Flax

(Linum usitatissimum) Flax is an ancient plant that is believed to be one of the first domesticated crops, used for food, medicine, fiber and textiles for thousands of years. The delicate blue flowers of this charming edible ornamental give way to nutritious seeds. Flax is cold hardy and easily grows in USDA zones 4 to 8. Start seeds indoors four to six weeks before last frost, or direct seed around the time of last frost, broadcasting the seeds. Sow seeds 1/4-1/2 inch deep. Seeds will germinate in 7-14 days. The plants prefer full sun to partial shade and rich, well-drained soil but they will tolerate poor soil. Give them light, frequent waterings.