Allotments 4 All

Produce => Edible Plants => Topic started by: Jayb on January 26, 2015, 08:51:19

Title: Seed Sharing Circle 2015 and growing progress
Post by: Jayb on January 26, 2015, 08:51:19
If anyone would like to join this year’s proposed Seed Circle, sign up on the thread  :blob7:

The Seed Circle would be in it's 6th year  :drunken_smilie: and is open to all A4A members, it’s great to have new people join too  :wave:  The group is all about setting aside a little growing space and time to raise some crops for seeds, keeping the group informed of how the season is going and at the end of the season share these seeds with the group.

Each person decides what 2 or more crops they will grow and save seed from, saving enough seed for every other member to grow a crop the following year. The group could be 10 – 20 + people, although it seems to even out at around 15. Veggies will generally need to be heritage or open pollinated so that they will come true from seed, (potatoes won’t come exactly true).

It's always fun to have new to the group varieties and not those that are the real basic ones which are easy to pick up for 50p in the shops. If anyone is stuck for ideas or starter seeds ask on the thread or pm me, I’m happy to help someone get started if they need seeds. To give you an idea, here’s a list of seeds varieties already shared within the groups http://seedsaverscircle.org/seed-circle/a-z-of-varieties-shared-in-the-seed-circles/


I think most of us have found out some vegetables are easier than others to grow for seed and everything can change with the weather. But generally peas, French beans, tomatoes, perhaps potatoes and some herbs are the easiest. Chillies, Sweet peppers, squash, courgette and lettuce will need isolating from other varieties to keep seed pure.  Parsnips, onions, leeks, beetroot, carrots, celeriac and many Brassicas only go to seed the second year and need isolation from other varieties and so are more time consuming and a little trickier.

Real Seeds gave the idea for the circles. Their site gives some great seed saving tips as well as being a great seed catalogue http://www.realseeds.co.uk/seedsavinginfo.html

For anyone interested in the previous years Seed Parcels and what we finally shared they can be found at http://seedsaverscircle.org/

And the previous threads for the Circles;
Seed Circle 2014 http://www.allotments4all.co.uk/smf/index.php/topic,77280.0.html
Seed Circle 2013 http://www.allotments4all.co.uk/smf/index.php/topic,74928.0.html
Seed Circle 2012 http://www.allotments4all.co.uk/smf/index.php/topic,70816.0.html
Seed Circle 2011 http://www.allotments4all.co.uk/smf/index.php/topic,64431.0.html
Extra Group 2011 http://www.allotments4all.co.uk/smf/index.php/topic,68391.0.html
Seed Circle 2010 http://www.allotments4all.co.uk/smf/index.php/topic,58860.0.html
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: goodlife on January 26, 2015, 09:27:36
 :wave: MEEEE.....Meeeee.....meeee..... :toothy10: Put my name on the list pleaaaaaase , madam, if you would, thank you, most kindly.... :drunken_smilie: :happy7:

 :icon_cheers:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: markfield rover on January 26, 2015, 11:49:08
I am going to the seed swap on the 7th quite a few HSL usually turn up so...... If I can find some "worthies" I would love to join in please, you are doing sterling work Jayb ,thank-you.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Silverleaf on January 26, 2015, 15:45:39
I want to join in!

I haven't planned out what I'm growing yet, but definitely want to share! Hopefully I can put in a lot more this year!
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: sparrow on January 26, 2015, 18:17:24
Me please, me please, me please!!!  :blob7:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Robert_Brenchley on January 26, 2015, 19:20:52
Yes, definitely. Hopefully I'll have a better year this time!
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: ruud on January 26, 2015, 22:10:08
You can count me in
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on January 27, 2015, 07:54:15
Yes please, but no idea as yet what I might grow to seed.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: pumkinlover on January 27, 2015, 08:03:31
I would like to be in again please!
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: markfield rover on January 27, 2015, 15:21:24
I have just received seed from the National dahlia collection, so if it's exceptable  I'll add these, they are mixed so real pot luck including the chance of a new variety!
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on January 27, 2015, 16:25:28
Yes, sounds great to me. Being both edible and producing beautiful flowers, bonus all around  :sunny:
Gives me a chance to plan ahead and have some space set aside for them.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on January 27, 2015, 16:27:26
 :blob7: :blob7: :blob7:

Goodlife
Markfield rover
Silverleaf
Sparrow
Robert_Brenchley
Ruud
Galina
Pumpkinlover
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Ian Pearson on January 28, 2015, 10:29:20
Me too please1
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: earlypea on January 28, 2015, 16:22:31
I'd love to.  Was in the first one in 2010 and having been watching enviously this year - feel quite out of the bean-loop.

Trouble is I might not be around much during the growing season, but I reckon I could fairly easily save

Red Swan dwarf french beans

and

Sokol breadseed poppy
http://www.realseeds.co.uk/flowers.html

I've not spotted either of those on the previous years' lists.

and then we'll see what else as I go along.  I've got big plans and lots of seeds, but maybe not the time......

earlypea
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: goodlife on January 28, 2015, 16:34:13
I'd love to.  Was in the first one in 2010 and having been watching enviously this year - feel quite out of the bean-loop.

Trouble is I might not be around much during the growing season, but I reckon I could fairly easily save

Red Swan dwarf french beans

and

Sokol breadseed poppy
http://www.realseeds.co.uk/flowers.html

Those 2 sounds good and it would be nice to have you joining again :icon_thumleft: Go on....you know you want it...SEEEED, SEEEEDS and more SEEEEEDS... :tongue3:



I've not spotted either of those on the previous years' lists.

and then we'll see what else as I go along.  I've got big plans and lots of seeds, but maybe not the time......

earlypea
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on January 28, 2015, 16:59:05
Welcome back both  :sunny:

Goodlife
Markfield rover
Silverleaf
Sparrow
Robert_Brenchley
Ruud
Galina
Pumpkinlover
Ian Pearson
Earlypea
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on January 28, 2015, 17:07:18
I'd love to.  Was in the first one in 2010 and having been watching enviously this year - feel quite out of the bean-loop.

Trouble is I might not be around much during the growing season, but I reckon I could fairly easily save

Red Swan dwarf french beans

and

Sokol breadseed poppy
http://www.realseeds.co.uk/flowers.html

I've not spotted either of those on the previous years' lists.

and then we'll see what else as I go along.  I've got big plans and lots of seeds, but maybe not the time......

earlypea


Both would be ideal for the group and I just love Red Swan and was thinking of putting it in this year, so I'm really pleased you are going to be adding it. Perhaps I can be back up for in case needed? I should think both will do well with minimal care once established if you are going to be busy summer time, good choices.

I think I may be going to have a bit of a bean and pea year, so hopefully some new additions from me  :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: sparrow on January 28, 2015, 17:55:55
I may well be a repeat of squashes & peppers (different ones!) and I have an order with Baker Creek that is sitting in my saved folder which is fairly bean-y.

I didn't realise how addictive this seed saving would be and I have eaten the majority of my root crops...d'oh! Might see if there are enough salsify or beetroot left...

I love the idea of the breadseed poppy.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on January 28, 2015, 19:58:08
Lol, a total shiny bean lover here, although I really don't need them, I've got a couple of packs of beans in my basket too!
Squash and peppers will be just great  :toothy10:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: martinburo on January 28, 2015, 21:30:09
Yes, please.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Debs on January 29, 2015, 00:11:42
Hi Jayb
I'd love to join in this year if its not too late!

Debs  :icon_flower:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on January 29, 2015, 09:42:35
Welcome Martinburo and Debs, good to have you join in this year  :wave:

Goodlife
Markfield rover
Silverleaf
Sparrow - possible squashes & peppers
Robert_Brenchley
Ruud
Galina
Pumpkinlover
Ian Pearson
Earlypea - Red Swan dwarf french beans and Sokol breadseed poppy
Martinburo
Debs
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Silverleaf on January 29, 2015, 21:51:02
I'll try for Telephone peas - I apologise for not putting them in the last swap as promised, but fate conspired against me and I didn't have enough.

Anyone interested in landraces? I should be growing a few this year, mostly beans and peas. Don't know if anyone else wants a bunch of mixed-up seeds!
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: earlypea on January 30, 2015, 10:05:00
Anyone interested in landraces? I should be growing a few this year, mostly beans and peas. Don't know if anyone else wants a bunch of mixed-up seeds!
Yes, I am, they look fascinating.  I nearly indulged in some land-race broad beans myself for this season, but as they come from the US I thought it might be a bit bulky and possibly intercepted by customs. 
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: earlypea on January 30, 2015, 10:09:14
.....I just love Red Swan and was thinking of putting it in this year, so I'm really pleased you are going to be adding it. Perhaps I can be back up for in case needed? ......
Sounds like a good idea.   Or, if you really wanted to do them I'm sure I could find something else.  I've not grown them before, just came across them accidentally trying to source tomatoes and it was love at first sight.

A lot of us seem to gravitate towards the same varieties, which is lucky really.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on January 30, 2015, 10:32:32
Good to have you back Earlypea.  The world's first proper Red Bean, how exciting!  I collect a pot of poppy seed every year for making dinner rolls etc.  Proper Breadseed Poppy seed is nice.

There is something very comforting about sharing the seed saving effort, especially for very rare varieties.  We receive two lots that were grown under different conditions and with slightly different adaptations (this especially applies to seeds from abroad).  And the obvious benefit for the seed saver is that the pressure is off, because the other party can step in or supplement, if the harvest was small for whatever reason. 

Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on January 30, 2015, 15:32:09
I've stickied this.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on January 30, 2015, 15:55:03
I'll try for Telephone peas - I apologise for not putting them in the last swap as promised, but fate conspired against me and I didn't have enough.


Opps, I added them to the Seed Circle list!
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on January 30, 2015, 16:06:03
Sounds like a good idea.   Or, if you really wanted to do them I'm sure I could find something else.  I've not grown them before, just came across them accidentally trying to source tomatoes and it was love at first sight.

A lot of us seem to gravitate towards the same varieties, which is lucky really.

No you carry on, I'm aiming to grow them again this year so I won't be missing out  :toothy10:
Yes it's fun to know others have chosen the same and interesting knowing what takes people's eye.

Quote
I nearly indulged in some land-race broad beans myself for this season, but as they come from the US I thought it might be a bit bulky and possibly intercepted by customs.
I think I may have bought the same or similar  :toothy10: though I've not grown them yet, I wanted to add them to a Grex/landrace I've got on the go. I've some spare mixed X broadie seeds if you would like to grow some?
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: sparrow on January 30, 2015, 23:25:23
what makes something a landrace? I've really struggled to understand the definition. And apologies for noddy question!
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on January 31, 2015, 02:12:12
what makes something a landrace? I've really struggled to understand the definition. And apologies for noddy question!

There are two definitions of landrace.  The first is a mostly farmer selected, genetically broader based variety that shows a little more variation than the very uniform varieties we buy in seed packets. 

The second definition (applies here) is a selection of different types from early generations after a cross.  Each seed produces a plant that can be very different from the next one.  The idea is that you can sample many types (but all from the same parents that were crossed) rather than all plants being the same, and then select which plants do best in your particular growing environment - for example the earliest, the best yielding, the one that best stood up to blight, the one with the prettiest colours, best flavour etc etc. It is your choice.

After the initial cross which creates an F1 hybrid seed,  the generation that follows on, the F2 generation, shows the greatest difference from one sibling plant to the next.  The next generation after that, the F3 (or third filial generation) and F4, F5 and F6 respectively are showing increasingly more uniformity until eventually the strain or strains that you selected out of the original seed mixture (grex), is a genetically stable and uniform new variety.  And very well adapted to your growing conditions. Your own variety. 

I hope this explains what is meant by landrace. 
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Silverleaf on January 31, 2015, 02:13:49
what makes something a landrace? I've really struggled to understand the definition. And apologies for noddy question!

Not a noddy question at all, I apologise for not defining the term when I used it!

I may not be using the term entirely correctly, but for me it's a fairly diverse population of plants of similar type (usually all the same species but not all the same variety). For example, I have a mixed bag of climbing French bean seeds for shelling out - lots of different varieties, but they will all grow and be used in the same way. I don't mind if they cross, and I'll keep adding in a few seeds here and there when I can to keep up the diversity. The more diversity the better as far as I'm concerned, because that gives me the best chance of eventually getting a landrace that's adapted to my area.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on January 31, 2015, 02:25:48
 :tongue3: Who is the noddy now?  I didn't get it either!  Thank you for the definition, Silverleaf.   :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Silverleaf on January 31, 2015, 04:54:00
:tongue3: Who is the noddy now?  I didn't get it either!  Thank you for the definition, Silverleaf.   :wave:

That's only MY definition. ;) I guess when it comes to sharing I could just call it "a bunch of seeds that are the same type of thing but not all exactly the same", but that's not as catchy as "landrace". ;)
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Debs on February 01, 2015, 00:29:35
Hi Jayb
Put me down for Cymbopogan flexuosus (East Indian Lemongrass)

Debs :icon_flower:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Robert_Brenchley on February 01, 2015, 18:56:20
I'm definitely in, and with a lot more raised beds built. I shouldn't get in the same mess as I did last year. Hopefully! I should have some brassica seed to share, but everything depends on what comes through the winter - Di Sicilia Violetto cauliflowers are frost vulnerable - and what flowers. I'm hoping to get seed of some perennial tree kale, but it's too early to be sure it's going to bloom.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: markfield rover on February 10, 2015, 16:35:40
From our local seed swap I did find four tomatoes , Dwarf Wax (HSL).Veepro Paste.(HSL). Vince (HSL)  Wild Tomatel Columbianum (HSL)  the first two I can find info for ,the other two a little more allusive , so suck it and see! Also Chickpea Hannan pop bean , looks very exotic for these parts!
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Silverleaf on February 10, 2015, 17:19:23
Also Chickpea Hannan pop bean , looks very exotic for these parts!
I once tested some "kana chala" dried brown chickpeas from my local Asian food shop to see if they popped in hot oil. Most of them did, and they tasted pretty good with a little salt. They don't puff up huge like popcorn, but they do puff a bit.

I sowed a few too as an experiment, but didn't get much from them if I remember. The plants are pretty.

I'd like to try nuñas (pop beans) but I can't find a source for them.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: markfield rover on February 10, 2015, 17:28:31
Silver leaf,  I don't have many but you are more than welcome to some.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: cambourne7 on February 10, 2015, 21:49:50
yes please
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Silverleaf on February 10, 2015, 23:56:11
I hope you they do well for you so you can put them in the swap Markfield! They sound really good. I love anything unusual. :)
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on February 11, 2015, 07:38:43

Have heard of Vince, but not the other.  Wild tomato conjures up an image of currant tomatoes.  We'll know - hope you (we all) get a great tomato season.

Have grown Hannan Pop Bean last year, but did not get enough seeds for everybody.  Maybe started too late.  They are like broadbeans and peas and can put up with a little bit of frost.  Hope you have good success with them.

Nice swaps.   :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: goodlife on February 11, 2015, 10:37:06
Oh 'pop beans'....something I've wanted to try for ages but always failed to source seeds for! I do hope to find some in parcel....DO grow them, PRETTY PLEASE!
I haven't got a glue what to grow for the circle. I have many options, so I'm afraid it is case of growing many of them and see what will do well. I'll start talking about varieties near future when I get sowing..it is still quite wintery here so I'm not even tempted to venture to the plot...hmm...though some broad beans and wheat could be started in GH....
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Silverleaf on February 11, 2015, 12:44:12
I tried to order nuñas from GRIN but they apparently can't send any Phaseolus material to the UK because they can't provide a phyto certificate for them.

I wonder if there's a way we could get some?
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on February 11, 2015, 13:22:52
Well I am trying the lettuce again that did not work last year.  And I have got a 'new to me' lettuce - Hyper Red Rumple Waved.  Who can resist such a name.

Red lettuces are not only pretty but a little more safe from slugs.  And the 'rumples' hold on nicely to salad dressing too.  According to the pictures, this one is  v e r y   red.

However, having stuck my neck out, I make no promises  :wave:

Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: pumkinlover on February 11, 2015, 13:56:08
Galina you're a sucker for these way out names! Must be good with a name like that!  :wave: :toothy10:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on February 11, 2015, 16:36:13
Galina you're a sucker for these way out names! Must be good with a name like that!  :wave: :toothy10:

Yep you've got a point, but as they claim it to be the reddest lettuce ever, I could not pass up that description either.  Let's see how it does here where the sun is much weaker than in the USA, of course  :happy7:

Unfortunately it works the other way round as well.  I would never have gone for tomato Purple Smudge, had I not grown it as part of the Internet Tomato Trials, where you were only told the variety name after you had sent back all the reports and details the organiser asked for!  So I may lose out on really nice varieties, just because I don't like the name  :BangHead:

Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: goodlife on February 12, 2015, 14:21:42
I tried to order nuñas from GRIN but they apparently can't send any Phaseolus material to the UK because they can't provide a phyto certificate for them.

I wonder if there's a way we could get some?

Now that name rings a bell in my head....loooong time ago I was reading about them....of course I wanted some of those seeds and then I came across some info that kind of dampened my eagerness for them..
I can't quite remember it clearly but it was something to do with growing them in certain altitude...and growing them in lower altitude resulted that the beans failed to pop....or something along that line...
Anybody else have heard/read about it? I didn't even know there was other kind of popping beans than nunas...so I wonder if it is just that variety specific??? I might remember it all wrong but there was some difficulty with this particular variety..
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Silverleaf on February 12, 2015, 14:44:12
I tried to order nuñas from GRIN but they apparently can't send any Phaseolus material to the UK because they can't provide a phyto certificate for them.

I wonder if there's a way we could get some?

Now that name rings a bell in my head....loooong time ago I was reading about them....of course I wanted some of those seeds and then I came across some info that kind of dampened my eagerness for them..
I can't quite remember it clearly but it was something to do with growing them in certain altitude...and growing them in lower altitude resulted that the beans failed to pop....or something along that line...
Anybody else have heard/read about it? I didn't even know there was other kind of popping beans than nunas...so I wonder if it is just that variety specific??? I might remember it all wrong but there was some difficulty with this particular variety..

I think I know what you're thinking of... nuñas are day length sensitive like all French beans used to be, so they'd require some breeding work to do really well over here. Not impossible to grow, just more difficult.

Altitude - at high altitudes water boils at much lower temperature, so cooking beans by boiling them takes forever and uses a lot of fuel. Popping beans in hot oil is much quicker and more fuel efficient.

Any of that sound familiar?
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: goodlife on February 12, 2015, 14:56:46
Quote
Any of that sound familiar?

Yes, all those are familiar but it wasn't quite what I think I'm supposed to remember... :drunken_smilie:
I give in....I must do some digging in the old net to see if I find it all again...I can't rest my brain otherwise...
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: goodlife on February 12, 2015, 15:04:24
Quote
Any of that sound familiar?

Yes, all those are familiar but it wasn't quite what I think I'm supposed to remember... :drunken_smilie:
I give in....I must do some digging in the old net to see if I find it all again...I can't rest my brain otherwise...

Ah, finding that 'missing info' was easier than I thought....and it wasn't about popping and altitude at all!...just remnants of info that got stuck into my head. The actual bit that I was supposed to remember was... "The bean is susceptible to both frost and high temperatures. It needs abundant moisture, short day lengths and approximately 200 days to crop. Because of these restrictive cultural requirements, production of nuna beans outside highland tropical areas has not been conducted successfully on a large scale."
Borrowed from here.. http://naturalscience.com/ns/news/news38.html
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Silverleaf on February 12, 2015, 17:08:56
That makes sense, I heard that too.

I know that someone crossed nuñas with an ordinary kidney bean to create a non-day length sensitive popping variety, then controversially patented it. I guess you'd only need to get the nuñas to flower to make a cross like that, they wouldn't have to set seed themselves as you'd use the other bean as the "mother".
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: pumkinlover on February 12, 2015, 17:42:18
Having never heard of popping beans I decided to Google rather than show my ignoramus side.
Great! you get lots of references to Ecstasy😣
Stick to gardening. Much healthier..😀

Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: goodlife on February 12, 2015, 20:17:00
That makes sense, I heard that too.

I know that someone crossed nuñas with an ordinary kidney bean to create a non-day length sensitive popping variety, then controversially patented it. I guess you'd only need to get the nuñas to flower to make a cross like that, they wouldn't have to set seed themselves as you'd use the other bean as the "mother".

Yes...the 'somebody' bought rights for nuna and its crosses back in 2000 ..AND they sneakily bought them in many countries world wide...that's why there is none of these popping beans around. Though apparently they are being challenged over the ownership issues.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on February 13, 2015, 14:16:11
Anyone interested in landraces? I should be growing a few this year, mostly beans and peas. Don't know if anyone else wants a bunch of mixed-up seeds!
I'm interested, but I'm not sure everyone in the group will be? Perhaps they could be thought of as bonus seeds if added?
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Silverleaf on February 13, 2015, 14:19:58
Anyone interested in landraces? I should be growing a few this year, mostly beans and peas. Don't know if anyone else wants a bunch of mixed-up seeds!
I'm interested, but I'm not sure everyone in the group will be? Perhaps they could be thought of as bonus seeds if added?

Sure. I was asking to get an idea whether it's worth me planting extras - there's no point me using my limited space to grow out something that people don't want!
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on February 13, 2015, 14:20:21
yes please
Hi Cambourne  :wave: are you joining the group? We'd love to have you join in  :happy7:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on February 13, 2015, 14:22:19
Quote
Sure. I was asking to get an idea whether it's worth me planting extras - there's no point me using my limited space to grow out something that people don't want!
Agree and hopefully a few more will chime in to get a better idea. I think they sound great.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on February 13, 2015, 14:36:00
From our local seed swap I did find four tomatoes , Dwarf Wax (HSL).Veepro Paste.(HSL). Vince (HSL)  Wild Tomatel Columbianum (HSL)  the first two I can find info for ,the other two a little more allusive , so suck it and see! Also Chickpea Hannan pop bean , looks very exotic for these parts!
Sorry I can't give much help on your tomato varieties, I've only grown Dwarf Wax, which are a fun and productive tasty tomato. Lovely pale pale yellow fruits. I've a variety called Vince but as it was a segregating variety when I had it, it is unlikely to be the same as from HSL. Wild Tomatel Columbianum should be a quite sweet tasting cherry type, might have some blight resistance and foliage scent could be similar to Sungold. A lovely selection of varieties and Chickpea Hannan sould stunning  :icon_cheers:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on February 13, 2015, 14:50:45
And I have got a 'new to me' lettuce - Hyper Red Rumple Waved.  Who can resist such a name.

Red lettuces are not only pretty but a little more safe from slugs.  And the 'rumples' hold on nicely to salad dressing too.  According to the pictures, this one is  v e r y   red.

Now they sound familiar?
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on February 13, 2015, 14:58:14
Provisional list of varieties being saved for seed,

Markfield rover – tomatoes Dwarf Wax (HSL), Veepro Paste (HSL), Vince (HSL), Wild Tomatel Columbianum (HSL). Chickpea Hannan pop bean.
Silverleaf - Telephone peas, landrace beans.
Sparrow – possible squashes & peppers.
Robert_Brenchley – brassicas maybe Di Sicilia Violetto cauliflowers, perennial tree kale
Galina - Lettuce
Earlypea - Red Swan DFB and Sokol breadseed poppy
Debs - Cymbopogan flexuosus (East Indian Lemongrass)

updated http://seedsaverscircle.org/seed-circle/a4a-seed-saver-group-2015/
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on February 13, 2015, 14:59:56
And I have got a 'new to me' lettuce - Hyper Red Rumple Waved.  Who can resist such a name.

Red lettuces are not only pretty but a little more safe from slugs.  And the 'rumples' hold on nicely to salad dressing too.  According to the pictures, this one is  v e r y   red.

Now they sound familiar?
Adaptive Seed  :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: markfield rover on February 13, 2015, 15:06:05
Landrace seems good to me too, I might also try David Chappell runner bean and there will be dahlia .
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on February 14, 2015, 08:44:52
And I have got a 'new to me' lettuce - Hyper Red Rumple Waved.  Who can resist such a name.

Red lettuces are not only pretty but a little more safe from slugs.  And the 'rumples' hold on nicely to salad dressing too.  According to the pictures, this one is  v e r y   red.

Now they sound familiar?
Adaptive Seed  :wave:

Ahh, just found them in the to sow box 'Hyper Red Crumble', they look delish. Mine are from Denieuwetuin. Better info on Adaptive Seeds site though.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on February 14, 2015, 09:06:59
I might also try David Chappell runner bean.
Do you have any information along with the seeds? I was sent David Chappell as my HSL lucky dip in December. Haven't found out much although they seem to have been put forward to RHS Plant Trials and Awards in 2007 ."The trial also included two heritage cultivars that are not EU-listed, ‘Black Emperor’ and ‘David Chappell’" but no further mention. http://apps.rhs.org.uk/planttrials/TrialReports/Bean%20Runner%202006.pdf
I added a picture of the seeds http://seedsaverscircle.org/2014/12/runner-beans/attachment/027/

Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Robert_Brenchley on February 14, 2015, 21:44:40
I wont have di Siciliana Violetto because only one plant has survived the frosts. I may still be able to cross Iit with something though.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on February 14, 2015, 23:00:39
I might also try David Chappell runner bean.
Do you have any information along with the seeds? I was sent David Chappell as my HSL lucky dip in December. Haven't found out much although they seem to have been put forward to RHS Plant Trials and Awards in 2007 ."The trial also included two heritage cultivars that are not EU-listed, ‘Black Emperor’ and ‘David Chappell’" but no further mention. http://apps.rhs.org.uk/planttrials/TrialReports/Bean%20Runner%202006.pdf
I added a picture of the seeds http://seedsaverscircle.org/2014/12/runner-beans/attachment/027/

From the 2014 HSL catalogue:  Named after our donor and bred from 'Prizewinner' and 'Achievement' by Dr W Florida in Pwllmeyrick, near Chepstow in 1936.  Some were passed to our donor's brother in 194, and then to David, who has grown them ever since.  An exceptionally heavy cropper with up to nine beans in each long pod.  Requires strong supports.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on February 15, 2015, 15:29:34
I wont have di Siciliana Violetto because only one plant has survived the frosts. I may still be able to cross Iit with something though.

Shame, they are a lovely variety, hope you get to use it in a cross though. What are you thinking of crossing with it?
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on February 15, 2015, 15:31:17
Thanks Galina, don't know how I missed them in the catalogue  :drunken_smilie:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on February 15, 2015, 15:40:35
So far for the circle I'm thinking Calendula 'Winter Wonders’ and Snow pea Usui if they are any good.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Robert_Brenchley on February 15, 2015, 16:20:05
Depends what flowers, Jayb. Some sort of kale; the biennial ones will definitly flower. Daubentons would be ideal, or the perennial tree kales, though the result might be a triffid. Its a pity because its a nice variety, but frost sensitive. I was hoping that some would make it - I had three till that last cold spell- and over a few years I might get a more resistant strain. I dont know what you get by crossing a cauliflower with a kale, but something like a perenial broccoli would be nice.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on February 16, 2015, 12:56:53
They all sound like good possibilities, though the height might be an issue with tree kale types, but if it were multi heading it might be excellent! Good work, look forward to your progress. If you need a few plants grown out for trials in the future, give us a shoot.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Robert_Brenchley on February 16, 2015, 18:21:29
I will, as long as that last plant survives! If not, theyll join the list of varieties which have to wait till I can get a pytunnel.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on February 17, 2015, 10:02:36
Well double fingers crossed here  it survives and you get the chance  :happy7:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on February 17, 2015, 10:08:13
Updated provisional list of varieties being saved for seed,

Markfield rover – tomatoes Dwarf Wax (HSL), Veepro Paste (HSL), Vince (HSL), Wild Tomatel Columbianum (HSL). Chickpea Hannan pop bean, David Chappell runner bean,  dahlia.
Silverleaf - Telephone peas, landrace beans.
Sparrow – Lazy Housewife CFB or Nun's Belly Button DFB and possible squashes & pepper.
Robert_Brenchley –perennial tree kale
Galina - Lettuce
Earlypea - Red Swan DFB and Sokol breadseed poppy
Debs - Cymbopogan flexuosus (East Indian Lemongrass)
Jayb - Calendula 'Winter Wonders’, Snow pea Usui

Edit to add Lazy Housewife CFB or Nun's Belly Button DFB
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: sparrow on February 17, 2015, 12:16:17
I'd like to add in a bean too please - most likely either lazy housewife CFB or Nun's belly button DFB if they haven't been offered too recently.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on February 17, 2015, 14:01:27
I don't think we have had Nun's Belly Button and I can't remember if Aj added Lazy Housewife or not, but it would have been a few years ago if she did. Either would be good  :happy7:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: sparrow on February 17, 2015, 14:30:24
As a very quick tangent - for those of you who have saved salsify seed, how much do you get? I've carefully re-planted 5 of my better roots and am hoping for some seed after they flower this year. (To be honest, I just want to see what the flowers look & smell like, seeds will be a bonus)
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Silverleaf on February 17, 2015, 15:31:43
As a very quick tangent - for those of you who have saved salsify seed, how much do you get? I've carefully re-planted 5 of my better roots and am hoping for some seed after they flower this year. (To be honest, I just want to see what the flowers look & smell like, seeds will be a bonus)

I've only grown scorzonera (black salsify) but I think they are similar. Scorzonera flowers are yellow and look somewhere between a daisy and a dandelion - salsify flowers are blue I think. The flowers on my scorzonera smelled gorgeous, and reminded me of coconut and vanilla in a floral kind of way. Bees like them, my rabbit loved eating them, and each flower gives you a "puff" of seeds with fluff on kind of like a bigger, coarser dandelion seed.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: sparrow on February 17, 2015, 16:50:17
Thanks Silverleaf. As long as I remember, I'll try and stick a bag over the flowers when they are finished so the seeds aren't whisked away!
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Silverleaf on February 17, 2015, 17:03:47
Thanks Silverleaf. As long as I remember, I'll try and stick a bag over the flowers when they are finished so the seeds aren't whisked away!

I don't think my scorzonera seed heads blew away because they were chunkier and more firmly held into the head itself. But the bags are a good idea just in case!
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on February 17, 2015, 17:14:24
Sparrow, I agree with Silverleaf, no need for a bag.  The seeds will stay in place much better than dandelion seeds.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Robert_Brenchley on February 17, 2015, 17:36:23
You could pick the stems when theyre almost done and let them finish in a jar of water.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: sparrow on February 17, 2015, 18:30:01
Fair enough - less faff works for me!

Nice idea Robert - might try that too, if I get enough flowers to risk it. :)
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Silverleaf on February 17, 2015, 20:40:09
I'd love to know what salsify flowers smell like. They look very pretty...
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on March 05, 2015, 08:26:06
My Lantern chilli, from Real Seeds, seem to have overwintered well, although I just spotted a bit of green fly, grrr. If they continue to do well, I'm hoping to save seed from them in the summer.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: goodlife on March 05, 2015, 09:25:01
I'd love to know what salsify flowers smell like. They look very pretty...

How did I not spot this earlier?! Not that I'm great help....but I do have habit of sniffing all flowers to satisfy my curiosity, and I'm SURE I smelled them but cannot recall the 'results'... :BangHead: So either there wasn't any particular scent or it was so faint that my brain didn't think it was worth of remembering :drunken_smilie: I should really train my brain better and remember to register even 'not so worthy' results..
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on March 05, 2015, 09:57:00
I am with you goodlife.  Broad beans - yes (strongly scented especially late in the evening), apple blossom - yes, beetroot and chard - yes  But salsify?  I have never noticed whether they are fragrant.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Silverleaf on March 05, 2015, 10:48:10
I just assumed it'd have a smell since scorzonera does.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: sparrow on March 06, 2015, 16:12:02
Will let you know when they do...:) They are next to the chioggia beetroot I'm also growing for seed/to see what the flowers are like.

It's getting really sunny, warm and my plot's slowly drying out. It's making my soul skippetty-skip with happiness - this winter's been so difficult to sit through!
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: goodlife on April 02, 2015, 09:49:41
I've started to 'wake up' and thinking hard what seeds I might come up this year... :drunken_smilie:
I'm not that much wiser, but I'm thinking of some Scandinavian peas..I did mention them last year but since I did start with so few..I didn't manage to harvest enough for last parcel. BUT I have much more to sow now...so I'm thinking that variety or two of peas might be in order.
Chilli seeds...OFF COURSE! :icon_cheers: I'm thinking of 'Aribibi Gusano' at least. I absolutely fell in 'love' with it...so much flavour and although it does give some 'punch' with heat...it is not long lasting that rip one's mouth apart. I've plenty of other chillies too but I need to taste them first as they are new to me. So chilli variety or 'two'...
I have some 'new' beans to try too....if those should yield plenty of seeds...I will add them. Again, some Scandinavian varieties that I managed to get from seedbank :happy7:

Other than those mentioned....I'm still carry on thinking and will give shout as and when I think of something or crops look promising on the plot.

ETA: oh, forgot...I might have a pepper variety to add into 'possible' list :icon_cheers:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: clumsy on April 02, 2015, 19:09:58
I would like to join the group if possible. I could share some variety's that we grow here in derby but the original seed at the time came from pakistan or india. We do let plants go to seed to keep our stock topped up. I could share the following seeds with the circle plus could add more variety's later if needed.

Yellow cucumber's the variety's we have been growing are poona kheera which you can get here in the uk now anyway, But another variety that might interest you is dosakai which is a cooking cucumber we use in daal more info here http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cucumber if you go down the page you will see the information it is similiar to the picture but slightly different variant. I think in the western world it is called a melon cucumber.

We also grow calabash or dudhi lawki etc, it's a Bottle gourd but we use it as an alternative to courgette.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Silverleaf on April 02, 2015, 20:54:39
They sound very exciting clumsy! :)
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on April 03, 2015, 11:04:40
Hi Clumsy, you are very welcome to join  :wave:
I haven't grown Poona Kheera, but they look and sound lovely and Dosakai sounds wonderful. I've not grown Bottle Gourd either, so I think any of these would be a great addition for the group. I'll need some growing tips though  :happy7:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: goodlife on April 03, 2015, 11:19:34
Hi Clumsy...I'm glad you decided to join :toothy10:...I did have a niggling feeling that you might find our group interesting enough.. :icon_thumleft:
And it is great to have somebody who grow plants from different part of the world...thee is many veg I have heard of but not necessary got round to growing them....yet..
Just like Jayb said..I too will need some growing tips when time comes for me to sow and grow some. Hopefully, as you sow and grow your crops, you could drop a post of progress and how you do your preparations/grow you crops. We will be learning from you as you grow them. Often it is some of those little differences in cultivation that makes the big difference with the crop success.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on April 03, 2015, 11:23:12
As Jayb and Goodlife said  :wave:  good to have you in the circle   :sunny:  yes please 'crop school' for me too.  Especially sowing and planting times, how you support them and recipes. 
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: clumsy on April 04, 2015, 16:30:43
Thankyou all. I will try to give as much information on how to grow plus adding picture's to show progress.

I've just been handed these seeds to try to grow a new variety of bottle gourd. I got the title from his seed packet that it is a hybrid but I'm not sure what it means.
I've looked on google for the picture to show you what it looks like. The inforamtion on the site say a new hybrid variety that produces fruits with green skin and white flesh, 500-600 grams in weight. Plants are vigorous and fast growing, starting to bear fruits 50-55 days after sowing. Fruits are very tender, excellent for stir-fry and soup cooking. Very easy to grow and very productive.

This like the other bottle gourds we grow are very easy plus you can plant them outside in june after all chance's of frost have disappeared.

I could share some of these seeds now if anybody is interested in growing them with me.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on April 05, 2015, 08:22:23
A Hybrid means the parents were two different varieties. Sometimes very similar types of parents are used sometimes not, but they bring the qualities the breeder desired and produce identical F1 plants from the seed. They may also bring what is known as hybrid vigor and an F1 (hybrid) plant is often just that bit stronger growing and produces a better crop. If you save seeds from a Hybrid F1 the resulting plants are then called F2 generation (and so on) these F2 plants may be similar to the parent but not identical, as they have a mix of genes from the two parents. If you saved seed from the best growing and producing plants, over time your selection would become more suited to your growing conditions.

Good luck with your new Bottle Gourd  :icon_cheers:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on April 09, 2015, 09:18:22
As an update, who's taking part and what they might be growing to save.

Goodlife
Markfield rover
Silverleaf
Sparrow
Robert_Brenchley
Ruud
Galina
Pumpkinlover
Ian Pearson
Earlypea
Martinburo
Debs
Clumsy
Jayb


Markfield rover – tomatoes Dwarf Wax (HSL), Veepro Paste (HSL), Vince (HSL), Wild Tomatel Columbianum (HSL). Chickpea Hannan pop bean, David Chappell runner bean,  dahlia.
Silverleaf - Telephone peas, landrace beans.
Sparrow – Lazy Housewife CFB or Nun's Belly Button DFB and possible squashes & pepper.
Robert_Brenchley –perennial tree kale
Galina - Lettuce
Earlypea - Red Swan DFB and Sokol breadseed poppy
Debs - Cymbopogan flexuosus (East Indian Lemongrass)
Jayb - Calendula 'Winter Wonders’, Snow pea Usui, Lantern chilli
Goodlife - Scandinavian peas, Aribibi Gusano chilli, Scandinavian beans
Clumsy –Yellow cucumber, Dosakai or calabash or dudhi lawki.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on June 30, 2015, 07:22:49
I've been wondering what to add to the Seed Circle. I'm growing Huacatay (Peruvian Black Mint) Pipiche (Porophyllum tagetoides) Quillquiña (Porophyllum ruderale) and Papalo (Porophyllum coloratum) and hope one or more might make it onto the circle seed list?

Also I've two Giant Bolivian Achocha plants, fingers crossed.

Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on June 30, 2015, 07:38:56
I've been wondering what to add to the Seed Circle. I'm growing Huacatay (Peruvian Black Mint) Pipiche (Porophyllum tagetoides) Quillquiña (Porophyllum ruderale) and Papalo (Porophyllum coloratum) and hope one or more might make it onto the circle seed list?

Also I've two Giant Bolivian Achocha plants, fingers crossed.

Each, any or all of them sound good.  :sunny:

I am just harvesting my first seed.  I have salsify in the garden and decided a while ago on a little selection program to improve the size of the roots.  They are still not really big, but bigger than they were.  The seeds collected are only from the bigger rooted plants.  The blue flowers are a bonus.   :wave:

Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Silverleaf on June 30, 2015, 08:47:31
I love salsify flowers! Scorzonera flowers are lovely too, and smell really good to me.

Nice big roots would be fantastic.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: sparrow on June 30, 2015, 17:49:04
They are beautiful flowers, but I can only see about one or two seeds in each flower. Any ideas what I have done wrong? There are masses of flowers and I thought I would be drowning in seeds...
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on June 30, 2015, 18:11:44
They are beautiful flowers, but I can only see about one or two seeds in each flower. Any ideas what I have done wrong? There are masses of flowers and I thought I would be drowning in seeds...

a photo would help.  Yes you would normally have masses of seed from scorzonera.   :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: sparrow on July 01, 2015, 06:30:57
I'll try and get one in a bit when I go to water.

The flowers go all fluffy like a dandelion and I break them off with some stalk at that point and put them in a bag to dry. But when I look through the flower there are only one or two seeds that look like the ones in the packet. All the other strands are really really thin and wispy.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on July 01, 2015, 09:05:38
Do they just got fluffy or do they spread out to a full round head of fluff.  They are ready when they are fully fluffed out (the stage at which they are at risk of blowing away).  Do you have more flowers to come?  Maybe wet or drizzly weather somehow prevented proper pollination and all could still be well  with later blooms. 

If not, it may be just one of those things.  We all have unexpected problems as well as unexpected successes.  When it comes to seed saving. unfortunately, problems can and do happen, but they happen to everybody.   :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: sparrow on July 02, 2015, 07:12:01
Thanks galina. I picked them both at starting to be fluffy and at full fluff (technical term! :)).

I think it's just one of those things. There are a lot of flowers to come, so I will see if the later ones are better. At least seed is cheap.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on July 02, 2015, 07:16:53
Thanks galina. I picked them both at starting to be fluffy and at full fluff (technical term! :)).

I think it's just one of those things. There are a lot of flowers to come, so I will see if the later ones are better. At least seed is cheap.

You are doing everything right Sparrow, and fingers crossed for the later flowers  :wave:

I would happily go halves with you, but my variety is unnamed, so not the same as yours.  Had we both grown the same variety for definite, we could have had a joint seed-save effort.  But yours are by no means a write-off at this stage.  More flowers please     :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: earlypea on July 22, 2015, 13:05:46
Just a bit of an update on my progress having returned from 5 weeks away just over a week ago.

Originally I said I'd hope to supply Red Swan dwarf French bean and Sokol Breadseed Poppy.

Sadly I didn't get around to the bread seed poppy.  The red swans went in, but all of the allotments are infested with the worst black-fly we ever did see and they're struggling, but I should have just enough.

I'm also saving, nearly dry now - Atika Root Parsley

...and tomatoes almost ripe:  Purple Heart dwarf (from the online dwarf tomato project)
Black Russian, Paul Robeson (gorgeous, big, early and totally black-tasting - devoured my first yesterday)
Oxacan Jewel - Bi-coloured sunset-looking orange with red glowing through it.  Looks lovely get's good taste reports.

If anyone fancies the above I'll do those instead.

I can't find the page to see if people have had them before.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: sparrow on July 25, 2015, 09:42:27
I'm also saving, nearly dry now - Atika Root Parsley

...and tomatoes almost ripe:  Purple Heart dwarf (from the online dwarf tomato project)
Black Russian, Paul Robeson (gorgeous, big, early and totally black-tasting - devoured my first yesterday)
Oxacan Jewel - Bi-coloured sunset-looking orange with red glowing through it.  Looks lovely get's good taste reports.

If anyone fancies the above I'll do those instead.

I can't find the page to see if people have had them before.

All of those sound good. I LOVE root parsley. I just wish someone would breed a giant version as the roots are never big enough. Am away at the moment and slightly fretting about my allotments and what might be happening with the plants for seed saving.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on July 25, 2015, 11:14:59

If anyone fancies the above I'll do those instead.

I can't find the page to see if people have had them before.

Earlypea, they sound really good.  Here is the page of everything that has been exchanged:
http://seedsaverscircle.org/seed-circle/a-z-of-varieties-shared-in-the-seed-circles/

Don't worry Sparrow - if you plan on two specific crops and they don't work out (which happens to everybody!), then you could end up with nothing.   But only then.  If you think of alternatives, there is still plenty of time.  This circle for me inspires more general thinking along the lines of 'Can I save true seeds from all these vegetables?'  Often there are not enough seeds for the circle, but plenty for myself.  Other times I could supply a small village.  For example, I hoped for seed from a specific lettuce, then at flowering time we got mist and rain for weeks.  Most flowers rotted rather than producing seeds.  Happens all the time, but usually the spread of flowering is long enough for a harvest for yourself.  And with luck for the group.  Or another lettuce that matures a few weeks later will produce lots of seeds. 

Handpollinating squash is another one.  If we are on holiday when the bulk of male and female squash flowers happen and come back to set fruit, we won't know whether they are true breeding or not.  We probably don't want to take the fruit off and start again waiting for new flowers, because of time needed to mature.  And another of my problems with squash is our location in a colder part of the country.  I often get so few seeds inside a fruit (or even none), due to the temperatures at handpollination time.  Or maybe I am just a bit heavy handed with my pollinations?  Also in nature a squash flower is visited on average by 8 bees or other insects.  Seedsavers handpollinate once.  Not surprising that there are often fewer seeds.  If I had promised that particular squash and ended up with ten seeds only, it would be enough for me but not for the circle.  We all have these problems to contend with.  To switch is never a problem.

To switch to something exciting like one of the tomatoes from the dwarf tomato project, is definitely no hardship for the recipients.  And your other suggestions sound great too, like Sparrow said.   :sunny:

Good growing all   :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Silverleaf on July 29, 2015, 10:10:09
Judging by the amount of flowers my Skagit Magic TPS plants have, I'll likely have plenty of that to share. Some nice little berries already too. :)
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Robert_Brenchley on July 29, 2015, 18:48:28
Are those direct from TPS, or tubers from previous years' seed?
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Silverleaf on July 29, 2015, 20:22:37
From seed this year.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Debs on September 05, 2015, 14:32:41
Lemongrass ...
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Debs on September 06, 2015, 22:42:34
My lemon has probably been the only success I have had this season, although it hasn't flowered, so I will be providing the seed I sowed it from for the seed sharing circle.

I hope others have had a more productive growing season!!

Debs :icon_flower:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: earlypea on September 07, 2015, 08:48:21
It's certainly been a trying season, agreed!

Late frosts..........drought...........rain on rain.....

Results have been very mixed, but I've managed to save the following:

tomatoes (as mentioned before):  Paul Robeson and Oxacan Jewel  - My absolute favourites.  I believe I will be growing these every year. I'm in love with both.  Purple Heart Dwarf - not so successful in this cooler season, but interesting and worth trying again.

I've also managed to save plenty of Red Swan dwarf french, despite the black-fly.

I think I'll add Vegetable Mallow (from Realseeds).  I wouldn't say it was a favourite (has a good texture if just wilted, but never the flavour of spinach or chard), but if you have a free-draining plot like mine and add drought to it then it's really good to have any kind of leafy greens, June onwards.  You only need a couple of plants.  They're big and they stand up well to heat/dry and they're an attractive feature.

My Attika parsley root seeds are finishing off indoors, but don't seem to be drying very well - we'll see.

Looking forward to hearing what others have got.

Lemon grass would be great Debs - something new for me.

Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: sparrow on September 21, 2015, 22:26:23
It's been such an odd year. The things I really wanted to add in (aubergines, salsify, Lazy Housewife beans, beetroot) have been disastrous.  :BangHead: The seeds I got from last year's circle have absolutely romped away though!

I will definitely have Flat White Boer squash and possibly enough Royal Black chillies. Am loathe to name anything else in case it then turns up its toes. I seem to be under a small curse...

On the plus side, I have a big crop of Black Coco beans to return to HSL, and I am keeping some of them back for next year, they are fabulous. Seed Circle 2016..?!  :tongue3:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Silverleaf on September 22, 2015, 00:45:16
Ooh, the mallow sounds interesting earlypea, especially as mallow is good for rabbits. :) My two bunnies would definitely approve!
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: markfield rover on September 24, 2015, 09:09:52
Well, I have picked the first Vince tomato, and if there was ever a tomato doing an impression of a yellow pepper this is it! Tastes like one too!
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on September 24, 2015, 09:27:09
Yep, an odd season  :coffee2:

About the only thing harvested so far for seed is Giant Achocha, though either mine aren't that giant, perhaps not the best summer for them? The vines are huge and they do seem to have a fair amount of fruit on them now.

Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on September 24, 2015, 09:30:35
My lemon has probably been the only success I have had this season, although it hasn't flowered, so I will be providing the seed I sowed it from for the seed sharing circle.

I hope others have had a more productive growing season!!

Debs :icon_flower:


I didn't grow lemon grass this year so seeds will be lovely for next year. Your plants in the pictures look gorgeous, I love the smell if you give the leaves a little scrunch, mmmm.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on September 24, 2015, 09:41:53
Great selection Earlypea  :sunny: Paul Robeson is a lovely one, one of my fave's, I don't have seeds for Purple Heart Dwarf, so that's one I'm looking forward to. How big did the plants grow?

Red Swan have done well here too, though mine are still out on the plot, a bit of mould about too, so I'm not sure how well my dwarf beans saving is going to be.

I grew Marsh Mallow this year, flowers are lovely. I was thinking of adding some in but your vegetable mallow sounds good.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on September 24, 2015, 09:57:24
It's been such an odd year. The things I really wanted to add in (aubergines, salsify, Lazy Housewife beans, beetroot) have been disastrous.  :BangHead: The seeds I got from last year's circle have absolutely romped away though!

I will definitely have Flat White Boer squash and possibly enough Royal Black chillies. Am loathe to name anything else in case it then turns up its toes. I seem to be under a small curse...

On the plus side, I have a big crop of Black Coco beans to return to HSL, and I am keeping some of them back for next year, they are fabulous. Seed Circle 2016..?!  :tongue3:

Those sound great, I grew Flat White Boer, several years back. I loved them, looking forward to growing them again  :drunken_smilie:

Yayy, planning for 2016 (I hope so) and a lovely choice  :toothy10:

I've got Early Blood Turnips I'm hoping they will overwinter well for seed next year, I've been trying to add them to the Circle for the last few years but although it's an ordinary veg, I've just had no success with getting them as far as dried seeds. They are a lovely, really tasty, easy to grow beetroot and I think they should make a comeback!
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on September 24, 2015, 10:03:16
Well, I have picked the first Vince tomato, and if there was ever a tomato doing an impression of a yellow pepper this is it! Tastes like one too!

They sound interesting, are they a stuffing or salad type?
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: markfield rover on September 24, 2015, 10:51:20
Hi Jayb the seed was from HSL I've done a brief search but as yet a bit of a blank , will try again. As they are stuffing or salsa might be best, there are plenty of seeds. They are just so pepper like in touch and form and apart from the seeds at the top as in peppers are hollow.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on September 24, 2015, 17:23:59
I hadn't thought of salsa  :happy7:
That's the trouble with some of the HSL varieties, unless you have the catalogue they were listed in, there's virtually no record to be found.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Robert_Brenchley on September 24, 2015, 20:03:09
I've had my share of disasters as well, but at least I've got plenty of Babbingtons, so that's one possibility. I don't have enough potato berries off anything to do TPS this year, or enough perennial allium seed, but those remain possibilities for the future.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on September 24, 2015, 21:04:10
I hadn't thought of salsa  :happy7:
That's the trouble with some of the HSL varieties, unless you have the catalogue they were listed in, there's virtually no record to be found.

I can check for you next time I'll get my catalogues out.  Have over a decade of paper catalogues.   :wave:

They don't renew tomatoes very often.  Unless a seed guardian grows them every year, they might not be returning in the catalogue for a very long time. 
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: markfield rover on September 25, 2015, 08:08:27
Thanks for that galina,  I guess this is what makes things interesting, I think I have a few catalogues but they maybe a little older. Many years ago I visited Ryton when they were being revamped and the seeds were in a portacabin and the chap stood next to me in deep thought was Trigger  , perhaps our SSC pinup!
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on September 25, 2015, 08:37:17
Thanks for that galina,  I guess this is what makes things interesting, I think I have a few catalogues but they maybe a little older. Many years ago I visited Ryton when they were being revamped and the seeds were in a portacabin and the chap stood next to me in deep thought was Trigger  , perhaps our SSC pinup!

It wasn't in the very early catalogues (I just about know those off by heart ;) )

Yes also been to Ryton long before HSL was in the posh education building.  Jeremy Cherfas was the head of HSL when I first joined and he changed the collection to the catalogue system.  Now it is online and I think everybody can look at them, but the older catalogues have not been scanned in.

I am thinking of adding tomato Auntie Madge's - I noticed that they are on the Adoption list this year and you can't even get a free packet when you adopt, so stocks must be low at Ryton.  This is a little red plum tomato on large trusses with reasonable blight resistance and good flavour.   :wave:

Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on September 25, 2015, 08:52:55
It's been such an odd year. The things I really wanted to add in (aubergines, salsify, Lazy Housewife beans, beetroot) have been disastrous.  :BangHead: The seeds I got from last year's circle have absolutely romped away though!

I will definitely have Flat White Boer squash and possibly enough Royal Black chillies. Am loathe to name anything else in case it then turns up its toes. I seem to be under a small curse...

On the plus side, I have a big crop of Black Coco beans to return to HSL, and I am keeping some of them back for next year, they are fabulous. Seed Circle 2016..?!  :tongue3:

We are all under the same curse.  I don't think I will be able to contribute any squashes at all this year.  Just lettuce, peas, beans and tomatoes.  Black Coco sound interesting.  I have been growing Blue Coco Beans and they are doing well.   They are dual purpose beans for pods and shelling.  Could add those.  Had hoped to add Mennonite Stripe beans, but they are on strike (maybe I told them they were going to be added to our seed circle).   :BangHead:

Also hoping that one or two other items will still come good.

 :wave:   
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: markfield rover on September 25, 2015, 09:20:47
Galina I have spare aunt Madge's if you fancy.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on September 25, 2015, 11:49:50
Galina I have spare aunt Madge's if you fancy.

Sorry misunderstanding. I wasn't too clear above. 

Personally I have plenty of seeds freshly harvested in 2015 and have therefore already planned to add this tomato to my seed circle contribution.  I have grown 6 plants this year and can produce lots of seeds. 

I guess they must be short of surplus seed at HSL because they are not giving away packets when somebody adopts Auntie Madge's as a variety (ie sponsors a grow-out).  Of course HSL would never allow themselves to go short of any seed of any variety, as they are the final backup should everybody else's fail. 

Thank you for the kind offer though :sunny:

 
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: markfield rover on September 25, 2015, 13:19:24
HSL supply seed to our local seed swap sometimes seeds I can't find in their catalogue, the swap is February so if there's anything wierd and wonderful I'll let you know. Here's to the new season!
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on September 26, 2015, 08:13:02
I've had my share of disasters as well, but at least I've got plenty of Babbingtons, so that's one possibility. I don't have enough potato berries off anything to do TPS this year, or enough perennial allium seed, but those remain possibilities for the future.

Babbingtons sound great for the parcel  :happy7: I'm glad you got some berries, keep you busy next year! I think Silverleaf was hoping to add some tps.

What are the perennial alliums?
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on September 26, 2015, 08:31:46
Hopefully I'll have squash to add, I've got 
Lower Salmon River,
Australian Butter
Long Island Cheese
(and Portimarron, but these were added last year from Sparrow. )

Fingers crossed they will have enough seed in. Any preferences?
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on September 26, 2015, 08:48:22
. Any preferences?

yes please, they all sound good  :sunny:  Hope there are plenty of seeds to harvest.  :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: sparrow on September 26, 2015, 23:10:14
Am with galina, they all sound good. Though I still have about 300 Potimarron seeds floating about here...  :toothy10:

If I get enough I might be able to add in Lazy Housewife climbing beans.

It's now nail-biting to see what happens first - stuff ripening or frost!
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on September 27, 2015, 07:43:02
HSL supply seed to our local seed swap sometimes seeds I can't find in their catalogue, the swap is February so if there's anything wierd and wonderful I'll let you know. Here's to the new season!

Yes that sounds great - goodness!  I can't even see to the end of this season yet, let alone plan the next  :happy7:

But I do hope there will be another seed circle next year, they are really great both for sharing favourites and for experiencing new varieties that I would not have come across without the circle.  I know I don't always mention every success and a contributor may wonder whether anybody actually grows their seeds.  Well just at the moment the leeks are looking good and the celeriac is swelling nicely along with many other items.  The seed share is very much appreciated.   Thankyou Jayb and everybody   :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on September 27, 2015, 08:39:02
HSL supply seed to our local seed swap sometimes seeds I can't find in their catalogue, the swap is February so if there's anything wierd and wonderful I'll let you know. Here's to the new season!

Brilliant  :icon_cheers:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on September 27, 2015, 08:44:33
Am with galina, they all sound good. Though I still have about 300 Potimarron seeds floating about here...  :toothy10:

If I get enough I might be able to add in Lazy Housewife climbing beans.

It's now nail-biting to see what happens first - stuff ripening or frost!

I thought you might have plenty left,  :toothy10:

I know I've all my dwarf beans still out, I'm really hoping they get a move on!
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on September 27, 2015, 08:49:17
But I do hope there will be another seed circle next year, they are really great both for sharing favourites and for experiencing new varieties that I would not have come across without the circle.  I know I don't always mention every success and a contributor may wonder whether anybody actually grows their seeds.  Well just at the moment the leeks are looking good and the celeriac is swelling nicely along with many other items.  The seed share is very much appreciated.   Thankyou Jayb and everybody   :wave:

Me too  :happy7:

My celeriac have rallied after being hammered so badly by aphids earlier in the year, but sadly they are not very big, probably about fist size at the moment
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Robert_Brenchley on October 02, 2015, 14:42:29
I'll see what I can get regarding perennial alliums. I could put elephant garlic seed in this year if anyone's interested. Once I can multiply them up I should have potato onions, maybe shallotts. I've got several varieties of topsetting onion, so again, once I've multiplied them up I should have bulbils.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on October 03, 2015, 10:47:10
All sounds good Robert and the Babbington's/Elephant garlic for this year.

The Potato onions I grew from seed this year have done well, I'm looking forward to selecting and growing them on next year. I'd love to save seed next year too, good to have an even more diverse pool to dip into :) 

Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on October 03, 2015, 10:59:57


Me too  :happy7:

My celeriac have rallied after being hammered so badly by aphids earlier in the year, but sadly they are not very big, probably about fist size at the moment

Give them time and with moister conditions now, they are bound to come good and get larger.  They are still doing a bit of growing now.  It is recommended to remove the lowest leaves, not entirely sure why though.   :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on October 03, 2015, 11:45:41
I do remove the leaves as they become horizontal, like you not entirely sure why it encourages larger bulbs. I had thought the more shoots it has to make on top they then end up as the edible stem/root we eat?
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on October 04, 2015, 10:42:55
Harvesting squash. Lower Salmon River



Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on October 04, 2015, 10:44:06
Japanese

Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on October 07, 2015, 10:23:35
Hi Jayb the seed was from HSL I've done a brief search but as yet a bit of a blank , will try again. As they are stuffing or salsa might be best, there are plenty of seeds. They are just so pepper like in touch and form and apart from the seeds at the top as in peppers are hollow.

Been through my old catalogues and can't find Vince.  But your description sounds good, who needs HSL's description?  Would have been nice for some origin information, but not knowing makes no difference to growing.  And Vince sounds quite different and unusual.   :wave: 

Party finger food?  stuffed Vince tomato, Vince mini prawn cocktails, Vince with egg mayo and an olive on top?  And if the seeds are so easy to locate and remove that must be a good sauce tomato too.  :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: markfield rover on October 07, 2015, 11:02:31
Morning Galina, I've emailed HSL  if I hear back I'll let you know, I have also asked Jeannine so fingers crossed, it sure is a mystery this one! It also feels hollow although there are seeds but again clustered at the top! I've got some seeds for the circle but there will be more .
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on October 08, 2015, 09:29:57
Morning Galina, I've emailed HSL  if I hear back I'll let you know, I have also asked Jeannine so fingers crossed, it sure is a mystery this one! It also feels hollow although there are seeds but again clustered at the top! I've got some seeds for the circle but there will be more .

Jeannine nailed it - it is called Vincent - and Tatiana's tomato base has it listed together with photos:

http://tatianastomatobase.com/wiki/Vincent

 :wave:

PS:  this sort of thing happens often.  A plant name acquires an abbreviation, a pet name or a misspelled name and all of a sudden, the origin is lost.  But from your description, I think we've traced it.  Could you please confirm MR?
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: markfield rover on October 08, 2015, 09:40:11
Galina, yep that's it!! I have the seed packet from HSL and it clearly says vince, oh well . Still an interesting tom and I would grow it again as a stuffer. Thanks everyone .
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on October 08, 2015, 10:41:06
Galina, yep that's it!! I have the seed packet from HSL and it clearly says vince, oh well . Still an interesting tom and I would grow it again as a stuffer. Thanks everyone .

And I am sure they would appreciate a follow up email with our findings to update their records.   :sunny:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: markfield rover on October 08, 2015, 11:01:52
Good idea!
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on October 08, 2015, 11:04:53
According to the Tomato Atlas
http://www.tomaten-atlas.de/index.php?p=detailansicht&id=2474

an alternative name listed is Jaune (de) St Vincent.

Available in France under that name, for example from Ferme Ste Marthe, which also supplies heritage and unusual varieties to the Organic Catalogue (which is allied with HDRA/GO).  This may explain why you got the seeds from an HSL  seed swap and in an HSL seed envelope perhaps.  But it does not explain the change of name of course.
http://www.fermedesaintemarthe.com/A-1497-tomate-jaune-saint-vincent-ab.aspx

Possibly a French heirloom tomato.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on October 08, 2015, 11:19:34
Good deducting, it does sound like it is the same variety, but it would be good to have HSL confirm it, particularly as we don't know the history of 'Vince'
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on October 08, 2015, 12:13:01
Good deducting, it does sound like it is the same variety, but it would be good to have HSL confirm it, particularly as we don't know the history of 'Vince'

Indeed, let's hope MR gets an answer soon  :sunny:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: markfield rover on October 08, 2015, 13:01:54
I have emailed HSL and asked if they can shed any light on this as I want to be sure of anything I add to the circle. Thanks you all I do learn so much and I still think every seed is a little miracle so precious.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: markfield rover on October 09, 2015, 08:03:21
I've had a reply from HSL .... The description is that of Vincent....but their source was from John Yeoman -The Village Guild- when it wound up in 2005 and called Vince. They stand by Vince , so when I label these for the circle I will put Vince its stage name and Vincent in brackets does this sound okay? It is an interesting tom. Hope I haven't confused too much!
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on October 09, 2015, 08:33:35
I've had a reply from HSL .... The description is that of Vincent....but their source was from John Yeoman -The Village Guild- when it wound up in 2005 and called Vince. They stand by Vince , so when I label these for the circle I will put Vince its stage name and Vincent in brackets does this sound okay? It is an interesting tom. Hope I haven't confused too much!
Good plan MR.

If it is originally from John Yeoman that's easily checked.  I will contact him and see what light he can shed on the situation.   :sunny:

PS: email sent to John.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: markfield rover on October 09, 2015, 09:05:13
A seedy mystery ! The plot thickens. Thanks for taking the trouble Galina and to Jeannine our overseas connection.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on October 09, 2015, 17:25:02
You are welcome.

Mr Yeoman has replied:

I can't remember where I got Vince. It might well have been the US Seed Sharers' catalog. As I recall, the Vince tomato I grew was indistinguishable from an elongated yellow pepper, both externally and internally. The pictures at http://tatianastomatobase.com/wiki/Vincent come close to it. However, the picture here bears little resemblance.:

TOMATE JAUNE SAINT VINCENT AB at http://www.fermedesaintemarthe.com/A-1497-tomate-jaune-saint-vincent-ab.aspx

So my Vince might well be a new strain.

Feel free to add my comment at A4A. (I think I have to register to comment).


eoq

Doesn't really help us much further, but to stay with 'Vince' as the variety as you have planned would seem the right thing to do (and with Vincent? in brackets).   :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: sparrow on October 09, 2015, 23:15:00
curiouser and curiouser!

Will be very interesting to grow.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on October 10, 2015, 10:21:44
Interesting Mr Yeoman says Tatiana's picture comes close to the variety he grew and shared.

Agree with the name Vince too, looking forward to these.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on October 10, 2015, 10:24:33
I'm just drying some Delicious tomato seeds, the fruits are red, large, prolific and well delicious!

Might be one for the circle.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: markfield rover on October 12, 2015, 09:01:05
Many thanks Galina, that is as far as we can go, so I guess it's down to growing it and comparing notes next summer. Cheers all.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on October 12, 2015, 13:44:12
I have also just processed some tomato seeds.  Sosulka Oranzhevaya, aka Orange Icicle, a spindle shaped tomato from the Ukraine.  Admittedly the shape is not quite identical to black and pink icicle which we had in the seed circle earlier, but the flavour is all there.  I have grown them both in the greenhouse and outside.  Pity they are not an exact match in shape, but oh so good.   :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on October 16, 2015, 21:43:31
A quick comment regarding tomatoes from the seed circle.  Amish Plum is fabulous (greenhouse), Green Pear grows like crazy outdoors, and has very pretty fruits, but they taste 'mild', not spicy like other green when ripe tomatoes.  Helsing Junction Blue is absolutely wonderful.  They were quite late, but I had them outside in the garden.  They must have ripened quite slowly and gathered up a lot of flavour.  They are still almost fully black with a tiny bit of orangey red when they are ripe.  The plants are so strong, like the Green Pear, they ended up as multiple stems.  And they taste so good, a real winner and worth waiting for.  Haven't grown a lot of the circle varieties this year because I had lots of mine that needed a seed renew, but looking forward to it.   :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: pumkinlover on October 17, 2015, 06:52:36
Totally agree about Amish Plum it's  a corker  :icon_cheers:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on October 18, 2015, 18:45:33
I'm just drying some Delicious tomato seeds, the fruits are red, large, prolific and well delicious!


That's one that can grow to 5 pounds or more, well not perhaps here, but they had some impressive sizes in the USA.  One tomato sliced up will fill a whole bowl for tomato salad   :icon_cheers:       :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: woodypecks on October 25, 2015, 18:11:29
Hi Jayb , Your inbox is full so you wont have got my message ...Did my little parcel  with the Amish Onion bulbils and other bits arrive to you safely ? Worried as I haven't heard from you . .. this was for a swap for a potato onion or two ? Can you let me know it's arrived.. if they didn't survive the journey , dont worry , I can always send you a few more .  :coffee2: Debbie
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: sparrow on November 17, 2015, 17:26:53
Flat White seeds are drying. I think I cracked it a bit early (see the green rim to the rind) but it had been stored in the warm for a month after the plant died. So there weren't a huge number of ripe seeds.

It is delicious - tastes like smooth sweet potato.

Am leaving the Geraumon Martinique squash for another 3 weeks, but Royal Black chillies are out, the plant got botrytis and many aphids. I do have enough white-seeded Lazy Housewife beans though. Plus a lovely hot chilli £land was selling as a habanero but I think is something different. :)
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on November 17, 2015, 23:47:09
Those slices look mouthwatering Sparrow.  Pity there weren't a lot of seeds in the Flat White Boer.  But a couple would be very nice indeed.  Pepper looks good too.   :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on November 18, 2015, 10:02:21
Those slices look mouthwatering Sparrow.  Pity there weren't a lot of seeds in the Flat White Boer.  But a couple would be very nice indeed.  Pepper looks good too.   :wave:

Forgot to say, if you wanted to share Potimarrons again too, they are such a useful squash and would be very welcome also.  Squash seeds kept dry and not too hot last for 5 years and sometimes longer, any grown in 2014 would still be viable for a few years to come.  Off to look up Geraumon Martinique. :-)
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: sparrow on November 18, 2015, 15:50:38
I thought since they were in from me last year it would be v dull to have them again, and year-old seed at that.

The beans from last year's circle have been fab, i have a huge tray of Cara beans drying, and Cousin Oliver were prolific too.  :toothy10:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: sparrow on December 02, 2015, 19:47:37
Geraumon Martinique seeds are drying now too. It's a lovely smooth squash, with a very good flavour - sweeter than the Flat White.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: sparrow on December 16, 2015, 11:46:37
Morning JayB,
My seeds are all ready - when do you want them and how many packets? :)
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: ruud on December 16, 2015, 17:42:23
Same question as sparrow wenn do you want the seeds send to you jayb???
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on December 17, 2015, 06:39:19
Same question as sparrow wenn do you want the seeds send to you jayb???


I haven't spoken to Jayb in a week or so and hope she is well, just very busy - it's the time of year ;-)  Hope she will soon be telling us when she is planning the share-out.  Perhaps in January when the festivities have ended and the post office has dealt with the backlog is a good time for everybody?

But what we could do in the meantime is determine who is in, which is a good idea because then we know how many individual packets are needed for our contribution.

Starting the count:

Sparrow
Ruud
Galina

There are several more.  Looking forward to hearing from the others.  And perhaps a peek preview of varieties that will be shared?  This seed circle is such a highlight of the gardening calendar every year.  And we are enjoying eating some outstanding fruit and veg because of great seeds that have been saved in this circle.  Can't wait for this year's treasures.  :wave:

Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on December 17, 2015, 10:52:14
The initial line-up was:

Jayb
Goodlife
Markfield rover
Silverleaf
Sparrow
Robert_Brenchley
Ruud
Galina
Pumpkinlover
Ian Pearson
Earlypea -
Martinburo
Debs
Cambourne 7

looking forward to more confirmations  :sunny:  :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: sparrow on December 17, 2015, 14:10:08
Hope all is well with JayB. Personally I am hating all this grey weather - seems to have gone on for ever. But sending seeds in after the Christmas postage carnage would be a much better idea. :)
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: clumsy on December 17, 2015, 22:11:07
Hi could I put these round courgette into the collection. They are from asia we grow them every year very sweet and meaty if possible. It's just a thank you for all the help I've received from the forum.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: earlypea on December 18, 2015, 10:26:58
Hi all - I'm still in  :happy7:

I have, as previously advertised:

Red Swan dwarf French bean

TOMATOES
Purple Heart dwarf (from the online dwarf tomato project)
Paul RobesonBlack Russian, (gorgeous, big, early and totally black-tasting)
Oxacan Jewel - Very large, bi-coloured sunset-looking orange with red glowing through it.  Unusual, fruity, juicy taste.

Plus: Realseed's vegetable mallow (I find useful in mid-summer)

My Atika Root Parsley seed is of variable quality due to drought conditions, I think.  Some seeds very small, not many a good size.  I don't know whether people still want it in that case.  No point wasting time on duff seeds is normally my feeling.  Do people want them?  I'll be using.  They might come good.

I have a problem with delivery though.  I am away from 10th January for 5 weeks so I really need to be able to send these seeds to someone before then. I suppose I could send them to someone else in the circle if JayB doesn't surface in time.


Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on December 18, 2015, 10:38:28
That's great earlypea!  And what treats you have saved for us too.  We never had root parsley before and maybe worth a try?  Why not.   :sunny:

You are welcome (should the need arise) to send your contribution to me and I will make sure your seed packets get into the big share-out.  But I am confident that Jayb will be in contact well before your away date.  PM me if needed, also for instructions when to send your goodie packet back to you.   :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on December 18, 2015, 10:50:57
That is very nice and generous of you Clumsy. 

I hope Jayb will be along shortly.  She is the 'brains' behind the seed circle. Just briefly, it isn't like adding seeds to a swap parcel, more like a community of seedsavers who strive to grow seeds of 2 or more varieties for each member of the group. 

Jayb explains this much better on the first page of this thread:
http://www.allotments4all.co.uk/smf/index.php/topic,78706.0.html

The call for signing up usually goes out in January or just after the parcels were sent.  I hope you will be joining in if and when Jayb calls for members again next year.   :wave:



Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on December 20, 2015, 10:39:49
My sincere apologies Clumsy, my bad! I only just realised that you had of course joined the circle earlier this year and I accidentally left you off the list.  Very sorry about that.   
 :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Robert_Brenchley on December 21, 2015, 00:39:39
I'm in. I lost my mother a few weeks ago, and things have been a bit difficult, but I should be able to get seeds sorted now.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: sparrow on December 21, 2015, 06:26:21
That's rough Robert. Am really sorry to hear it.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Debs on December 21, 2015, 07:30:27
I'm still in  :hello2:

January is such a good idea to receive the  best pressie of the season !!

Hope you all have a very happy Christmas !!

Debs  :icon_flower:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: markfield rover on December 21, 2015, 08:23:17
Getting excited now👍 having been bamboozled over the last two months in all sorts of publications over the perfect present for gardeners ...THIS IS IT ! On so many fronts... Thanks to all and seasons greeting's.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: pumkinlover on December 24, 2015, 19:32:20
Sorry to hear about your Mum Robert.
I'm still in, just french beans this year- climbing french Ryders top of the pole and Vermont Cranberry ( dwarf). But they are all ready dried and waiting for packing, which is preety good for me :glasses9:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on December 25, 2015, 19:43:07
I have just come across this free webinar on seed saving starting in January 2016.  No idea what it will be like, but it could be interesting and informative:

http://www.urbanfarm.org/event/seed-saving-hacked-free-webinar/

if you would like to have a look or to sign up.   :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: martinburo on January 04, 2016, 13:17:57
Robert, that's really tough, I know what it's like. I feel for you.

I'm still in for the circle. I have marjoram and parsnip F3 hybrids.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: martinburo on January 04, 2016, 13:49:58
earlypea, root parsley would be really nice, don't worry if the seeds are not perfect, I'm sure a few of them will grow, enough to find out if we like it.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on January 07, 2016, 17:53:03
Have just had an email from Jayb with greetings to all circle participants.  She is feeling better, but still has to take things easy for a while and has asked me to oversee the share-out on her behalf.

We had several confirmations of people who can participate recently and I have sent personal messages to others.  By next week we should know the final number of participants.  Then we can prepare the right number of packets for everybody.  I am hoping for a fast turn-around.  It would be great to enjoy holding our new seeds by the end of January or before Valentine's Day at the latest. 

Once the numbers of participants are firmed up, I'll pm everybody with my address (and ask our Postie to be careful with all the incoming treasures too  :happy7:).  Postage costs for the return of seeds will be £3.30 for First Class and £2.80 for Second.  Ruud, we will work something out.   :sunny:

Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: ruud on January 08, 2016, 16:59:47
Galina if you send the package to me as last .I will take the costs to send it back to the u.k.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: sparrow on January 08, 2016, 17:44:20
Thanks Galina - I'm really sorry Jayb's not well.

I've got my seeds ready to go as soon as we have final numbers.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on January 08, 2016, 20:16:32
Good plan Ruud, no problem.

Jayb is getting better Sparrow, thank you, just takes time  Yes several people have their seeds all ready and waiting to pack into little packets.  In a few days we should know the final numbers and then its all go.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: pumkinlover on January 09, 2016, 08:00:09
Good to hear that jayb has been in touch, Thanks Galina for offering to step in while necessary  :happy7:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on January 13, 2016, 17:18:45
We now have our final numbers.  Unfortunately goodlife has not been in touch at all, which is sad.  She has been an absolute stalwart of this seed circle over the years.

So it looks like we are now 12 this year:

Jayb
Markfield Rover
Silverleaf
Sparrow
Robert Brenchley
Ruud
Galina
Pumpkinlover
Early Pea
Martinburo
Debs
Clumsy

I will pm everybody with the details tomorrow.



galina  :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Silverleaf on January 13, 2016, 17:24:11
Anyone interested in barley? I got a small unintended crop from my straw bale garden last year (despite picking loads of the immature plants to dry for hay for the rabbits) so I can share if people want it. No idea what variety it is, I just bought the straw from a local farm.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: sparrow on January 13, 2016, 23:04:55
Thanks galina, will hoik the seeds out.

Silverleaf - interest yes, unfortunately no space! Not till I get that smallholding...:)
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Silverleaf on January 14, 2016, 01:54:24
Thanks galina, will hoik the seeds out.

Silverleaf - interest yes, unfortunately no space! Not till I get that smallholding...:)

Well I'm only talking a takeaway container of seeds between everyone, so you wouldn't exactly need acres! ;)
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: sparrow on January 14, 2016, 08:16:10
I didn't mean to offend - I've only got 7.5 rods and no garden so with the fruit, saffron and seed saving space it all gets a bit crammed.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: johhnyco15 on January 14, 2016, 10:59:34
would like to join but havnt got a clue what to do ive got some atlantic giant seed if anyone is interested 
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on January 14, 2016, 11:28:26
would like to join but havnt got a clue what to do ive got some atlantic giant seed if anyone is interested 

Johhnyco15,

I am afraid it is too late to join the 2015 seed circle.  I hope Jayb will call for participants again for a 2016 seed circle.  In the meantime, maybe you would like to read what this seed circle is all about? 

http://www.allotments4all.co.uk/smf/index.php/topic,78706.0.html

The original inspiration came from Realseeds:
http://www.realseeds.co.uk/seedcircle.html

And they also provide great seed saving instructions:
http://www.realseeds.co.uk/seedsavinginfo.html

 :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Elfeda on January 14, 2016, 12:01:13
Silverleaf,

Barley is very healthy. grind them coarsly...and cook with bit more of water and add salt and pepper to the soup...cleans the stomach and digestive system :)
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Silverleaf on January 16, 2016, 03:01:03
I do like pearl barley in soup!

Perhaps we could have a Pass The Parcel again this year, then people who missed this swap could join in with that? I'd offer to organise it but I don't have enough to make up a "starter" parcel...
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on January 16, 2016, 07:40:31
I do like pearl barley in soup!

Perhaps we could have a Pass The Parcel again this year, then people who missed this swap could join in with that? I'd offer to organise it but I don't have enough to make up a "starter" parcel...

Good idea.  I could send you the packets I set aside for the pea and bean swap that did not happen last year if that would boost starting contents.  I am sure there would be good interest for a Round Robin seed swap.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: johhnyco15 on January 16, 2016, 14:32:36
would like to join but havnt got a clue what to do ive got some atlantic giant seed if anyone is interested 

Johhnyco15,

I am afraid it is too late to join the 2015 seed circle.  I hope Jayb will call for participants again for a 2016 seed circle.  In the meantime, maybe you would like to read what this seed circle is all about? 

http://www.allotments4all.co.uk/smf/index.php/topic,78706.0.html

The original inspiration came from Realseeds:
http://www.realseeds.co.uk/seedcircle.html

And they also provide great seed saving instructions:
http://www.realseeds.co.uk/seedsavinginfo.html

 :wave:
thanks for the link yes i might try it this year and see how it goes and if it goes to plan will have a go and join next year thanks again for the advice
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: pumkinlover on January 16, 2016, 19:16:06
Mine went in the post today.  :toothy10:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on January 16, 2016, 20:47:44
Mine went in the post today.  :toothy10:

Good stuff,  will let you know when they get here  :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on January 18, 2016, 14:28:03
Seeds safely received from:

Earlypea
Clumsy
Pumpkinlover

..............  It is getting exciting  :icon_cheers:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: markfield rover on January 19, 2016, 18:22:03
Winging their way!
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on January 20, 2016, 15:17:45
Winging their way!
Arrived safely!   :sunny:

And here is a sneak preview of some of the seeds already in my filing cabinet and waiting to be sent to all of you.   :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: pumkinlover on January 21, 2016, 07:13:27
Winging their way!
Arrived safely!   :sunny:

And here is a sneak preview of some of the seeds already in my filing cabinet and waiting to be sent to all of you.   :wave:

Tease!!
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: ruud on January 21, 2016, 15:14:51
pigeon is on his way :icon_cheers: :icon_cheers: :icon_cheers:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on January 21, 2016, 16:08:17
pigeon is on his way :icon_cheers: :icon_cheers: :icon_cheers:


I have got a little 'pigeon hole' for your seeds in my filing cabinet  :tongue3:   :sunny:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on January 21, 2016, 16:20:26
Welcome to A4A Elfeda  and thank you for the barley information.   :sunny:

Does anybody know whether barley is sown in spring?  After the last frost?   :wave:

Silverleaf,

Barley is very healthy. grind them coarsly...and cook with bit more of water and add salt and pepper to the soup...cleans the stomach and digestive system :)
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: martinburo on January 23, 2016, 01:24:23
Grains come in both autumn sown and spring sown varieties. For wheat, nowadays autumn sown varieties tend to be facultative winter wheats that will produce seed in the first year if sown in spring. I've only ever grown autumn sown wheat, but I'd think that even spring sown barley could be sown well before the last frost.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Silverleaf on January 23, 2016, 02:57:11
Yes I agree, there's barley for winter sowing and barley for spring sowing. I don't know which mine is! The winter stuff is poorer in quality and is used mostly for animal feed, and the spring stuff is used mostly for malting.

The barley I have came from last year's straw bale garden experiment - I basically persuaded the bales to rot by watering them and adding fertiliser, and then grew plants in them. The conditioning process is supposed to be hot enough to kill off any seeds, but the outsides of the bales obviously didn't get very hot and I had lots of nice green shoots which made lovely nutritious hay for my rabbits as well as some ears of grain.

I bought the bales in April and the barley sprouted very quickly, with the ears starting to ripen in August, if I recall correctly.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on January 23, 2016, 07:41:42
Thank you both for this growing info  :sunny:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Silverleaf on January 23, 2016, 08:18:48
Also my seeds for the swap are now bagged up and awaiting a padded envelope and some stamps. Hopefully I can get them off tomorrow, apologies for being so slow!

I've put in:

*Hannan Popbean chickpeas
Dead easy to grow and they don't mind neglect. They taste nice raw or cooked fresh like peas, and this variety pops in hot oil when dry as well. I've tried popped chickpeas before and they are yummy. They don't puff up huge like popcorn - more of a split than a pop. I recommend seasoning with salt and smoked paprika or ras el hanout or even a Cajun or Mexican spice mix, they can definitely take spicing. Black/brown chickpeas like this one are smaller, firmer and taste nuttier than the cream-coloured ones you get in cans.

I don't know enough about how to grow them to give proper recommendations on cultivation, but I'll tell you what I did. See what works for you! Mine were spaced at 15cm/6" at the edges of my raised legume bed. I didn't fertilise at all and basically ignored the whole bed unless it looked really dry. The plants set lots of pods with 1-2 chickpeas in each. The pods fill out before the chickpeas actually grow, so don't get caught out and pick too early - give them a squeeze to see how the seeds are doing. I actually lost a good chunk of my crop because we had such a wet late summer that the pods went mouldy (this was at least partly due to my reluctance to go out to pick them in the torrential rain and distraction of getting adorable baby rabbits at that time) but I think they'd do very well in a drier year. They certainly prefer full sun because the plants on the south side of the bed grew bigger and produced faster than the ones on the north side which were shaded by bean/pea poles.

*Landrace broad beans
Lots of different types from small "field bean" types to bigger commercial ones, from plants that did well for me last year. They've likely cross-pollinated like mad but that was what I was aiming for! Some of my seed last year was a landrace from France which was mostly small field bean types crossed with larger commercial types which had been selected for cold tolerance and therefore are suited to autumn sowing, the rest of my seed was as many different commercial types as I could easily find. Half were winter-sown, half spring-sown, all germinated well and produced well despite it being a horrible summer for blackflies and extremely windy here when the plants got tall. I found that the smaller-seeded plants produced significantly earlier and resisted aphids much better. They obviously have smaller seeds and there are fewer of them in the pods (sometimes only 3) but there are a lot more pods so it balances out! My hope is that we'll get a really good diverse mixture with these, and if you save seed you'll naturally select for the ones that produce best for you.


*Cara TPS
*Russian Blue TPS
*Skagit Magic TPS
*Snookie TPS

If you haven't played with true potato seed before then I definitely recommend giving it a go because it's really fun and rewarding! Because potatoes have some strange genetic quirks every single seed will produce a new variety right from the beginning. All you have to do is grow them out, find some plants you like, save the tubers and plant them next year. And name your new varieties of course...

I sowed mine in mid-March in a propagator with a growlight, in 7cm pots with just an inch or so of compost in the bottom, deliberately putting lots of seeds in to force them to compete really early. As they grew I earthed them up several times until the pots were full and then pricked out the individual plants into small modules. I don't think you have to restrict them as much as I did, but I think it helped me to select the most vigorous young plants when I transplanted them into the beds, and they grew tiny tubers really early so I could select for tuber colour as well at that stage. The plants look on the fragile delicate side at first but they really grow fast once they get going. I got a decent amount of good-sized tubers from many of my plants despite planting at twice the density I'd normally give tuber-grown plants.

And I have some really nice new varieties to grow this year. :)

Russian Blue and Skagit Magic seeds were from last year's TPS sown plants which showed a lot of variety in colour and pattern, so who knows what will turn up? Cara seeds were from a plant grown from a tuber I got at a local Potato Day, and Snookie seeds from a tuber that jayb (who originally bred it) kindly sent me.

Hope everything does well for you! :)
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Silverleaf on January 23, 2016, 08:20:31
Also, apologies for the essay, I may have got a bit carried away there!
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on January 23, 2016, 10:05:29
Also, apologies for the essay, I may have got a bit carried away there!

Absolutely perfect and to the point information Silverleaf, can't wait to grow them.  :toothy10:

And of course I will let you know when your envelope arrives here.  No you are not late, still several outstanding.  Don't think we will manage to complete the share-out by the end of January now.  Let's hope for a 'seed-love'ly Valentine Day's present.  :sunny: 
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Robert_Brenchley on January 23, 2016, 11:45:11
That's two TPS varieties (if that's the right word!) I don't have, Silverleaf. I don't have enough of anything else to share round yet, but hopefully next year.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: ruud on January 23, 2016, 12:49:24
yes i love broad beans and when they are crossed you finally got one you like by selecting.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: markfield rover on January 23, 2016, 18:35:59
Think I may need to give barley a go, as a child barley was well and truly off the menu as my mother was force fed it in the early forties  I think it may have skipped a generation.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Silverleaf on January 23, 2016, 23:25:33
That's two TPS varieties (if that's the right word!) I don't have, Silverleaf. I don't have enough of anything else to share round yet, but hopefully next year.

Oh that's good to hear, I hope they do well for you!

I picked three varieties from the potato day deliberately because they tend to set berries, but Cara was the only one that did. I seem to remember it actually flowered twice but only set berries the second time. I didn't know potatoes could flower more than once.

I assume Skagit Magic and Russian Blue are the ones you already have?
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Silverleaf on January 23, 2016, 23:28:28
Think I may need to give barley a go, as a child barley was well and truly off the menu as my mother was force fed it in the early forties  I think it may have skipped a generation.

I'll pop some in for you then if you want to try it. Anyone else want some? No point putting in enough for everyone if only a couple of people want it! ;)
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: pumkinlover on January 24, 2016, 08:02:00
I'll try a bit please :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on January 24, 2016, 09:11:23
I'll try a bit please :wave:
Me too, please.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: markfield rover on January 24, 2016, 09:19:11
Thank-you silverleaf.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: sparrow on January 25, 2016, 12:25:02
Ooooooooooooh Skagit Magic. You must be telepathic Silverleaf, I have been trying to find some of those!  :blob7:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Silverleaf on January 27, 2016, 17:42:52
Ooooooooooooh Skagit Magic. You must be telepathic Silverleaf, I have been trying to find some of those!  :blob7:

Yay! :)
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on January 28, 2016, 12:45:42
Ruud - your seeds have arrived  :sunny:

My goodness!  thank you!   :icon_cheers:

Ruud has added a packet of mystery brassica seeds.  He recalls harvesting seeds of mustard greens, but the label got lost, it happens  ..........  who would like a share of these mystery seeds?  Please let me know and I'll add them to your parcel.

Just to keep everybody up to date with where we are with the Seed Circle:

I have received seeds from:   :angel11:

Clumsy
Earlypea
Markfield Rover
Pumpkinlover
Ruud
Galina

No seeds from Jayb, Debs, Martinburo and Sparrow so far.  Did you get the pm with my address?
 
RobertBrenchley and Silverleaf are in the final stages of getting their envelopes together.   :icon_cheers:

I know some of you are waiting anxiously (that includes me) to treasure your new seeds, but we have to be patient for a little longer    :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Silverleaf on January 28, 2016, 14:03:19
Mystery seeds sound good to me! My package is on its way now Galina, should be with you soon.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on January 28, 2016, 15:11:35
Mystery seeds sound good to me! My package is on its way now Galina, should be with you soon.

Excellent.  :sunny:

Will put your portion of 'mystery brassica' aside, anybody else?   :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: markfield rover on January 28, 2016, 15:40:59
A little bit of mystery sounds good to me too ,if that's okay?
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: ruud on January 28, 2016, 16:28:20
Yes the pigeon arrived well at your place galina.I was wondering what the mysteryseeds could be.I came to the conclusion it is;1- florida broadleaf mustard.
                                             2- sutherland kale
                                             3-something else
I will also sow some seeds because i cant stand it not to know what it is.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on January 28, 2016, 16:40:16
A little bit of mystery sounds good to me too ,if that's okay?

Certainly MR - your portion has been put aside  :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on January 28, 2016, 16:42:34
.I came to the conclusion it is;1- florida broadleaf mustard.
                                             2- sutherland kale
                                             3-something else
I will also sow some seeds because i cant stand it not to know what it is.


........... the plot thickens.  All sound good.  Will certainly enjoy the mystery here as well,  thanks Ruud. :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: sparrow on January 28, 2016, 17:00:24
No seeds from Jayb, Debs, Martinburo and Sparrow so far.  Did you get the pm with my address?

Hi galina, I posted the seeds a couple of days ago. They should have arrived with you today, but maybe they are dragging their heels a little...
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on January 28, 2016, 17:08:41

Hi galina, I posted the seeds a couple of days ago. They should have arrived with you today, but maybe they are dragging their heels a little...

Will look out for them tomorrow - and let you know as soon as they get here Sparrow.   :wave: 
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on January 29, 2016, 12:50:20
Sparrow, your envelope has arrived,lovely varieties and extremely well wrapped .  Also thank you for your kind note, including your well wishes for Jayb.   :icon_cheers:   :sunny:

But what are sparrow's and other's seed goodies received here so far, that are waiting for share-out day?

I have been listing them on Jayb's seed circle blog.  Don't look if you want to keep the surprise, but if you can't wait and want to do some googling in the meantime, here is the url:

http://seedsaverscircle.org/seed-circle/a4a-seed-saver-group-2015/

I hope before long we will be able to add much growing and eating information as well as photos to complete our seed circle 'mini catalogue' for 2015.  Which becomes a great go-to reference when we start sowing and growing our treasures.  This mini catalogue is also a collaborative effort and I am happy to add any extra information you send me or post here.       :wave:

Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: sparrow on January 29, 2016, 19:14:12
Phew, am glad that they have got there ok, I was worried for a bit. :)

I peeked at the list, couldn't help myself. It looks fab!
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on January 30, 2016, 10:17:37
Thank you Debs - postie just brought your envelope.    :sunny:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Debs on January 30, 2016, 17:49:53
Yay😄
Forgot to post that I'd sent them!! Been distracted with cleaning & preparing for
 two new additions to the household - getting 2 French bulldog puppies this evening 💕

Debs  :icon_flower:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: martinburo on February 02, 2016, 16:40:06
Just sent in my seeds.
The parsnips are F3 hybrids of about 5 different varieties. Parsnip seeds lose viability quickly to about 5% after 21 months (i.e. spring 2017), so use it or lose it.
Greek cress forms small florets (~3'' across) so can be used as a catch crop between rows of larger plants and to be harvested before those larger plants attain full size. They can also be sown after midsummer to be eaten in spring.
Marjoram is perennial.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Silverleaf on February 02, 2016, 17:05:49
Getting very excited now!

So glad you're putting in parsnips martinburo, I had my first ever success with 'snips last year with seeds from the circle after several attempts with commercial seeds which absolutely refused to germinate. Fresh seed is definitely better.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: markfield rover on February 03, 2016, 09:10:08
Morning all
Just a quick note about the dahlia seeds- they are from the National Collection they are mixed as I  wanted to be surprised , they are very easy to grow from seed needing no special treatment . When I ordered them  over the phone the lady said it isn't difficult if you wanted to breed your own and if I did come up with a new one I could name it. Well if you look on line at what they have it took me 5 minutes to get through the A's  I feel an obsession coming on! They really do have a magnificent collection and at £2.15 a pop I may well get carried away. They are in Penzance and you can visit for free in the summer.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on February 03, 2016, 09:16:13
Thank you MR - this is going to be a nice addition to our baggie, together with Martinburo's seeds - looking forward to marjoram.  Not many more now.  Yes it is getting closer to the day we will hold our treasures   :sunny:   :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on February 04, 2016, 12:45:26
OOOOHHH!   :glasses9:  my word  :sunny:

A very special parcel arrived from Silverleaf with some wonderful treasures.  Thank you so much.

I have to apologise - apparently it arrived yesterday and the postman put a note through the door.  Yesterday I was out and only fetched it today from the post office.  I am so sorry you had to worry an extra day to confirm safe arrival, Silverleaf.

Everything looks very good indeed and I can't wait to have a peak at the broad bean seeds (but I am not allowed before everybody else has theirs!    must be patient    :BangHead:).
 

 :wave:


Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Silverleaf on February 04, 2016, 13:26:59
Yay! Glad to hear it arrived safely. :)
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on February 04, 2016, 14:31:50
Yay😄
Forgot to post that I'd sent them!! Been distracted with cleaning & preparing for
 two new additions to the household - getting 2 French bulldog puppies this evening 💕

Debs  :icon_flower:

Hope the puppies are settling well, what did you call them?
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Robert_Brenchley on February 09, 2016, 17:36:19
Is there any barley seed left? I thought I had some, but it turns out I haven't. I've had a bad cold, but I'll get my seeds sorted in the next couple of days.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Debs on February 10, 2016, 23:20:08
Galina, The puppies are both female & have been given names chosen by the children
 - Esme and Mia.
They are adorable 😍💕❤️

Debs   :icon_flower:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on February 11, 2016, 17:08:09
Galina, The puppies are both female & have been given names chosen by the children
 - Esme and Mia.
They are adorable 😍💕❤️

Sounds great fun, Debs - enjoy  :sunny:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on February 13, 2016, 09:31:18
So chuffed I finally got my parcel together and posted to Galina, thank you for stepping in and keeping the Circle going  :icon_cheers:

I've lots of post reading to catch up on!
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on February 15, 2016, 09:14:19
And it has arrived in very good condition.  And it is  B I G!  Postie grumbled something about 'hernia'   :tongue3:

Absolutely fabulous Jayb.  Looking very good.  Beautifully sorted as well and what can I say - well worth waiting for!  Thank you for your generosity   :sunny:

Enjoy catching up with all the news Jayb.   :wave:  We are happy that you are better   :icon_cheers:

So chuffed I finally got my parcel together and posted to Galina, thank you for stepping in and keeping the Circle going  :icon_cheers:

I've lots of post reading to catch up on!
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on February 15, 2016, 09:53:59
I've been a bit worried where your package might have got to, but today your seeds finally made it here, Martinburo.  :sunny:

Thank you for some fine varieties.  As you know, your parsnip seeds are eagerly awaited,   because home saved seed that is fresh germinates much better than bought seeds.   :wave:  Nice generous packets too.  Fresh viable seed is one of the advantages of seed circle membership.   :icon_cheers:

Thank you for your contribution.  I have sent you a pm.     :wave:

Now there is only one packet outstanding!

Just sent in my seeds.
The parsnips are F3 hybrids of about 5 different varieties. Parsnip seeds lose viability quickly to about 5% after 21 months (i.e. spring 2017), so use it or lose it.
Greek cress forms small florets (~3'' across) so can be used as a catch crop between rows of larger plants and to be harvested before those larger plants attain full size. They can also be sown after midsummer to be eaten in spring.
Marjoram is perennial.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on February 15, 2016, 11:13:01
Glad it arrived safely, I may have put too many weighty things in and some are bought in not saved, so not quite what the parcel is about. You might need to discard some of mine if you're short of space.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Silverleaf on February 15, 2016, 12:27:01
It's going to be so good seeing what everyone's been saving! Sounds like it'll be a fantastic parcel, and I'm very excited about it.

Personally I'm also really happy to think that people might be excited about my seeds too. It was lovely growing and harvesting things especially for the circle. :)
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on February 15, 2016, 12:44:58
Glad it arrived safely, I may have put too many weighty things in and some are bought in not saved, so not quite what the parcel is about. You might need to discard some of mine if you're short of space.

I think we will be just fine - this is why we went with the return postage for a small parcel, not a large letter.  I basically copied what you did last year  :happy7: 
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: pumkinlover on February 15, 2016, 12:59:50
 :blob7: Great to see you back again Jayb :wave:

But wonderful of Galina to sort out this years distribution. :toothy10:
Did anyone listen to Gardeners Question Time at Brighton's seed Sunday. ? I was a bit disappointed to hear Jame's Wong say that it was a great opportunity to get rind of that packet of seed you had in the back of a drawer for ages and get something really rare and special in return. Hmm........ missing the point there a bit Mr Wong  :sad3:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Robert_Brenchley on February 15, 2016, 14:17:24
Mine will be in the post tomorrow. I should have done them last week but I had a terrible cold and got nothing done at all!
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: martinburo on February 15, 2016, 14:24:02
Hi Galina,

Your inbox is full, I couldn't send you this PM.

For the incoming mail I think Royal mail is being strange, I measured it and it was definitely within the limits for a large letter. My apologies for not considering that there might be other things than seeds in the outgoing mail. Please let me know your account number and sort code and I will transfer the postage shortage to your account.

I organised a seed swap myself and had some people send more seed packets than needed. I thought you might like to have them.

Many apologies for the extra work,
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on February 15, 2016, 16:26:02
My bad Martinburo!  I was running my mailbox quite full and a few other pms pushed it over the limit today.  Sorry you had trouble reaching me.  Done a bit of housekeeping and made plenty of room for more messages.

Yes I queried it too.  The size was fine apparently, the weight was over.  Don't worry about it, it happens.  These days the post office is no longer making money out of letters, and as a result it's packets is where they earn their crust and where they are strict with the rates.  For the returns we have always had the small parcel rate, because a few bean or pea seed packets that collect at the bottom of the envelope can easily push the size/weight over the limit, not only tubers. 

I'll share out the extras, thank you.  Kind of you to think of us   :wave:


Hi Galina,

Your inbox is full, I couldn't send you this PM.

For the incoming mail I think Royal mail is being strange, I measured it and it was definitely within the limits for a large letter. My apologies for not considering that there might be other things than seeds in the outgoing mail. Please let me know your account number and sort code and I will transfer the postage shortage to your account.

I organised a seed swap myself and had some people send more seed packets than needed. I thought you might like to have them.

Many apologies for the extra work,
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on February 16, 2016, 13:43:06
:blob7: Great to see you back again Jayb :wave:

But wonderful of Galina to sort out this years distribution. :toothy10:
Did anyone listen to Gardeners Question Time at Brighton's seed Sunday. ? I was a bit disappointed to hear Jame's Wong say that it was a great opportunity to get rind of that packet of seed you had in the back of a drawer for ages and get something really rare and special in return. Hmm........ missing the point there a bit Mr Wong  :sad3:


Missed the programme, but what a numpty he is, and so respectful to others!
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on February 16, 2016, 13:59:50
Mine will be in the post tomorrow. I should have done them last week but I had a terrible cold and got nothing done at all!

Glad they are on the way, I'm getting really excited about receiving my first proper Seed Circle parcel  :toothy10:

Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on February 16, 2016, 19:10:40
A peek into the Seed Sorting Office, ably supervised by mascot 'Sow and Grow'    :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Robert_Brenchley on February 16, 2016, 19:22:33
I've put in Babbington leek bulbils. They take about three seasons to reach flowering size; use the stem or the bulb like ordinary leeks. White potato onion seeds. These are some I saved last year; the parents are about the size of a smallish cooking onion, but I've no idea whether the seeds will come true. Minogue; this is what the Germans call a perlzweibel (the original pearl onion) and the Americans a perennial leek. It's best used as a substitute for spring onions. I also saved seed heads from elephant garlic, but few if any of the flowers set seed. The other two definitely have seeds, though my attempts at winnowing them were pretty pathetic. I've no idea what germination rate to expect; I've had both very good and very bad results from obscure alliums.  I left the seed heads on the plants as long as I could to give the seed a fair chance to ripen properly.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on February 16, 2016, 20:12:51
Nice one Robert - no other alliums in the parcel  :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Silverleaf on February 17, 2016, 00:01:30
Ahhh Robert, how did you know I was thinking about Babbington leeks? And the other alliums sound great too, especially the potato onions!

And Galina, thanks for the sneak peek. Can I just say, WOOOOOOOOOOO! Very exciting. :)
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on February 17, 2016, 09:55:38
Seed parcels look smashing, I'm sure I recognise that gorgeous art work too  :icon_cheers:

Nice selection Robert. Really looking forward to opening my parcel and looking though all the packets, thanks everyone,  :blob7:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on February 17, 2016, 12:02:23
Sorry Robert and group,  Postie has just been but no envelope from you today.

Talking about alliums, I have just checked in the conservatory and have enough of 'Walking Onion' bulbils for a small share each.  I know I've put them into this circle a few years ago already, but members have changed.  If you don't need them for the plot, just add the little onions to your next soup or stew  :wave:


Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Silverleaf on February 17, 2016, 18:36:13
It's as if you two KNEW I'd drawn out a plan of where everything's going my allium bed literally yesterday morning! Now I have to redraw...

...but that's a great problem to have. :D

Galina, I've had my eye on walking onions for a while too, so I'm very grateful you're sharing. :)

Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: pumkinlover on February 18, 2016, 07:25:41
I had to empty my plot of alliums last year due to seeming so many bugs and diseases. Will try another area and am really looking forward to fresh stock   :toothy10:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: markfield rover on February 18, 2016, 11:50:59
I've just read these last few post sitting in full sunshine gladdens the heart it does, thanks everyone.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Robert_Brenchley on February 18, 2016, 18:26:33
It is in the post.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Robert_Brenchley on February 18, 2016, 18:29:16
What were the ''bugs and diseases', Pumpkin? Susceptibility to various things varies massively. Only galic and onions seem to get white rot; I had a terrible outbreak of bacterial rot among my shallots last winter, but it didn't affect anything else.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on February 20, 2016, 08:52:59
Know what you mean.  I feel quite giddy being out without a coat on in the midday sun (when it shines).  The days are getting longer and the sun is getting stronger.  It is just like you said - it gladdens the heart!  :sunny:  and definitely lifts the mood.   :wave:

I've just read these last few post sitting in full sunshine gladdens the heart it does, thanks everyone.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on February 20, 2016, 10:09:17
It is in the post.

Still not arrived in today's post, Robert.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on February 22, 2016, 09:39:58
Ooops, I've put the wrong information on the packets of Trofeo beans, so please ignore it! I haven't yet, but I'll put the correct blurb on seed list http://seedsaverscircle.org/seed-circle/a4a-seed-saver-group-2015/.

Also the Lantern chilli seeds I added only germinated at around 60% when I did a test, so you may need to sow a few more than normal.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on February 22, 2016, 13:13:47
It is in the post.

............... and here they are, all looking good, thank you Robert.   :sunny:

Which means that tomorrow I should be posting all the parcels back.  Yippeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee  :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Silverleaf on February 22, 2016, 13:32:32
How exciting! Can't wait! :)
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: markfield rover on February 22, 2016, 14:31:58
Thank you galina!
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: sparrow on February 22, 2016, 18:32:42
Oooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooohhhh!!!

Cannot. Wait! :D :D :D
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on February 23, 2016, 15:51:22
..............  and they are off   :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Silverleaf on February 23, 2016, 16:29:07
..............  and they are off   :wave:

YAAAAYYY! Thanks Galina! :)
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on February 23, 2016, 20:09:00
Exciting  :blob7:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Debs on February 23, 2016, 20:24:19
Too excited !!!!

Thank you Galina and Jayb xx
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: markfield rover on February 24, 2016, 09:40:52
It's here.........

Off for some "quiet time" with the parcel!
Thank you all especially galina and Jayb .
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on February 24, 2016, 10:54:55
It's here.........

Off for some "quiet time" with the parcel!
Thank you all especially galina and Jayb .

Great stuff!  Now finally I can look at the tubers and especially at the broad bean seeds.  I've been so tempted, but have been good   :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Silverleaf on February 24, 2016, 11:32:11
I hope the broadies are to your liking!
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Silverleaf on February 24, 2016, 12:43:01
Postie delivered a different parcel today, no seeds. :(

Guess I'll have to be patient!
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: sparrow on February 24, 2016, 13:47:52
It's here!! I have the widest grin and am off to the bakery for a piece of cake to enjoy with trawling through it all.

Thank you so much galina and jayb for organising, and to everyone else for the brilliant contents. Yippeeeeee!
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: clumsy on February 24, 2016, 15:58:16
It's arrived and I'm actually lost for words. Thank you so much galina and jayb.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Silverleaf on February 25, 2016, 12:39:01
Just arrived, wow! Thank you so much for your generosity everyone, some fabulous things in there. :)

And extra-special thanks to Jayb and Galina for organising the whole thing. You are awesome. :D
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Robert_Brenchley on February 25, 2016, 14:10:59
Got the parcel, thanks. Sorry I was so late sending them out; I'm better than I was, but I've been having flashbacks ever since my mother's death, and it makes life rather difficult.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: martinburo on February 25, 2016, 14:49:06
Thank you, thank you, thank you. Wow, that's so many seeds. Jayb and galina in particular, how do you manage saving that many? I'm also really excited about the things I haven't grown before: autumn olive, root parsley, salsify and mallow.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on February 25, 2016, 15:12:28
Glad a few more parcels have arrived safely.   :sunny:
Have sown the broad beans.  :happy7:
Pleased you like the new to you fruit/veg martinburo.  Please note that Autumn Olive needs cold stratifying.  Notes are on Jayb's seed circle blog:
  http://seedsaverscircle.org/seed-circle/a4a-seed-saver-group-2015/

We are still adding descriptions and pictures.  Either from what people have written or what has been sent as pm to be added.  Please help with missing information. 

Yes again this year's share-out it is a great testimony of what a group of seedsavers can achieve.  Hope the last parcels will wing their way to the recipients speedily.    :wave:   
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Silverleaf on February 25, 2016, 15:37:18
Got the parcel, thanks. Sorry I was so late sending them out; I'm better than I was, but I've been having flashbacks ever since my mother's death, and it makes life rather difficult.

Sorry to hear that Robert, do you have someone you can talk to? It's really hard to cope with something like that on your own.

I don't think anyone minds that your seeds were late! You put in some brilliant things, so thank you. :)
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Silverleaf on February 25, 2016, 15:42:19
Thank you, thank you, thank you. Wow, that's so many seeds. Jayb and galina in particular, how do you manage saving that many? I'm also really excited about the things I haven't grown before: autumn olive, root parsley, salsify and mallow.

I agree! I'm just sorting through them and adding everything to my database (well it isn't really a database) and every packet I pick up has made me smile. So many fantastic things!
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: sparrow on February 25, 2016, 16:19:09
Got the parcel, thanks. Sorry I was so late sending them out; I'm better than I was, but I've been having flashbacks ever since my mother's death, and it makes life rather difficult.

Much sympathy, I know what that feels like.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on February 25, 2016, 16:58:38
Got the parcel, thanks. Sorry I was so late sending them out; I'm better than I was, but I've been having flashbacks ever since my mother's death, and it makes life rather difficult.

Don't worry - We got the seeds out in time for sowing Robert, even for the early ones. Sown potato onions and Minogue seeds today. My Minogue have never flowered, really excited about your seeds.

Hope you'll find peace and can relax at the plot.  How have the bees done with this weird winter weather?   :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on February 25, 2016, 17:07:03

I agree! I'm just sorting through them and adding everything to my database (well it isn't really a database) and every packet I pick up has made me smile. So many fantastic things!

Exactly the same here  :tongue3: - and yes! smiling too   :sunny: - and periodically rushing off to sow something else -  Peppers and tps are in the propagator, peas and broadies in the conservatory and onions too.  Want to start tomatoes, but propagator not big enough, they'll have to wait  :BangHead:

 :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Silverleaf on February 25, 2016, 18:00:49
Haven't started anything yet!

I need to replace my raised beds so I can't really sow anything direct until I've got that sorted out...

I should get the propagator out though, just haven't got round to it yet. Keep getting distracted!
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Debs on February 25, 2016, 23:13:38
What a fantastic parcel!!
Thankyou to all 🙂

Debs  :icon_flower:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: pumkinlover on February 26, 2016, 07:16:44
Mine arrived yesterday too. Thank you very much to everyone involved :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Robert_Brenchley on February 27, 2016, 09:58:52
I'm OK, thanks. A lot better than I was. Have you any idea what variety of walking onion those are, JayB? The commonest seems to be Catawissa, you can't miss it as it grows about waist-high. Apparently it originated from land which had belonged to someone who was trying to breed an 'improved' version. The others can be a bit confusing, and names are sometimes disputed.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on February 27, 2016, 10:18:29
James Wong say that it was a great opportunity to get rind of that packet of seed you had in the back of a drawer for ages and get something really rare and special in return. Hmm........ missing the point there a bit Mr Wong  :sad3:


That is very 'wong' of him! But actually, he is not promoting seed saving and does not care about seed swaps being a success!  After all, if we all swapped, nobody would buy his seeds    :disgust: :BangHead:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: ruud on February 27, 2016, 14:38:30
Came back from the allotment and there was a pigeon from the u.k. with a package.So i know what i am doing this afternoon,looking what the pigeon brought me.Thanks everybody who has made this seedcircle a succes,happy gardening everybody.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: sparrow on February 27, 2016, 15:54:08
What are Minogue seeds?

I tried googling and had page after page of Nick Cave/Kylie Minogue results...
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: clumsy on February 27, 2016, 17:14:08
I'm also interesting to know what minogue. 
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on February 27, 2016, 17:59:48
I'm also interesting to know what minogue. 

Sparrow and Clumsy,
I originally received Minogue as a small clump of tightly packed 'spring onions' at first ever Potato Day at HDRA/GO Ryton.  Must be well over a decade ago.  Labelled as Multiplier Onion 'Minogue'.  The name is from a Mr Minogue, who grew and then donated a clump to the Heritage Seed Library.  The HSL could not pack them into seed packets and therefore distributed live plants at the seed swap that occurred at the same time as the Potato Day.

These 'onions' are used like spring onions.  They have small white bulbs which multiply prolifically.  1 1/2 cm diameter is a large one, newly multiplied offsets are smaller.  The foliage is flat like a leek, not hollow like true onions. 

After a discussion on this forum a couple of years ago, we came to the conclusion that Minogue is what is known in Germany/USA as a 'Perlzwiebel' aka Pearl Onion, a relative of leek.  As a rule mine don't often flower.  I have seen a flower once and removed it as I was saving seeds of a leek that year and I suspected that they might potentially cross (although HSL said they would not cross!). 

Robert had several flowers and got seeds from them this year.  I will be fascinated to see whether there will be differences in the Minogues from seed compared to those that are vegetatively multiplied.  In principle every allium benefits from being grown from seeds now and again in order to combat virus diseases.  Having said that, I see no deterioration in my clumps of Minogue at all and they don't have any of the usual onion problems (saying this very quietly and fingers crossed that the allium leaf miner will ignore them in future too).

Now comes the 'lets hope for' bit:  Every allium grown from seed may, but most likely will not, be a pure breeding variety.  This means that we get to select our Minogues from seed.  And the hope is that there will be a variant with either much larger onions or with much wider leaves like leeks.  There is a multiplier leek too and when I have propagated more plants than I have at the moment, I will add it to the seed circle (received from goodlife last year), but we can realistically hope that we might get Minogue pearl onions from seed that are more leek-like, yet haven't lost their ability to multiply like crazy.

Minogues are just perfect for the permaculture, low maintenance garden and very high yielding, because they multiply so rapidly.

I use mine chopped like chives, or let them bubble up just briefly in a sauce.  The tiny pearly white onions are used in pickling.  Or in salads, or with cottage cheese on baked potatoes, the uses are endless.  The bulbs look similar but are a different species from the normal white pickling onion, like Silverskin Onions. 

 :wave: 
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Silverleaf on February 28, 2016, 11:20:04
My Minogue onions have now multiplied enough that I'm going to allow myself to taste them!

In other exciting news, we got some free scaffolding boards from a local building site yesterday - enough to build 1.5 of the 3 beds I want - so it won't be long before I can start gardening again. :)
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Robert_Brenchley on February 28, 2016, 16:38:44
Google perlzweibel or perennial leek, which is what the call it in the US. Minogue fits perfectly. It's quite small, the size of a spring onion, and flowers reach about three feet, if it decides to produce any. Best treated like spring onion, only it stands better in winter..
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Robert_Brenchley on February 28, 2016, 16:41:43
Are the details of what went out this year online anywhere? I can't access the original site we used.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Robert_Brenchley on February 29, 2016, 09:35:33
I got to the site in the end. I have Sutherland Kale. There's one plant which has survived flowering last year - I find the odd perennial plant is common with some of these old varieties - so it'll be interesting to compare it with the mystery brassica. What's the parentage of Snookie? If anyone's got any more questions about the alliums, please ask, but you may find I know no more than you!
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Robert_Brenchley on February 29, 2016, 09:37:14
It's worth noting that I keep parsnip seed quite successfully in the freezer.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: martinburo on February 29, 2016, 16:43:08
I don't have a freezer, but purely out of curiosity, how many years is "quite successfully"?
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: martinburo on February 29, 2016, 16:51:54
Are the details of what went out this year online anywhere? I can't access the original site we used.
It's in a post by Jayb somewhere in this thread, more towards the end I think.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on March 01, 2016, 07:29:23
I'm so hoping to open my parcel thsi morning, sickness bug intervened previously, just as the parcel arrived!!!!!

Glad they have all been arriving ok, thanks to our wonderful postmistress Galina  :happy7:
 
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on March 01, 2016, 07:32:30
Thsi years seed parcel content, pictures and descriptions are here http://seedsaverscircle.org/seed-circle/a4a-seed-saver-group-2015/
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on March 01, 2016, 08:16:32
I'm so hoping to open my parcel thsi morning, sickness bug intervened previously, just as the parcel arrived!!!!!

Glad they have all been arriving ok, thanks to our wonderful postmistress Galina  :happy7:
 

Glad you got yours safely, Jayb.  Not nice to get struck down by this bug though. 

Only one parcel not yet reported as 'received' now.  :sunny:

A couple of people have sent 12 packets of each variety, which is great, thank you.  In case a packet does not make it, we can generate a spare.  Is everybody happy, if those spare seeds go into the next A4A seed swap parcel?  Unless of course they should still be needed to make up the last packet.   :wave:
 
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on March 01, 2016, 08:19:04
I don't have a freezer, but purely out of curiosity, how many years is "quite successfully"?

7 years and rising - and I have every intention to use your seeds this year, because mine are safely stored in the freezer and will last another 7 years or longer  :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on March 01, 2016, 08:32:16
Thsi years seed parcel content, pictures and descriptions are here http://seedsaverscircle.org/seed-circle/a4a-seed-saver-group-2015/

This blog is a collaborative effort.  Please help fill the gaps and tell us a little more about your varieties, why you liked them, special growing information and/or any photos you have taken.  Would you please either pm Jayb or me or post on here and we can transfer the information to the 'mini catalogue' pages.  I have also updated the list of everything that has been grown for the seed circles since 2010, and it has become a fabulous list of goodies  http://seedsaverscircle.org/seed-circle/a-z-of-varieties-shared-in-the-seed-circles/  :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: sparrow on March 01, 2016, 08:59:26
It's worth noting that I keep parsnip seed quite successfully in the freezer.

That's really good to know - will try that.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: sparrow on March 01, 2016, 09:01:19
Thanks also galina and Robert for the minogue info, I was very confused! :)
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: markfield rover on March 01, 2016, 12:27:58
I will post what I know about tomato Vince later today.
I've pinned all the packets iam going to sow onto a board , it really is quite an enviable collection.
The sun is out and I am eyeing up the onions.....
Galina if you need any spares please let me know.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Robert_Brenchley on March 01, 2016, 13:43:02
I don't have a freezer, but purely out of curiosity, how many years is "quite successfully"?

I don't know how long they'll last; I've kept them - and even Meconopsis, which needs to be planted really fresh - for several years, and nothing's shown any sign of deteriorating.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on March 01, 2016, 13:49:26
Ooooh lovely parcel  :sunny:
What a treat onions, tps, tomatoes, peas, beans, parsnips, ooh the dahlias too. Root parsnips, vegetable marrow, squashes, Asian courgette, so many things to get excited about and still more I've not mentioned. Big thanks to all contributing  :drunken_smilie:

A board sound a good idea, so far I've sorted my packets into sow now, shortly and those I'll have to put off for a little while. I'm going to write some labels later and hopefully feel up to planting/sowing a few things tomorrow  :toothy10:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: markfield rover on March 01, 2016, 14:58:45
It all started with a packet of seed from the HSL  clearly labelled Vince (tomato) so I googled and could not find any references so I contacted HSL  they said their source was John Yeomans  and they were sticking with Vince  - although  Jeannine  came up with a match and it's named Vincent ....... Galina kindly contacted John Yeoman  he confirmed the name Vince!!!
Looking at pictures of Vincent it does seem a good match.........so for me it is a yellow tomato which really believes it's a pepper and it so is..... It makes a good stuffer and cuts very small for salsa etc just like a pepper. Mild flavour - it's it texture that sets it above other tomatoes , not taste.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: earlypea on March 01, 2016, 16:04:28
Only one parcel not yet reported as 'received' now.  :sunny:

That must be me  :glasses9:

Safely received and now in a terrible, but lovely, dilemma about what to grow - so many things I didn't know I wanted!

Exciting stuff - thanks all.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on March 01, 2016, 16:20:46
Fabulous, glad both earlypea's and Jayb's were received and you both are enjoying your 'dilemma' of what to sow when and how to fit it all in  :tongue3: :sunny:

Markfield rover, the blog has been updated, thank you for info.   :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: sparrow on March 01, 2016, 18:22:05
It all started with a packet of seed from the HSL  clearly labelled Vince (tomato) so I googled and could not find any references so I contacted HSL  they said their source was John Yeomans  and they were sticking with Vince  - although  Jeannine  came up with a match and it's named Vincent ....... Galina kindly contacted John Yeoman  he confirmed the name Vince!!!
Looking at pictures of Vincent it does seem a good match.........so for me it is a yellow tomato which really believes it's a pepper and it so is..... It makes a good stuffer and cuts very small for salsa etc just like a pepper. Mild flavour - it's it texture that sets it above other tomatoes , not taste.

Just a small thing to add - Garden Organic have joined with a little nursery and are offering heritage tom plants as part of a 6 pack. One of them is Vince! :)

http://www.organicplants.co.uk/acatalog/Heritage_Seed_Library_Collection.html
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: ruud on March 01, 2016, 19:10:40
Second pigeon arrived today with a lovely package full of spuds and other tubers
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on March 02, 2016, 10:22:41
Second pigeon arrived today with a lovely package full of spuds and other tubers


Wow, that was more than we could have hoped for after reading about all the postal restrictions.  :sunny:  With hindsight we could have risked everything in one package, but if the tubers had not been approved, the seeds would have been lost too.  Very happy, you got your full share of all the goodies, Ruud :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on March 02, 2016, 11:00:00


Also the Lantern chilli seeds I added only germinated at around 60% when I did a test, so you may need to sow a few more than normal.

Into the propagator (not a classy temperature controlled one, just with a little bit of bottom heat) on the 24th of February when the first parcels arrived and today  the first 3 lantern chillis have popped up - don't think you've got anything to worry about there Jayb!  :sunny:

I'll probably have plants to give away and haven't even sown half the packet yet (which will go into the freezer in a jar with tight fitting lid and a few sachets of silica gel).  :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: clumsy on March 02, 2016, 11:23:47
Like galina the lantern chilli seeds are popping their heads, plus other chillies. These are the first things I sowed now still looking at other stuff to grow. I feel there's toooo many options in that parcel. Still trying to get my head around it.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: markfield rover on March 02, 2016, 16:11:30
Thanks sparrow, I had a quick look it's a shame there is no picture but me thinks Vince is the name to go by .
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on March 03, 2016, 07:10:43
Brilliant, glad Lantern are popping up, perhaps the airing cupboard isn't as warm as I thought! I managed to kill the ones I'd germinated, toasted them to a crisp  :BangHead:

Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Debs on March 04, 2016, 23:20:03
How hot are the lantern chillies
Ive googled for info but getting varied info.
What dishes do you use them in?

Debs    :icon_flower:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on March 05, 2016, 13:26:56
I find them hot hot, but then I don’t like things too hot, I’d use half to a whole one depending on the dish. I’m sure others would be happy to use more and I can imagine using more would give a nice flavour. To me a jalapeno is hot and Rocoto is hot hot hot!

I'm just popping a few Lemon Drop and Lantern seeds in the propagator  :blob7:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: earlypea on March 05, 2016, 17:24:34
Hi Galina and/or Jayb

I've sorted out photos and I'm attempting to write up info about the seeds I've put in this year to add to the seed circle pages.  My personal experience is one thing, but when I add history it is normally from a seed selling site (e.g. Tatiana's or Tomatofest etc).  Is it acceptable if I just cobble something together from various sources or do I need to quote them?  I don't see any other place I'd get the info.

Let me know, thanks -and I'll actually do it this year!  :drunken_smilie:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on March 05, 2016, 18:03:47
Great Earlypea, thank you. 

I often quote from various sources (and say where I got the information from).  Or I write the facts in my own words and may or may not add a url link so people can read more information if they like.  Unless it is all my own words about my own experiences (my 'intellectual property), I say where it came from.

If you are telling us your own experiences, for example how you grew your varieties on your plot, how big they grew and how they tasted in your kitchen or why you chose that particular variety in the first place and whether they were easy or difficult to grow, plant spacing etc - all this is obviously your own intellectual property.  Even if it happens to be similar information to something that could be read up on Tatiana's etc.  Hope this all makes sense.

Great stuff - looking forward to updating the blog with your information (or Jayb will, whoever gets to it first).  :wave:

Hi Galina and/or Jayb

I've sorted out photos and I'm attempting to write up info about the seeds I've put in this year to add to the seed circle pages.  My personal experience is one thing, but when I add history it is normally from a seed selling site (e.g. Tatiana's or Tomatofest etc).  Is it acceptable if I just cobble something together from various sources or do I need to quote them?  I don't see any other place I'd get the info.

Let me know, thanks -and I'll actually do it this year!  :drunken_smilie:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Robert_Brenchley on March 05, 2016, 20:57:27
How do I sign in to the seed circle site?
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on March 05, 2016, 22:30:51
How do I sign in to the seed circle site?
to read:  http://seedsaverscircle.org/seed-circle/a4a-seed-saver-group-2015/
to add your own updates you need to be given a password by Jayb.

Happy to update for you Robert, if you post text either here or as pm.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on March 08, 2016, 10:41:48
How do I sign in to the seed circle site?

I'm not sure how many people I can add on to edit, but while I work it out, as Galina suggest you can either add it here or pm me or Galina with the info and we'll update the list.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Robert_Brenchley on March 08, 2016, 18:22:58
I'll sort something out as soon as I can. It's unlikely to be today, but I'm not working Thursday and it'll be easier then.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on March 10, 2016, 08:53:33
 :happy7:
I'll sort something out as soon as I can. It's unlikely to be today, but I'm not working Thursday and it'll be easier then.

Great
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on March 10, 2016, 08:54:38
First Lemon Drop and Lantern showing through. Lemon Grass is coming through too.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: markfield rover on March 10, 2016, 17:02:48
Litchi tomatoes are making an appearance  :wave: really looking forward to these, may even pop em into a summer cocktail! Cheers.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on March 10, 2016, 18:52:23
Litchi tomatoes are making an appearance  :wave: really looking forward to these, may even pop em into a summer cocktail! Cheers.

Great stuff! - my plants (I think) may have survived winter in the greenhouse, some leaves were killed by frost, but others still look green.  I am really hopeful for a second year, but just in case, the rest of my original packet is in the propagator and a couple are up too.  :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Robert_Brenchley on March 10, 2016, 19:32:01
I've just planted the oca, in the only three really big pots I had free. I don't really know what size pot it needs, but I've given it plenty of space, and I'm hoping they'll produce seed for me!
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on March 10, 2016, 20:32:30
Litchi tomatoes are making an appearance  :wave: really looking forward to these, may even pop em into a summer cocktail! Cheers.

Great stuff! - my plants (I think) may have survived winter in the greenhouse, some leaves were killed by frost, but others still look green.  I am really hopeful for a second year, but just in case, the rest of my original packet is in the propagator and a couple are up too.  :wave:

Mine look to be overwintering ok in a cold greenhouse, they did start to flower about a month ago, but then we had a frost. I noticed today they have some more buds forming so they must be quite happy, or very stressed! I've not sown any seeds, I'm hoping my plants will come through ok, but it's good to have a back up if needed.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on March 10, 2016, 20:48:26
I've just planted the oca, in the only three really big pots I had free. I don't really know what size pot it needs, but I've given it plenty of space, and I'm hoping they'll produce seed for me!

I'll be interested to follow your progress  and how they do in pots, the ones I put in were really quite vigorous growers, I did have several plants which were much shorter and tidier growing, with tubers closely placed. A type like this may be a more suitable for growing in pots/containers. Many of the varieties I grew last year flowered and set seed so you have every chance with the trial ones.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: sparrow on March 11, 2016, 19:09:16
I've had really good results with pot-grown oca. If it goes in early in the year. Later tub-grown ones don't seem to bulk up very much.

Have just planted my walking onions and Babington's leek bulbils - really looking forward to 'em.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Silverleaf on March 12, 2016, 02:33:46
Last year I didn't have enough room for all the oca I wanted to grow, so the extras sat around in little pots for months. I only planted them out once I'd made space by harvesting early potatoes.

They actually did fine, so I'm going to do the same this year rather than giving them their own dedicated area. Space is really tight for me!
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on March 13, 2016, 12:12:41
The first tiny Minogue seedling is up, well 'up' is an overstatement, there is just the tiniest bit of green showing.   :sunny:

I am really excited by these and their potential.   :wave:

Several of the tomatoes just sprang up after 3-4 days, so good to be caring for baby plants again.   :sunny:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Robert_Brenchley on March 13, 2016, 18:03:40
Great; none of mine is up yet. Some of the Green Mountain is showing, but that's all apart from the Allium christophii I planted in the autumn. Only two of the Green Mountain I planted last year have survived, thanks to a fox digging my seedlings up, but they're staying firmly in pots this year!
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on March 15, 2016, 10:35:04
Robert, a second one has germinated   :sunny:

Ruud,  I have just read up on the Swedish Brown bean.  A very traditional bean apparently, but I can't find out for definite whether it is a dwarf or a climbing French bean.  I think dwarf?

Also I have tried to learn more about 'Hungarian Orange pepper' and 'Pumpkin from Marocco', but Google did not help either.

I have found information about tomato Crimson Cushion.  Sounds like it is a really good beefsteak variety.
http://store.tomatofest.com/Beefsteak_Heirloom_Tomato_Seeds_p/tf-0044.htm

Could you please tell us a little about your varieties?  Or do you have any photos?   :wave: 
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on March 15, 2016, 10:44:28

Mine look to be overwintering ok in a cold greenhouse, they did start to flower about a month ago, but then we had a frost. I noticed today they have some more buds forming so they must be quite happy, or very stressed! I've not sown any seeds, I'm hoping my plants will come through ok, but it's good to have a back up if needed.

Goodness Jayb, it must be a lot warmer where you are.  My plants had the tops frosted off but several leaves lower down on the plants are looking green and hopefully growing.  The stems seem to have thickened quite a bit, but they are a long way from flowering.  It is not quite like they are resprouting from the base, but not far off. 

Here is to earlier Litchi tomato fruits!  :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: ruud on March 16, 2016, 18:15:44
Hi galina swedis brown variety one bot is a dwarf.It is a commen dry bean in schweden just in soups and cassaroles.http://www.heirloomtomatoes.bizland.com/Bean,%20Dry%20-%20Swedish%20Brown.jpg.The pumpkin i got the seeds from a friend who has been to marocco and collected them there from a local pumpkin variety.They taste great sweet and great for making pumpkinsoup.hungarian orange pepper i also got grom a swap.Last year i got two pepperplants loaded with orange peppers.The peppers are not to hot just right for in the kitchen.https://www.google.nl/search?q=hungarian+carrot+pepper&espv=2&biw=1024&bih=643&tbm=isch&imgil=IHTud9zJ
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on March 16, 2016, 22:50:44
Thank you for all the info Ruud, very helpful  :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on March 17, 2016, 08:19:19
Goodness Jayb, it must be a lot warmer where you are.  My plants had the tops frosted off but several leaves lower down on the plants are looking green and hopefully growing.  The stems seem to have thickened quite a bit, but they are a long way from flowering.  It is not quite like they are resprouting from the base, but not far off. 

Here is to earlier Litchi tomato fruits!  :wave:

We've not had many frosts this year, a light touch the last few mornings though. Fleece seems to have kept the Litcchi protected well enough. Some of the cape gooseberies in the poly-tunnel are looking quite good too and I picked a few fruit the other day, yum!
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: Jayb on March 17, 2016, 08:21:54
Ruud, your Hungarian orange peppers sound lovely, I haven't sown any but now I'm thinking I should. How tall do they grow?
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: markfield rover on March 17, 2016, 08:26:26
All the onions are up! Exciting mornings!
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: galina on March 17, 2016, 09:42:11

. Some of the cape gooseberies in the poly-tunnel are looking quite good too and I picked a few fruit the other day, yum!

Polytunnel  a n d  climate envy here   :tongue3: .  If I didn't know that the downside to your maritime climate is greater susceptibility to blight, I'd move!  :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015
Post by: ruud on March 17, 2016, 16:28:35
one meter was the biggest plant in my greenhouse but most of them are knee high jayb
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015 and growing progress
Post by: Jayb on March 21, 2016, 09:16:55

. Some of the cape gooseberies in the poly-tunnel are looking quite good too and I picked a few fruit the other day, yum!

Polytunnel  a n d  climate envy here   :tongue3: .  If I didn't know that the downside to your maritime climate is greater susceptibility to blight, I'd move!  :wave:

There's always a downside and LB is a pretty big stinger, but I do love it here.
Lol be great if you did move, think of all that growing chat, swapping plants and seeds, tomato tastings!
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015 and growing progress
Post by: Jayb on March 21, 2016, 09:18:42
one meter was the biggest plant in my greenhouse but most of them are knee high jayb

Thanks Ruud that helps, I'll sow some this afternoon.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015 and growing progress
Post by: Silverleaf on March 21, 2016, 18:00:48

. Some of the cape gooseberies in the poly-tunnel are looking quite good too and I picked a few fruit the other day, yum!

Polytunnel  a n d  climate envy here   :tongue3: .  If I didn't know that the downside to your maritime climate is greater susceptibility to blight, I'd move!  :wave:

There's always a downside and LB is a pretty big stinger, but I do love it here.
Lol be great if you did move, think of all that growing chat, swapping plants and seeds, tomato tastings!

You should both move near me instead! Never seen blight here. (Now I've said that it'll probably arrive this year...)
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015 and growing progress
Post by: Jayb on March 28, 2016, 10:31:37
You're so lucky with that. Yes being near would be great  :happy7:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015 and growing progress
Post by: Jayb on March 28, 2016, 10:38:36
First of the Cinnamon vine are poking through. I've no idea where I'm going to plant them though, I already have one in the poly-tunnel?

Lemon grass and chillies are doing great, still under lights.

Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015 and growing progress
Post by: markfield rover on April 08, 2016, 08:56:00
Oca looking pretty..litchi toms coming along nicely and as for the F3 parsnips if I had asked them politely they would have germinated ,as the packet was so generous I have shared with others who usually have problems with snips ,they will not with these super seeds.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015 and growing progress
Post by: galina on April 08, 2016, 21:00:51
The Minogues from seed are looking bonny - they will need moving up soon.   :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015 and growing progress
Post by: Robert_Brenchley on April 11, 2016, 17:45:32
Mine are looking good as well. I think I put in white potato onion as well; has anyone had any luck with that? Mine aren't showing. They may just be slow though. Last year, I planted some everlasting onion seed, and one came up after several weeks. This year, it's still pretty thin, but it's germinating a lot better than that.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015 and growing progress
Post by: Debs on April 20, 2016, 17:44:18
Jayb,
Plaza Latina Giant Green - How big do they grow & how do you use them?
I've never grown or eaten them😳

Debs   :icon_flower:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015 and growing progress
Post by: Jayb on April 21, 2016, 11:17:01
They grow to around 3' or so, but make a bush rather than a cordon and they do need a bit of staking/tying in as they like to spread out. You need 2 plants for to set fruit as they are not self compatible.

I must admit as much as I love growing Tomatillos, I'm probably not that adventurous and I use them mainly for Mexican type dishes. They are sooo good in raw or cooked salsas (use instead of tomatoes) a lovely combination with limes, chillies and coriander. The are stunning in sauce verde and add a lovely crispy bite to salads and sarnies. They cook down to a mush, so useful amongst a sauce for meat or veggie dishes. I like adding some along with cherry tomatoes to roasting summer veg about half way through cooking, makes it taste that little bit different. Great cooked in chilli con carne type dishes and useful in curries if you want to bulk up the sauce, more a background here than adding tomatillo taste.

They can be picked when still firm and green, like this they hold their shape a bit better when cooked and are a little sharper. If you leave them to ripen they become a paler green and the flesh changes texture a bit and has a nice mellow sweetness to it, lovely raw.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015 and growing progress
Post by: Debs on April 21, 2016, 14:01:31
Sounds lovely - have sown seeds so finger crossed!
Debs :icon_flower:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015 and growing progress
Post by: Debs on April 23, 2016, 13:59:47
progress to date ...

Root parsley have germinated very successfully so no need for any worries there early pea!!
Oca - all 3 growing nicely
Paul Robeson sowed 2, 1 has germinated
Babblington leeks just beginning to poke through
Flat white boer squash sowed 2, both growing well
Marjoram coming through nicely
Tomatoes:
Medovaya Kaplya 2 out of 3 germinated & growing nicely
Crimson crush - potted on & doing well
Delicious - potted on & doing well

Potatoes:
Alouette, Highland B.R., & snookie only recently planted, nothing showing yet

Must get sowing other things, although only have garden to grow in so need to try not to get carried away!!

*seed circle 2016*
Will grow both cavolo Nero & broccoli 'Italian sprouting green' but will keep one at mums to avoid crossover problems😉

Debs   :icon_flower:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015 and growing progress
Post by: galina on May 09, 2016, 08:33:28
Mine are looking good as well. I think I put in white potato onion as well; has anyone had any luck with that? Mine aren't showing. They may just be slow though. Last year, I planted some everlasting onion seed, and one came up after several weeks. This year, it's still pretty thin, but it's germinating a lot better than that.

Nothing on the white potato onion front yet, Robert.  The Minogues are planted out and looking good.  So far they all look quite similar - up to 5 inches tall with a couple of leaves.  They have made the transition into the ground without problem.  :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015 and growing progress
Post by: Robert_Brenchley on May 09, 2016, 23:36:10
I've got a few things in, but alliums and TPS are the only ones which are up so far. Time to plant a few more things given the better weather! Unfortunately I've just been put on some blood pressure medication which has been making me feel terrible (it is getting a little better) and I haven't been fit to get to the plot for days.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015 and growing progress
Post by: earlypea on May 10, 2016, 08:53:18
Root parsley have germinated very successfully so no need for any worries there early pea!!

Debs   :icon_flower:

Good to hear  :wave:  Actually I'm going to change my 'entry' on the taste of those. I think what I wrote came from books.  When I was actually eating them it occurred to me that they don't taste like parsley at all, but much better.  Anyway, I'm thinking how to describe that.  P.S. Just like parsnips the flavour doesn't fully develop until after frosts.  Before that they're bland.

My sowing progress.  I have two very sturdy litchi tomatoes several inches tall, about ready to go out.  Both the yellow varieties of tomatoes are doing well as a second tomato batch, a few inches tall now, one with a drip end and the pear-shaped one.  (sorry, been without a computer for a month and too much to catch up on to look up actual names).

The Black popping chickpeas are out on the plot and starting to grow - had a bit of trouble with mouldy germination, but at least half came out OK.

I'm going to do oca as a second crop because I'm not sure they're to my taste after last year's so they're potted up to go in after my early potatoes.

..and Skagit Magic germinated well, but I'm only growing two plants on - space is tight, tight, tight.

I've planted the little yellow fingerling potato - no signs yet, but it looks unusual so Im looking forward to it.

All exciting stuff  :tongue3:

Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015 and growing progress
Post by: sparrow on May 10, 2016, 09:57:40
Galina, this is really for 2014 circle, but I just wanted to rave a little bit about the cara la virgen beans. They are just beautiful, both to look at and to eat - right up there with Cherokee ToT for me. Am growing lots this year - they are so very productive!

I've just sown my giant achocha and red swan beans  :icon_cheers: and am potting up oca for putting in under Crimson Crush tomatoes later this month.

Root parsley is going in later this week with salsify - love the flavour of both so am so happy to have fresh seeds.  :blob7:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015 and growing progress
Post by: galina on May 10, 2016, 11:02:50
I am so pleased for you.  Sometimes a varieties likes it in a location and everything is 'just so' with wonderful results.  And the opposite can also happen.  Whereas commercial seed packets try to offer the most widely adapted varieties, in this circle we have many that are not.  I guess what comes from my garden is probably quite tough and cold resistant, because it has to be.  To hear that it is a new favourite definitely raises a big smile. 

I often wonder how relevant all the vegetable trials done at Wisley by the RHS actually are.  I wish they chose somewhere with alkaline clay soil in a colder climate part of the UK to supplement their Wisley tests and come up with the real winners. 

Thank you for this report, Sparrow, to know that a good 'un here is also a good 'un with you, is fab.  :wave:

Galina, this is really for 2014 circle, but I just wanted to rave a little bit about the cara la virgen beans. They are just beautiful, both to look at and to eat - right up there with Cherokee ToT for me. Am growing lots this year - they are so very productive!
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015 and growing progress
Post by: galina on July 05, 2016, 12:37:47
 Very nearly time to choose between the Multiplier Onion Minogue (aka pearl onion) from seed.  They are actually all quite similar and differences are quite subtle.  :wave:

Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015 and growing progress
Post by: Debs on August 10, 2016, 00:46:35
With the varied weather and my north east location, things have been sooo slow to grow, however the Oca, root parsley and flat white boer squash are doing really well growing in my garden

Debs
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015 and growing progress
Post by: Silverleaf on August 11, 2016, 13:45:33
I have a good number of Telephone peas drying so I'm definitely going to add them to this year's circle. :)
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015 and growing progress
Post by: galina on August 12, 2016, 06:34:53
I have a good number of Telephone peas drying so I'm definitely going to add them to this year's circle. :)

Nice one.  Good pea.  How tall did they get this year?  :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015 and growing progress
Post by: Silverleaf on August 15, 2016, 14:46:49
About 7', fairly standard for Telephone!
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015 and growing progress
Post by: Debs on August 18, 2016, 07:20:27
Flat white boer squash are fruiting well and growing beside round Asian courgettes, but it's beginning to look like a jungle.
How do I know when they're both ready to harvest, as it's a first time for growing these...

Debs.  :icon_flower:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015 and growing progress
Post by: sparrow on August 18, 2016, 13:43:18
As far as flat whites go, wait for the skin to go hard and the stem and tendrils to die back.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015 and growing progress
Post by: galina on August 23, 2016, 23:20:31
Just wanted to mention that we are harvesting the first of the Litchi tomatoes.  Not from plants sown this spring, but from last year's plant which survived in the greenhouse (unheated).  They looked really terrible and most of the leaves were frosted off, but they are now earlier than last year.  Apparently they often survive in an unheated greenhouse if winters are not really cold, so it is always worth leaving the plants.

A hint - the flowers can be a little tricky to set, but with a slight 'jiggle' now and then if there are few insects about makes them set fruit reliably.  :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015 and growing progress
Post by: martinburo on September 27, 2016, 22:04:54
Did last year's circle include a non-sweet multicolored mais? I can't see them on:
http://seedsaverscircle.org/seed-circle/a4a-seed-saver-group-2015/
but I don't know where else I would have gotten them from.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015 and growing progress
Post by: markfield rover on October 01, 2016, 12:14:22
That rings a bell, was it the year before? I think jayb put in some ..was there glass in the title ? I'll check my many ,many tins ...could be some time!
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015 and growing progress
Post by: markfield rover on October 01, 2016, 12:17:28
Looks like it was 2013, Jayb , glass gem corn ..I think.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015 and growing progress
Post by: clumsy on October 05, 2016, 18:33:02
Harvesting some of the chilli, they were lantern.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015 and growing progress
Post by: galina on October 10, 2016, 11:50:42
Lovely coloured pepper, looking really healthy, Clumsy.  Did you have two different shapes or are they two different peppers?

I had to laugh comparing tomato Delhi to pepper Piquante.  They look exactly the same, apart from the size.  I had not realised that Delhi is a stuffing tomato.   :wave:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015 and growing progress
Post by: clumsy on October 10, 2016, 15:41:16
Two different types the small ones are lanterns and the big ones are Hungarian Orange.
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015 and growing progress
Post by: galina on October 10, 2016, 15:59:12
Ahh!  I haven't grown the Hungarian Orange this year, definitely something to look forward to.  Thanks for showing us, Clumsy  :wave:

I have one fruit of Lantern Chili so far and hope to overwinter the plants (have just today moved them from the greenhouse to a windowsill and trimmed them up a bit.  Fingers crossed they will get through winter and produce much more next year. 

My Piquante plant is now 4 years old, but it had fewer fruits this year than last.  Probably time to sow again next year. 
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015 and growing progress
Post by: earlypea on December 27, 2016, 15:20:25
Greetings.

I have been looking in from time to time and always meant to post progress, but there have been too many distractions and interruptions this year.

Anyway, I just wanted to say thanks to the providers of the seeds, I grew a fair few from 2015's batch.

Blue Coco and Lazy Housewife - both doing well EVENTUALLY on account of the dismal mid-early summer.  Blue Coco adding another to my purple French repertoire (can always grow another) was exceptionally prolific and consumed well at all stages.  Lazy Housewife, one I've always intended to try, delightful for the perfect white egg-shaped beans. 

Parsnip F3 did a stirling job against all the odds.  I sowed that and my usual Tender and True a few days before my plot flooded and I was amazed to see the F3s finally appearing (none of the others managed).

Most of the tomatoes I tried from the list were also thwarted by the floods, but Medovaya Kaplya recovered and thrived and was deemed a well-flavoured one and good-looking too.

All of my potatoes were rubbish because of the ark weather including Snookie.

I grew two Litchi tomatoes, which were a fabulous flourish on my plot and much, much bigger than I'd imagined.  They were blooming until late November with an enormous spread of at least a metre each.  I didn't enjoy the fruit at all though - maybe better grown in a greenhouse.  Again, strange weather - I suspect the temperatures were all-round too low.

Also totally enjoyed growing two Skagit Magic from seed - the flowers were quite astounding and went on forever, but harvested about two pips.  (not a good potato year on my plot).  I didn't feel they were worth saving for next year's production.  But totally gorgeous to grow.  I wouldn't have missed it.

I should also mention the extraordinary Vegetable Mallow specimen that volunteered itself as the winter squashes had set fruit and were ripening in late August/early September.  Realseeds says they should grow to around 5 foot, but this was nearly 8 foot in very rich soil, still edible, and growing until early December.  It looked like a tree.  (It was me who put the seeds in the share for this, but thought I'd mention it's not exactly as described).
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015 and growing progress
Post by: galina on August 24, 2017, 12:16:02
Just harvesting lovely yellow peppers 'Vince' - oops!  I meant to say tomatoes Vince  :tongue3:  :icon_cheers: :icon_cheers:
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015 and growing progress
Post by: galina on September 14, 2018, 09:31:20
Just an update on tomato Vince.  Have grown them last year and they are indeed very strange and more like a pepper, but easier to grow.  Thank you for the seeds.

The donor to HSL was Dr John Yeoman of the now long closed Gardening Guild, who guarded so many heritage varieties that found a new home at HSL when he could no longer garden.  Here they are still being maintained and further distributed. 

Looking at Auntie Madges tomato in the garden, one of the varieties he was very fond of, I suddenly thought that I had not heard from John in a long time.  Sadly, he has passed away and is tending his heirloom garden beyond.  And his other interests.  Amazon published a really fitting author's bio: 

About John Yeoman
Dr John Yeoman, PhD Creative Writing, is a total rogue. His first adventure when leaving Oxford university with an MA in English literature was to host a witchcraft cabaret in a London cellar. This so enchanted him with devilry that he took up a career in public relations. Across 42 years he has edited a newspaper, chaired a big PR consultancy and trained several thousands of people to write for fame, fun and occasionally fortune.

For fifteen years he ran Britain's largest self-publishing business and earned up to $1.4 million annually from his own living room. (Oh, thou of little faith! If you're sceptical, send him a nice email and he'll point you to its accounts at Companies House.)

He founded Writers' Village in 2009, now one of the world's largest short fiction contests. It's no coincidence that its blog is titled the Wicked Writing Blog and it hosts guest posts every week from every best-selling author who is not ashamed to show their face there.

He lives in central England with his wife Celia, a dynasty of children and a tortoise. His passions include Jacobethan literature, heirloom vegetable gardening and antique wines.

The villain should properly be addressed as Dr John Yeoman, MA Oxon, MA (Res), MPhil, PhD, FSRS. But you didn't want to know that, did you? Quite right. After all, in the time you've wasted reading his biography here you could have been enjoying his novels (also here) which are triumphs of entertainment. 

https://www.amazon.com/John-Yeoman/e/B00PFWSYO2/ref=dp_byline_cont_ebooks_1
https://terrynelsonauthor.com/2016/08/26/who-was-dr-john-yeoman-and-what-he-did-for-writers/

RIP John!  And thank you for all the seeds and correspondence.   :sunny: 


Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015 and growing progress
Post by: pumkinlover on September 14, 2018, 09:35:11
What an interesting person to have made the acquaintance of!
Title: Re: Seed Sharing Circle 2015 and growing progress
Post by: galina on September 14, 2018, 09:40:58
What an interesting person to have made the acquaintance of!

Sadly never in person.  :wave:
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