When and how to plant lettuce

Planting time for lettuce

Romaine lettuce prefers a slightly cool environment. Judging from its growth habits, the best time to sow is between late September and mid-November. If it is grown in a protected area, it can also be planted from late April to mid-May.

How to plant lettuce

1. Sowing and seedling raising

First, wrap the lettuce seeds with a wet cloth and place them in an environment of 15-20℃ to germinate. They will germinate in about two or three days. When raising seedlings, you can use nutrient cups filled with soft, breathable, fertile substrate. Plant 2-3 seeds in each nutrient cup. After sowing, cover with a thin layer of soil and water thoroughly.

2. Seedling management

The lettuce seeds will germinate 2-3 days after planting. If sown in summer, shade measures need to be taken. Water should be applied every morning and evening after germination. Thinning can be done about 15 days after sowing, and weak seedlings and tall seedlings should be removed, leaving only one strong seedling. Urea can be applied when the seedlings are 15 days old. The seedling period is generally between 25-30 days.

3. Land preparation and planting

Before planting lettuce, apply enough base fertilizer to the plot and prepare the land to ensure that the soil is loose and fertile. Control the spacing between rows and plants when planting. The row spacing should be 30-35 cm and the plant spacing should be 25-30 cm. After planting, water the plant in the morning and evening to ensure that the soil is moist. If there is a shortage of seedlings, replenish them in time.

Things to note when planting lettuce

The growing period of cabbage lettuce is long. Usually, quick-acting nitrogen fertilizer should be applied 4-6 days after planting to promote root development. Phosphorus and potassium fertilizers should be added when it starts to form a heart to ensure sufficient nutrients. In addition, weeds in the field should be removed in time to avoid competition for nutrients.