Lettuce Grow Some

Depending on where you live and what the current weather cycle is running, you may be able to start growing lettuce, now. This year, here in Oregon with El Nino causing warmer weather, we can actually begin growing some cold crops such as lettuce. This is exciting news, as there is nothing better than the flavor of fresh produce.

Even if you live in an area that is not quite warm enough, yet, especially if the fear of freezing is still possible, using a small greenhouse or clear plastic covering may still enable you to plant some early lettuce varieties. Remember, when starting seeds, keep them moist. By keeping the seeds and seedlings protected by a sheet of clear plastic over the growing container, but not touching them, gives them the oxygen necessary while retaining moisture for healthy germination.

Many leaf lettuce varieties are fairly hardy in cooler temperatures and if you are able to plant in a large container and keep it close to the house to offer protection, you may be quite successful. Oak barrels make an effective growing container and are tall enough to make picking easy while helping to keep pests out.

The nice thing about leaf lettuce is that you can pick what you need for sandwiches and salads. As the lettuce grows out, it is easy to just seed in some more. Try growing different lettuce varieties to add flavor and color. Plant some peas and radishes for more salad ingredients and texture and enjoy healthy eating.