D. Landreth Seed Company

Since 1784 – that’s a crazy 217 years – the D. Landreth Seed Company (New Freedom, PA) has been providing its customers with one of the most extensive selections of fine lawn and garden seeds in the world. The founders introduced into the United States some of the most beloved flowers and vegetables known today including the zinnia, the white potato, various tomatoes, and Bloomsdale spinach. They are the oldest seed house and the fifth oldest continuously operated business in the United States. The company is passionate in its quest for excellence in quality, service and innovation.

Today, the firm is in deep financial trouble and may have to close. If that would happen it would be a serious blow to everyone – whether they understand the impact or not. Personnel from the Smithsonian say that Landreth’s bound catalogs may be the only collection of its kind in the world – a historical journey from 1839 to present day telling the story of America’s journey in history in agriculture and horticulture.

In order to dig their way out of the financial hole the company is currently promoting the purchase of their 2012 seed catalog ($5). It is more than a seed catalog as it contains data from their library of catalogs and tons of history information about the flowers, herbs and vegetables we eat. Time is of the essence. They must raise this money QUICKLY. If you are inclined, please listen to a public radio piece that aired this week HERE to hear more on this. Then if you decide to order a catalog, place your order HERE.

D. Landreth was the ONLY seed company I could find that offered a favorite bean of mine: a European heirloom purple pole bean called “Purple Peacock”. If you are what you eat, I’d be a purple pole bean, at least while they are in season. Or an ear of sweet corn. Or a watermelon. It’s a toss-up.

Ohio Gardening with Melinda Myers

I forgot to note the other speakers speakers that will be at the October 2 event at Cox Arboretum. They include: Marvin Duren (Marvin’s Organic Gardens); Christine & Tony Carpenter (Beyond The Greenhouse); Tomasz Przepiorkowski (Studebaker Nursery); Eric Sauer (Cypripedium Landscape Architecture); and Yvonne Dunphe (Five Rivers MetroParks). Event location: Cox Arboretum. Fee: $10 (includes light lunch). Registration: available online (www.metroparks.org) or call Five Rivers MetroPark (937-434-9005).

I have a question

I know it is the season for the dreaded FRUIT FLY, but how do you deal with their fall invasion? Feel free to share by posting your comments.