Green Leaf Lettuce Vegetable Seeds Packet

1. Culinary Uses:

• Commonly used in salads, wraps, sandwiches, and burgers.
• Can be used as a garnish or in smoothies for extra nutrition.
• Pairs well with a variety of dressings and toppings.

2. Companion Planting:

• Grows well with carrots, radishes, onions, and cucumbers.
• Avoid planting near brassicas like cabbage, which can compete for nutrients.

3. Soil Improvement:

• Acts as a great cover crop to help reduce soil erosion.
• Enhances soil fertility when composted after harvest.

Light:

• Prefers full sun to partial shade.
• In hot climates, partial shade helps prevent bolting (premature flowering).

Soil:

• Requires well-draining, loamy soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0.
• Adding compost or organic matter improves nutrient content and moisture retention.

Watering:

• Needs consistent moisture, about 1-2 inches of water per week.
• Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot and fungal diseases.

Temperature & Climate:

• Thrives in temperatures between 55-70°F (13-21°C).
• Bolts quickly in high temperatures above 75°F (24°C).

Fertilization:

• Benefits from light applications of balanced fertilizer (10-10-10).
• Too much nitrogen can lead to excessive leaf growth but poor flavor.

Watering:

• Keep soil evenly moist, but avoid overwatering.
• Use mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Weed Control:

• Hand-pull weeds carefully to avoid disturbing the shallow roots.
• Apply a layer of organic mulch to prevent weeds from growing.

Harvesting and Seed Collection

1. When to Harvest:

• Ready for harvest in 30-50 days after planting.
• Pick outer leaves first for a continuous harvest.
• Harvest entire plants before bolting for the best flavor.

2. Collecting Seeds for Future Planting:

• Allow some plants to bolt and produce yellow flowers.
• Collect dry seed heads and store seeds in a cool, dry place.

• Common Pests: Aphids, slugs, and leaf miners.
  Use floating row covers or companion planting (e.g., marigolds) to deter pests.
• Common Diseases: Downy mildew and rot.
  Improve air circulation and avoid overhead watering.