Hirt's Gardens

Clivia are tough plants, known as survivors, proven soldiers for long-term use in mall plantings, indoor containers, and landscapes. Frost-free locations. Growth is fastest with 60F nights. In frost-free areas, can be used outdoors in any shade location. Light. 1000-3000 ft candles Thick leaves and bulbs of this South African plant tolerate a wide range of humidity Watering. Keep moist Fastest growth occurs in a light organic substrate such as peat, peat/bark, or peat/wood shavings History From the moment of their discovery in the early 19th century, clivias have had a profound effect on horticulture. Gardeners in Japan, in particular, became enchanted by these members of the amaryllis family soon after the plants reached that country from their native South Africa. Europe wasn't far... Less

Clivia are tough plants, known as survivors, proven soldiers for long-term use in mall plantings, indoor containers, and landscapes. Cultural Info Temperature. Frost-free locations. Growth is fastest with 60F nights. In frost-free areas, can be used outdoors in any shade location. Light. 1000-3000 ft candles Humidity. Thick leaves and bulbs of this South African plant tolerate a wide range of humidity Watering. Keep moist Soils and Substrate. Fastest growth occurs in a light organic substrate such as peat, peat/bark, or peat/wood shavings History From the moment of their discovery in the early 19th century, clivias have had a profound effect on horticulture. Gardeners in Japan, in particular, became enchanted by these members of the amaryllis family soon after the plants reached that... Less

HELLEBORUS: The genus Helleborus covers a group of perennial plants from Europe and Asia. Virtually all are garden worthy, though the acaulescent (stemless) hybrids have become the most popular forms found in gardens. These perennials are vigorous growers and abundant bloomers in rich, alluring colors like deep red-wine, cherry-blossom pink, to soft, creamy lime and pure, snow white. They are undemanding when provided with just a little shade and well-drained soil. Wow! This amazing plant is a true collector's item for the border. Helleborus 'Mrs Betty Ranicar' is named after a fine Tasmanian plantswoman, and is an orientalis hybrid that produces crowds of fantastic, heavily double, snowy white blooms that will be a delight amongst vivid spring bulbs in the shady border. Be one of the... Less

Fennel, Zefa Fino Foeniculum vulgare Heirloom 18-21 in. Hardy Biennial Also called finocchio, fennel was introduced from Italy over 100 years ago. This vigorous plant forms medium to large bulbs with sweet, anise-like flavor that is delicious baked or raw in salads. Direct sow outdoors in spring when light frosts are still possible. In milder climates, sow in the fall. Harvesting tips: Harvest leaves or the bulbs before it goes to seed. Harvest seeds in the second year. Planting Depth: 1/4-1/2 Soil Temp. for Germ.: 55-75 F Days to Germ.: 14-21 Plant Spacing: 8-12 Days to Maturity: 65 Full Sun/Partial Shade Moderate Water

Very easy to grow and very easy to get to bloom. The proper name for this plant is Fritillaria meleagris alba One of our favorites, they are winsome, charming, with bell-shaped blooms of pure white. Native to damp meadows and woodlands in Europe, these bulbs like partial shade and abundant moisture, which makes them highly sought after among gardeners who have less than perfectly drained soil. An excellent choice for naturalizing in a moist, shady garden. This is a heirloom plant dating back to 1572. Height: 12-15in. Hardy in zones 4-9. If deer are a problem don't be afraid to plant the Snakes Head Lily. The deer just don't like it.

Mini Purplette Onion Hardy annual (60-65-day)  The first purple-red skinned mini onion. Early maturing 1-2-inch bulbs with delicate, mild flavor. Attractive either topped or bunched and can be harvested very young as baby bunching onions with purple pearl ends. Turns pastel pink when cooked or pickled. Planting depth: 3/4-1-inch, Soil Temperature for Germination: 50-85-Degree F, day to Germination: 3-8 Avg. Spacing: 10-15 seeds/foot in rows 12-18-inch apart Avg. Seeding rate: 12-18-inch apart-day to maturity: 60-65 Full sun Water often, 350 Seed Count.

History From the moment of their discovery in the early 19th century, clivias have had a profound effect on horticulture. Gardeners in Japan particularly became enchanted by these members of the amaryllis family soon after the plants reached that country from their native South Africa. Europe wasn't far behind. In England, the most spectacular species, Clivia miniata, was put on display before its identity was known, and the first flowers created a sensation. It proved to be a durable and long-lived plant, and its large seeds were readily produced and easy to germinate. Before long, the plant breeders were at work, using some of the fine selections that had been discovered in the wild and brought back to Europe. By the end of the 19th century, spectacular new hybrids were being shown and... Less

Flowers: All summer Position: Full sun Height: 24 inches Hardy in Zones 3-9 Germination: Easy Aftercare: Care and Understanding An unusual hardy species of this sensitive plant. Lax arching stems with small thorns (briers), and very sensitive leaves that fold when touched are then graced by attractive pink puffball-like flowers during the summer, attracting beneficial insects to the garden. Height: 30-60cm (12-24in). Proper name: Mimosa nuttalii 'Pink Sparkles'

The 'Chocolate Fragrance Award' goes to the Chocolate Plant (Berlandiera lyrata), a quarter-size, vibrant, yellow daisy with striking red striped undersides and chocolate- colored stamens.A small plant with an airy habit, Chocolate Plant makes a nice, informal edging plant, and is most impressive and most fragrant when planted in groups. It has shown itself to be adaptable to a wide spectrum of conditions. It dies back to the ground in winter and returns with a larger crown each spring, ultimately reaching about two feet across and about 18 inches high. A night bloomer, the flowers offer up their Cocoa scent in the morning and drop their colorful petals each day as the temperature rises. If harvested before the seeds come loose at the center , these make an attractive addition to the... Less

Sensitive Plant is an easy to grow house plant that snaps it's leaves shut when touched! You will not believe this plant. It acts more like an animal than a plant. Plus it has beautiful, pink, silky flowers. Attractive, bright green leaves are outlined by burgundy borders. Grow on a bright window in a 4 pot. Grows 6-12 inches tall. Proper name: Mimosa pudica

Asclepias physocarpaFamily Jewels Plant This small tree-like tender perennial from Africa is sure to inspire lots of laughs and comparisons. It s in the Milkweed family, and grows 4-6' tall. The flowers are creamy-white and the leaves are narrow. It's the seed pods that are well, uh, . . . controversial. They are ball-like, about 2 across, translucent lime green, and have little spiny hairs sticking out. Though humorous, they make excellent landscaping plants as they are fast growing, trouble free, have a nice lollipop. The inflated seed pods are nice in dried floral designs. Though native to Africa, Monarch butterflies will readily lay their eggs on it. A great fast growing host plant for their caterpillars. One perhaps not too useful further piece of information is that the leaves of... Less

DAISY: Daisies are all-time favorites for the perennial border. The cheery flowers begin to appear in late spring and continue on for several months if faithfully deadheaded. A plant that is easily grown in average, well-drained soils in full sun. Good drainage is essential for this plant! Unsurpassed in the border and for cutting. Give them a sunny spot and a balanced plant food in the spring and once again when buds form. Remove flowers as they fade to promote further bloom. These alpine plants are exposed to many extremes. To survive the strong winds and cold temperatures at the top of the mountains, the plants grow in a clump of tight spirals so tightly wound that, from a distance, they look like a single plant. To survive the high UV levels on the exposed mountain tops, the plants... Less

TOMATO: Tomatoes are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, and the seeds are high in fiber. The green parts are mildly poisonous, which is not surprising, as tomatoes are closely related to both nightshade and tobacco. The tomato was originally believed to be poisonous when introduced into Europe, and was used solely as an ornamental plant during the 16th and 17th centuries. The first traces of its use as a food date back to the first half of the 18th century.Cherokee Purple Tomato: Relatively short, purple-pink-toffee flesh color with green gel when not fully ripe, flattened globe, 10 - 12 oz. Shipping Options: Shipping begins March 1st, weather permitting. When paying enter the ship date in the Gift Card box or in the Special Instruction Box. Choose from the following shipping dates:... Less

DAISY: Daisies are all-time favorites for the perennial border. The cheery flowers begin to appear in late spring and continue on for several months if faithfully deadheaded. A plant that is easily grown in average, well-drained soils in full sun. Good drainage is essential for this plant! Unsurpassed in the border and for cutting. Give them a sunny spot and a balanced plant food in the spring and once again when buds form. Remove flowers as they fade to promote further bloom. These alpine plants are exposed to many extremes. To survive the strong winds and cold temperatures at the top of the mountains, the plants grow in a clump of tight spirals so tightly wound that, from a distance, they look like a single plant. To survive the high UV levels on the exposed mountain tops, the plants... Less

HOLLYHOCK: The definitive old-fashioned cottage plant, Hollyhocks conjure beloved memories. Placed along fences, barn walls or the side of a house, their stately spires define summer for gardeners. Recent offerings bring expanded possibilities to this garden classic. An elegant, high quality border plant resulting from extensive breeding. Tall, stately flower spikes packed with many fully double, powder-puff bloooms of peachy-cream, some with a tinge of raspberry-pink. Best grown in groups at the back of the border. Height: 5-6 feet. Blooms mid through late summer, and prefers full sun. Hardy perennial in zones 2-9.

Common name: Apple of Sodom, Cow's udder, Nyun Wenkibobi, Soresumba, Mackaw bush, Nipple fruit, Titty fruit, Tit Plant, Breast Plant. Family: solanaceae (nightshade family). This is an erect tropical shrub growing up to 4 tall. The deeply lobed leaves have long spikes on its surface; the flowers are white to violet. The fruit is a round yellow berry with numerous brownish-red seeds in it. Hardiness: USDA zone 9 - 11. Elsewhere grow as a house plant. Propagation: seeds, cuttings. Culture: Full sun. Fruiting branches can be used in cut flower arrangements. The fruit is not edible! The Titty Fruit is used in some treatments such as skin ailments. It is also used for luck and spiritual matters. Before soap was common in villages, the juice was used as a detergent to wash clothes.

GOURD: Plant gourds if for no other reason than because they're fun! They come in a delightful, wacky array of shapes, colors, and sizes and are sure to bring a smile when you harvest them. Many will grow up fences and trellises, which makes them even more interesting and dramatic. Carnival Gourd: Cream colored with orange spots. Can have pale and dark green spots in vertical stripes. Delicious when eaten. Beautiful when used as an ornamental. 12 seeds per pack. The carnival gourd is cream colored with orange spots or pale green with dark green spots in vertical stripes.

*The China Doll is a small plant with green foliage that is native to the Philippines. The China Doll makes an excellent houseplant in bright but indirect light. Keep the soil evenly moist, not wet or dry, and always grow the plant in a pot with holes for drainage. Keep out of hot or cold drafts indoors. If you are lucky enough to live in zones 10 or 11, you can even grow the China Doll outside. When mature outdoors, it bears large yellow and white flowers during the spring and summer followed by long slender fruits up to 15 inches long. The flowers are extremely fragrant!

HELLEBORUS: The genus Helleborus covers a group of perennial plants from Europe and Asia. Virtually all are garden worthy, though the acaulescent (stemless) hybrids have become the most popular forms found in gardens. These perennials are vigorous growers and abundant bloomers in rich, alluring colors like deep red-wine, cherry-blossom pink, to soft, creamy lime and pure, snow white. They are undemanding when provided with just a little shade and well-drained soil. Wow! This amazing plant is a true collector's item for the border. This stunning new discovery is sure to shine out from your borders, with its attractive pure golden finger shaped leaves. Being bouth strong and vigorous, even in a sunny border, and topped off by pale sulphur yellow flowers, borne on green stems, makes this... Less

PEONY: Peony plants bear an attractive, glossy green foliage that reaches 2'-3' in height with a similar spread. But their popularity is due mainly to their flowers. Peony plants bloom in late spring or early summer. There are peony plants that are indigenous to China, Europe and the Western U.S. The herbaceous Peony has been cultivated in home gardens for over 600 years. Considering the beauty of the flower and the longevity of the plants, it's no wonder why they have long been a perennial favorite. Peony clumps may survive for up to as long as 50 years, so it is advisable to prepare the site very thoroughly before planting. Once they have become established in the garden, they are reasonably free from maintenance and problems. Particularly suitable for a small garden is this compact and... Less

HIBISCUS: Popular for nearly 200 years and with good reason. Its size and growth habit allow it to be planted near a home or in a border, and its flowers are spectacular! Very useful for late summer to early fall bloom. Slow to begin growing in the spring, but makes up for lost time fast. Hibiscus moscheutos Disco Belle Mixed F1 Hybrid Hardy Perennial/Half Hardy Annual Position: Full sun Zones: 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 Height: 32 inches Germination: Easy Aftercare: Care and Understanding Ideal for: Accent Plant, Border Description Hibiscus seed 'Disco Belle' Mixed is spectacular! Flowers 9 inches in diameter with dinner plate-like blooms are produced in an impressive mixture of rich colors approx. 4 1/2 months after sowing. Perfect for creating interest in borders, or as a feature plant... Less

HELLEBORUS: The genus Helleborus covers a group of perennial plants from Europe and Asia. Virtually all are garden worthy, though the acaulescent (stemless) hybrids have become the most popular forms found in gardens. These perennials are vigorous growers and abundant bloomers in rich, alluring colors like deep red-wine, cherry-blossom pink, to soft, creamy lime and pure, snow white. They are undemanding when provided with just a little shade and well-drained soil. Wow! This amazing plant is a true collector's item for the border. This stunning new discovery is sure to shine out from your borders. The double and anemone flowering forms, coupled with the rich color range, makes this variety priceless. Be one of the first to grow such a top quality double Helleborus from seed! Hellebores,... Less

PEONY: Peony plants bear an attractive, glossy green foliage that reaches 2'-3' in height with a similar spread. But their popularity is due mainly to their flowers. Peony plants bloom in late spring or early summer. There are peony plants that are indigenous to China, Europe and the Western U.S. The herbaceous Peony has been cultivated in home gardens for over 600 years. Considering the beauty of the flower and the longevity of the plants, it's no wonder why they have long been a perennial favorite. Peony clumps may survive for up to as long as 50 years, so it is advisable to prepare the site very thoroughly before planting. Once they have become established in the garden, they are reasonably free from maintenance and problems. A stunning tree peony to 7', the lush foliage and bright... Less

*Best grown in humusy, fertile, medium wet, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. Prefers full sun. Plants may self-seed if fruit is not harvested. The White Woodland Strawberry is a small-fruited, woodland strawberry cultivar that is grown both for its ornamental value and its tasty berries. It features compact, 8-10 tall runnerless plants which make good edgers. Dense foliage mounds discourage many weeds. Numerous, small, 5-petaled white flowers with yellow centers appear throughout summer Flowers are followed by small pure white strawberries which may also be harvested throughout summer. Flowers and fruit are usually simultaneously present on plants in summer. Hardy in zones 5-9. Very easy to grow and good to eat!