2. Soil Requirements: Lettuce prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Loamy soil with a slightly acidic pH between 6.0 and 6.8 is ideal for its growth.
3. Sunlight Needs: Lettuce enjoys partial shade but also requires a minimum of 4 to 6 hours of sunlight each day for proper growth. In hotter climates, providing shade during the hottest parts of the day can prevent the lettuce from bolting.
4. Planting Methods: Lettuce can be grown from seeds or transplants. Seeds are typically sown directly into the garden soil, while transplants can be started indoors and then transplanted into the garden when they reach a certain size.
5. Planting Depth: Lettuce seeds should be sown at a depth of about ¼ to ½ inch (6-12 mm) in the soil. It's important not to bury the seeds too deep, as they require light to germinate.
6. Watering Needs: Lettuce plants have shallow root systems and require consistent moisture. It's important to water them regularly, keeping the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Avoid overhead watering to prevent diseases.
7. Thinning and Spacing: Once the lettuce seedlings have emerged, thin them to provide adequate space for each plant to grow. Space the plants according to the variety, usually 15-30 cm apart, to allow air circulation and prevent overcrowding.
8. Harvesting: Lettuce leaves can be harvested when they reach a suitable size, usually around 10-15 cm in length. You can either harvest the outer leaves while allowing the center to continue growing or cut the entire head at the base.
9. Succession Planting: To enjoy a continuous harvest, consider succession planting lettuce every few weeks. This ensures a fresh supply of lettuce throughout the growing season.
10. Pests and Diseases: Common pests that can affect lettuce include slugs, snails, aphids, and cutworms. Diseases such as powdery mildew and lettuce mosaic virus can also be a concern. Practice crop rotation.
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