Seeds to sow in the garden this month
Some handy suggestions on seeds to sow in your garden now, no matter which climate zone you live in.
If you are looking for a more comprehensive list of what to sow, check out the list of seeds to sow here.
cool Climate - September
ARTICHOKE 'PURPLE'
From Northern Italy this violet artichoke produces fat, fleshy hearts that
are considered decorative and good eating. Cut back hard after
harvest for fresh new growth. Harvest 2-3 buds per plant in the first year
and 16-32 the next year.
BEETROOT HEIRLOOM MIX
Green, yellow and red ribbed leaves make a colourful addition to salads,
while their roots provide a unique sweet taste. Includes Chioggia,
Globe, Golden and White Blankoma.
CARROT HEIRLOOM MIX
An exclusive Digger's mix exploding with colours from red to white and
purple to yellow. Succulent and sweet, these carrots hold their colour
when cooked, adding an exciting dimension to meals and salads.
KALE 'TUSCAN CAVOLO NERO'
The kale that launched this superfood!
A culinary champion in the kitchen and lauded by seasonal chefs. Also
known as Tuscan Black, it grows like a mini palm tree with elephant-grey
leaves that can be picked continually from 8 weeks. Perfect for light
braising in butter and verjuice.
PARSLEY 'CONTINENTAL' ORGANIC
Flat leaf Italian style variety with a slightly milder flavour than the
curly leaf varieties.
PARSNIP 'HOLLOW CROWN'
A smooth skinned variety that has been a favourite since the 1820's. The
flavour improves if stored in the soil over winter. Sow in spring in cold
climates and in autumn in warmer climates.
PEA 'GREENFEAST'
An easy and rewarding crop for new and experienced gardeners. Traditional,
sweet juicy peas for shelling are produced in abundance on these dwarf
bushes.
SILVERBEET FIVE COLOUR MIX ORGANIC
Dazzling, colourful and extremely nutritious. Midribs of red, orange,
yellow, pink or white make this the perfect fountaining accent plant for
any flower or vegetable garden. Listed in Vilmorin's Vegetable Garden
1888, and also called Rainbow Chard we grew this for its re-introduction
into the US for What's Old is New, where it became a best seller and a
signature plant for heirlooms.
SPRING ONION 'RED'
Brilliant crimson bulbs rich in antioxidants. Will grow into bulbs that
can be used like shallots if left in the ground, or pick the green stems
early and use as you would regular spring onions.
TOMATO 'TOMMY TOE' ORGANIC
Winner of our taste test back in '93- Victorian garden guru Kevin Heinze
said it was the best he'd tasted in 50 years! From mislabelled Seed Savers
stock it grew to rave reviews around the world. Sweet 3cm fruit produced
from January to May. Fruits in 10 weeks from transplant and yields 11kg
per plant.
TOMATO 'AMISH PASTE'
World heirloom expert David Cavagnaro rates this 100% like Grange wine! It
has rich, sweet flavour for salads but the shape and hearty texture for
sauces and pastes. Is there any other so versatile? Fruits in 12 weeks
from transplant and yields 15.7kg per plant- fruit size approximately 150
grams per fruit.
TOMATO 'MORTGAGE LIFTER'
Creator of Mortgage Lifter, Radiator Charlie, boosted his income from the
clapped out pick up trucks he repaired. He also bred beefsteak tomatoes,
selling the plants at $1 each. He erased his mortgage in six years and so
named one of his best tomatoes, Fruits in 12 weeks from transplant. Yields
16kg per plant with 800g fruit.
TOMATO 'BARRY'S CRAZY CHERRY' ORGANIC
Only the second tomato to surpass Tommy Toe in our taste tests! Profuse
(really - crazy!) clusters of oblong yellow fruit that change in flavour
from tart to sweet as they ripen - finishing with a flavour like sweet
moscato (Brix level of 8). This selection is sure to be a hit with young
and old alike. 96 Days, 3 kg
BROCCOLI 'DE CICCO' ORGANIC
ORGANIC!
Traditional Italian sprouting broccoli. Harvest the central head first to
promote vigorous side shoots for up to 6 months. Harvest in 9 weeks from
transplant. Yields 1.1kg/plant.
CAPSICUM 'CALIFORNIA WONDER'
This sweet red capsicum is as popular today as it was when it was first
introduced to American gardeners in the 1920's. It is as equally good
whether eaten green or red.
CELERY 'DORATA D' ASTI'
Easier to grow than other varieties, remaining crisp and juicy
without the need for blanching. Snap off the lime-green stems from summer
through to autumn and winter. Harvest in 15 weeks, yields 1.1kg per plant.
CHILLI 'JOE'S LONG CAYENNE' ORGANIC
A classic vibrant long red chilli with a mild taste when seeds are removed
or leave seeds in to turn up the heat. A show-stopping ornamental. Harvest
in 15 weeks from transplant. 1kg of fruit per plant. Heat rating 3.
CHILLI 'EARLY JALAPENO'
A high-yielding and compact chilli variety, the 'Early Jalape¤o' is a
great, hot addition to the summer vegetable patch. Originating in Mexico,
this variety has several uses in the heat-seeking kitchen especially for
slicing and pickling but also stuffing as Southern favourite 'poppers'.
Can be grown in large pots for the space conscious.
EGGPLANT 'LISTADA DI GANDIA' ORGANIC
This fine Italian heirloom is early to fruit, productive and exquisitely
beautiful. The 15-20cm fruit are almost seedless with fine textured
flesh. Yields 3.5kg per plant.
RADISH 'PINK LADY SLIPPER'
Pink Lady Slipper is a charming yet robust addition to our radish
offerings. Its crisp texture and mild pungency made it a taste test
winner. The roots are an attractive pink colour, elongated with a blunt
tip and slender taproot. In addition, this radish maintains its crisp
texture and mild flavor for a stunning 40+ days from sowing! Matures in 30
to 34 days.
CALENDULA 'GREEN HEART ORANGE'
Named from the Latin 'Kalenade' (the first day of the month) because it
can be in flower every day of the year bring brilliant orange brightness
to the garden in the darkest of seasons. So willingly do they grow that
they barely need sowing. Elizabethans called it marigold before Mexico
was discovered, which then, became the source of popular modern marigolds.
Beneficial with medical and culinary properties, like many gardeners,
this flower is too `green at heart'.
COSMOS WHITE
Profuse and bright, pure white flowers float on tall strong stems with
bold yellow centres. This tough annual preforms through late Spring
and into the Australian Summer. Cosmos combine perfectly with old
fashioned favourites such as sweet peas, salvias and hollyhocks for
cottage garden appeal. Excellent cut flower to also bring inside.
ZINNIA 'CALIFORNIA GIANTS'
Sunset colours of these double flowers evoke the American state in size
and proud form. Bright blooms of coral pink, vivid orange, reds, yellows
and purples stand upright. Hardy, with peerless preformance during long
hot Australian summers once established. With firm, long lasting petals,
Zinnias are excellent cut flowers from our grandparents'
generation long overdue for some extra attention in a changing climate.
CORNFLOWER DWARF BLUE
Rich deep-blue double flowers with silvery foliage. Flowers are ideal for
cutting. Plant en masse for a bold display. Covers 5m2
LETTUCE 'FRECKLES BUNTE'
The most beautifully patterned butter lettuce we know. The soft, light
texture of butter lettuces are a popular choice for gardeners and chefs
alike.
CORIANDER ORGANIC
Looking light and gauzy in the garden, coriander grows rapidly in the
cooler months. Eat the leaves fresh, dry-fry the seeds and use the roots
for that nuance of Thailand in a stir-fry or curry.
SWEET PEA 'MATUCANA'
A jewel of a sweet pea with lustrous magenta and purple bicolour flowers.
Not just reliant on striking looks, it is considered the most sweetly
scented of all heirloom sweet peas, some even say the most fragrant. The
Matucana captures garden hearts once grown, making it a regular addition
for any spring flowering garden.
cool Climate - October
BEAN 'AUSTRALIAN BUTTER' ORGANIC
A climbing butter bean that ticks all the boxes. The long round
beans are golden yellow and have the taste, texture and appearance of
having already being daubed with butter. Flowers are mauve and the seeds
are deep purple making a sensational contrast to the pods. Prolific and
producing for months this one is a real winner.
BEETROOT HEIRLOOM MIX
Green, yellow and red ribbed leaves make a colourful addition to salads,
while their roots provide a unique sweet taste. Includes Chioggia,
Globe, Golden and White Blankoma.
CAPSICUM SEVEN COLOUR MIX
A rainbow collection of heirloom sweet capsicums including Sweet
Chocolate, Purple Beauty, White Diamond, Yellow Marconi, Chinese Giant,
Red Cubanelle and Orange Bell.
CHILLI HELLFIRE MIX
If you like heat then this mix of flaming beauties will set your mouth on
fire! Our exclusive mix includes the Mexican favourite Jalape¤o, knock-
your-socksoff Habanero, fiery Red Cap Mushroom and Red Hot Cherry.
CARROT HEIRLOOM MIX
An exclusive Digger's mix exploding with colours from red to white and
purple to yellow. Succulent and sweet, these carrots hold their colour
when cooked, adding an exciting dimension to meals and salads.
LETTUCE HEIRLOOM MIX
A splendid mix of some of our favourite heirloom lettuces that bring
colour and flavour from the garden to the table. Includes Tennis Ball,
Rouge d'Hiver, Freckles, Tango and Red Leprechaun.
ARTICHOKE 'IMPERIAL STAR' (PVP) ORGANIC
Delicious flavour and smotth buttery texture with an average of 6-8 buds
per plant in the first year. Cut back after flowering for increased yields
in the following years. Offsets can be divided to propagate new plants.
SWEET BASIL ORGANIC
This is the true basil favoured by continental cooks. Grow half a dozen
plants and you will have enough to pick fresh all summer plus make pesto
that you can freeze for quick pasta dishes in the winter.
BROCCOLI 'DE CICCO' ORGANIC
ORGANIC!
Traditional Italian sprouting broccoli. Harvest the central head first to
promote vigorous side shoots for up to 6 months. Harvest in 9 weeks from
transplant. Yields 1.1kg/plant.
CELTUCE
A lettuce that is also used a celery - strange but true. This ancient
Chinese vegetable is much sought-after by those that know it, branded 'the
next big thing' in Epicurious, so get ahead of the curve with this new (to
the west anyway) vegetable. Grow and harvest young leaves as a lettuce
then cut the succulent stems when they run to seed, reaching 30-40cm high.
CHERVIL
This anise flavoured leaf is a favourite of French chefs to add piquancy
to salad greens. Ideal for growing during the short day lengths of the
winter months but equally as happy in the warmer months in a shady moist
position. Its white flowers are like a delicate Queen Anne's Lace.
TOMATO 'BARRY'S CRAZY CHERRY' ORGANIC
Only the second tomato to surpass Tommy Toe in our taste tests! Profuse
(really - crazy!) clusters of oblong yellow fruit that change in flavour
from tart to sweet as they ripen - finishing with a flavour like sweet
moscato (Brix level of 8). This selection is sure to be a hit with young
and old alike. 96 Days, 3 kg
CHIVES GARLIC ORGANIC
Strappy leaves with a mild garlic flavour. Ideal for stir fries. Also
makes an ideal companion plant in the vegetable garden.
CORIANDER ORGANIC
Looking light and gauzy in the garden, coriander grows rapidly in the
cooler months. Eat the leaves fresh, dry-fry the seeds and use the roots
for that nuance of Thailand in a stir-fry or curry.
CORN 'BABY' F1
For Baby Corn, harvest continuously before the silks appear and grow
up to 6 cobs per plant. Fresh baby corn is the most delicate of delicacies
and makes sophisticated stir-fries. Never put up with the tinned variety
again. For Popcorn, simply leave the cobs on the plant to mature, then dry
the kernels.
CUCUMBER 'LEBANESE MINI MUNCHER' ORGANIC
No need to peel this classic Mediterranean smooth skin variety. Perfect
for salads, pickling or combining with yoghurt for a traditional tzatziki.
Yields approximately 40 fruit/plant.
DILL 'BOUQUET' ORGANIC
From Lithuanian to Laos, the soft, feathery leaves and seeds of Dill are
the vital ingredient for salads, pickles, vinegars and yoghurt dishes, and
of course, cucumber. The blue textured leaves also contrast in ornamental
plantings with salvias, dahlia, while the yellow umbel flowers attract
beneficial insects to fruit trees and the vegetable patch.
KALE 'TUSCAN CAVOLO NERO'
The kale that launched this superfood!
A culinary champion in the kitchen and lauded by seasonal chefs. Also
known as Tuscan Black, it grows like a mini palm tree with elephant-grey
leaves that can be picked continually from 8 weeks. Perfect for light
braising in butter and verjuice.
LEEK 'MAMMOTH BLANCH'
Awarded the RHS Award for Garden Merit in 2011, this leek is a real show
stopper. Long, thick white shanks are sweet, tender and tasty. Described
as "the perfect leek" by our restaurant manager who gave it 100% in taste
tests. Great in the garden too. Can be picked early or left in the ground
to extend the harvest period and produce huge exhibition worthy specimens.
Resistant to bolting.
LETTUCE HEIRLOOM MIX
A splendid mix of some of our favourite heirloom lettuces that bring
colour and flavour from the garden to the table. Includes Tennis Ball,
Rouge d'Hiver, Freckles, Tango and Red Leprechaun.
PARSLEY 'CONTINENTAL' ORGANIC
Flat leaf Italian style variety with a slightly milder flavour than the
curly leaf varieties.
PARSNIP 'HOLLOW CROWN'
A smooth skinned variety that has been a favourite since the 1820's. The
flavour improves if stored in the soil over winter. Sow in spring in cold
climates and in autumn in warmer climates.
PUMPKIN 'BUTTERCUP' ORGANIC
Rich, sweet and dense flesh from a pumpkin that is not only delicious, but
the perfect size for an average household. Tops in our taste tests.
Harvest in 17 weeks, 7.5 kg per plant.
RADISH 'PINK LADY SLIPPER'
Pink Lady Slipper is a charming yet robust addition to our radish
offerings. Its crisp texture and mild pungency made it a taste test
winner. The roots are an attractive pink colour, elongated with a blunt
tip and slender taproot. In addition, this radish maintains its crisp
texture and mild flavor for a stunning 40+ days from sowing! Matures in 30
to 34 days.
SILVERBEET FIVE COLOUR MIX ORGANIC
Dazzling, colourful and extremely nutritious. Midribs of red, orange,
yellow, pink or white make this the perfect fountaining accent plant for
any flower or vegetable garden. Listed in Vilmorin's Vegetable Garden
1888, and also called Rainbow Chard we grew this for its re-introduction
into the US for What's Old is New, where it became a best seller and a
signature plant for heirlooms.
SPINACH 'BLOOMSDALE' ORGANIC
Introduced to American gardeners way back in 1826 this heirloom
variety has thick, savoy (crinkled) bright green leaves that are rich
in antioxidants and vitamins on a compact plant. It maintains a neat
rosette of leaves for some time as it is resistant to bolting.
SPRING ONION 'EVERGREEN' ORGANIC
A versatile easy to grow vegie that can be used in a range of
dishes from salads to stir fries. They add a touch of heat without making
your eyes water like their other onion cousins.
SQUASH 'GEM'
This South African Gem is a space saving, compact vine producing
grapefruit-sized squash that can be eaten fresh or stored as a mini-sized
pumpkin for roasting. Sweet when small, savory when larger.
SWEDE 'LAURENTIAN'
A full flavoured earthy swede with a savoury aftertaste. Under-rated
as a vegetable, its smooth and creamy texture is a welcome surprise in our
restaurant.
TURNIP 'WHITE MINI'
Tender round white roots, stores well. Crisp, beautiful well shaped
rounds, ideal for the turnip lover. Harvest in only 7 weeks.
WATERMELON 'SUGAR BABY'
This 1950s ice box sized heirloom produces an abundant crop of sweet,
red fleshed melons. Has a compact growth habit that won't take over your
garden. Harvest in just 10 weeks- making it our earliest yet. The tough
outer skin resists cracking and its compact 15cm fruit fits perfectly in
the fridge. 4 fruit per plant, 3kg per fruit.
ZUCCHINI 'BLACK BEAUTY' ORGANIC
Pick flowers for stuffing or leave fruit until it is 15cm long. Produces
more fruit than the standard hybrid Black Jack. Just 9 weeks to harvest.
CALENDULA 'GREEN HEART ORANGE'
Named from the Latin 'Kalenade' (the first day of the month) because it
can be in flower every day of the year bring brilliant orange brightness
to the garden in the darkest of seasons. So willingly do they grow that
they barely need sowing. Elizabethans called it marigold before Mexico
was discovered, which then, became the source of popular modern marigolds.
Beneficial with medical and culinary properties, like many gardeners,
this flower is too `green at heart'.
VIOLA 'HEARTSEASE'
The true Johnny-Jump-Up, also known as Heartsease for its use in treating
a range of ailments throughout the ages- ranging from bronchial complaints
to fevers to skin problems. We grow it purely for its endearing
tri-coloured, face-like flowers and its ability to self seed where other
violets dare not. It is the ultimate ground cover for planting under
spring bulbs flowering from late winter right through to summer.
CALIFORNIAN POPPY 'JELLY BEANS'
Candy for the eye, the double fluted flowers in bright red and orange and
pink, Jelly Bean is a bright and long lasting splash of colour during
quieter times in the garden. Sown in drifts, Californian Poppies look
spectacular and are quick to cover bare patches of the garden.
CORNFLOWER CLASSIC FANTASTIC
If blue flowers appeal to you then you will love this twist on the classic
cornflower. The flowers come in all shades of the blue spectrum from deep,
summer-sky blue to pale baby blue. Easy to grow from autumn or early
spring sowings- the flowers are edible, they make wonderful cut flowers
and attract bees, so these are an essential addition to any garden.
BLUE BORAGE
Easy to grow from seed and one of the most popular plants for bee keepers.
The slate grey leaves are topped by panicles of electric blue flowers that
last for months and are the best for attracting pollinators to your
garden. Both the flowers and leaves can be added to summer drinks making
it a vital addition to the kitchen garden.
MARIGOLD 'ALUMIA VANILLA CREAM'
Buttery vanilla cream flowers on a bushy plant make for a unique French
Marigold. Marigolds are all reliably long blooming flowers and this
variety with an open face and exposed stamen attracts bees and other
beneficial garden pollinators. The petals have culinary uses though it is
hard to resist the charming warm colour.
SWEET BASIL ORGANIC
This is the true basil favoured by continental cooks. Grow half a dozen
plants and you will have enough to pick fresh all summer plus make pesto
that you can freeze for quick pasta dishes in the winter.
BEAN 'DRAGON'S TONGUE'
Extremely beautiful bush bean with wide succulent pods of pale lemon
streaked with purple. Delicious as both a fresh or dried bean. Harvest in
9 weeks. Yields over 250 grams per plant.
BRUSSELS SPROUTS 'RUBY'
Buttons of burgundy-red nutty sprouts with lavender-blue leaves. These
sprouts turn an intriguing caviar-black when cooked.
CELERY 'DORATA D' ASTI'
Easier to grow than other varieties, remaining crisp and juicy
without the need for blanching. Snap off the lime-green stems from summer
through to autumn and winter. Harvest in 15 weeks, yields 1.1kg per plant.
TOMATO 'JAUNE FLAMME' ORGANIC
This jewel-coloured heirloom from France produces fruit in just 7 weeks
from transplant. With large amounts of carotene, orange tomatoes have
almost as much beta-carotene as carrots. Yields 6.5kg/plant.
EGGPLANT 'LISTADA DI GANDIA' ORGANIC
This fine Italian heirloom is early to fruit, productive and exquisitely
beautiful. The 15-20cm fruit are almost seedless with fine textured
flesh. Yields 3.5kg per plant.
CORN 'PAINTED MOUNTAIN' ORGANIC
Saved from extinction by Montana farmer, Dave Christensen, the original
strains of this ancient corn were believed to be widely cultivated by
native Indians and early American settlers. Painted Mountain is very cold
hardy and can be ground for flour or dried for popping. Otherwise it can
be grown purely to enjoy the rich tapestry of colours found in every cob.
CAPSICUM 'GILBOA ORANGE'
Large, glossy, bright orange fruit that is more resistant to pests and
disease than other varieties. The thick succululent flesh is deliciously
sweet either cooked or raw.
BEAN 'DRAGON'S TONGUE'
Extremely beautiful bush bean with wide succulent pods of pale lemon
streaked with purple. Delicious as both a fresh or dried bean. Harvest in
9 weeks. Yields over 250 grams per plant.
TOMATO 'PINK BUMBLE BEE' ORGANIC
Taking the organic and farmers markets of the US by storm, Pink Bumble Bee
and its relatives from the 'Artisan Tomato' stables are the next big thing
in open-pollinated tomatoes. Through our connections with the seed
merchants, Diggers is the first to release these 'heirlooms of the future'
here in Australia. The vibrant colour and flavour are sure to impress even
the most seasoned tomato growers.
TOMATO 'GREEN ZEBRA'
Green Zebra has an in-built colour marker that produces yellow stripes
indicating when it is ripe. Bred by the creator of hunderds of
'modern heirlooms', Tom Wagner. Firm, crack resistant fruits have zingy
flavour. It's early and the colour confuses the pests. One of the most
beautiful, modern heirlooms now considered a classic. Fruits in 11 weeks
from transplant, yields up to 13.6kg per plant.
ROCKMELON 'FRENCH CHARENTAIS'
As delicately scented as the finest wine. It's the one the French adore
above all others, says melon guru, Amy Goldman. 18 fruit per plant and
500g per fruit.
SUNFLOWER 'PRADO RED' ORGANIC
Exclusive to Diggers. Rich velvet flowers in rich red to burnt orange
tones, fading to yellow at the end of the season. The generosity of a
multi-stemmed sunflower with up to 10 heads per plant that dazzles in the
garden up to 2 months of consistent flowering. Flowering can be extended
from regular de-heading. ORGANIC
ZINNIA 'CALIFORNIA GIANTS'
Sunset colours of these double flowers evoke the American state in size
and proud form. Bright blooms of coral pink, vivid orange, reds, yellows
and purples stand upright. Hardy, with peerless preformance during long
hot Australian summers once established. With firm, long lasting petals,
Zinnias are excellent cut flowers from our grandparents'
generation long overdue for some extra attention in a changing climate.
RUDBECKIA INDIAN SUMMER
From the praires of the American mid-west comes this long-flowering Black-
eyed Susan. The huge yellow daisy blooms with dark centres are held on
sturdy branches from summer through to autumn. A wonderful cut flower and
fantastic in pots.
warm Climate - September
CORN 'TRUE GOLD' ORGANIC
Traditional, open pollinated corn is getting harder to find as sweeter
hybrids become more popular. Don't be deterred - this is corn as it should
be - crisp, buttery and true corn flavour.
SUNFLOWER 'GIANT RUSSIAN' ORGANIC
Giant is no understatement for this colossal Sunflower with huge yellow
plates of a flower. Easy winner of the tallest sunflower competition and
recycles on to feed the chooks. A delight and wonder for both small and
big gardeners. The best sunflower for edible sunflower seeds. Single stems
can require staking due to weight of flower heads and protection from
wind.
ARTICHOKE 'IMPERIAL STAR' (PVP) ORGANIC
Delicious flavour and smotth buttery texture with an average of 6-8 buds
per plant in the first year. Cut back after flowering for increased yields
in the following years. Offsets can be divided to propagate new plants.
BASIL 'FINO VERDE' ORGANIC
Neat compact growth makes this the perfect potted herb for the balcony.
Leaves are small, tender and aromatic with a sweet basil taste and a hint
of spice. Continual harvest for an extended period as it resists bolting
until winter frosts.
BEAN 'LAZY HOUSEWIFE' ORGANIC
Our oldest climbing bean dating back to 1802. Described in Burpee's 1888
Farm Annual as being "broad thick and very fleshy and entirely
stringless...and being peculiarly luscious... it derived its name which
seems discourteous from its immense productiveness". What more can you say
except that they suit house-husbands just as well. Yields 773g/plant.
CARROT HEIRLOOM MIX
An exclusive Digger's mix exploding with colours from red to white and
purple to yellow. Succulent and sweet, these carrots hold their colour
when cooked, adding an exciting dimension to meals and salads.
CHERVIL
This anise flavoured leaf is a favourite of French chefs to add piquancy
to salad greens. Ideal for growing during the short day lengths of the
winter months but equally as happy in the warmer months in a shady moist
position. Its white flowers are like a delicate Queen Anne's Lace.
CORIANDER ORGANIC
Looking light and gauzy in the garden, coriander grows rapidly in the
cooler months. Eat the leaves fresh, dry-fry the seeds and use the roots
for that nuance of Thailand in a stir-fry or curry.
CUCUMBER 'RICHMOND GREEN APPLE' ORGANIC
An Australian heirloom that is starting to gain a following with gardeners
worldwide. Plump round green 'apples' with crisp, white flesh that is
incredibly juicy with a refreshing tang. None of the bitterness in the
skin other types can have. An incredibly prolific producer with around 10
kilos per plant.
CUCUMBER 'LEBANESE MINI MUNCHER' ORGANIC
No need to peel this classic Mediterranean smooth skin variety. Perfect
for salads, pickling or combining with yoghurt for a traditional tzatziki.
Yields approximately 40 fruit/plant.
DILL 'BOUQUET' ORGANIC
From Lithuanian to Laos, the soft, feathery leaves and seeds of Dill are
the vital ingredient for salads, pickles, vinegars and yoghurt dishes, and
of course, cucumber. The blue textured leaves also contrast in ornamental
plantings with salvias, dahlia, while the yellow umbel flowers attract
beneficial insects to fruit trees and the vegetable patch.
LEEK 'JAUNE DU POITOU' ORGANIC
ORGANIC!
This French heirloom from 1853 has short, wide shanks and fan-
like, yellow-green leaves. Fast growing, this is a great variety for
beginner green thumbs.
LETTUCE HEIRLOOM MIX
A splendid mix of some of our favourite heirloom lettuces that bring
colour and flavour from the garden to the table. Includes Tennis Ball,
Rouge d'Hiver, Freckles, Tango and Red Leprechaun.
SPRING ONION 'EVERGREEN' ORGANIC
A versatile easy to grow vegie that can be used in a range of
dishes from salads to stir fries. They add a touch of heat without making
your eyes water like their other onion cousins.
PARSLEY 'CONTINENTAL' ORGANIC
Flat leaf Italian style variety with a slightly milder flavour than the
curly leaf varieties.
PARSNIP 'HOLLOW CROWN'
A smooth skinned variety that has been a favourite since the 1820's. The
flavour improves if stored in the soil over winter. Sow in spring in cold
climates and in autumn in warmer climates.
PEA 'GREENFEAST'
An easy and rewarding crop for new and experienced gardeners. Traditional,
sweet juicy peas for shelling are produced in abundance on these dwarf
bushes.
RADISH 'PINK LADY SLIPPER'
Pink Lady Slipper is a charming yet robust addition to our radish
offerings. Its crisp texture and mild pungency made it a taste test
winner. The roots are an attractive pink colour, elongated with a blunt
tip and slender taproot. In addition, this radish maintains its crisp
texture and mild flavor for a stunning 40+ days from sowing! Matures in 30
to 34 days.
SILVERBEET FIVE COLOUR MIX ORGANIC
Dazzling, colourful and extremely nutritious. Midribs of red, orange,
yellow, pink or white make this the perfect fountaining accent plant for
any flower or vegetable garden. Listed in Vilmorin's Vegetable Garden
1888, and also called Rainbow Chard we grew this for its re-introduction
into the US for What's Old is New, where it became a best seller and a
signature plant for heirlooms.
SQUASH 'SPAGHETTI'
Sure to be a favourite with paleo Pete, this squash can be boiled
or roasted and the flesh scooped out into ready made pasta, without the
extra carbs! Try it with feta and a sprinkling of herbs for a gourmet
treat that is so easy to prepare. Pick when yellow. Harvest in 15 weeks, 5
fruit per plant.
TOMATO 'BARRY'S CRAZY CHERRY' ORGANIC
Only the second tomato to surpass Tommy Toe in our taste tests! Profuse
(really - crazy!) clusters of oblong yellow fruit that change in flavour
from tart to sweet as they ripen - finishing with a flavour like sweet
moscato (Brix level of 8). This selection is sure to be a hit with young
and old alike. 96 Days, 3 kg
TASTE TEST WINNERS SEED COLLECTION
We know our tomatoes! For over 30 years Diggers has been trialling and
tasting tomatoes and we now believe we have the tastiest range on offer in
Australia. This selection rated tops in the largest taste test we have
ever run at the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show. Collection
includes Tommy Toe, Pink Bumble Bee, Jaune Flamme, Wapsipinicon Peach and
Green Grape.
TOMATO 'AMISH PASTE'
World heirloom expert David Cavagnaro rates this 100% like Grange wine! It
has rich, sweet flavour for salads but the shape and hearty texture for
sauces and pastes. Is there any other so versatile? Fruits in 12 weeks
from transplant and yields 15.7kg per plant- fruit size approximately 150
grams per fruit.
WATERMELON 'BLACKTAIL MOUNTAIN' ORGANIC
The most cold tolerant of watermelons, and as the name suggests, this is
the one for cooler mountain climates. Yields glassy dark, cannon ball-like
5kg fruit with sweet, succulent red flesh. The colour contrast of rich red
flesh and near-black skin is picture perfect. 15 weeks to harvest. 4 fruit
per plant, 5kg per fruit.
ZUCCHINI 'BLACK BEAUTY' ORGANIC
Pick flowers for stuffing or leave fruit until it is 15cm long. Produces
more fruit than the standard hybrid Black Jack. Just 9 weeks to harvest.
CALENDULA 'GREEN HEART ORANGE'
Named from the Latin 'Kalenade' (the first day of the month) because it
can be in flower every day of the year bring brilliant orange brightness
to the garden in the darkest of seasons. So willingly do they grow that
they barely need sowing. Elizabethans called it marigold before Mexico
was discovered, which then, became the source of popular modern marigolds.
Beneficial with medical and culinary properties, like many gardeners,
this flower is too `green at heart'.
CORN 'PAINTED MOUNTAIN' ORGANIC
Saved from extinction by Montana farmer, Dave Christensen, the original
strains of this ancient corn were believed to be widely cultivated by
native Indians and early American settlers. Painted Mountain is very cold
hardy and can be ground for flour or dried for popping. Otherwise it can
be grown purely to enjoy the rich tapestry of colours found in every cob.
EGGPLANT 'VIOLETTA DI FIRENZE'
Plump Italian queen of heirloom eggplants. Translates as 'Purple from
Florence'. Creamy bitterless texture to hefty ruffled tear drop shaped
fruit which are stunning from garden to table. Perfect size for a
substantial meal.
SUNFLOWER 'PRADO RED' ORGANIC
Exclusive to Diggers. Rich velvet flowers in rich red to burnt orange
tones, fading to yellow at the end of the season. The generosity of a
multi-stemmed sunflower with up to 10 heads per plant that dazzles in the
garden up to 2 months of consistent flowering. Flowering can be extended
from regular de-heading. ORGANIC
BEETROOT 'GLOBE' ORGANIC
The most popular of sweet roots for roasting or pickling. 80 gram roots at
8 week harvest.
CELERY 'DORATA D' ASTI'
Easier to grow than other varieties, remaining crisp and juicy
without the need for blanching. Snap off the lime-green stems from summer
through to autumn and winter. Harvest in 15 weeks, yields 1.1kg per plant.
CAPSICUM QUADRATO D'ASTI GIALLO ORGANIC
This Italian sweet pepper is huge and blocky, ripening from green to
yellow as it becomes sweeter. Thick, crisp and chunky- these are the
biggest capsicums we've ever grown at Diggers.
CHILLI 'MAUI PURPLE' ORGANIC
This has been a stand out in our trials, impressing all with its beauty
and extra-ordinary yields. Stunning vibrant green, purple-tinged foliage
forms a neat compact bush making Maui Purple the perfect candidate for
growing in a pot. The midnight black shiny chillis turn red when they are
ripe and hot enough to turn into mouth tingling salsas. And the best thing
about this plant is it just keeps giving, producing fruit right through to
winter.
CHILLI 'JOE'S LONG CAYENNE' ORGANIC
A classic vibrant long red chilli with a mild taste when seeds are removed
or leave seeds in to turn up the heat. A show-stopping ornamental. Harvest
in 15 weeks from transplant. 1kg of fruit per plant. Heat rating 3.
ROCKMELON 'PETIT GRIS DE RENNES'
A very old heirloom that was first noted in a bishops garden in Rennes
France over 400 years ago. And it is still popular today because of its
sublime flavour and fragrance. We found the vine to be compact and the
fruit small making it the perfect melon for most suburban gardens. It also
performs well in areas with cooler summers.
BEAN 'PURPLE KING' CLIMBING
Ornamental dark pink flowers followed by crisp purple beans. Harvest 13
weeks. Yields 1.2kg per plant.
ZINNIA 'QUEEN RED LIME'
Crowned by Zinnia aficionados and cut flower growers to international
stardom, Zinnia Queen Red Lime holds intricate blooms of coral to red
flowers with subtle lime streaks. Natural variation within the variety is
an asset with the same excellent qualities shared by all Zinnia -
long performance in a vase, repeat flowering for months through tough
Australian Summers.
COSMOS WHITE
Profuse and bright, pure white flowers float on tall strong stems with
bold yellow centres. This tough annual preforms through late Spring
and into the Australian Summer. Cosmos combine perfectly with old
fashioned favourites such as sweet peas, salvias and hollyhocks for
cottage garden appeal. Excellent cut flower to also bring inside.
MARIGOLD 'RED MARIETTA'
Dazzling red eyes with delicate yellow rimmed petals, the adorable Red
Marietta is compact and long flowering tender annual. The neat size of the
Marietta Marigolds lends perfectly to planting an edge of the vegetable
patch or bright and hardy displays in pots and containers. With edible
flowers and beneficial properties to attract good insects in the garden
there is more than one reason fit this into the vegetable patch.
warm Climate - October
ARTICHOKE 'IMPERIAL STAR' (PVP) ORGANIC
Delicious flavour and smotth buttery texture with an average of 6-8 buds
per plant in the first year. Cut back after flowering for increased yields
in the following years. Offsets can be divided to propagate new plants.
SWEET BASIL ORGANIC
This is the true basil favoured by continental cooks. Grow half a dozen
plants and you will have enough to pick fresh all summer plus make pesto
that you can freeze for quick pasta dishes in the winter.
PEA 'GREENFEAST'
An easy and rewarding crop for new and experienced gardeners. Traditional,
sweet juicy peas for shelling are produced in abundance on these dwarf
bushes.
BEETROOT HEIRLOOM MIX
Green, yellow and red ribbed leaves make a colourful addition to salads,
while their roots provide a unique sweet taste. Includes Chioggia,
Globe, Golden and White Blankoma.
CAPSICUM SEVEN COLOUR MIX
A rainbow collection of heirloom sweet capsicums including Sweet
Chocolate, Purple Beauty, White Diamond, Yellow Marconi, Chinese Giant,
Red Cubanelle and Orange Bell.
CARROT HEIRLOOM MIX
An exclusive Digger's mix exploding with colours from red to white and
purple to yellow. Succulent and sweet, these carrots hold their colour
when cooked, adding an exciting dimension to meals and salads.
CELTUCE
A lettuce that is also used a celery - strange but true. This ancient
Chinese vegetable is much sought-after by those that know it, branded 'the
next big thing' in Epicurious, so get ahead of the curve with this new (to
the west anyway) vegetable. Grow and harvest young leaves as a lettuce
then cut the succulent stems when they run to seed, reaching 30-40cm high.
CHERVIL
This anise flavoured leaf is a favourite of French chefs to add piquancy
to salad greens. Ideal for growing during the short day lengths of the
winter months but equally as happy in the warmer months in a shady moist
position. Its white flowers are like a delicate Queen Anne's Lace.
CHILLI HELLFIRE MIX
If you like heat then this mix of flaming beauties will set your mouth on
fire! Our exclusive mix includes the Mexican favourite Jalape¤o, knock-
your-socksoff Habanero, fiery Red Cap Mushroom and Red Hot Cherry.
CHIVES GARLIC ORGANIC
Strappy leaves with a mild garlic flavour. Ideal for stir fries. Also
makes an ideal companion plant in the vegetable garden.
CORIANDER ORGANIC
Looking light and gauzy in the garden, coriander grows rapidly in the
cooler months. Eat the leaves fresh, dry-fry the seeds and use the roots
for that nuance of Thailand in a stir-fry or curry.
CUCUMBER 'LEBANESE MINI MUNCHER' ORGANIC
No need to peel this classic Mediterranean smooth skin variety. Perfect
for salads, pickling or combining with yoghurt for a traditional tzatziki.
Yields approximately 40 fruit/plant.
DILL 'BOUQUET' ORGANIC
From Lithuanian to Laos, the soft, feathery leaves and seeds of Dill are
the vital ingredient for salads, pickles, vinegars and yoghurt dishes, and
of course, cucumber. The blue textured leaves also contrast in ornamental
plantings with salvias, dahlia, while the yellow umbel flowers attract
beneficial insects to fruit trees and the vegetable patch.
EGGPLANT HEIRLOOM MIX
A kaleidescope of eggplants never seen in supermarkets. Includes Rosa
Bianca, Violetta di Firenze, Slim Jim and Listada di Gandia.
LEEK 'MAMMOTH BLANCH'
Awarded the RHS Award for Garden Merit in 2011, this leek is a real show
stopper. Long, thick white shanks are sweet, tender and tasty. Described
as "the perfect leek" by our restaurant manager who gave it 100% in taste
tests. Great in the garden too. Can be picked early or left in the ground
to extend the harvest period and produce huge exhibition worthy specimens.
Resistant to bolting.
LETTUCE HEIRLOOM MIX
A splendid mix of some of our favourite heirloom lettuces that bring
colour and flavour from the garden to the table. Includes Tennis Ball,
Rouge d'Hiver, Freckles, Tango and Red Leprechaun.
PEPPERMINT
Commonly used as a flavouring in tea, ice cream, biscuits and sweets. It
can also be used to scent shampoos, soaps and lotions or used as a natural
pesticide and insect deterrent. The flowers produce large amounts of
nectar and attract bees.
PARSLEY 'CONTINENTAL' ORGANIC
Flat leaf Italian style variety with a slightly milder flavour than the
curly leaf varieties.
PARSNIP 'HOLLOW CROWN'
A smooth skinned variety that has been a favourite since the 1820's. The
flavour improves if stored in the soil over winter. Sow in spring in cold
climates and in autumn in warmer climates.
PUMPKIN 'BUTTERCUP' ORGANIC
Rich, sweet and dense flesh from a pumpkin that is not only delicious, but
the perfect size for an average household. Tops in our taste tests.
Harvest in 17 weeks, 7.5 kg per plant.
RADISH 'PINK LADY SLIPPER'
Pink Lady Slipper is a charming yet robust addition to our radish
offerings. Its crisp texture and mild pungency made it a taste test
winner. The roots are an attractive pink colour, elongated with a blunt
tip and slender taproot. In addition, this radish maintains its crisp
texture and mild flavor for a stunning 40+ days from sowing! Matures in 30
to 34 days.
ROCKMELON 'SHARLYN'
Winner of our 2016-17 Rockmelon trial, Sharlyn resembles an elongated
cantaloupe but with a more restrained balance of sweetness. Its pale
orange flesh is soft near the center and more firm near the rind. Its
aromatics are both floral and fruity. Sharlyn melons have a short shelf-
life and should be eaten within a week of harvesting when ripe. 102 Days,
18 kg
ROSELLA ORGANIC
Rosella has been recognized in natural health industries for its high
levels of vitamin C and diurectic properties. Now it is becoming more
widely accepted and the unopened flowers (calyces) are used for tea
infusions, jams and relishes, and the leaves can be used in salads.
SILVERBEET FIVE COLOUR MIX ORGANIC
Dazzling, colourful and extremely nutritious. Midribs of red, orange,
yellow, pink or white make this the perfect fountaining accent plant for
any flower or vegetable garden. Listed in Vilmorin's Vegetable Garden
1888, and also called Rainbow Chard we grew this for its re-introduction
into the US for What's Old is New, where it became a best seller and a
signature plant for heirlooms.
SPINACH 'BLOOMSDALE' ORGANIC
Introduced to American gardeners way back in 1826 this heirloom
variety has thick, savoy (crinkled) bright green leaves that are rich
in antioxidants and vitamins on a compact plant. It maintains a neat
rosette of leaves for some time as it is resistant to bolting.
SPRING ONION 'EVERGREEN' ORGANIC
A versatile easy to grow vegie that can be used in a range of
dishes from salads to stir fries. They add a touch of heat without making
your eyes water like their other onion cousins.
SQUASH 'GEM'
This South African Gem is a space saving, compact vine producing
grapefruit-sized squash that can be eaten fresh or stored as a mini-sized
pumpkin for roasting. Sweet when small, savory when larger.
SWEDE 'LAURENTIAN'
A full flavoured earthy swede with a savoury aftertaste. Under-rated
as a vegetable, its smooth and creamy texture is a welcome surprise in our
restaurant.
TOMATO 'BARRY'S CRAZY CHERRY' ORGANIC
Only the second tomato to surpass Tommy Toe in our taste tests! Profuse
(really - crazy!) clusters of oblong yellow fruit that change in flavour
from tart to sweet as they ripen - finishing with a flavour like sweet
moscato (Brix level of 8). This selection is sure to be a hit with young
and old alike. 96 Days, 3 kg
TURNIP 'WHITE MINI'
Tender round white roots, stores well. Crisp, beautiful well shaped
rounds, ideal for the turnip lover. Harvest in only 7 weeks.
WATERMELON 'SUGAR BABY'
This 1950s ice box sized heirloom produces an abundant crop of sweet,
red fleshed melons. Has a compact growth habit that won't take over your
garden. Harvest in just 10 weeks- making it our earliest yet. The tough
outer skin resists cracking and its compact 15cm fruit fits perfectly in
the fridge. 4 fruit per plant, 3kg per fruit.
ZUCCHINI 'BLACK BEAUTY' ORGANIC
Pick flowers for stuffing or leave fruit until it is 15cm long. Produces
more fruit than the standard hybrid Black Jack. Just 9 weeks to harvest.
CALENDULA 'GREEN HEART ORANGE'
Named from the Latin 'Kalenade' (the first day of the month) because it
can be in flower every day of the year bring brilliant orange brightness
to the garden in the darkest of seasons. So willingly do they grow that
they barely need sowing. Elizabethans called it marigold before Mexico
was discovered, which then, became the source of popular modern marigolds.
Beneficial with medical and culinary properties, like many gardeners,
this flower is too `green at heart'.
VIOLA 'HEARTSEASE'
The true Johnny-Jump-Up, also known as Heartsease for its use in treating
a range of ailments throughout the ages- ranging from bronchial complaints
to fevers to skin problems. We grow it purely for its endearing
tri-coloured, face-like flowers and its ability to self seed where other
violets dare not. It is the ultimate ground cover for planting under
spring bulbs flowering from late winter right through to summer.
CALIFORNIAN POPPY 'JELLY BEANS'
Candy for the eye, the double fluted flowers in bright red and orange and
pink, Jelly Bean is a bright and long lasting splash of colour during
quieter times in the garden. Sown in drifts, Californian Poppies look
spectacular and are quick to cover bare patches of the garden.
CORNFLOWER CLASSIC FANTASTIC
If blue flowers appeal to you then you will love this twist on the classic
cornflower. The flowers come in all shades of the blue spectrum from deep,
summer-sky blue to pale baby blue. Easy to grow from autumn or early
spring sowings- the flowers are edible, they make wonderful cut flowers
and attract bees, so these are an essential addition to any garden.
BLUE BORAGE
Easy to grow from seed and one of the most popular plants for bee keepers.
The slate grey leaves are topped by panicles of electric blue flowers that
last for months and are the best for attracting pollinators to your
garden. Both the flowers and leaves can be added to summer drinks making
it a vital addition to the kitchen garden.
MARIGOLD 'ALUMIA VANILLA CREAM'
Buttery vanilla cream flowers on a bushy plant make for a unique French
Marigold. Marigolds are all reliably long blooming flowers and this
variety with an open face and exposed stamen attracts bees and other
beneficial garden pollinators. The petals have culinary uses though it is
hard to resist the charming warm colour.
CELERY 'DORATA D' ASTI'
Easier to grow than other varieties, remaining crisp and juicy
without the need for blanching. Snap off the lime-green stems from summer
through to autumn and winter. Harvest in 15 weeks, yields 1.1kg per plant.
CORN 'HONEY AND CREAM' F1
So sweet it doesn't need cooking, with plump yellow and white kernels.
Harvest in 12 weeks. Sow >20 C soil temperature.
CORN 'PAINTED MOUNTAIN' ORGANIC
Saved from extinction by Montana farmer, Dave Christensen, the original
strains of this ancient corn were believed to be widely cultivated by
native Indians and early American settlers. Painted Mountain is very cold
hardy and can be ground for flour or dried for popping. Otherwise it can
be grown purely to enjoy the rich tapestry of colours found in every cob.
hot Climate - September
SPINACH CLIMBING 'MALABAR RED'
A heat loving, highly decorative screening plant with twining red stems
and succulent leaves for stir fries.
PAK CHOY ORGANIC
Thick, curved succulent leaves are a must for stir-fries and Asian soups.
Grow quickly in a rich, moist soil to harvest in about 8 weeks. Yields
110g per plant.
ASPARAGUS 'FAT BASTARD' F1
The fattest spears than any other variety and a much higher yield with
excellent rust resistance. Allow three years for the crown to dvelope from
seed and two years for growth from the crown. Then enjoy this early spring
tender treat.
SWEET BASIL ORGANIC
This is the true basil favoured by continental cooks. Grow half a dozen
plants and you will have enough to pick fresh all summer plus make pesto
that you can freeze for quick pasta dishes in the winter.
BEAN 'LAZY HOUSEWIFE' ORGANIC
Our oldest climbing bean dating back to 1802. Described in Burpee's 1888
Farm Annual as being "broad thick and very fleshy and entirely
stringless...and being peculiarly luscious... it derived its name which
seems discourteous from its immense productiveness". What more can you say
except that they suit house-husbands just as well. Yields 773g/plant.
THREE COLOUR BEAN MIX
Includes Blue Lake, Golden Wax and Purple King. Harvest in 10 weeks and
pick for almost three months. Why settle for just green beans? Yields
1.2kg/plant.
CAPSICUM SEVEN COLOUR MIX
A rainbow collection of heirloom sweet capsicums including Sweet
Chocolate, Purple Beauty, White Diamond, Yellow Marconi, Chinese Giant,
Red Cubanelle and Orange Bell.
CARROT HEIRLOOM MIX
An exclusive Digger's mix exploding with colours from red to white and
purple to yellow. Succulent and sweet, these carrots hold their colour
when cooked, adding an exciting dimension to meals and salads.
LETTUCE HEIRLOOM MIX
A splendid mix of some of our favourite heirloom lettuces that bring
colour and flavour from the garden to the table. Includes Tennis Ball,
Rouge d'Hiver, Freckles, Tango and Red Leprechaun.
LETTUCE 'RED VELVET'
A striking ornamental loose-leaf lettuce with velvety maroon leaves. A
favourite at Heronswood as well as Seed Savers, where is was reintroduced
due to popular demand. Cut-and-come-again. Harvest in 8 weeks.
CHILLI MILD MANNERED MIX
A mix of chillies that will bring some welcome warmth to your cooking
without blowing your socks off! We've included the slightly warm Alma
Paprika for drying, the prolific and reliable Joes Long Cayenne, the ever
so subtly spicy Padron and our taste test favourite for its sweet and heat
combination- Sante Fe Grande.
CHIVES COMMON
The leaves have a delicate onion flavour and are used to enliven dishes of
eggs, potatoes, salads and soups. The purple orbs of flowers are also
edible and look a treat in the garden. Can be grown as an insect repellent
barrier.
CORIANDER ORGANIC
Looking light and gauzy in the garden, coriander grows rapidly in the
cooler months. Eat the leaves fresh, dry-fry the seeds and use the roots
for that nuance of Thailand in a stir-fry or curry.
CORN 'HONEY AND CREAM' F1
So sweet it doesn't need cooking, with plump yellow and white kernels.
Harvest in 12 weeks. Sow >20 C soil temperature.
CORN 'GOLDEN BANTAM' ORGANIC
This is the 'corniest' of sweet corn with true flavour. Rich yellow cobs
on 1.5m stalks. Heirloom favourite since 1902. Non-hybrid.
CUCUMBER 'LEBANESE MINI MUNCHER' ORGANIC
No need to peel this classic Mediterranean smooth skin variety. Perfect
for salads, pickling or combining with yoghurt for a traditional tzatziki.
Yields approximately 40 fruit/plant.
CUCUMBER 'RICHMOND GREEN APPLE' ORGANIC
An Australian heirloom that is starting to gain a following with gardeners
worldwide. Plump round green 'apples' with crisp, white flesh that is
incredibly juicy with a refreshing tang. None of the bitterness in the
skin other types can have. An incredibly prolific producer with around 10
kilos per plant.
DILL 'BOUQUET' ORGANIC
From Lithuanian to Laos, the soft, feathery leaves and seeds of Dill are
the vital ingredient for salads, pickles, vinegars and yoghurt dishes, and
of course, cucumber. The blue textured leaves also contrast in ornamental
plantings with salvias, dahlia, while the yellow umbel flowers attract
beneficial insects to fruit trees and the vegetable patch.
EGGPLANT HEIRLOOM MIX
A kaleidescope of eggplants never seen in supermarkets. Includes Rosa
Bianca, Violetta di Firenze, Slim Jim and Listada di Gandia.
LEEK 'JAUNE DU POITOU' ORGANIC
ORGANIC!
This French heirloom from 1853 has short, wide shanks and fan-
like, yellow-green leaves. Fast growing, this is a great variety for
beginner green thumbs.
CELTUCE
A lettuce that is also used a celery - strange but true. This ancient
Chinese vegetable is much sought-after by those that know it, branded 'the
next big thing' in Epicurious, so get ahead of the curve with this new (to
the west anyway) vegetable. Grow and harvest young leaves as a lettuce
then cut the succulent stems when they run to seed, reaching 30-40cm high.
RADISH HEIRLOOM MIX
A kaleidescope of healthy bright round radishes that add a spicy punch
to salads and sandwiches. Includes golden Helios, Purple Plum, scarlet
Round Red, pink and white Watermelon and Black Spanish.
ROCKMELON 'HA'OGEN'
The shiny smooth yellow skin is subtly striped with tinges of green
hinting at the sweet green flesh within. Regularly rating 90-100% in taste
test, its origins are most likely from the rich melon growing traditions
of Hungary. A very prolific melon with up to 14 fruits borne on a sinlge
compact vine. Harvest in 14 weeks, 900g per fruit.
ROSELLA ORGANIC
Rosella has been recognized in natural health industries for its high
levels of vitamin C and diurectic properties. Now it is becoming more
widely accepted and the unopened flowers (calyces) are used for tea
infusions, jams and relishes, and the leaves can be used in salads.
SILVERBEET FIVE COLOUR MIX ORGANIC
Dazzling, colourful and extremely nutritious. Midribs of red, orange,
yellow, pink or white make this the perfect fountaining accent plant for
any flower or vegetable garden. Listed in Vilmorin's Vegetable Garden
1888, and also called Rainbow Chard we grew this for its re-introduction
into the US for What's Old is New, where it became a best seller and a
signature plant for heirlooms.
SPINACH 'NEW ZEALAND'
Easy to grow, ground cover and long lived perennial substitute for spinach
in salty coastal areas. Also known as Warrigal Greens. Needs cooking to
remove oxalates.
SPRING ONION 'EVERGREEN' ORGANIC
A versatile easy to grow vegie that can be used in a range of
dishes from salads to stir fries. They add a touch of heat without making
your eyes water like their other onion cousins.
SQUASH 'SPAGHETTI'
Sure to be a favourite with paleo Pete, this squash can be boiled
or roasted and the flesh scooped out into ready made pasta, without the
extra carbs! Try it with feta and a sprinkling of herbs for a gourmet
treat that is so easy to prepare. Pick when yellow. Harvest in 15 weeks, 5
fruit per plant.
WATERMELON 'MOON AND STARS RED' ORGANIC
"The Moon and Stars watermelon is the poster child of the heirloom seed
movement. Its buttery moons and constellations of stars are awe-inspiring.
Unique among watermelons, both foliage and fruit are bedecked with
heavenly bodies", writes melon guru Amy Goldman. But Moon and Stars almost
slipped into a black hole until Kent Whealy of Seed Savers Exchange
rescued this treasure from extinction. Thick skin enables storage
throughout winter. Harvest from 14 weeks. Yields 3-4 fruit (25kg) per
plant.
ZUCCHINI 'BLACK BEAUTY' ORGANIC
Pick flowers for stuffing or leave fruit until it is 15cm long. Produces
more fruit than the standard hybrid Black Jack. Just 9 weeks to harvest.
hot Climate - October
SWEET BASIL ORGANIC
This is the true basil favoured by continental cooks. Grow half a dozen
plants and you will have enough to pick fresh all summer plus make pesto
that you can freeze for quick pasta dishes in the winter.
CHILLI HELLFIRE MIX
If you like heat then this mix of flaming beauties will set your mouth on
fire! Our exclusive mix includes the Mexican favourite Jalape¤o, knock-
your-socksoff Habanero, fiery Red Cap Mushroom and Red Hot Cherry.
CORIANDER ORGANIC
Looking light and gauzy in the garden, coriander grows rapidly in the
cooler months. Eat the leaves fresh, dry-fry the seeds and use the roots
for that nuance of Thailand in a stir-fry or curry.
CUCUMBER 'LEBANESE MINI MUNCHER' ORGANIC
No need to peel this classic Mediterranean smooth skin variety. Perfect
for salads, pickling or combining with yoghurt for a traditional tzatziki.
Yields approximately 40 fruit/plant.
DILL 'BOUQUET' ORGANIC
From Lithuanian to Laos, the soft, feathery leaves and seeds of Dill are
the vital ingredient for salads, pickles, vinegars and yoghurt dishes, and
of course, cucumber. The blue textured leaves also contrast in ornamental
plantings with salvias, dahlia, while the yellow umbel flowers attract
beneficial insects to fruit trees and the vegetable patch.
EGGPLANT HEIRLOOM MIX
A kaleidescope of eggplants never seen in supermarkets. Includes Rosa
Bianca, Violetta di Firenze, Slim Jim and Listada di Gandia.
LETTUCE HEIRLOOM MIX
A splendid mix of some of our favourite heirloom lettuces that bring
colour and flavour from the garden to the table. Includes Tennis Ball,
Rouge d'Hiver, Freckles, Tango and Red Leprechaun.
RADISH 'PINK LADY SLIPPER'
Pink Lady Slipper is a charming yet robust addition to our radish
offerings. Its crisp texture and mild pungency made it a taste test
winner. The roots are an attractive pink colour, elongated with a blunt
tip and slender taproot. In addition, this radish maintains its crisp
texture and mild flavor for a stunning 40+ days from sowing! Matures in 30
to 34 days.
WATERMELON 'SUGAR BABY'
This 1950s ice box sized heirloom produces an abundant crop of sweet,
red fleshed melons. Has a compact growth habit that won't take over your
garden. Harvest in just 10 weeks- making it our earliest yet. The tough
outer skin resists cracking and its compact 15cm fruit fits perfectly in
the fridge. 4 fruit per plant, 3kg per fruit.
ZUCCHINI 'BLACK BEAUTY' ORGANIC
Pick flowers for stuffing or leave fruit until it is 15cm long. Produces
more fruit than the standard hybrid Black Jack. Just 9 weeks to harvest.
COSMOS WHITE
Profuse and bright, pure white flowers float on tall strong stems with
bold yellow centres. This tough annual preforms through late Spring
and into the Australian Summer. Cosmos combine perfectly with old
fashioned favourites such as sweet peas, salvias and hollyhocks for
cottage garden appeal. Excellent cut flower to also bring inside.
PUMPKIN 'DELICATA MINI SWEET' ORGANIC
Non running bushes provide fruits with green and yellow striped skin. Best
picked when young. Can be planted with 1m spacing. Harvest in 13 weeks.
Yields 7kg per plant.
ROCKMELON 'PETIT GRIS DE RENNES'
A very old heirloom that was first noted in a bishops garden in Rennes
France over 400 years ago. And it is still popular today because of its
sublime flavour and fragrance. We found the vine to be compact and the
fruit small making it the perfect melon for most suburban gardens. It also
performs well in areas with cooler summers.
SQUASH 'JAUNE ET VERTE'
Picked young,the flesh is sweet and buttery. The tender skin cooks to
lime green. Compact variety producing scalloped fruit over a long
period. This French heirloom created much excitement amongst those of us
who were previously unconvinced about the merits of growing squash.
Harvest from 7 weeks, yields 3kg per plant.
PUMPKIN 'WALTHAM BUTTERNUT'
A prized heirloom Butternut that sets the standard by which other
pumpkins are judged. Classically shaped fruit with a small seed
cavity so you get more usable pumpkin. Soft yellow flesh and a great
nutty flavour. Harvest in 19 weeks. 6kg per plant.
CORN 'PAINTED MOUNTAIN' ORGANIC
Saved from extinction by Montana farmer, Dave Christensen, the original
strains of this ancient corn were believed to be widely cultivated by
native Indians and early American settlers. Painted Mountain is very cold
hardy and can be ground for flour or dried for popping. Otherwise it can
be grown purely to enjoy the rich tapestry of colours found in every cob.
CORN 'TRUE GOLD' ORGANIC
Traditional, open pollinated corn is getting harder to find as sweeter
hybrids become more popular. Don't be deterred - this is corn as it should
be - crisp, buttery and true corn flavour.
SUNFLOWER 'VAN GOGH'S LANDSCAPE'
Recreate a great artwork with tall statuesque single stemmed summer
annuals that proudly hold large traditional gold flowers with charming
ruffled petals. Mid-height Sunflowers for growing en mass that always
stops the traffic or a bee in a heart beat. 75 days to flower from direct
sowing with good longevity in a vase as a cut flower.
SUNFLOWER 'PRADO RED' ORGANIC
Exclusive to Diggers. Rich velvet flowers in rich red to burnt orange
tones, fading to yellow at the end of the season. The generosity of a
multi-stemmed sunflower with up to 10 heads per plant that dazzles in the
garden up to 2 months of consistent flowering. Flowering can be extended
from regular de-heading. ORGANIC
BLUE BORAGE
Easy to grow from seed and one of the most popular plants for bee keepers.
The slate grey leaves are topped by panicles of electric blue flowers that
last for months and are the best for attracting pollinators to your
garden. Both the flowers and leaves can be added to summer drinks making
it a vital addition to the kitchen garden.
CONEFLOWER 'MAGIC BOX'
A hardy and eye catching summer performer, Echinacea is an iconic
wildflower in the prairies of USA. Here, the bold structural cones are a
magnet for all kinds of beneficial insects with as a source of nectar
through out summer and seed heads for birds into late Autumn. This pop art
mix of colours of magenta, yellow and cream, will keep the bees flocking
to your garden from Summer through to Winter. By deheading spent flowers
in early Summer gardeners can encourage further flowering in late Summer-
early Autumn.
This month in the garden
Sow your own vegie seeds
There’s nothing more satisfying than growing your own food from seed. So dig into spring with these expert sowing tips. Watch seed sowing video
Secret to growing summer flowering perennials
The Diggers Club prides itself on our magnificent perennial borders and our 'This Goes with That' philosophy makes it even easier to design and plant a stunning perennial garden to bring joy year after year. Dowload your free copy of ‘The Secret to summer flowering perennials’.
Secret to succulents
Create a lush summer garden using the same succulents featured in the Heronswood dry garden. Your summer garden never looked so lush, Download your free ‘Lush summer garden planting plan.’
Things to do in September
Prepare your vegetable garden beds
Now that the temperatures are rising, it's time to prepare for your spring vegetable plant out. Weed your bed, dig in a good manure, preferably sheep or well rotted chicken manure, dig in and mulch.
Prepare your watering system
Be prepared before summer starts, to have an easy and reliable watering system in place to look after your crops while you are away. Dripper lines, and water timers are critical to regular watering which ensures even growth and plentiful harvest.
Watch for bugs
It's not just gardeners that look forward to spring, bug are moving about now to feast on tasty new growth and sap. Aphids will begin appearing on soft new growth and are easily combated with a soapy water spray. Snails will make a meal of any newly planted seedlings so set traps for these too.
Growing Weeks By Area
Diggers has divided Australia into five simple sowing areas — Cool, Warm, Hot, Subtropical, Tropical. These are determined by the number of growing weeks with an average temperature above 15°C each area can expect in a year.
For example, some annuals like beefsteak tomatoes need 16 growing weeks to flower and fruit - this means they will struggle when grown outdoors in Hobart, which only has 13 growing weeks.
Our map tells you at a glance what time of year to sow your seeds for the best results in your area.
Click below for a full-sized map to help you locate your growing area.
