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Seeds need light to germinate; sow at a very shallow depth by covering with a thin layer of growing medium. Sow seed 1/8 inch deep, 1 inch apart in rows 12 to 18 inches apart. When plants have two or three true leaves, thin to 12-inch spacings for crisphead varieties, 6 to 10 inches for other types.
How long does it take for romaine lettuce seeds to germinate?
Seed is viable for 5 years. Start lettuce indoors 4 weeks before transplanting; sow or transplant lettuce into the garden as soon as the soil can be worked. Seed germinates in 2 to 10 days at or near 70°F (21°C)—but sometimes seed can take up to 2 weeks to germinate if the soil is cold.
How many lettuce seeds do you plant in one hole?
Indoors, plant one lettuce seed per hole if you’re using fresh ones. Otherwise, use 2-3 per hole if they are old, and then thin the seedlings later as necessary. Step 3: Plant the seeds – The best way to plant lettuce seeds is to sprinkle them over the top of the loose garden soil or indoor trays.
Is it easy to grow romaine lettuce?
Thankfully, growing romaine lettuce is easy, and I recommend every gardener grow a few heads each season. Romain lettuce is distinguished from other types by its upright growth, thick stems, and tight heads.
Does romaine lettuce need full sun?
This is the classic romaine. Its compact, dark green rosette of tall, upright leaves is slightly curly with white hearts and has a crisp, sweet flavor. Slow to bolt. Grows best in full sun, but will tolerate partial shade and even appreciates it in spring in hot climates.
Will romaine lettuce regrow after cutting?
Yes! To regrow lettuce, start by taking the lettuce and cutting it about 1 inch from the bottom. Put this stem in a shallow dish filled with about 1/2 inch of water. In about 10-12 days, the lettuce will be fully grown.
Do I plant the whole packet of seeds?
In general, the larger the seed, the smaller amount of seeds should be planted in the same hole or cell. These types of seeds take up more space and grow roots very quickly once germinated. Multiple seeds can still be planted together, but I recommend not planting more than two seeds per hole with these larger seeds.
How deep should I plant lettuce seeds?
It doesn’t take much work to grow lettuce from seeds. Lettuce seeds are often quite small and only require a planting depth of ¼ to ½ inch deep. Growing lettuce in rows gives your garden a traditional look.
What happens if you plant seeds too close together?
Plants that grow too close to each other compete for the same sunlight, water and soil nutrients. The first effect seen is competition for light. Overcrowded plants begin to grow upward to receive light, rather than developing a fuller, bushier silhouette.
What is the best way to grow romaine lettuce?
Use a nutrient-rich, moist soil. Romaine requires both nitrogen and soil moisture to grow quickly. Fertilize or amend the garden soil with plenty of compost. Salad connoisseurs believe romaine grown in soil tastes better than hydroponic lettuce.
How do you grow romaine lettuce in pots?
In mild winter climates, grow it in fall, winter and spring. Sow the seeds directly in the container 1/4 inch deep and 1 inch apart. Keep the soil moist but not soggy. Thin seedlings after they germinate to the strongest seedlings spaced 6 to 8 inches apart, depending on the cultivar.
When should I pick my romaine lettuce?
You can tell that your lettuce is mature when it looks dark green and the leaves look open; leaves should also overlap in a tight bunch. Romaine lettuce should be harvested when it’s full size, but just before it’s reached maturity.
How often should I water my romaine lettuce?
ANSWER: Lettuce should be watered not daily but instead about twice a week, or once every four or five days, for most of its growing period. It will need to be watered lightly but more frequently for the first two weeks after planting, perhaps daily, depending on your climate.
Does romaine lettuce need a lot of water?
Lettuce has shallow roots, so plants need consistent watering. Check at least twice a week and water if the soil is dry down to 1 inch deep. Containers of lettuce need to be watered more frequently than garden beds, especially in the summer.
How often should I water my romaine lettuce plant?
Unless there is regular rainfall, lettuce must be watered deeply at least once a week- more frequently during periods of drought. Mulch with a layer of compost or clean straw to help the soil retain moisture. A drip-irrigation system is ideal.
How many times can you regrow romaine lettuce?
In the fall, I’ll be ready for more cool weather sweet lettuce blends. So, as long as you’re staying within their optimal growing conditions, you can harvest from lettuce at least three or four times each. (For more on how to harvest lettuce, check out this post.)Jul 27, 2021.
What does it mean when your lettuce bolts?
Ah lettuce; the most popular of the salad greens, offering a long season of sweet, crispy leaves. Bolting, when the plants shift from leafy growth into flower production, is caused by a number of factors including high temperatures, long daylight hours, and less moisture – in essence – summer.
