{"title":"Heat Tolerant Veggies","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\"Heat tolerant veggies\" is a pretty unique collection of plants because when we say heat tolerant we don't mean normal heat, we mean \"deep Miami summer heat\". Over our many years of growing in South Florida we have tried lots of different summer experiments and these varieties are the tried and true. Yes, its just two tomatoes. Yes, its heavy on okra and sweet potatoes, which may not be exactly what you were looking for, but if you trust us and stick to these options (especially if you are a beginner) your chances of summer vegetable success are going to skyrocket!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eAll of our plants are grown in OMRI certified Organic materials (potting mix, fertilizer, seeds, etc.) and include Organic granular fertilizer, living locally-made compost, and have been cared for with healthy microorganisms from compost tea and microbial inoculants. We only use organic pesticides when needed. We only stock varieties that we have experience growing and that are season and climate appropriate for South Florida. Our curated inventory is simple enough for a beginner and interesting enough to keep an advanced gardeners attention, with new and rare varieties being added weekly. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"everglades-cherry-tomato-solanum-pimpinellifolium-30-seeds","title":"Everglades Cherry Tomato (solanum pimpinellifolium) 30 seeds","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.etsy.com\/shop\/LittleRiverPlants\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/www.etsy.com\/shop\/LittleRiverPlants\"\u003eCLICK HERE\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e to shop our etsy store \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ewhere we offer nationwide shipping on these seeds and plants!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEverglades cherry tomatoes are a cult favorite down here in South Florida, and for good reason. Legend has it that these were found \"growing wild\" throughout the everglades, and after their discovery the seeds were saved and distributed by local gardeners who were looking for a tomato that could stand the extreme heat and humidity of a South Florida summer. Nowadays they're a staple in summer and winter gardens throughout the area. Their tiny size makes them adorable for use in salads, as garnish, and as snacks, and their sweet tase make them irresistible. These wild cherry tomatoes make large highly branched plants that are best grown in a wild and non-trellised fashion. If allowed to grow like a groundcover, left to sprawl and crawl along the ground they can make enormous plants with hundreds of fruit clusters on one plant! \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAllow a few clusters of Everglades cherry tomatoes to stay on the plant and they will happily reseed themselves year after year. If you'd like to save the seeds instead just choose a few very ripe fruits, squeeze the insides out into a jar with water, allow it to ferment for a few days (this simulated the digestive system of an animal and will break down the mucilaginous coating around the seed) and then dry on a towel. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDespite its tolerance of the tropical heat Everglades cherry tomatoes can be grown anywhere where all other tomato varieties are. A tip for harvesting the tiny sweet fruits: instead of picking fruit by fruit, cut the entire cluster off the vine when all the fruit is most of the way ripe. Alternatively, break the fruit off of the vine one by one with their little green hat on (the technical term is \"peduncle\") since the fruits skin tends to rip when its removed hastily. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlanting and growing tips:\u003c\/strong\u003e p\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003elant seeds 1\/4 inch deep in premoistened potting mix in a small pot or seedling tray. Keep cells moist in partial shade until germination, when they can be moved to full sun exposure. Seeds take 5-10 days to germinate. Our tomato seeds have just about 100% germination and aren't finnicky so if none of them sprout you may have a technical issue at hand. Make sure your pot or seedling trays arent too wet or you will rot the soft sided seeds before they have a chance to germinate. Everglades cherry tomatoes do best in full sun not just for the energy it needs for photosynthesis but also to help combat fungal issues caused by humidity and damp shady environments. Everglades tomatoes also get very large and have sprawling growth habits so we recommend using them like a groundcover (think pumpkin or sweet potato growth pattern) instead of trying to manage and trellis them. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAll seeds were harvested from our urban farm and plant nursery in 2022. \u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eSeed packages are hand silkscreened by \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.goldteethbrooklyn.com\/\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s2\"\u003eGold Teeth Brooklyn\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e, a handmade stationery company based in Los Angeles. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eSeeds have been tested for reliable germination in our nursery at 80 degree daytime temperatures. We recommend using them within 1 year of date of purchase.\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Little River Cooperative","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":22442649550930,"sku":"","price":6.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0535\/4461\/products\/IMG_8283.JPG?v=1583118576"},{"product_id":"luffah-gourd-luffa-aegyptiaca-30-seeds","title":"Luffah Gourd (luffa aegyptiaca) 30 seeds","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/plantmatter.net\/\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/plantmatter.net\/\"\u003eCLICK HERE\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e to shop our other store,\u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/plantmatter.net\/\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/plantmatter.net\/\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ePlantmatter\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e, where we offer nationwide shipping on these seeds and plants and more!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e“Wait, you mean loofahs aren't creatures from the sea?!” Nope! They are dried out gourds from the loofah vine. Luffas belong to the Cucurbitaceae or gourd family, along with their somewhat distant cousins squashes, watermelons, cucumbers, melons, and the hard-shelled gourds. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s2\"\u003eAs the loofah gourds mature, their endocarp transforms into a fibrous network that’s mostly made of cellulose. This network forms the soft and absorbent exfoliator we’re all familiar with. We like to let the loofahs mature and then turn completely brown while still on the vine, then we harvest them, shake the seeds out (save them for giving to friends and replanting), peel the outer layer off and there you have it… a loofah sponge! \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s3\"\u003eWhile North American Gardners tend to grow this plant for its showy and useful gourds, in many other parts of the world the flower buds, flowers, and very young fruit (which taste pretty much like summer squash) are eaten. To eat the young fruit harvest it when its the size of a grocery store zucchini and cook it just the same.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s3\"\u003eLoofah vines are fast growing and get huge, so make sure you have a big piece of fence or arbor to plant on. They are susceptible to all the things that like this family of plants, like vine boring worms and powdery mildew, so you’ll want to plant them in full sun and keep an eye on the growing tips for worm damage. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s4\"\u003e This plant is a real unique treat in the garden if you have the space, and kids love to grow it because you can see the fruits get bigger every day until you harvest.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s2\"\u003eThough they’re most commonly used in the shower, luffa sponges are great for scrubbing pots and plates in the kitchen, and they make great gifts for friends. Use a serrated knife to cut slices off of your loofah and use the slice like a sponge. You can also submerge your slice in homemade soap and make super cute biodegradable gifts for friends.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p4\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s5\"\u003eWhile loofahs origin is unknown (some say African some say Asia) loofah plants are very common throughout Africa, and our herbalist The Garden Jules found multiple medicinal uses for it from different regions. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s3\"\u003eIn South Africa and Rwanda the leaf is decocted or simmered for 20-40 minutes in water, to treat stomach pain. The leaves have also been used as a poultice topically on the skin to reduce inflammation and stimulate healing on wounds, cuts or abrasions. In Nigeria, the young fruit pulp is ground into a poultice and applied topically to skin as an emollient to rehydrate and replenish dry, cracked skin and skin lesions. In Guinea the fruit pulp poultice is applied to tumors topically to reduce inflammation. In Uganda, the decoction of the leaves is used to induce labour and assist with postpartum issues which is backed by the discovery of oxytocin levels in this plant. For this reason, use caution, if pregnant, and do not consume this plant.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlanting and growing tips: \u003c\/strong\u003eloofah seeds are notoriously easy to germinate (like its cousins pumpkin \u0026amp; squash) and germinate in only 3 days. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003ePlant seeds 1\/4 inch deep in premoistened potting mix in a small pot or seedling tray. Keep cells moist in partial shade until germination, when they can be moved to full sun exposure. Loofahs grow very fast so make sure to keep up with its growth and up pot frequently and plant out in its permanent location when the plant is about a month old. Loofahs need full sun and tons of space to produce fruit. Vine will start with male flowers only and will follow up with female flowers \u0026amp; fruit. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAll seeds were harvested from our urban farm and plant nursery in 2022. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eSeed packages are hand silkscreened by \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.goldteethbrooklyn.com\/\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s2\"\u003eGold Teeth Brooklyn\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e, a handmade stationery company based in Los Angeles. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSeeds have been tested for reliable germination in our nursery at 80 degree daytime temperatures. We recommend using them within 1 year of date of purchase.\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Little River Cooperative","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":12556984909906,"sku":"","price":6.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0535\/4461\/products\/IMG_8279.JPG?v=1540509737"},{"product_id":"chinese-red-noodle-yardlong-bean-seed-packet","title":"Chinese Red Noodle Yardlong Bean Seed Packet","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eChinese Red Noodle Yardlong Bean\u003cbr\u003e\u003ci\u003eVigna Unguiculata\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eKitazawa Seed Co. \u003cbr\u003e25-30 seeds\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003edays to maturity: 85 days\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eplant spacing: 4-8 per square foot, trellised\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003esunlight requirements: 8-14 hours\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003elook out for: aphids on the flowers and young beans\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eharvest notes: harvest beans daily while they’re still slender\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eannual\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eYardlong Beans are our favorite weirdo beans to grow in South Florida because they love our hot and humid tropical climate and are really fun to look at, harvest and cook with. These beans are referred to as “yardlong noodle” because they’re long and skinny like a noodle and supposedly can grow up to a yard long, although we mostly see beans around 16-20” at harvest time. While these can take a little while to start bearing fruit compared to other beans they do produce 4 beans per flower so a small patch of them can produce quite a surprising amount of food. Chop the beans in to little pieces for a more normal dining experience, or cut them down the middle into two long halves of bean and make a salad with them that resembles a noodle dish! Purple pods do loose some color when cooked but if just quickly blanched they can remain purple on the plate. yardlong beans are pole types so they need to be trellised. This is a great variety to include if youre building yourself a “bean teepee” or looking for something super easy to grow on a trellis.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Little River Cooperative","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":32764806234194,"sku":"SEED013","price":4.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0535\/4461\/products\/IMG_3651.jpg?v=1606576492"},{"product_id":"sugar-baby-watermelon-seed-packet","title":"Sugar Baby Watermelon Seed Packet","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eSugar Baby Watermelon\u003cbr\u003e\u003ci\u003eCitrullus Lanatus\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eSouthern Exposure Seed Exchange\u003cbr\u003e20-60 seeds per packet\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDays to Maturity: 77 days\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlant Spacing: 1 per square foot, vining\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSunlight Requirements: 6 - 14 hours\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLook Out For: worms in growing tips\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHarvest Notes: harvest melons when the “pig tail” closest to the fruit dries out\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAnnual\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eSugar baby is one of the main watermelon types grown in Florida by commercial producers, so its the main one we recommend for home growers. While many of the more exotic colored and shaped melons prefer being grown in the summer up north, Sugar Baby loves it down here in South Florida and will make you fun “icebox” fruit. Each plant will only produce about 1-2 fruits, so make sure to baby them and dont pick too early! The main way that farmers determine the ripeness of their melons is that the “pigtail” (aka the curly little tendril) closest to the fruit dries out.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eTo plant your watermelon seeds make a mound of rich but well draining soil in your garden and plant about 3 seeds in the center of the mound. Planting in a mound ensures that the soil will drain well, which watermelon plants need in order to thrive. Watermelons are vines that like to spread and creep, like pumpkins, so make sure to give them lots of space. We tend to plant vining squashes on the edges of raised beds so that they can vine out of your raised bed, instead of staying in it and taking up a bunch of precious garden real estate.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Little River Cooperative","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":32774331367506,"sku":"SEED051","price":4.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0535\/4461\/products\/SESE-sugarbabywatermelon.jpg?v=1600279393"},{"product_id":"waltham-butternut-squash-seed-packet","title":"Waltham Butternut Squash Seed Packet","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWaltham butternut Winter Squash\u003cbr\u003e\u003ci\u003eCurcurbis Moschata\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eSouthern Exposure Seed Exchange\u003cbr\u003e20-50 seeds per packet\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDays to Maturity: 95 days\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlant Spacing: 1 per square foot, vining\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSunlight Requirements: 6 - 14 hours\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLook Out For: worms in growing tips\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHarvest Notes: harvest butternuts when plant is mostly dead and the fruit has turned pale orange\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAnnual\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eButternut Squash can be pretty easy to grow in South Florida but the vining plants do take up a lot of space and each plant only makes a few fruit, so you may want to plant these cuties outside of your raised beds or at least on the edge so they can spill out of the bed and take advantage of the extra space.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eButternut squashes can be harvested young and green like a summer squash or be left on the vine to turn hard skinned and light orange, which is what qualifies them as a “winter squash”. If you do harvest it as a mature winter squash the flavor will be improved if you let the fruit “cure” in a cool dark part of your home for about 3 months before eating.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Little River Cooperative","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":32774337724498,"sku":"SEED053","price":4.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0535\/4461\/products\/SESE-walthamsquash.jpg?v=1600279825"},{"product_id":"copy-of-sungold-cherry-tomatoes","title":"Everglades Cherry Tomatoes","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAs of mid February we have stopped selling our assorted selection of tomato varieties because it is too late in the season to plant them, however we do sell everglades cherry tomato seedlings through June. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eEverglades Cherry Tomato\u003cbr\u003eSolanum Lucopersicum\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003edays to maturity: 57 days\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eplant spacing: 2 square feet per plant\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003esunlight requirement: 8 - 14 hours\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003elook out for: Hornworms - if you you see branches without any leaves or half eaten fruits look carefully for green caterpillars. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eharvest notes: Pick tomatoes when they are as ripe as possible. They should be fully colored and firm and picked regularly to avoid overloading plants.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eannual\u003cbr\u003eIndeterminate\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eEverglades cherry tomatoes are a cult favorite down here in South Florida, and for good reason. Legend has it that these were found \"growing wild\" throughout the everglades, and after their discovery the seeds were saved and distributed by local gardeners who were looking for a tomato that could stand the extreme heat and humidity of a South Florida summer. Nowadays they're a staple in summer and winter gardens throughout the area. Their tiny size makes them adorable for use in salads, as garnish, and as snacks, and their sweet tase make them irresistible. These wild cherry tomatoes make large highly branched plants that are best grown in a wild and non-trellised fashion. If allowed to grow like a groundcover, left to sprawl and crawl along the ground they can make enormous plants with hundreds of fruit clusters on one plant! \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAllow a few clusters of Everglades cherry tomatoes to stay on the plant and they will happily reseed themselves year after year. If you'd like to save the seeds instead just choose a few very ripe fruits, squeeze the insides out into a jar with water, allow it to ferment for a few days (this simulated the digestive system of an animal and will break down the mucilaginous coating around the seed) and then dry on a towel. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDespite its tolerance of the tropical heat Everglades cherry tomatoes can be grown anywhere where all other tomato varieties are. A tip for harvesting the tiny sweet fruits: instead of picking fruit by fruit, cut the entire cluster off the vine when all the fruit is most of the way ripe. Alternatively, break the fruit off of the vine one by one with their little green hat on (the technical term is \"peduncle\") since the fruits skin tends to rip when its removed hastily. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Little River Cooperative","offers":[{"title":"4\" potted plant","offer_id":42665008824402,"sku":null,"price":6.5,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"1 gal potted plant","offer_id":42665008857170,"sku":null,"price":12.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"3 gal potted plant","offer_id":42665008889938,"sku":null,"price":35.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0535\/4461\/products\/IMG_0051_1da7cd06-04c0-4fd1-bb21-a5ae2cf6b172.jpg?v=1609861223"},{"product_id":"bowling-red-okra-seed-packet","title":"Cajun Jewel Okra Seed Packet","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eCajun Jewel (ABELMOSCHUS ESCULENTUS) \u003cspan\u003e70 seeds per packet\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSouthern Exposure Seed Exchange\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDays to Maturity: 50 days\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlant Spacing: 1 - 3 plants per square foot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSunlight Requirement: 8 - 14 Hours\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLook Out For: mites, aphids\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHarvest Notes: Pick okra very regularly when thumb sized\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLifecycle: Annual\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv title=\"Page 1\" class=\"page\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"section\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"layoutArea\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"column\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOkra is an indispensable ingredient in many soups, gumbos, and stew recipes. The immature pods contribute unique \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eflavor and consistency to ethnic dishes like Cajun gumbo. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOkra is a tender annual that grows best in hot weather \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eand can even thrive in our hot, humid and rainy summers. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe pods should be picked when tender and immature, about \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e2-3 inches long, usually about 4-6 days after flowering. Keep pods removed to encourage flowering. Plants can reach \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e3-4 feet high and do not need trellising. A member of the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003ehibiscus family, Okra has similar pest issues (a favorite plant of the mealy bug) and a beautiful edible flower. Cajun Jewel Okra is a beautiful variety with dark red fruit and stems. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Little River Cooperative","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":33275355594834,"sku":"","price":3.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0535\/4461\/files\/IMG_7199.jpg?v=1693424736"},{"product_id":"seminole-pumpkin-seed-packet","title":"Seminole Pumpkin Seed Packet","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eSeminole Pumpkin Squash\u003cbr\u003e\u003ci\u003eCurcurbis Moschata\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eSouthern Exposure Seed Exchange\u003cbr\u003e20 seeds per packet\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDays to Maturity: 95 days\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlant Spacing: 1 per square foot, vining\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSunlight Requirements: 6 - 14 hours\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLook Out For: worms in growing tips\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHarvest Notes: harvest butternuts when plant is mostly dead and the fruit has turned pale orange\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAnnual\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSeminole Pumpkins are a South Florida favorite because many other winter squash varieties here have a hard time with all of the humidity of our tropical climate. Seminole pumpkins have a very interesting past, as they were cultivated here by many Indigenous communities before the arrival of the spanish. Read all about their cultural \u0026amp; historical significance\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.gatewaygreening.org\/seminole-pumpkin-by-cameron-lee-seung-yul\/#:~:text=Found%20throughout%20Florida%2C%20this%20variety,other%20tribes%20indigenous%20to%20Florida.\"\u003e in this article.\u003c\/a\u003e Seminole Pumpkins can be eaten green or left to mature on the vine into an orangey beige color. They can store unrefrigerated for a year and just like with other storage pumpkins their sweet flavor is concentrated with time curing. Seminole Pumpkins are large vining plants so either plant them as a sprawling ground cover in your food forest or consider allowing them to grow up a bare tree in your yard, with their fruits dangling like ornaments. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSeminole Pumpkins are a Slow Food Arc of Taste variety. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePhoto courtesy of Edible South Florida. \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ediblesouthflorida.ediblecommunities.com\/food-thought\/attack-seminole-pumpkins\"\u003eCheck out their article\u003c\/a\u003e all about this culinary favorite. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Little River Cooperative","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":33285391974482,"sku":"","price":4.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0535\/4461\/products\/ScreenShot2021-02-12at12.57.05PM.png?v=1613152666"},{"product_id":"seminole-pumpkin","title":"Seminole Pumpkin","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eSeminole Pumpkin Squash\u003cbr\u003e\u003ci\u003eCurcurbis Moschata\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDays to Maturity: 95 days\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlant Spacing: 1 per square foot, vining\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSunlight Requirements: 6 - 14 hours\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLook Out For: worms in growing tips\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHarvest Notes: harvest pumpkins when plant is mostly dead and the fruit has turned pale orange\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAnnual\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSeminole Pumpkins are a South Florida favorite because many other winter squash varieties here have a hard time with all of the humidity of our tropical climate. Seminole pumpkins have a very interesting past, as they were cultivated here by many Indigenous communities before the arrival of the Spanish. Read all about their cultural \u0026amp; historical significance\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.gatewaygreening.org\/seminole-pumpkin-by-cameron-lee-seung-yul\/#:~:text=Found%20throughout%20Florida%2C%20this%20variety,other%20tribes%20indigenous%20to%20Florida.\"\u003e in this article.\u003c\/a\u003e Seminole Pumpkins can be eaten green or left to mature on the vine into an orangey beige color. They can store unrefrigerated for a year and just like with other storage pumpkins their sweet flavor is concentrated with time curing. Seminole Pumpkins are large vining plants so either plant them as a sprawling ground cover in your food forest or consider allowing them to grow up a bare tree in your yard, with their fruits dangling like ornaments. \u003cbr\u003eSeminole Pumpkins are a Slow Food Arc of Taste variety. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFirst photo courtesy of Edible South Florida. \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ediblesouthflorida.ediblecommunities.com\/food-thought\/attack-seminole-pumpkins\"\u003eCheck out their article\u003c\/a\u003e all about this culinary favorite. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Little River Cooperative","offers":[{"title":"4\" potted plant","offer_id":42665010364498,"sku":null,"price":5.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"1 gal potted plant","offer_id":42665010397266,"sku":null,"price":12.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"3 gal potted plant","offer_id":42665010430034,"sku":null,"price":35.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0535\/4461\/products\/ScreenShot2022-02-24at10.15.18AM.png?v=1645716239"},{"product_id":"winged-bean-day-neutral","title":"Winged Bean, Day Neutral","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003ca data-encoded-attr-charset=\"dXRmLTg=\" data-encoded-tag-value=\"\" data-encoded-tag-name=\"meta\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cstrong data-sanitized-data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003edays to maturity: 75 days\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-sanitized-data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-sanitized-data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eplant spacing: 2 plants per square foot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-sanitized-data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-sanitized-data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003esunlight requirements: 6-14 hours\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-sanitized-data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-sanitized-data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003elook out for: mites and aphids in growing tips\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-sanitized-data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-sanitized-data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eharvest notes: h\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong data-sanitized-data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-sanitized-data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003earvest tubers 120-200 days after planting\u003cbr data-sanitized-data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong data-sanitized-data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eperennial\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile its hard to pick a \"favorite legume\" we for sure know that ours is the frilly and delicious Winged Bean. While this 4 sided ruffled bean may look too crazy to be food, its known commonly as \"asparagus bean\" because its flavor is so similar to the revered asparagus shoot. This tropical perennial does more than just make crazy lookin' beans.... every part of this fast growing legume is edible. Its tuberous root is eaten as a starch cooked or raw, its leaves are eaten like spinach, the periwinkle flowers are sweet and edible, and the bean is edible raw or cooked as a green pod, or cooked as a shelled bean. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNative to New Guinea this bean is quite popular in Southeast Asia and all parts of the plant are rich in protein, the root tubers being some of the most protein rich starches grown for food (20% by volume). Despite its comfort in the tropics winged bean has become quite popular with American veggie gardeners and is being grown in all zones including the northern ones like Washington, Colorado and New Jersey. The key to growing winged bean as an annual during the summer is choosing the \"day neutral\" variety. \"Day neutral\" winged beans will produce flowers and beans despite the long days of summer, while the non-day neutral types will produce only vegetative growth during the summer and wait for the shorter days of fall and winter to make flowers and fruit. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOur Day Neutral winged beans planted at our farm are 2 months old and already making fruit. Allow the plant to get quite large on a trellis and it will produce hundreds of bean pods for you! Expect this bean plant to get quite large as it matures, so either give it a track of fence to grow on, or a substantial trellis. Allow a few pods to dry on the plant and they can be cracked open for next years seed stock.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Little River Cooperative","offers":[{"title":"4\" potted plant","offer_id":42665011347538,"sku":null,"price":5.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"1 gal potted plant","offer_id":42665011380306,"sku":null,"price":12.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"3 gal potted plant","offer_id":42665011413074,"sku":null,"price":35.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0535\/4461\/products\/IMG_3722_1_1315da41-3211-474f-b2e9-0dfcd0db080b.JPG?v=1618354104"},{"product_id":"clemson-spineless-okra-seed-packet","title":"Clemson Spineless Okra Seed Packet","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eClemson Spineless Okra\u003cbr\u003eABELMOSCHUS ESCULENTUS\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSouthern Exposure Seed Exchange\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e70 seeds per packet\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDays to Maturity: 50 days\u003cbr\u003ePlant Spacing: 1 - 3 plants per square foot\u003cbr\u003eSunlight Requirement: 8 - 14 Hours\u003cbr\u003eLook Out For: mites, aphids\u003cbr\u003eHarvest Notes: Pick okra very regularly when thumb sized\u003cbr\u003eAnnual\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv title=\"Page 1\" class=\"page\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"section\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"layoutArea\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"column\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOkra is an indispensable ingredient in many soups, gumbos, and stew recipes. The immature pods contribute unique \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eflavor and consistency to ethnic dishes like Cajun gumbo. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOkra is a tender annual that grows best in hot weather \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eand can even thrive in our hot, humid and rainy summers. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe pods should be picked when tender and immature, about \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e2-3 inches long, usually about 4-6 days after flowering. Keep pods removed to encourage flowering. Plants can reach \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e3-4 feet high and do not need trellising. A member of the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003ehibiscus family, Okra has similar pest issues (a favorite plant of the mealy bug) and a beautiful edible flower. Clemson Spineless is a classic green variety thats been grown in the South for generations. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Little River Cooperative","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39361296498770,"sku":"","price":3.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0535\/4461\/products\/ScreenShot2021-04-28at12.52.06PM.png?v=1619628834"},{"product_id":"aji-dulce-pepper-seeds","title":"Aji Dulce Pepper Seeds","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAji Dulce (Capsicum Chinense) Average 50 seeds per packet\u003cbr\u003eSouthern Exposure Seed Exchange\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDays to maturity: 60 - 210 days\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlant spacing: 1 plant per square foot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSunlight requirements: 6-14 hours\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLook out for: Spider mites \u0026amp; white fly\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHarvest notes: Pick peppers as they mature to encourage new buds to form.\u003cbr\u003eScoville heat units: 1,000 - 5,000\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eUSDA plant hardiness zone: 4a-11b\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLifecycle: Perennial\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eAji Dulce, cachucha or ajicito, is any of a variety of sweet perennial peppers found in Latin America and the Caribbean. It is most widely known in Venezuela, where it refers to a specific native variety of Capsicum chinense related to the habanero, but with a much milder, smoky flavor. In the Dominican Republic, Cuba, and Puerto Rico, ají dulce or ajicito is grown commercially and is an important ingredient for sauces, such as recaíto, sofrito, and mojito isleño (a fish or meat sauce), as well as stews, rice, and a great variety of local dishes.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eAji Dulce translates to “sweet pepper” which refers to its flavor profile. The fruit looks exactly like a spicy habanero type pepper, but the flavor profile lacks the heat of a habanero but does have a smoky flavor with hints of citrus and a mild sweet pepper flavor.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eLike all other peppers, Aji Dulce can be grown as a perennial here in South Florida where we have no frost, and is treated like an annual in all climates where frost occurs in winter. Aji Dulce plants tend to stay small and have a compact and wide growth pattern, but they are super productive nonetheless. If you want to save seeds make sure there aren’t any other peppers around that it could cross pollinate with, harvest a red ripe pepper, and dry and save the seeds for next season.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eOur main pest issues with peppers are mites (which are microscopic) which make the growing tips of the plant shriveled and waxy, root knot nematodes (which effect the overall health of the plant by eating and distorting the root system) and whitefly (which hide out on the underside of the leaves and suck juices out of them).\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Little River Cooperative","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39361303347282,"sku":"","price":4.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0535\/4461\/products\/ajidulceseedpacket.png?v=1619626650"},{"product_id":"jalapeno-pepper-seed-packet","title":"Jalapeño Pepper Seed Packet","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJalapeño Pepper \u003cbr\u003eCapsicum annuum\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003edays to maturity: 67 green; 90 red ripe\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eplant spacing: 1 plant per square foot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003esunlight requirement: 6 - 14 hours\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003elook out for: white fly \u0026amp; spider mites\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eharvest notes: harvest your peppers when they are firm and full.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003escoville heat units: 2,500 – 10,000 \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eannual\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe jalapeño is a medium-sized chili pepper. A mature jalapeño fruit is 3 1\/2 - 4\" long, and is commonly picked and consumed while still green, but occasionally it is allowed to fully ripen and turn crimson red. Jalapeños have 2,500 - 10,000 Scoville units. Compared to other chilis, the jalapeño heat level varies from mild to hot depending on cultivation and preparation. The heat, caused by capsaicin and related compounds, is concentrated in the membrane (placenta) surrounding the seeds. Jalapeños thrive in a number of soil types and temperatures, provided they have adequate water. In tropical or subtropical climates hot peppers such as jalapeño can produce year round.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Little River Cooperative","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39572760854610,"sku":"","price":3.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0535\/4461\/products\/SESE-jalapeno.jpg?v=1631041954"},{"product_id":"habanero-pepper-seed-packet","title":"Habanero Pepper Seed Packet","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eHelios Habanero Pepper\u003cbr\u003eCapsicum Chinense\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eSouthern Exposure Seed Exchange\u003cbr\u003e40 seeds\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003edays to maturity: 90 till orange\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eplant spacing: 1 plant per square foot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003esunlight requirement: 6-14 hours\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003elook out for: white fly \u0026amp; spider mites\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eharvest notes: harvest when orange\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003escoville heat units: 75,000\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eannual\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHelios is a bright orange hyrbid habanero variety with about 75,000 units on the scoville scale, so its not crazy hot but it does pack a punch. Plants are hardy and grow to be quite large, like small ornamental bushes dripping with little orange peppers. Hot peppers are perennials in our tropical climate and we have large plants that are years old and still fruiting.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Little River Cooperative","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39815479427154,"sku":"","price":4.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0535\/4461\/products\/habaneroseedpacket.jpg?v=1644957068"},{"product_id":"purple-passion-sweet-potato","title":"Purple Passion Sweet Potato","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003ePurple Passion Sweet Potato\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eIpomoea Batatas\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003edays to maturity: 110 days\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eplant spacing: 2 plant per square foot \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003esunlight requirements: 6-14 hours\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003elook out for: whitefly hiding on the underside of the leaves, plus the plant spreads like a vine\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eharvest notes: h\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003earvest tubers and cure them indoors to produce more sugars\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cb\u003eannual\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv title=\"Page 1\" class=\"page\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"section\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"layoutArea\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"column\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv title=\"Page 1\" class=\"page\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"section\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"layoutArea\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"column\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePurple Passion is a rare purple fleshed and purple skinned sweet potato variety. Purple sweet potatoes are super cool to cook and bake with... purple pie, purple mash, purple everything! Last year was our first growing this variety and the test patch we planted in our exhibition garden did very well and produced lots of beautiful tubers. Make sure you take advantage of the easy propagation of sweet potatoes and make yourself lots of copies of this hard to find variety to plant throughout your garden and share with friends.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eSweet potatoes are great summer crops for your raised bed or your food forest since they love love love the heat, humidity and rain. It’s \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s2\"\u003enative to the New World, although the site of origin and the manner in which it originated are still unknown. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s3\"\u003ePlants were di\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s2\"\u003estributed as far as New Guinea and New Zealand before the time of Columbus, the sweet potato was an important crop related to colonization and now it’s range has extended around the world, to both temperate and tropical zones. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s2\"\u003eThis crop thrives in nutrient poor well draining soil, which we have plenty of here in South Florida. A great way to encourage the plant to produce more tubers for you is to \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s4\"\u003eregularly prune the vines and bonus: the leaves are edible! The greens are only edible when cooked (not raw) and contain Omega 3 fatty acids, protein, fiber, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s5\"\u003ecalcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, Vitamins A, C, K, and important B vitamins like B1, B2, B3, and B9. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s2\"\u003eThe sweet potato itself is a highly nutritious, calorie- filled root crop that packs less of a glycemic hit than grains, cassava or potatoes, and stores excellently.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eCommercial growers cure their sweet potatoes in special rooms at 85 degrees Farenheit and 80% to 90% relative humidity for 5 to 10 days. Curing causes the conversion of starch to sugar and helps to heal cuts that could lead to rots. The roots are then stored for 6-8 weeks at 55 to 60 degrees  to further increase the sugar content. Duplicating this process would be very difficult for home gardeners, but you can at least partially cure the roots by leaving them in a garage or sunroom for a week or so (keeping them outdoors would be too humid in the fall). Spreading the roots out on a screen in a single layer is best. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s2\"\u003eSweet potato weevils are the main issue with growing this crop in south florida, as they eat small holes in your potatoes without you knowing. Whitefly on the underside of leaves are also an issue so make sure to check your plant throughout its growing season. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p6\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s2\"\u003eSweet potato is a vining plant that will sprawl throughout your garden creating a beautiful dense ground cover, which is one reason why we love growing it in the summer instead of the fall, since it can be quite competitive in a small space where you are trying to grow other annuals. If you don’t have plans for your veggie bed in the summer consider planting a few sweet potatoes and using them as a cover crop, to protect your soil from erosion and weeds. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s7\"\u003eOnce you buy one sweet potato plant from us you can use it to make yourself a whole farms worth of new plants if you want to, as the growing tips of the vines can be cut to 6 inch lengths, popped into a jar of water and in 6 days you'll have a fully rooted new plant.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Little River Cooperative","offers":[{"title":"4\" potted plant","offer_id":42665016885330,"sku":null,"price":5.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"1 gal potted plant","offer_id":42665016918098,"sku":null,"price":12.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"3 gal potted plant","offer_id":42665016950866,"sku":null,"price":35.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0535\/4461\/products\/IMG_6447.heic?v=1681317314"},{"product_id":"burgundy-okra-seed-packet","title":"Burgundy Okra Seed Packet","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eBurgundy Okra (ABELMOSCHUS ESCULENTUS) \u003cspan\u003e64-86 seeds per packet\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSouthern Exposure Seed Exchange\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDays to Maturity: 50 days\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlant Spacing: 1 - 3 plants per square foot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSunlight Requirement: 8 - 14 Hours\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLook Out For: mites, aphids\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHarvest Notes: Pick okra very regularly when 7-8 inches long\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLifecycle: Annual\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv title=\"Page 1\" class=\"page\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"section\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"layoutArea\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"column\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOkra is an indispensable ingredient in many soups, gumbos, and stew recipes. The immature pods contribute unique \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eflavor and consistency to ethnic dishes like Cajun gumbo. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOkra is a tender annual that grows best in hot weather \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eand can even thrive in our hot, humid and rainy summers. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe pods should be picked when tender and immature, about \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e2-3 inches long, usually about 4-6 days after flowering. Keep pods removed to encourage flowering. Plants can reach \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e3-4 feet high and do not need trellising. A member of the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003ehibiscus family, Okra has similar pest issues (a favorite plant of the mealy bug) and a beautiful edible flower. Burgundy okra has striking maroon stems, veins and pods, and remains tender at their full length of growth which is almost 8 inches! \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Little River Cooperative","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40522961780818,"sku":null,"price":4.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0535\/4461\/files\/IMG_7199_cdade2a7-25f0-454d-b88f-6c26a2554e40.jpg?v=1693424857"},{"product_id":"yellow-everglades-cherry-tomatoes","title":"Yellow Everglades Cherry Tomatoes","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eYellow Everglades Cherry Tomato \u003cem\u003e(Solanum Pimpinellifolium)\u003c\/em\u003e Live Plant\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDays to maturity: 57 days\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlant spacing: 2 square feet per plant\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSunlight requirement: 8 - 14 hours\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLook out for: Hornworms - If you you see branches without any leaves or half eaten fruits Look carefully for green caterpillars.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHarvest notes: Pick tomatoes when they are as ripe as possible. They should be fully colored and firm and picked regularly to avoid overloading plants.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLifecycle: Annual\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEverglades cherry tomatoes are a cult favorite down here in South Florida,  and now there is a yellow variety! If you are a lover of the classic red Everglades, why not give these a try too to add new colors and flavors to the garden. Their tiny size makes them adorable for use in salads, as garnish, and as snacks, and their sweet tase make them irresistible. These wild cherry tomatoes make large highly branched plants that are best grown in a wild and non-trellised fashion. If allowed to grow like a groundcover, left to sprawl and crawl along the ground they can make enormous plants with hundreds of fruit clusters on one plant! \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAllow a few clusters of Everglades cherry tomatoes to stay on the plant and they will happily reseed themselves year after year. If you'd like to save the seeds instead just choose a few very ripe fruits, squeeze the insides out into a jar with water, allow it to ferment for a few days (this simulated the digestive system of an animal and will break down the mucilaginous coating around the seed) and then dry on a towel. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDespite its tolerance of the tropical heat Everglades cherry tomatoes can be grown anywhere where all other tomato varieties are. A tip for harvesting the tiny sweet fruits: instead of picking fruit by fruit, cut the entire cluster off the vine when all the fruit is most of the way ripe. Alternatively, break the fruit off of the vine one by one with their little green hat on (the technical term is \"peduncle\") since the fruits skin tends to rip when its removed hastily. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Little River Cooperative","offers":[{"title":"4\" potted plant","offer_id":42665021505618,"sku":null,"price":6.5,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"1 gal potted plant","offer_id":42665021538386,"sku":null,"price":12.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"3 gal potted plant","offer_id":42665021571154,"sku":null,"price":35.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0535\/4461\/files\/IMG_0927.heic?v=1786458906"},{"product_id":"mini-paulista-summer-squash","title":"Mini Paulista Summer Squash","description":"\u003cp class=\"\"\u003ePaulista Butternut Squash (\u003cem\u003eCucurbita moschata) \u003c\/em\u003eLive Plant\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDays to maturity: 90 days\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlant spacing: 1 per square foot, but it will crawl\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSunlight requirements: 8-14 hours \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLook out for: powdery mildew \u0026amp; worms\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHarvest notes: harvest fruit as summer squash or wait for skin to harden for winter squash\u003cbr\u003eSeasons: fall, spring\u003cbr\u003eLifecycle: Annual \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePaulista is a traditional Brazilian squash that’s well-suited to hot, humid climates like ours. This variety is grown by Commonwealth Seeds and is considered a “mini”with fruit best harvested at around 6” long. The fruit has tan to greenish skin and dense, orange flesh that’s rich, sweet, and nutty. It’s often compared to butternut squash in flavor, but with its own unique richness, making it a staple in soups, stews, roasting, or purees.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eThe plants are more compact than other vining squash varieties but still need a good amount of space. They need full sun, well-drained fertile soil, and regular deep watering. Because they’re a moschata type, they tolerate heat and humidity better than many squashes and show good resistance to pests like squash vine borers. Fruits mature in about 90–110 days and can be stored for weeks after harvest if kept in a cool, dry spot. \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Little River Cooperative","offers":[{"title":"4\" potted plant","offer_id":42665021603922,"sku":null,"price":5.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"1 gal potted plant","offer_id":42665021636690,"sku":null,"price":12.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"3 gal potted plant","offer_id":42665021669458,"sku":null,"price":35.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0535\/4461\/files\/IMG_0891.heic?v=1786459816"},{"product_id":"thai-kang-kob-pumpkin","title":"Thai Kang Kob Pumpkin","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThai Kang Kob Tropical Pumpkin (\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eCucurbita moschata) \u003c\/em\u003eLive Plant\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDays to maturity: 100-110 days\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlant spacing: 1 per square foot, but it will crawl\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSunlight requirements: 8-14 hours \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLook out for: powdery mildew \u0026amp; worms\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHarvest notes: harvest fruit when skin is hard, then cure\u003cbr\u003eSeasons: fall, spring \u003cbr\u003eLifecycle: Annual\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThai Kang Kob is a traditional pumpkin from Thailand, prized for its striking, deeply ribbed shape and rich, sweet flesh. The skin begins a dark green and matures to a bronze-brown, giving the fruits a dramatic ornamental look. Inside, the dense orange flesh is nutty and flavorful, often compared to kabocha squash, and is used in everything from Thai curries and soups to simple roasted wedges. Last spring French Farms grew this variety for Commonwealth Seed so they could have seeds of it and we were all so impressed by how well this pumpkin performed in our hot climate.  Thai Kang Kob grows best when planted in fall or spring when its a smidge more humid than our winter months. It needs full sun, fertile and well-drained soil, and space to spread—plants are vigorous growers. Consistent watering is important during fruit set, though once established, the vines are relatively tough. Because this is a \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eCucurbita moschata\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e type, it handles heat and pest pressure (like squash vine borers) better than many pumpkins. Fruits take about 100–110 days to mature, and one plant can yield several large pumpkins.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Little River Cooperative","offers":[{"title":"4\" potted plant","offer_id":42665021702226,"sku":null,"price":5.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"1 gal potted plant","offer_id":42665021734994,"sku":null,"price":12.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"3 gal potted plant","offer_id":42665021767762,"sku":null,"price":35.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0535\/4461\/files\/IMG_0892.heic?v=1786459948"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0535\/4461\/collections\/everglades_cherry_tomatoes.png?v=1683684651","url":"https:\/\/littlerivernursery.co\/collections\/heat-tolerant-veggies.oembed","provider":"Little River Nursery","version":"1.0","type":"link"}