[MattinNJ]

Forgive my ignorance, but I would appreciate some help. I plan on clearing an acre of weed trees in my back yard and starting a big garden-just in case. I am going to have a ton of firewood and compost.

What are heirloom seeds and how long do they keep? Is there a good book/website for learning how to save seeds and learning how to preseve. I assume potatoes pack a lot of calories? Any other suggestions on what to plant on an acre in the North East-we live on a ridge and get a to of precipation-I have heard the soil in my are is awesome.

Any help would be aprreciated.

[who knows what evil?]

Mr. Devil...could you please ‘ping’ the garden list to this post to give Matt a hand with his questions? I can answer some of them; but the more input; the merrier.

[who knows what evil?]

Even if you are not starting from seed this year; get yourself a copy of the catalog from Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds by following this link . It's FREE, and it is stunning. You can order the BEST book on seed saving from them (although you can probably find it at any major bookseller)...it is called 'Seed to Seed' by Suzanne Ashworth. Do a search on 'seed shelf life', and you will get several sites that list the 'shelf life' of various seeds. Potatoes would do quite well in your area, geographically speaking...I do well with them, and I am north of you. Since I am in a short-season area like you and I specialize in hot peppers; I do a lot of 'container gardening'. There will be plenty of Freepers who maintain traditional gardens along with their input shortly; I'm sure. Everyone is always happy to help new gardeners...best of luck!

[Red_Devil 232]

Hey Matt, I will be posting the Weekly Garden Thread tomorrow morning, do you mind if I post your questions on the thread?