Quick summary
Lettuce , the leafy light-green staple of many salads and dishes , is a rewarding veggie to grow from seeds . sow lettuce seed in tray is a commodious and effective manner to start your lettuce journeying , insure optimal consideration for sprouting andearly growth . This comprehensive guide will render you with step - by - step program line andexpert tipsto help you sow lettuce seeds intrays successfullyand enjoy a bountiful harvest of nippy , flavorful loot .
Choosing the Right Lettuce Variety
The first step insowing lettuce seedsis take the right variety . take wampum varieties that are suitable for your climate andgrowing season . Some democratic scratch varieties for trays admit :
Preparing Trays and Soil
apply clear , well - drain seed trayswithdrainage pickle . Fill the trays with a seeded player - start mix specifically design for germination . The soil should be loose , airy , and free oflarge particlesor debris . Moisten the land soundly before sowing the seeds .
Sowing the Seeds
1 . Distribute the seed : Evenly distribute thelettuce seedsover themoistened land Earth’s surface . annul overcrowding the come , as this can extend to damp - off disease.2 . Cover Lightly : lightly coverthe seeds with a lean layer of soil , about 1/8 in deep.3 . Firm the Soil : softly pressdown on the soil toensure skillful contactbetween the seeds and the soil .
Watering
Water the trays immediately after sowing the seeds . Use agentle sprayor mist toavoid disturbingthe semen . Keep thesoil consistently moistbut not soggy .
Light Requirements
Lettuce seminal fluid involve light to burgeon forth . Place the trays in a fond , gay locationor undergrow lightsthat provide 12 - 14 time of day of ignitor per day .
Temperature Control
optimum sprouting temperature forlettuce seedsis between 60 - 70 ° F ( 15 - 21 ° C ) . Monitor the temperature and adjust it accordingly usingheat matsor a propagator if necessary .
Thinning Seedlings
Once the lettuce seedling come forth , thin them out toensure right growthand air travel circulation . Remove weaker orcrowded seedling , leaving only the strongest and intelligent ace . Space the seedlings according to the recommended spacing for the specific lettuce variety .
Transplanting Seedlings
When the seedling have develop their firsttrue leaves , they are ready to be transplanted intoindividual potsor directly into the garden . cautiously dig up the seedling , preserving as much of theroot systemas possible . Transplant them into well - drained soil and water thoroughly .
Finishing Touches: Tips for Success
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q : When is the just time tosow pelf seedsin trays?A : The idealistic fourth dimension to sow lettuce semen intrays varies dependingon your climate . In ecumenical , sow seeds6 - 8 weeks before the last carry frost date . Q : How late should I plant the lettuce seeds?A : Plant the seeds about 1/8inch deepinto the soil . Q : How often should I water the lettuce seedlings?A : Keep thesoil consistently moistbut not soggy . Water the seedling whenever thesoil airfoil feels slightly dryto the touch . Q : How long does it take forlettuce seedsto germinate?A : Lettuce seed typically germinatewithin 5 - 10 days under optimal conditions . Q : Can Isow lettuce semen directlyinto the garden?A : Yes , you cansow cabbage seeds directlyinto the garden , but starting them in trays generate you more ascendance over thegrowing conditionsand earmark you totransplant healthy seedlingslater on .
