruit", "botanical_family": "Rosaceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -2 ], "mode": "bareroot" } ], "spacing_in": 150, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": null, "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "fresh", "can", "freeze", "dry" ], "source": "general", "us_adaptation_note": "Crisp; needs pollinizer.", "chill_hours": [ 300, 600 ], "pollination": "needs pollinizer", "years_to_bear": 4, "bearing": "tree", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Plant bare-root/dormant 6–2 weeks before the last frost; space 150 in apart.", "care": "Weed and mulch the permanent bed; feed each year; divide when crowded.", "pests_diseases": "Generally trouble-free once established. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "First real crop around year 4. Store by: use fresh, can, freeze, dry." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Fruit thinning", "content": "Thin heavily to one fruit per cluster for size and to prevent limb breakage." }, { "title": "Pollination", "content": "Most need a second compatible variety nearby to set well." } ] }, { "id": "plum", "common_name": "Plum", "aka": [], "category": "fruit", "botanical_family": "Rosaceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -2 ], "mode": "bareroot" } ], "spacing_in": 150, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": null, "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "fresh", "can", "freeze", "dry" ], "source": "seymour", "us_adaptation_note": "European = self-fertile-ish; Japanese needs pollinizer.", "varieties": [ { "name": "Stanley", "days_to_maturity": 0, "type": "European prune", "traits": "Self-fertile, dries well", "beginner": true }, { "name": "Methley", "days_to_maturity": 0, "type": "Japanese", "traits": "Self-fertile, low-chill", "beginner": true } ], "chill_hours": [ 500, 900 ], "pollination": "varies", "years_to_bear": 3, "bearing": "tree", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Plant bare-root/dormant 6–2 weeks before the last frost; space 150 in apart.", "care": "Weed and mulch the permanent bed; feed each year; divide when crowded.", "pests_diseases": "Generally trouble-free once established. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "First real crop around year 3. Store by: use fresh, can, freeze, dry." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Pruning (summer only)", "content": "Prune only in dry summer weather — never in winter — to avoid silver-leaf infection." }, { "title": "Fruit thinning", "content": "Thin heavy sets so the fruit sizes and the brittle branches don't snap; prop or support laden limbs." } ] }, { "id": "cherry_sweet", "common_name": "Sweet cherry", "aka": [], "category": "fruit", "botanical_family": "Rosaceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -2 ], "mode": "bareroot" } ], "spacing_in": 180, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "low", "days_to_maturity": null, "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [ "cherry_fruit_fly", "brown_rot" ], "storage": [ "fresh", "can", "freeze", "dry" ], "source": "seymour", "us_adaptation_note": "Most need a pollinizer; needs chill.", "chill_hours": [ 700, 1000 ], "pollination": "needs pollinizer", "years_to_bear": 4, "bearing": "tree", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Plant bare-root/dormant 6–2 weeks before the last frost; space 180 in apart.", "care": "Weed and mulch the permanent bed; feed each year; divide when crowded.", "pests_diseases": "Watch for cherry fruit fly, brown rot. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "First real crop around year 4. Store by: use fresh, can, freeze, dry." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Pruning (summer)", "content": "Prune in summer, not winter, to limit disease; net against birds as fruit colors." }, { "title": "Protection", "content": "Sweet cherries need a pollinizer variety unless self-fertile; birds take the crop fast." } ] }, { "id": "cherry_sour", "common_name": "Sour cherry", "aka": [], "category": "fruit", "botanical_family": "Rosaceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -2 ], "mode": "bareroot" } ], "spacing_in": 120, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": null, "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "fresh", "can", "freeze", "dry" ], "source": "general", "us_adaptation_note": "Self-fertile; hardier than sweet; pie cherry.", "varieties": [ { "name": "Montmorency", "days_to_maturity": 0, "type": "pie", "traits": "Standard tart cherry", "beginner": true } ], "chill_hours": [ 700, 1000 ], "pollination": "self-fertile", "years_to_bear": 3, "bearing": "tree", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Plant bare-root/dormant 6–2 weeks before the last frost; space 120 in apart.", "care": "Weed and mulch the permanent bed; feed each year; divide when crowded.", "pests_diseases": "Generally trouble-free once established. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "First real crop around year 3. Store by: use fresh, can, freeze, dry." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Pruning", "content": "Sour cherries fruit largely on one-year wood — prune to keep young growth coming; self-fertile." } ] }, { "id": "peach", "common_name": "Peach", "aka": [], "category": "fruit", "botanical_family": "Rosaceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -2 ], "mode": "bareroot" } ], "spacing_in": 150, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": null, "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "half_hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [ "peach_leaf_curl", "borer", "brown_rot" ], "storage": [ "fresh", "can", "freeze", "dry" ], "source": "general", "us_adaptation_note": "Self-fertile; low-to-mid chill; short-lived.", "varieties": [ { "name": "Redhaven", "days_to_maturity": 0, "type": "freestone", "traits": "Reliable standard", "beginner": true }, { "name": "Elberta", "days_to_maturity": 0, "type": "freestone", "traits": "Classic canning", "beginner": false }, { "name": "Contender", "days_to_maturity": 0, "type": "freestone", "traits": "Cold-hardy", "beginner": true } ], "chill_hours": [ 600, 900 ], "pollination": "self-fertile", "years_to_bear": 3, "bearing": "tree", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: cool-season; only light frost.", "propagation": "Plant bare-root/dormant 6–2 weeks before the last frost; space 150 in apart.", "care": "Weed and mulch the permanent bed; feed each year; divide when crowded.", "pests_diseases": "Watch for peach leaf curl, borer, brown rot. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "First real crop around year 3. Store by: use fresh, can, freeze, dry." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Renewal pruning", "content": "Peaches fruit on last year's wood — each year cut back fruited shoots to a replacement so new wood keeps coming." }, { "title": "Thinning", "content": "Thin fruit to about a hand-span apart for size and to spare the branches." }, { "title": "Leaf-curl protection", "content": "Keep late-winter rain off (a temporary cover) to reduce peach-leaf-curl infection." } ] }, { "id": "nectarine", "common_name": "Nectarine", "aka": [], "category": "fruit", "botanical_family": "Rosaceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -2 ], "mode": "bareroot" } ], "spacing_in": 150, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": null, "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "half_hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "fresh", "can", "freeze", "dry" ], "source": "general", "us_adaptation_note": "Like peach; more disease-prone.", "chill_hours": [ 600, 900 ], "pollination": "self-fertile", "years_to_bear": 3, "bearing": "tree", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: cool-season; only light frost.", "propagation": "Plant bare-root/dormant 6–2 weeks before the last frost; space 150 in apart.", "care": "Weed and mulch the permanent bed; feed each year; divide when crowded.", "pests_diseases": "Generally trouble-free once established. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "First real crop around year 3. Store by: use fresh, can, freeze, dry." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Renewal pruning", "content": "Fruits on last year's wood — cut fruited shoots back to a replacement each year." }, { "title": "Thinning & leaf-curl", "content": "Thin fruit to a hand-span apart; keep late-winter rain off to reduce leaf-curl." } ] }, { "id": "apricot", "common_name": "Apricot", "aka": [], "category": "fruit", "botanical_family": "Rosaceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -2 ], "mode": "bareroot" } ], "spacing_in": 150, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": null, "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "half_hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "fresh", "can", "freeze", "dry" ], "source": "general", "us_adaptation_note": "Early bloom - late-frost risk in much of US.", "chill_hours": [ 300, 700 ], "pollination": "self-fertile", "years_to_bear": 3, "bearing": "tree", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: cool-season; only light frost.", "propagation": "Plant bare-root/dormant 6–2 weeks before the last frost; space 150 in apart.", "care": "Weed and mulch the permanent bed; feed each year; divide when crowded.", "pests_diseases": "Generally trouble-free once established. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "First real crop around year 3. Store by: use fresh, can, freeze, dry." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Frost protection", "content": "Blooms very early — cover or site against a warm wall in late-frost areas to save the blossom." }, { "title": "Thinning", "content": "Thin the set fruit for size and to spare the branches." } ] }, { "id": "fig", "common_name": "Fig", "aka": [], "category": "fruit", "botanical_family": "Moraceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -2 ], "mode": "bareroot" } ], "spacing_in": 120, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": null, "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "tender", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "fresh", "can", "freeze", "dry" ], "source": "general", "us_adaptation_note": "Tender - protect/pot below zone 7; often self-fertile.", "varieties": [ { "name": "Chicago Hardy", "days_to_maturity": 0, "type": "cold-hardy", "traits": "Regrows from roots", "beginner": true }, { "name": "Brown Turkey", "days_to_maturity": 0, "type": "reliable", "traits": "Two crops", "beginner": true } ], "pollination": "self-fertile", "years_to_bear": 2, "bearing": "tree/shrub", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: warm-season; frost kills it.", "propagation": "Plant bare-root/dormant 6–2 weeks before the last frost; space 120 in apart.", "care": "Weed and mulch the permanent bed; feed each year; divide when crowded.", "pests_diseases": "Generally trouble-free once established. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "First real crop around year 2. Store by: use fresh, can, freeze, dry." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Restricting the roots", "content": "Confine the roots (a lined pit or large pot) to check leafy growth and push the tree into fruiting." }, { "title": "Winter protection", "content": "Wrap or move potted figs under cover where marginal; hardy types resprout from the base." }, { "title": "Pinching", "content": "Pinch shoot tips in early summer to ripen the crop already set that year." } ] }, { "id": "persimmon", "common_name": "Persimmon", "aka": [], "category": "fruit", "botanical_family": "Ebenaceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -2 ], "mode": "bareroot" } ], "spacing_in": 180, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "low", "days_to_maturity": null, "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "fresh", "can", "freeze", "dry" ], "source": "general", "us_adaptation_note": "American = very hardy; Asian = larger, tender.", "pollination": "varies", "years_to_bear": 4, "bearing": "tree", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Plant bare-root/dormant 6–2 weeks before the last frost; space 180 in apart.", "care": "Weed and mulch the permanent bed; feed each year; divide when crowded.", "pests_diseases": "Generally trouble-free once established. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "First real crop around year 4. Store by: use fresh, can, freeze, dry." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Pruning", "content": "Prune lightly for structure; brittle wood breaks under heavy fruit, so support or thin." }, { "title": "Ripening", "content": "Astringent types must ripen fully soft before eating; non-astringent (Fuyu) can be eaten firm." } ] }, { "id": "pawpaw", "common_name": "Pawpaw", "aka": [], "category": "fruit", "botanical_family": "Annonaceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -2 ], "mode": "bareroot" } ], "spacing_in": 120, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "low", "days_to_maturity": null, "sun": "partial", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "fresh", "can", "freeze", "dry" ], "source": "general", "us_adaptation_note": "Native; needs 2 for pollination; understory shade OK.", "pollination": "needs pollinizer", "years_to_bear": 5, "bearing": "tree", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun to partial shade; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Plant bare-root/dormant 6–2 weeks before the last frost; space 120 in apart.", "care": "Weed and mulch the permanent bed; feed each year; divide when crowded.", "pests_diseases": "Generally trouble-free once established. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "First real crop around year 5. Store by: use fresh, can, freeze, dry." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Pollination", "content": "Plant two unrelated seedlings — flowers are fly/beetle-pollinated and often need hand-pollination for a good set." }, { "title": "Young-tree shade", "content": "Shade seedlings for the first year or two; they resent full sun when small." } ] }, { "id": "mulberry", "common_name": "Mulberry", "aka": [], "category": "fruit", "botanical_family": "Moraceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -2 ], "mode": "bareroot" } ], "spacing_in": 180, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "low", "days_to_maturity": null, "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "fresh", "can", "freeze", "dry" ], "source": "general", "us_adaptation_note": "Fast, prolific; can be messy/aggressive.", "pollination": "self-fertile", "years_to_bear": 3, "bearing": "tree", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Plant bare-root/dormant 6–2 weeks before the last frost; space 180 in apart.", "care": "Weed and mulch the permanent bed; feed each year; divide when crowded.", "pests_diseases": "Generally trouble-free once established. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "First real crop around year 3. Store by: use fresh, can, freeze, dry." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Pruning", "content": "Prune only when fully dormant (it bleeds sap); keep it small for easy picking." }, { "title": "Siting", "content": "Keep away from paths and drives — the ripe fruit stains heavily." } ] }, { "id": "quince", "common_name": "Quince", "aka": [], "category": "fruit", "botanical_family": "Rosaceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -2 ], "mode": "bareroot" } ], "spacing_in": 120, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "low", "days_to_maturity": null, "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "fresh", "can", "freeze", "dry" ], "source": "seymour", "us_adaptation_note": "Cooking fruit; fireblight-aware.", "pollination": "self-fertile", "years_to_bear": 4, "bearing": "tree/shrub", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Plant bare-root/dormant 6–2 weeks before the last frost; space 120 in apart.", "care": "Weed and mulch the permanent bed; feed each year; divide when crowded.", "pests_diseases": "Generally trouble-free once established. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "First real crop around year 4. Store by: use fresh, can, freeze, dry." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Pruning", "content": "Prune lightly to an open head; watch for fireblight." }, { "title": "Ripening", "content": "Pick late and store to ripen and perfume; usually cooked, not eaten raw." } ] }, { "id": "pomegranate", "common_name": "Pomegranate", "aka": [], "category": "fruit", "botanical_family": "Lythraceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -2 ], "mode": "bareroot" } ], "spacing_in": 120, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": null, "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "half_hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "fresh", "can", "freeze", "dry" ], "source": "general", "us_adaptation_note": "Warm/dry zones (US south/west).", "pollination": "self-fertile", "years_to_bear": 3, "bearing": "shrub/tree", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: cool-season; only light frost.", "propagation": "Plant bare-root/dormant 6–2 weeks before the last frost; space 120 in apart.", "care": "Weed and mulch the permanent bed; feed each year; divide when crowded.", "pests_diseases": "Generally trouble-free once established. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "First real crop around year 3. Store by: use fresh, can, freeze, dry." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Pruning", "content": "Train to a few main trunks or a bush; remove suckers." }, { "title": "Winter protection", "content": "Protect or pot where winters dip below its hardiness." } ] }, { "id": "strawberry", "common_name": "Strawberry", "aka": [], "category": "fruit", "botanical_family": "Rosaceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -2 ], "mode": "bareroot" } ], "spacing_in": 12, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "high", "days_to_maturity": null, "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "fresh", "can", "freeze", "dry" ], "source": "seymour", "us_adaptation_note": "June-bearing vs everbearing/day-neutral; renew beds.", "varieties": [ { "name": "Ozark Beauty", "days_to_maturity": 0, "type": "everbearing", "traits": "Long harvest", "beginner": true }, { "name": "Honeoye", "days_to_maturity": 0, "type": "June-bearing", "traits": "Heavy early crop", "beginner": true } ], "pollination": "self-fertile", "years_to_bear": 1, "bearing": "ground", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Plant bare-root/dormant 6–2 weeks before the last frost; space 12 in apart.", "care": "Weed and mulch the permanent bed; feed each year; divide when crowded.", "pests_diseases": "Generally trouble-free once established. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "First real crop around year 1. Store by: use fresh, can, freeze, dry." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Runners", "content": "Peg down a few runners into pots to make new plants, or cut them off to steer energy into fruit." }, { "title": "Renewing the bed", "content": "Yields fall after ~3 years — raise a fresh bed from young runners and retire the old one." }, { "title": "Protecting the fruit", "content": "Tuck straw or mats under ripening berries to keep them clean and off the soil, and net against birds." }, { "title": "Growing in containers", "content": "Grows well in barrels, towers, and hanging pots for small spaces." } ] }, { "id": "raspberry", "common_name": "Raspberry", "aka": [], "category": "fruit", "botanical_family": "Rosaceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -2 ], "mode": "bareroot" } ], "spacing_in": 24, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "high", "days_to_maturity": null, "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "fresh", "can", "freeze", "dry" ], "source": "seymour", "us_adaptation_note": "Summer vs everbearing (fall) canes; give support.", "varieties": [ { "name": "Heritage", "days_to_maturity": 0, "type": "fall everbearing", "traits": "Easy, mow-down pruning", "beginner": true }, { "name": "Latham", "days_to_maturity": 0, "type": "summer", "traits": "Hardy classic", "beginner": false } ], "pollination": "self-fertile", "years_to_bear": 2, "bearing": "cane", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Plant bare-root/dormant 6–2 weeks before the last frost; space 24 in apart.", "care": "Weed and mulch the permanent bed; feed each year; divide when crowded.", "pests_diseases": "Generally trouble-free once established. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "First real crop around year 2. Store by: use fresh, can, freeze, dry." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Propagation", "content": "Increase stock by lifting rooted suckers/canes from established rows in the dormant season." }, { "title": "Pruning canes", "content": "Summer-fruiting: cut out the canes that fruited after harvest and tie in the new ones. Fall (primocane) types: mow all canes to the ground in late winter." } ] }, { "id": "blackberry", "common_name": "Blackberry", "aka": [], "category": "fruit", "botanical_family": "Rosaceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -2 ], "mode": "bareroot" } ], "spacing_in": 36, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "low", "days_to_maturity": null, "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "fresh", "can", "freeze", "dry" ], "source": "seymour", "us_adaptation_note": "Thornless erect types easiest.", "varieties": [ { "name": "Triple Crown", "days_to_maturity": 0, "type": "thornless semi-erect", "traits": "Sweet, productive", "beginner": true } ], "pollination": "self-fertile", "years_to_bear": 2, "bearing": "cane", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Plant bare-root/dormant 6–2 weeks before the last frost; space 36 in apart.", "care": "Weed and mulch the permanent bed; feed each year; divide when crowded.", "pests_diseases": "Generally trouble-free once established. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "First real crop around year 2. Store by: use fresh, can, freeze, dry." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Pruning & tying", "content": "Remove the canes that fruited after harvest and tie in the new season's canes along wires." } ] }, { "id": "boysenberry", "common_name": "Boysenberry", "aka": [ "loganberry" ], "category": "fruit", "botanical_family": "Rosaceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -2 ], "mode": "bareroot" } ], "spacing_in": 48, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "low", "days_to_maturity": null, "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "fresh", "can", "freeze", "dry" ], "source": "general", "us_adaptation_note": "Trailing bramble; needs trellis; milder zones.", "pollination": "self-fertile", "years_to_bear": 2, "bearing": "cane", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Plant bare-root/dormant 6–2 weeks before the last frost; space 48 in apart.", "care": "Weed and mulch the permanent bed; feed each year; divide when crowded.", "pests_diseases": "Generally trouble-free once established. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "First real crop around year 2. Store by: use fresh, can, freeze, dry." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Pruning & tying", "content": "Trailing bramble — take out spent canes and tie in new growth on a trellis each year." } ] }, { "id": "blueberry", "common_name": "Blueberry", "aka": [], "category": "fruit", "botanical_family": "Ericaceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -2 ], "mode": "bareroot" } ], "spacing_in": 48, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": null, "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "fresh", "can", "freeze", "dry" ], "source": "general", "us_adaptation_note": "REQUIRES acidic soil (pH 4.5-5.5); plant 2+ varieties.", "varieties": [ { "name": "Bluecrop", "days_to_maturity": 0, "type": "northern highbush", "traits": "Standard, productive", "beginner": true }, { "name": "Powderblue", "days_to_maturity": 0, "type": "rabbiteye", "traits": "South, heat-tolerant", "beginner": true }, { "name": "Top Hat", "days_to_maturity": 0, "type": "lowbush/dwarf", "traits": "Container", "beginner": true } ], "pollination": "needs pollinizer", "years_to_bear": 3, "bearing": "bush", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; even moisture. Soil: MUST be acidic, pH 4.5–5.5 (amend with peat/elemental sulfur; mulch with pine). Climate: hardy (highbush) to warm (rabbiteye).", "propagation": "Plant 2+ dormant/potted varieties; space 48 in; do not let dry out.", "care": "Mulch deeply; keep acidic; plant 2+ varieties for pollination; net against birds.", "pests_diseases": "Generally trouble-free once established. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "First real crop around year 3. Store by: use fresh, can, freeze, dry." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Planting", "content": "Plant 2+ varieties for cross-pollination in acidic soil (pH 4.5–5.5), mulched with pine — never let the roots dry out." }, { "title": "Pruning", "content": "From year 3–4, cut out the oldest canes each winter to keep young, productive wood coming." } ] }, { "id": "gooseberry", "common_name": "Gooseberry", "aka": [], "category": "fruit", "botanical_family": "Grossulariaceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -2 ], "mode": "bareroot" } ], "spacing_in": 48, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": null, "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "fresh", "can", "freeze", "dry" ], "source": "seymour", "us_adaptation_note": "Cool-summer preferred; check state Ribes rules (WPBR).", "pollination": "self-fertile", "years_to_bear": 2, "bearing": "bush", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Plant bare-root/dormant 6–2 weeks before the last frost; space 48 in apart.", "care": "Weed and mulch the permanent bed; feed each year; divide when crowded.", "pests_diseases": "Generally trouble-free once established. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "First real crop around year 2. Store by: use fresh, can, freeze, dry." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Pruning", "content": "Prune to an open goblet on a short leg for airflow (curbs mildew) and easier picking among the thorns." } ] }, { "id": "currant", "common_name": "Currant", "aka": [ "blackcurrant", "redcurrant" ], "category": "fruit", "botanical_family": "Grossulariaceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -2 ], "mode": "bareroot" } ], "spacing_in": 48, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "high", "days_to_maturity": null, "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "fresh", "can", "freeze", "dry" ], "source": "seymour", "us_adaptation_note": "Black/red/white; check state Ribes rules (white pine blister rust).", "pollination": "self-fertile", "years_to_bear": 2, "bearing": "bush", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Plant bare-root/dormant 6–2 weeks before the last frost; space 48 in apart.", "care": "Weed and mulch the permanent bed; feed each year; divide when crowded.", "pests_diseases": "Generally trouble-free once established. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "First real crop around year 2. Store by: use fresh, can, freeze, dry." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Pruning", "content": "Blackcurrants fruit on young wood — cut out about a third of the oldest wood each winter. Red/white currants fruit on spurs — prune to a permanent framework." }, { "title": "Propagation", "content": "Strike hardwood cuttings in fall; net bushes against birds as the fruit ripens." } ] }, { "id": "elderberry", "common_name": "Elderberry", "aka": [], "category": "fruit", "botanical_family": "Adoxaceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -2 ], "mode": "bareroot" } ], "spacing_in": 72, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "low", "days_to_maturity": null, "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "fresh", "can", "freeze", "dry" ], "source": "seymour", "us_adaptation_note": "Native; plant 2 for fruit; COOK berries (raw are emetic).", "pollination": "needs pollinizer", "years_to_bear": 2, "bearing": "shrub", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Plant bare-root/dormant 6–2 weeks before the last frost; space 72 in apart.", "care": "Weed and mulch the permanent bed; feed each year; divide when crowded.", "pests_diseases": "Generally trouble-free once established. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Harvest ripe clusters; COOK before eating (raw berries/stems are emetic). Make into syrup, jam, or wine; dry." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Pollination", "content": "Plant two varieties for good fruit set." }, { "title": "Pruning", "content": "Cut out the oldest stems each winter to renew young, fruitful wood." }, { "title": "Safety", "content": "Cook the berries before use — raw berries, leaves, and stems are mildly toxic." } ] }, { "id": "honeyberry", "common_name": "Honeyberry", "aka": [ "haskap" ], "category": "fruit", "botanical_family": "Caprifoliaceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -2 ], "mode": "bareroot" } ], "spacing_in": 48, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": null, "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "fresh", "can", "freeze", "dry" ], "source": "general", "us_adaptation_note": "Haskap; very cold-hardy, earliest berry; needs 2.", "pollination": "needs pollinizer", "years_to_bear": 2, "bearing": "bush", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Plant bare-root/dormant 6–2 weeks before the last frost; space 48 in apart.", "care": "Weed and mulch the permanent bed; feed each year; divide when crowded.", "pests_diseases": "Generally trouble-free once established. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "First real crop around year 2. Store by: use fresh, can, freeze, dry." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Pollination", "content": "Plant two compatible varieties — they need cross-pollination; very early flowers tolerate frost." }, { "title": "Pruning", "content": "Minimal — just remove the oldest wood once established." } ] }, { "id": "aronia", "common_name": "Aronia", "aka": [], "category": "fruit", "botanical_family": "Rosaceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -2 ], "mode": "bareroot" } ], "spacing_in": 48, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": null, "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "fresh", "can", "freeze", "dry" ], "source": "general", "us_adaptation_note": "Chokeberry; native, tough, antioxidant; self-fertile.", "pollination": "self-fertile", "years_to_bear": 2, "bearing": "shrub", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Plant bare-root/dormant 6–2 weeks before the last frost; space 48 in apart.", "care": "Weed and mulch the permanent bed; feed each year; divide when crowded.", "pests_diseases": "Generally trouble-free once established. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "First real crop around year 2. Store by: use fresh, can, freeze, dry." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Pruning", "content": "Renew by cutting out the oldest canes each winter; otherwise very low-maintenance." } ] }, { "id": "grape", "common_name": "Grape", "aka": [], "category": "fruit", "botanical_family": "Vitaceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -2 ], "mode": "bareroot" } ], "spacing_in": 72, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": null, "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [ "black_rot", "japanese_beetle" ], "storage": [ "fresh", "can", "freeze", "dry" ], "source": "seymour", "us_adaptation_note": "Table vs wine; American (Concord) hardiest; needs trellis & pruning.", "varieties": [ { "name": "Concord", "days_to_maturity": 0, "type": "American table/juice", "traits": "Very hardy, slip-skin", "beginner": true }, { "name": "Reliance", "days_to_maturity": 0, "type": "seedless table", "traits": "Cold-hardy seedless", "beginner": true } ], "chill_hours": [ 100, 500 ], "pollination": "self-fertile", "years_to_bear": 3, "bearing": "vine", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Plant bare-root/dormant 6–2 weeks before the last frost; space 72 in apart.", "care": "Weed and mulch the permanent bed; feed each year; divide when crowded.", "pests_diseases": "Watch for black rot, japanese beetle. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "First real crop around year 3. Store by: use fresh, can, freeze, dry." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Propagation", "content": "Increase from hardwood cuttings taken at winter pruning; layering and approach-grafting also work." }, { "title": "Winter pruning & training", "content": "Prune hard while dormant to a renewal system (e.g. Guyot) trained on wires or a wall — fruit comes on the current season's shoots." }, { "title": "Thinning bunches", "content": "Remove surplus bunches (and stray berries) so the rest ripen fully." }, { "title": "Storing", "content": "Late grapes can be cut with a stem and held in water in a cool room for weeks." } ] }, { "id": "kiwi_hardy", "common_name": "Hardy kiwi", "aka": [ "kiwiberry" ], "category": "fruit", "botanical_family": "Actinidiaceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -2 ], "mode": "bareroot" } ], "spacing_in": 96, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "low", "days_to_maturity": null, "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "fresh", "can", "freeze", "dry" ], "source": "general", "us_adaptation_note": "Cold-hardy; needs male + female vines; vigorous.", "pollination": "needs pollinizer", "years_to_bear": 4, "bearing": "vine", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Plant bare-root/dormant 6–2 weeks before the last frost; space 96 in apart.", "care": "Weed and mulch the permanent bed; feed each year; divide when crowded.", "pests_diseases": "Generally trouble-free once established. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "First real crop around year 4. Store by: use fresh, can, freeze, dry." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Pollination", "content": "Plant one male to several females (unless a self-fertile type)." }, { "title": "Support & pruning", "content": "Give a very strong pergola/wire structure and prune hard twice a year — the vines are extremely vigorous." } ] }, { "id": "hazelnut", "common_name": "Hazelnut", "aka": [ "filbert" ], "category": "fruit", "botanical_family": "Betulaceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -2 ], "mode": "bareroot" } ], "spacing_in": 120, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "low", "days_to_maturity": null, "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "fresh", "can", "freeze", "dry" ], "source": "general", "us_adaptation_note": "Filbert; needs 2 for pollination; check EFB-resistant.", "pollination": "needs pollinizer", "years_to_bear": 4, "bearing": "shrub/tree", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Plant bare-root/dormant 6–2 weeks before the last frost; space 120 in apart.", "care": "Weed and mulch the permanent bed; feed each year; divide when crowded.", "pests_diseases": "Generally trouble-free once established. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "First real crop around year 4. Store by: use fresh, can, freeze, dry." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Pollination", "content": "Plant two or more compatible varieties for nut set." }, { "title": "Sucker removal / coppice", "content": "Remove suckers for a tree, or coppice on a cycle for poles and easier nut picking." } ] }, { "id": "chestnut", "common_name": "Chestnut", "aka": [], "category": "fruit", "botanical_family": "Fagaceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -2 ], "mode": "bareroot" } ], "spacing_in": 300, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "low", "days_to_maturity": null, "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "fresh", "can", "freeze", "dry" ], "source": "general", "us_adaptation_note": "Chinese/hybrid = blight-resistant; needs 2.", "pollination": "needs pollinizer", "years_to_bear": 5, "bearing": "tree", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Plant bare-root/dormant 6–2 weeks before the last frost; space 300 in apart.", "care": "Weed and mulch the permanent bed; feed each year; divide when crowded.", "pests_diseases": "Generally trouble-free once established. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "First real crop around year 5. Store by: use fresh, can, freeze, dry." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Pollination", "content": "Needs a second compatible tree; allow plenty of room — they become large." }, { "title": "Harvesting", "content": "Gather nuts as the burs split and drop; wear gloves against the spines." } ] }, { "id": "wheat", "common_name": "Wheat", "aka": [], "category": "grain", "botanical_family": "Poaceae", "rotation_group": "grass", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "first_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -4 ], "mode": "direct" } ], "spacing_in": 6, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "low", "days_to_maturity": [ 90, 300 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "dry" ], "source": "seymour", "us_adaptation_note": "Winter (fall-sown) or spring types; field/large-plot crop.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: rich, warm soil, pH 6.0–6.8; a heavy feeder. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 6–4 weeks before the first fall frost; space 6 in apart.", "care": "Feed well; keep watered at tasseling/silking; earth-up or block-plant for support.", "pests_diseases": "Corn earworm, and (in the US) raccoons and birds. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 90–300 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: dry." } }, { "id": "oats", "common_name": "Oats", "aka": [], "category": "grain", "botanical_family": "Poaceae", "rotation_group": "grass", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "direct" } ], "spacing_in": 6, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "low", "days_to_maturity": [ 90, 120 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "dry" ], "source": "seymour", "us_adaptation_note": "Spring grain; also a quick cover crop.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: rich, warm soil, pH 6.0–6.8; a heavy feeder. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 4–2 weeks before the last frost; space 6 in apart.", "care": "Feed well; keep watered at tasseling/silking; earth-up or block-plant for support.", "pests_diseases": "Corn earworm, and (in the US) raccoons and birds. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 90–120 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: dry." } }, { "id": "rye_grain", "common_name": "Rye (grain)", "aka": [], "category": "grain", "botanical_family": "Poaceae", "rotation_group": "grass", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "first_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -4 ], "mode": "direct" } ], "spacing_in": 6, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "low", "days_to_maturity": [ 240, 300 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "dry" ], "source": "seymour", "us_adaptation_note": "Very hardy fall grain.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: rich, warm soil, pH 6.0–6.8; a heavy feeder. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 6–4 weeks before the first fall frost; space 6 in apart.", "care": "Feed well; keep watered at tasseling/silking; earth-up or block-plant for support.", "pests_diseases": "Corn earworm, and (in the US) raccoons and birds. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 240–300 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: dry." } }, { "id": "barley", "common_name": "Barley", "aka": [], "category": "grain", "botanical_family": "Poaceae", "rotation_group": "grass", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "direct" } ], "spacing_in": 6, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "low", "days_to_maturity": [ 90, 120 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "dry" ], "source": "seymour", "us_adaptation_note": "Spring or fall; malting/food.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: rich, warm soil, pH 6.0–6.8; a heavy feeder. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 4–2 weeks before the last frost; space 6 in apart.", "care": "Feed well; keep watered at tasseling/silking; earth-up or block-plant for support.", "pests_diseases": "Corn earworm, and (in the US) raccoons and birds. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 90–120 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: dry." } }, { "id": "corn_field", "common_name": "Field/dent corn", "aka": [], "category": "grain", "botanical_family": "Poaceae", "rotation_group": "grass", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ 1, 2 ], "mode": "direct", "soil_temp_min_f": 60 } ], "spacing_in": 6, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "low", "days_to_maturity": [ 100, 120 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "tender", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "dry" ], "source": "seymour", "us_adaptation_note": "Grain/cornmeal; block-plant.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: rich, warm soil, pH 6.0–6.8; a heavy feeder. Climate: warm-season; frost kills it.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 1–2 weeks after the last frost once soil is ≥60°F; space 6 in apart.", "care": "Feed well; keep watered at tasseling/silking; earth-up or block-plant for support.", "pests_diseases": "Corn earworm, and (in the US) raccoons and birds. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 100–120 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: dry." } }, { "id": "quinoa", "common_name": "Quinoa", "aka": [], "category": "grain", "botanical_family": "Amaranthaceae", "rotation_group": "leafy", "trail_color": "teal", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "direct" } ], "spacing_in": 6, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "low", "days_to_maturity": [ 90, 120 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "dry" ], "source": "general", "us_adaptation_note": "Cool-season pseudo-grain; rinse saponins.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: moist, fertile soil rich in organic matter, pH 6.0–7.0. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 4–2 weeks before the last frost; space 6 in apart.", "care": "Keep moist and growing fast; harvest young; provide afternoon shade in heat to slow bolting.", "pests_diseases": "Slugs, aphids, leaf miners, and bolting in heat. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 90–120 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: dry." } }, { "id": "amaranth_grain", "common_name": "Amaranth (grain)", "aka": [], "category": "grain", "botanical_family": "Amaranthaceae", "rotation_group": "leafy", "trail_color": "teal", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ 1, 2 ], "mode": "direct", "soil_temp_min_f": 60 } ], "spacing_in": 6, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "low", "days_to_maturity": [ 90, 120 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "tender", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "dry" ], "source": "general", "us_adaptation_note": "Heat-tolerant pseudo-grain.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: moist, fertile soil rich in organic matter, pH 6.0–7.0. Climate: warm-season; frost kills it.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 1–2 weeks after the last frost once soil is ≥60°F; space 6 in apart.", "care": "Keep moist and growing fast; harvest young; provide afternoon shade in heat to slow bolting.", "pests_diseases": "Slugs, aphids, leaf miners, and bolting in heat. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 90–120 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: dry." } }, { "id": "buckwheat", "common_name": "Buckwheat", "aka": [], "category": "cover", "botanical_family": "Polygonaceae", "rotation_group": "cover", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ 1, 2 ], "mode": "direct", "soil_temp_min_f": 60 } ], "spacing_in": 6, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "low", "days_to_maturity": [ 70, 90 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "tender", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "dry" ], "source": "general", "us_adaptation_note": "Fast summer cover + grain; pollinator; smothers weeds.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: adaptable to most soils. Climate: warm-season; frost kills it.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 1–2 weeks after the last frost once soil is ≥60°F; space 6 in apart.", "care": "Sow densely; cut or terminate before it sets seed; turn in or leave as mulch.", "pests_diseases": "Few pests; grown to improve the soil. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 70–90 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: dry." } }, { "id": "clover_crimson", "common_name": "Crimson clover", "aka": [], "category": "cover", "botanical_family": "Fabaceae", "rotation_group": "cover", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "first_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -4 ], "mode": "direct" } ], "spacing_in": 6, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "low", "days_to_maturity": [ 90, 90 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "dry" ], "source": "general", "us_adaptation_note": "Nitrogen-fixing cover crop; pollinator.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: adaptable to most soils. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 6–4 weeks before the first fall frost; space 6 in apart.", "care": "Sow densely; cut or terminate before it sets seed; turn in or leave as mulch.", "pests_diseases": "Few pests; grown to improve the soil. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Store by: dry." } }, { "id": "clover_red", "common_name": "Red clover", "aka": [], "category": "cover", "botanical_family": "Fabaceae", "rotation_group": "cover", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "direct" } ], "spacing_in": 6, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "low", "days_to_maturity": [ 90, 90 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "dry" ], "source": "general", "us_adaptation_note": "N-fixing cover/forage; overwinters.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: adaptable to most soils. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 4–2 weeks before the last frost; space 6 in apart.", "care": "Sow densely; cut or terminate before it sets seed; turn in or leave as mulch.", "pests_diseases": "Few pests; grown to improve the soil. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Store by: dry." } }, { "id": "vetch", "common_name": "Hairy vetch", "aka": [], "category": "cover", "botanical_family": "Fabaceae", "rotation_group": "cover", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "first_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -4 ], "mode": "direct" } ], "spacing_in": 6, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "low", "days_to_maturity": [ 200, 240 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "dry" ], "source": "general", "us_adaptation_note": "Winter N-fixing cover; pairs with rye.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: adaptable to most soils. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 6–4 weeks before the first fall frost; space 6 in apart.", "care": "Sow densely; cut or terminate before it sets seed; turn in or leave as mulch.", "pests_diseases": "Few pests; grown to improve the soil. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 200–240 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: dry." } }, { "id": "field_pea", "common_name": "Field pea", "aka": [], "category": "cover", "botanical_family": "Fabaceae", "rotation_group": "cover", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "direct" } ], "spacing_in": 6, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "low", "days_to_maturity": [ 60, 90 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "dry" ], "source": "general", "us_adaptation_note": "Cool-season N-fixing cover/forage.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: adaptable to most soils. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 4–2 weeks before the last frost; space 6 in apart.", "care": "Sow densely; cut or terminate before it sets seed; turn in or leave as mulch.", "pests_diseases": "Few pests; grown to improve the soil. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 60–90 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: dry." } }, { "id": "mustard_cover", "common_name": "Mustard (cover)", "aka": [], "category": "cover", "botanical_family": "Brassicaceae", "rotation_group": "cover", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "direct" } ], "spacing_in": 6, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "low", "days_to_maturity": [ 50, 60 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "dry" ], "source": "general", "us_adaptation_note": "Biofumigant cover crop; NOT before/after brassica veg.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: adaptable to most soils. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 4–2 weeks before the last frost; space 6 in apart.", "care": "Sow densely; cut or terminate before it sets seed; turn in or leave as mulch.", "pests_diseases": "Few pests; grown to improve the soil. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 50–60 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: dry." } }, { "id": "daikon_cover", "common_name": "Tillage radish", "aka": [], "category": "cover", "botanical_family": "Brassicaceae", "rotation_group": "cover", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "first_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -4 ], "mode": "direct" } ], "spacing_in": 6, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "low", "days_to_maturity": [ 50, 60 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "dry" ], "source": "general", "us_adaptation_note": "Deep taproot busts compaction; winterkills.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: adaptable to most soils. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 6–4 weeks before the first fall frost; space 6 in apart.", "care": "Sow densely; cut or terminate before it sets seed; turn in or leave as mulch.", "pests_diseases": "Few pests; grown to improve the soil. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 50–60 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: dry." } }, { "id": "seakale", "common_name": "Sea kale", "aka": [], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Brassicaceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "crown" } ], "spacing_in": 18, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "low", "days_to_maturity": null, "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [], "source": "seymour", "us_adaptation_note": "Perennial; blanch/force young spring shoots. Coastal native.", "years_to_bear": 2, "bearing": "crown", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Plant crowns/divisions 4–2 weeks before the last frost; space 18 in apart.", "care": "Weed and mulch the permanent bed; feed each year; divide when crowded.", "pests_diseases": "Generally trouble-free once established. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "First real crop around year 2. Store by: use fresh." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Forcing / blanching", "content": "Cover crowns in late winter to force pale, tender spring shoots (blanched to stay mild)." }, { "title": "Planting thongs", "content": "Propagate from root cuttings ('thongs') set upright, or from crowns, in rich deep soil." }, { "title": "Forcing & blanching", "content": "Cover dormant crowns in late winter to force pale, tender, mild spring shoots." } ] }, { "id": "scorzonera", "common_name": "Scorzonera", "aka": [ "black salsify" ], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Asteraceae", "rotation_group": "root", "trail_color": "violet", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "direct" } ], "spacing_in": 3, "sqft_count": 9, "small_space_value": "low", "days_to_maturity": [ 120, 150 ], "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "in_ground" ], "source": "seymour", "us_adaptation_note": "Long-season black root; frost sweetens; like salsify.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, loose, stone-free soil, pH 6.0–6.8; avoid freshly manured ground (roots fork). Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 4–2 weeks before the last frost; space 3 in apart (9/sq ft).", "care": "Thin seedlings to spacing; keep evenly watered to avoid splitting; hoe carefully.", "pests_diseases": "Carrot/root fly and forking in rough soil. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 120–150 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: leave in ground under mulch." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Thinning", "content": "Thin early to spacing; the long black roots resent disturbance, so sow in place." }, { "title": "Harvesting", "content": "Lift from fall onward; frost sweetens the roots. Two-year roots often size up better." } ] }, { "id": "hamburg_parsley", "common_name": "Hamburg parsley", "aka": [ "turnip-rooted parsley" ], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Apiaceae", "rotation_group": "root", "trail_color": "violet", "life_cycle": "annual", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "direct" } ], "spacing_in": 4, "sqft_count": 9, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": [ 90, 110 ], "sun": "partial", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "root_cellar", "in_ground" ], "source": "seymour", "us_adaptation_note": "Parsnip-like root PLUS usable parsley tops; tolerates poorer soil and shade.", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun to partial shade; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, loose, stone-free soil, pH 6.0–6.8; avoid freshly manured ground (roots fork). Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Direct-sow 4–2 weeks before the last frost; space 4 in apart (9/sq ft).", "care": "Thin seedlings to spacing; keep evenly watered to avoid splitting; hoe carefully.", "pests_diseases": "Carrot/root fly and forking in rough soil. Rotate on a 3–4 year family cycle, encourage beneficials, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "Ready about 90–110 days from sowing/transplant. Store by: root-cellar, leave in ground under mulch." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Thinning", "content": "Thin like parsnips; the parsley-like tops can be used as an herb." } ] }, { "id": "good_king_henry", "common_name": "Good King Henry", "aka": [], "category": "vegetable", "botanical_family": "Amaranthaceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -4, -2 ], "mode": "crown" } ], "spacing_in": 12, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "medium", "days_to_maturity": null, "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [], "source": "seymour", "us_adaptation_note": "Perennial spinach substitute; young shoots used like asparagus.", "years_to_bear": 1, "bearing": "crown", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Plant crowns/divisions 4–2 weeks before the last frost; space 12 in apart.", "care": "Weed and mulch the permanent bed; feed each year; divide when crowded.", "pests_diseases": "Generally trouble-free once established. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "First real crop around year 1. Store by: use fresh." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Harvesting shoots", "content": "Cut the young spring shoots like thin asparagus, and pick the young leaves like spinach; stop cutting by early summer to let the plant recover." } ] }, { "id": "medlar", "common_name": "Medlar", "aka": [], "category": "fruit", "botanical_family": "Rosaceae", "rotation_group": "perennial", "trail_color": null, "life_cycle": "perennial", "planting_windows": [ { "anchor": "last_frost", "offset_weeks": [ -6, -2 ], "mode": "bareroot" } ], "spacing_in": 150, "sqft_count": null, "small_space_value": "low", "days_to_maturity": null, "sun": "full", "water": "moderate", "hardiness": "hardy", "succession": false, "companions": [], "antagonists": [], "pests_hazards": [], "storage": [ "fresh", "can", "freeze", "dry" ], "source": "seymour", "us_adaptation_note": "Hardier than quince; fruit must be 'bletted' (softened after frost) before eating.", "pollination": "self-fertile", "years_to_bear": 4, "bearing": "tree", "cultivation": { "soil_climate": "Full sun; moderate, even moisture water. Soil: deep, rich, well-drained soil in a permanent site. Climate: cool-season; tolerates frost.", "propagation": "Plant bare-root/dormant 6–2 weeks before the last frost; space 150 in apart.", "care": "Weed and mulch the permanent bed; feed each year; divide when crowded.", "pests_diseases": "Generally trouble-free once established. Keep plants healthy, space for airflow, and remove affected material.", "harvest_storage": "First real crop around year 4. Store by: use fresh, can, freeze, dry." }, "extra_sections": [ { "title": "Bletting", "content": "Pick hard in late fall and 'blet' (store until soft and brown) before eating or making into cheese/jelly." } ] } ] }