You can still sow seeds in flats outside..many many would do well for your project. We don't direct sow as there are too many negatives leading to failure. Before you start I think the most important things you must find out are: Does having the kids weed out the beds equate with "child labor", and If the school has unionized groundskeepers will you may violating their work contract. You should schedule an appointment with the superintendant's office to get reliable and assured answers. Once you know you are not in violation of child labor laws or contractual agreements you can then begin your project. T

Hi Norma, If yours are already reseeding from the old ones, it sounds like you should have no problems growing the hybrids from seed, and light frosts are usually not a problem for california poppies. Here in northern California, it is generally recommended to plant poppies from seed after the start of the fall rains, but I think you get most of your rain in summer? In any case, they are accustomed to growth through winter, blooming generally in March and April here, sometimes on into May and June if they are deadheaded, and given some irrigation. They generally will not come true from seed if you have any of the regular orange colored flowers also blooming, as orange is the dominant gene. I would suggest that in future, it is best to plant seed as soon as it starts to get abit cooler in mid fall, and you should probably mulch lightly and softly water to get them started. They don't transplant all that well, unless you plant them individually in 4 inch size pots, and are careful with the roots when transplanting. Buena suerte!

I'm putting in my first garden for many years. I'm looking for heirloom varieties of vegetables and herbs that I can plant this year, and then collect seed to save for trade next year. Is their anyone willing to help me gt started? Thank you so much for any help!

Edit your name and include your USDA hardiness zone behind your username. Example: PlantingPeanut (6A). That helps us know what seeds will do best for you and if what we have fits with your area.