Alaska Seeds

Alaska’s Bountiful 2023 Seed Season: Rain, Cold, and Dozens of New Varieties!

This year, we’ve seen a particularly unique seed season. Despite our colder temperatures and frequent rain showers, 2023 has been astonishingly productive for us. I’m thrilled to share that we will be introducing over two dozen new varieties of Alaska grown seeds. 

We understand the joy and excitement of planting a seed, nurturing it, and watching it grow. It’s a connection to nature, a therapeutic hobby, and for many, a way of life. We are so excited to be a part of your gardening journey and can’t wait to share these new varieties with you.

If you’re eager to get a head start on next year’s planting season or just curious about what’s coming, keep an eye on our website and social media channels. We’ll be unveiling these Alaska grown seeds very soon. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, this seed season promises to be one of the most exciting yet.

Alaska Seeds

The ecological relationship between seed and soil is like a symphony; there are natural cues that promote germination. One of the major cues is moisture level! When the conditions are right, the seed will follow its own instinct and begin to swell. Once the seed coat is soft and moist the new seedling erupts into life. The germination time for seeds varies greatly depending on the species. Some seeds can take years for germination (peonies) and others germinate in less than three days (cabbage family). We can use a mechanical force to speed the germination time (soaking). Large seeds with hard coats (sunflowers, honeywort, peas, beans, corn and sweet peas) will appreciate a longer soaking- up to 24 hours. Larger seeds with softer coats such as pumpkins, squash, chard, beets, nasturtium and cucumber are perfect to soak overnight. Small seeds like lettuce, radish, carrots and tomatoes can become mushy and sticky if soaked too long (15-30 min) is appropriate. Find a shallow bowl, place your seeds and top with water. Set away from pets, kids and spouses out of direct sunlight and in a warm location. Warm water is best but any water will do (what would nature do). Once seeds have soaked and swelled…it is time to plant! Follow your seed packet guidelines for planting depth or reference our write up: https://seedsandsoilorganics.com/…/seed-starting-simply/ When in doubt…ask the question: What would nature do? Shop Seeds: https://seedsandsoilorganics.com/product-category/shop-seeds/save-on-seed-bundles/

Alaska Seeds-My journey to seed from the soil

I started saving seeds about 10 years ago from various plants on my landscape. I was fascinated by the life cycle of perennial plants. I started to allow cultivated varieties to continue to seed in the fall and I fell in love. After taking a Master Gardener course, then a Permaculture Design Course and a Permaculture Teaching certification, countless books, lectures and podcasts I realized none of my studies prepared me for actually growing to seed in mass… It has been nature that has been my greatest teacher and in fact has taught me everything I know about growing seed. To grow mixed vegetables, flowers and herbs seeds in the far North takes tenacity, resilience and the acceptance of failure. I have lost hundreds of feet of biennial crops in their second year- year after year since 2019.  Yet, the successes outshine the failures and it has taken ingenuity, innovation and sheer will power to continue to grow to seed in one of the most challenging and unreliable climates in agriculture on Earth. There are many times I want to give up, throw in the towel and find another passion/profession. 2022 was one of the most challenging years as we received 7” of rain just when the seed was drying on the crops. After almost two years of effort for a seed variety to not mature is near heartbreak.  Here I am though, showing up another season with optimism, courage and an unbreakable spirit regardless of the circumstances that may arise.  Loss has taught me the lesson of gratitude.  Please know that everytime you purchase seeds from us, you are supporting Alaskan Agriculture and a spirit of hard work, strength and creativity.

From Seed to Seed: Alaska Seeds

Seeds:

Our seeds are Heirloom (a seed passed down through generations) and/or open pollinated (pollinated naturally).

Our seed packets are printed locally in Anchorage, Alaska

Seeds ship within 3-5 business days.

Save big on our custom seed blends. Twice as nice with 2 varieties per packet…enjoy the savings: https://seedsandsoilorganics.com/product-category/shop-seeds/alaska-seed-blends/

The very best savings for our curated seed bundles: https://seedsandsoilorganics.com/product-category/shop-seeds/save-on-seed-bundles/

Shop seeds for your cool weather garden

https://seedsandsoilorganics.com/product-category/shop-seeds/

How we grow:

What does it mean to be an “ecological farm”? We do not use any pesticides, herbicides, fungicides (organic or inorganic), single use plastics to grow our seeds, vegetables, flowers, herbs, roots, tubers and bulbs. Our growing spaces are ecologies in which all aspects of the system are honored.

Our focus is minimal soil disturbance without tillage…meticulous care of the soil.

We are a small and “by hand” farm- a family business. We do not have the liability insurance for farm tours, volunteers, work trades, farm pickups or visits. Thank you so very much for your interest.

Alaska’s Seed Story: The Art and Science of Regional Adaptation Stepping into the world of seed saving is like stepping into a dance. A dance with Mother Nature, where she leads and we follow. This dance has led me down a path of discovery and wonder, particularly when it comes to the concept of regional adaptation of seeds. And folks, there’s no better place to learn this intricate dance than here, in the far-flung reaches of Alaska. You see, the idea of regional adaptation is all about matching the seed to the soil, the plant to the place. It’s about understanding that the seeds that thrive best in our gardens are those that have adapted to the rhythm of our seasons, the nuances of our climate, and the specific challenges of our region. So, how does this play out in Alaska, you ask? Well, it’s a tale of resilience, patience, and a dash of stubbornness. Alaska’s extreme conditions – the long, harsh winters, short summers, and unpredictable weather – require seeds of a different kind. We need plants that can handle the frosty bite of a cold spring morning and still bloom with all the gusto of a midsummer day. Plants that can race against the clock to germinate, grow, and go to seed all within our blink-and-you-miss-it growing season. And let’s not forget about the long daylight hours in the heart of summer. We need plants that are day-neutral, not put off by the sun hanging around longer than it does in most other places. It’s a tall order, but you know what? I’ve found that nature is up to the challenge. Over the years, I’ve seen plants that initially struggled gradually become stronger, more robust, more… Alaskan. It’s like they’ve learned to dance to the beat of our unique drum. But let me tell you, it’s not a quick process. It takes years, often decades, of careful observation and selection. It’s about noting which plants do well and saving their seeds, year after year. It’s about embracing the failures, learning from them, and then rolling up your sleeves and getting back to work. Sure, there have been moments of frustration. Times when I’ve looked at a field of failed crops and thought about calling it quits. But then, I remember the successes. The plants that shrugged off a late frost, the ones that produced a bountiful harvest despite an early fall, the seeds that germinated despite a cold, wet spring. Those are the moments that fuel my passion for seed saving. So, next time you sow a seed, take a moment to appreciate the journey it’s been on. If it’s an Alaskan seed, know that it carries within it the spirit of this land. It’s more than just a seed; it’s a tiny bundle of resilience, adaptability, and tenacity.

Please review the seven years of information, tips, handouts, photos and fun here:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lazymountainalaska

and

Instagram: @seedsandsoilfarm

and TikTok: @seedsandsoilfarmalaska and YouTube: @seedsandsoilfarm

We are so grateful for each and every purchase. Thank you for choosing us and supporting ecological farming and gardening.

Alaska Seeds: Food Forests in the North

Unlock the Secrets of Northern Food Forests! 

Discover the art of sustainable gardening right in your backyard. Introducing our FREE guide tailored for the northern gardener. Dive into the world of permaculture design, regenerative agriculture, and secure your food future.

Learn how to cultivate a food forest that thrives in the north.  Unearth sustainable techniques that nurture both the soil and soul.  Ensure your family’s food security with nature’s bounty.

And if you’re inspired to kickstart your own food forest, explore our curated collection of resilient seeds, perfect for northern climates: https://seedsandsoilorganics.com/shop-alaska-seeds/

Let’s grow the future, together.

[Click here to access your FREE guide and nurture nature.]

Unlocking the Ultimate Garden with a Free In-Depth Planner

When it comes to cultivating a thriving garden, the old saying goes: “Fail to plan, and you plan to fail.” It’s not just about plunging your hands into the earth and hoping for the best. It’s about a synergy of planning, understanding, and nurturing. For both seasoned gardeners and novices alike, having a dedicated garden planner can make all the difference. And guess what? We’ve found the ultimate tool to elevate your gardening game – a comprehensive, in-depth garden planner that’s absolutely free! I started working on a planner and came across one that was already complete. I purchased the commercial use and want to share with every grower who would like some additional organization.

Your Garden’s Blueprint: What’s Inside?

This isn’t just any ordinary planner. Spanning over 75 pages, this is a meticulously designed guide tailored for every gardener’s needs. Let’s dive into some of its standout features:

• Garden Layout Sheets: Map out your vision. From raised beds to container gardens, sketch your ideas, organize plant placements, and visualize the end result.
• Cataloging Perennials: A dedicated space to jot down details about your perennials – their names, bloom periods, preferred light conditions, and more.
• Watering Schedules: Never second-guess watering again. Whether you’re dealing with succulents or vegetables, the planner provides schedules to ensure optimum hydration.
• Monthly, Weekly, and Daily Plans: Stay on track with dedicated pages for long-term and short-term tasks.

Why Go for a Printable Planner?

In today’s digital age, why opt for a printable planner? There’s an unmistakable charm and efficiency in penning down your plans. It’s tactile, personal, and often offers a deeper connection to the task at hand.

Plus, you can pin these sheets up in your garden shed, use them as a reference when you’re out in the garden, or even share them with fellow gardeners. And since it’s printable, you can use it year after year, refining your plans and growing alongside your garden.

Your Garden Deserves the Best

While the beauty of a garden lies in its blooms, the soul is in its plan. A well-thought-out strategy ensures that you’re not just planting seeds but cultivating memories. This free in-depth garden planner is more than just a tool; it’s a companion, guiding you at every step and ensuring that your garden is not just good, but truly great.

So, for everyone with green fingers (or those aspiring to have them!), grab this chance to get your hands on this fantastic free garden planner. Turn your gardening dreams into a living, blooming reality. Happy gardening! 🌱🌸

Click this link for access: https://seedsandsoilorganics.com/product/free-garden-planner-printable/