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well-drained, slightly acidic soil |
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Growing Guide
GROWING NOTES
Due to the variety of greens that can be included in a mesclun mix, growing recommendations may vary slightly. However, some general recommendations that should apply to most greens can be considered.
Most greens grows best in full sun, though excessive heat can cause plants to bolt to seed, or leaves to wilt. For an early start, seeds can be started in flats 4 weeks prior to the last frost and transplanted outdoors in mid to late spring. If growing in summer, select a partially shaded location, or one that receives primarily eastward exposure to mitigate the potentially damaging effects of excessive heat.
Many greens will tolerate of a wide range of soils, but will grow best well-drained, cool, loose, loamy soil with a pH between 6.5 to 6.8. Most are sensitive to low pH; lime to at least 6.0. To encourage tender and tasty growth, make sure location is rich in organic compost matter. Amend prior to planting if needed.
Sowing
Direct seed or transplant in early spring, as soon as you can work the soil. To get an early start, prepare beds the previous fall 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 with a thin layer of growing medium.
When sowing, many types of seeds grown for baby greens are smaller, light dependant germinators and should only be covered with a light dusting of soil. Keep seeds warm and well-moistened while awaiting germination. Avoid using a garden hose, or similar watering technique that can displace seeds. The suggested sowing depth given below (1/8") applies to smaller seeds such as lettuce, for larger seeds sow slightly deeper. A good rule of thumb is to cover the seeds to twice their thickness when sowing.
Direct-seeding
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. You can also lightly broadcast seed (particularly of looseleaf varieties) in a patch instead of a row.
Transplants
Sow in 1-inch cells 3 to 4 weeks before transplanting outside. Harden seedlings by reducing water and temperature for 3 days before transplanting. Hardened plants should survive 20 F. Space crisphead transplants 12 inches apart in rows 18 inches apart. Space other varieties 6 to 10 inches apart in rows 12 to 18 inches apart.
MAINTAINING
Use row covers to protect very early plantings from cold, to protect young plants from insects, and (supported by hoops) to shade crops when warm weather arrives.
Make succession plantings every week or two, and grow several varieties with different maturity dates for a continuous supply. Moisture, stress, and high temperatures, particularly at night, encourage bolting. As the season progresses, plant more bolt-resistant varieties. Locate plants where they will be partially shaded by taller nearby plants, latticework or other screen.
Greens typically have shallow root systems. Keep soil moist to keep plants growing continuously. Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds (unless slugs are a problem). Fertilizing can be helpful to promote faster growth, especially a fish emulsion type that is not high in nitrogen that can cause greens to become bitter. Water lightly but consistently. Do not let soil get dried out.
For fall crops, time maturity around time of first expected frost. Mature plants aren't as tolerant of freezing as seedlings.
After intense harvesting (whole plant), it is a good idea to fertilize plants with an all-purpose fertilizer such as fish emulsion to help promote new growth. As always, avoid applying fertilizer directly to plant or leaves.
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