Quick answer

To set up the Green Thumb Mini Expansion, shuffle the 4 Green Thumb cards, then randomly replace 3 of your starting tools. The VP on those cards are saved for end-game scoring.

Why the replacement is random

The Green Thumb cards replace your starting tools at random, not by choice. This means you might lose a tool you rely on, so the expansion adds a luck element that can change your strategy each game.

VP timing matters

Unlike some expansions that award VP during play, the Green Thumb cards keep their VP hidden until final scoring. This makes them a late-game surprise, so don't count them during the game.

Step-by-step setup

  1. Shuffle the Green Thumb cards: Take the 4 Green Thumb cards from the expansion and shuffle them face-down into a small pile. Do not look at the cards yet; the VP values are hidden until the end.
  2. Replace 3 starting tools: Randomly draw 3 Green Thumb cards and place them face-up next to your player board. Then remove 3 of your starting tools (any you choose) and set them aside for this game. Common mistake: forgetting to remove the tools. Always remove exactly 3 tools or you'll have too many items.
  3. Keep Green Thumb cards separate: Place the Green Thumb cards in a visible spot near your player board, but do not mix them with your tool cards. They are not tools and cannot be used during the game. They only provide VP at scoring, so don't treat them as usable tools.
  4. Score at game end: During final scoring, add the VP shown on each Green Thumb card to your total. Then return the cards to the box. If you forget to score them, you lose those points. Make it a habit to check before final tally.

What you get

  • Herbaceous Sprouts: Green Thumb Mini Expansion: The Green Thumb Mini-Expansion adds 4 Green Thumb cards that replace 3 of your tools at the start of the game (at random). Each card grants VP, which are saved until scoring at the end of the game. You lose control over which tools you keep, but gain hidden VP that can swing the final score.

    Herbaceous Sprouts: Green Thumb Mini Expansion

    Herbaceous Sprouts: Green Thumb Mini Expansion