Plant Exchange Blog

A new phase in the growing season begins as schools start. In our region, along with hot, sunny days, come temperate days for growing salad greens.

Many variety leaf lettuces yield cuttings before the average first frost date, around October 6th. Seed packet information helps to choose the quicker germination rate varieties. The plants continue with grow light indoors a bit longer if needed.

A mixed variety of leaf lettuce, like the photo, offers better results in the changeable weather of Autumn. As the Earth tilts a bit, some lettuces tolerate the change in intensity better than others.

Trays or other containers filled with potting mix are fertile ground for the seeds. While full sun all day is too harsh for lettuce earlier in the summer, some hours of sun and wind protection keep the leaves tender as days cool. 

As well as enough sun, placing the containers near the kitchen with a water source is ideal for convenience and reminders on busy days. That works for cherry tomatoes and pots of herbs as well. The deck location for lettuce to grow eliminates rabbit or deer sampling at our house.

We invite you to comment on tips for growing lettuce too.

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