HOW TO SOW LETTUCE FROM SEEDS

Starting seeds four weeks before the last frost and transplanting them outdoors in mid-to-late spring is early. The previous fall, prepare beds by working in manure or compost and raking smooth to leave a fine seedbed. Seeds need light to germinate; sow at a very shallow depth by covering a thin layer of growing medium. Sow seed 1cm deep, an inch apart, in rows fifteen inches apart. Cut back to twelve inches after plants have four or five true leaves. Also, loose-leaf seed can be lightly broadcast in a patch instead of a row.

CARE AFTER GERMINATION OF LOOSE-LEAF LETTUCE

Reduce the temperature and water for three days before transplanting seedlings. Make rows 18 inches apart and space transplants 12 inches apart. Moisture, stress, and high temperatures, particularly at night, encourage bolting. During the growing season, plant bolt-resistant varieties. Place your plants where they will be partially shaded by taller nearby plants, latticework, or other screens. Lettuce has shallow roots. Keep soil moist to keep plants growing continuously. Mulch to retain moisture and prevent weed growth. Fertilizing can help promote faster growth, mainly if the fish emulsion is not high in nitrogen that can cause the greens to taste bitter. Make sure to water gently and consistently.

LOOSE-LEAF LETTUCE USES AND HEALTH BENEFITS

The most widely planted type of lettuce, loose-leaf lettuce, is commonly known for its loosely bunched leaves. It is used mainly for salads. This type is also used for burgers and sandwiches and forms long, upright heads. It is the lettuce used most often in Caesar salads. Lettuce is a source of vitamin K, which helps strengthen bones. It is also possible to reduce the risk of bone fractures by consuming adequate amounts of vitamin K. The majority of raw lettuce is water. So, lettuce helps you stay hydrated.

Note: Information provided for guidance only, as cultural practices and climatic circumstances vary.

Specifications:

• Product Type: Loose Leaf Lettuce Seed
• USDA Zone: 6-8
• Feature: Moist Resistant
• Soil: Well Drained, Moist
• Harvest Time: 45 days
• Kingdom: Plantae
• Clade: Tracheophytes, Angiosperms, Eudicots, Asterids
• Order: Asterales
• Family: Asteraceae
• Tribe: Cichorieae
• Genus: Lactuca
• Species: L. Sativa
• Uses: Salad, Sandwiches, etc