New McKenzie Vegetable Seeds

Late winter and early spring is the time of year many gardeners look forward to most. This is the time of year that seed catalogues begin to arrive, and the season for planning is upon them at long last!

This season, McKenzie Seeds has introduced several new varieties of vegetable and flower seeds, many of which are geared toward gardeners in northern climates, typically hardiness zones 6 and below.

McKenzie prominently markets their new line of organic vegetable seeds, and they assure gardeners on their seed packaging that, ‚”No herbicides, pesticides, or man made fertilizers were used in the production of these seeds.” The company has also begun to capitalize on the current popularity of heirloom varieties. Ranging in price from $1.99 to $3.89, some of these introductions are described here.

Ornamental Eggplant

Also known as “Pumpkin on a Stick,” this variety of ornamental eggplant resembles just that, with six to eight fruits per stem. When ripe, these small eggplants are deeply pleated, looking remarkably like small pumpkins. These would look very pretty in autumn in a front porch seasonal display, especially since they can be dried for use in cutting arrangements. Children will also enjoy these plants, but should be warned that they are not for eating!

Armenian Cucumber

This heirloom plant is actually a member of the melon family; however, it resembles a pale green English cucumber. It is unnecessary to peel the fruit prior to eating. Although the fruits can grow up to three feet in length, it is best to eat when harvested at 12″ to 18″ in length. This plant would be an excellent choice for gardeners who are attempting to add interest to the vegetable garden by taking advantage of vertical space. With the proper support, the fruit would hang in clusters, protecting the skin from boring insects and blemishes.

Corn, Butter Gold SE

According to McKenzie, Butter Gold corn has been ‚”especially adapted to northern climates.” The cobs should grow to 8″ in length, and each packet contains enough seed to plant a 25-foot row. When planting more than one variety of corn, gardeners should take care to separate each variety by about 25 feet in order to prevent cross-pollination. Corn should be sown outdoors directly into the soil when the ground has warmed and there is no danger of frost.

Onion, “Sturon”

McKenzie has joined the organic revolution and this variety of onion is certified organic by OC/PRO Canada. To extend the growing season and ensure a successful crop, gardeners can start these seeds indoors 8 to 10 weeks before the last frost in their growing zone. Germination should occur within 11 to 14 days.

“Contender” Bush Bean

Another heirloom variety, Contender should be ready to harvest in 55 days. Contender Bush Bean is a stringless variety of bean, also ‚”ideal for cooler climates.” Sow seed directly into the soil when any danger of frost has passed.

Gardeners who enjoy growing vegetables from seed always find it interesting to discover new varieties that are introduced by seed companies each year. This year is proving to be no exception!