I found this packet when I was cleaning. By its shape and label, I knew I’d saved it from the dumpster when my school adopted a new science curriculum. I cleaned my classroom closets, but I couldn’t bring myself to throw away seeds. Seeds! They might grow! But what kind of seeds was in the packet?
Curiouser and curiouser.
I took a closer look at the label. Then I started doing the math. These seeds are very likely at least ten years old. They’re unlikely to germinate.
Can you read it?
Seeds, Bean Oriental Mung, 30g. Not the usual variety for my zone, but I planted them anyway.
My Internet research told me that Oriental Mung beans are an heirloom variety, a non-hybrid bean. The sprouts are delicious in salads, and they’re popular in Europe and India. They don’t resemble any beans I’ve planted, so I am really curious. However, after many years in a classroom closet, I’m not counting on feeding the family on Mung beans despite the quantity in the bag.
I’ll let you know, readers. If something comes up (and doesn’t get eaten by the furry creatures), I’ll show you the results.
While we wait, fellow gardeners and other lovely readers, what kinds of experimental seeds have you planted? Old ones? New ones? Something not usually suited to your zone and climate? Add a comment and share.
We planted “blue” corn. Food scientist son said it is preferred for making tortilla etc. we will grind the kernels in out wheat grinder. Last year I threw some deer corn (high moisture content) in the garden so the wild turkeys could eat it. It came up this year and wife was not happy, since it is field corn and not sweet corn.
Rabbits are not doing a lot of damage to the garden this year due to our large hawk population. Snake and turtle populations are down in the rivers because of the increase of eagles.
And speaking of ducks, we had a great hatch this year— so it should be a good hunt this year. We got a good deal on duck shells so we each bought a case. For you non hunters who want to taste good duck, the Granery Supper Club in Sherwood has great duck. They serve a generous 1/2 duck which is enough for two meals. I have eaten duck in four countries and Sherwood has my favorite.
If you want to eat wild duck— I recommend you be VERY careful. If there are any small BBs in the duck you can easily crack a tooth. The last wild pheasant I ate cost me a crown and root canal.
If you want to return to nature and stay local, the Amish will sell duckies and chicken. All you have to do is clean them.
Last thought of the day. I recommend you do not compost fish etc. they attract unwanted visitors., even if you bury them. We freeze ours and send them to the landfill on garbage day.