Our specialized varieties have been bred for particular characteristics which make them perform better in cool climates.

Example: Blackjack zucchini seed will germinate when the soil temperature is only in the upper 30s, whereas most squash varieties require warm soils. Subarctic 25, Polar baby, and Early Tanana tomatoes will set fruit when the night temperature is only in the mid-40s. Standard tomato varieties require night temperatures in the upper 50s and 60s. Polar Vee and Yukon Chief sweet corn begins forming ears when the plant is only 2' tall, so the ears can mature in a short growing season. Many of the other varieties we offer produce only a small plant, so the plants do not waste the whole growing season producing large, lush vegetative tops before they set fruit.

In warm climates, our varieties produce the prized first-of-the-season vegetables, producing beans, corn and tomatoes 2 to 3 weeks ahead of the traditional varieties.