When to Plant Lettuce (Wosun)
Lettuce (Wosun), also known as asparagus lettuce, celery lettuce, or stem lettuce, is a common vegetable in spring, autumn, and winter. Both the stem and leaves are edible, offering rich nutrition and a crisp texture. It is not only a nutritious vegetable but also has some medicinal value. Many farmers grow lettuce. So, when is the best time to plant lettuce? Let's find out.
When to Plant Lettuce?
The planting time for lettuce varies depending on the climate conditions of different regions:
| Region | Planting Time | Transplanting Time |
|---|---|---|
| Northern and Central China | September – October | Early winter or the following spring |
| Warm Regions (Sichuan, Yunnan, Guizhou) | September – October | Early winter |
| Northwest China | Spring (Greenhouse sowing) | April |
How to Plant Lettuce?
1. Land Selection and Preparation
| Task | Details |
|---|---|
| Site Selection | Choose a high and dry area with good drainage for the seedbed. Apply 4000-5000 kg of well-rotted organic fertilizer per acre as a base fertilizer while preparing the soil. |
| Planting Site Preparation | For the planting site, also choose a well-drained area. Apply the same amount of organic fertilizer and prepare raised beds. |
2. Seed Selection and Treatment
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Seed Quality | Choose high-quality lettuce seeds to ensure good germination. |
| Seed Treatment | Soak the seeds in cold water for 6-7 hours. Wrap the seeds in a damp cloth and place them in a warm environment (20-25°C) for germination. Sow the seeds once 80% have sprouted. |
3. Sowing
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Spring Lettuce Sowing | First, water the soil thoroughly. Once the water has seeped in, mix the seeds with a small amount of fine sand and sow them evenly. |
| Covering the Seeds | After sowing, cover the seeds with 0.3-0.5 cm of soil. Cover the bed with plastic film to maintain warmth. Additionally, cover with a shade net or straw mat at night to retain heat. |
4. Transplanting
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Transplanting Time | Transplant spring lettuce seedlings when they are 25-30 days old and have 5-6 true leaves. |
| Spacing and Depth | Plant the seedlings 20 cm apart in rows spaced 27 cm apart. Transplant to a depth that covers the base of the first leaf petiole. Water immediately after transplanting to settle the soil. |
5. Daily Management
| Task | Details |
|---|---|
| Drainage | During rainy days, ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging and reduce field humidity. |
| Weeding and Watering | On warm, sunny days, hoe the soil 1-2 times. Water and fertilize appropriately. In the early stages, frequently apply diluted manure and keep the soil moist. For lettuce grown for its stem, apply 15 kg of urea per acre, typically 1-2 applications. |
| Harvesting | Once the plants have almost covered the rows, the tender shoots can be harvested and brought to market. |
Conclusion
This guide explains when and how to plant lettuce. Lettuce requires cool climates for growth and is intolerant to severe cold and high temperatures. The seedlings grow slowly, so timely sowing is crucial. By following these steps and managing the crop carefully, farmers can achieve a successful lettuce harvest.
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What Temperature Is Too Cold for Lettuce?
Lettuce is a cool-season crop that thrives in moderate temperatures, but it can be sensitive to extreme cold. Understanding the optimal temperature range for growing lettuce and knowing the signs of cold damage can help you protect your plants and ensure a healthy harvest.
Optimal Temperature Range for Lettuce
Lettuce grows best within a specific temperature range. Here is an overview:
| Temperature Range | Growth Impact |
|---|---|
| 60°F – 70°F (15°C – 21°C) | Optimal growth |
| 50°F – 60°F (10°C – 15°C) | Moderate growth |
| 32°F – 50°F (0°C – 10°C) | Slow growth |
| Below 32°F (0°C) | Potential damage or death |
Signs of Cold Damage
Lettuce exposed to temperatures below freezing can suffer from cold damage. Look for these signs:
-
Wilting: Leaves may appear wilted or limp due to cell damage.
-
Discoloration: Leaves can turn brown or black as they thaw after freezing.
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Translucent Leaves: Damaged cells may cause leaves to look water-soaked and translucent.
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Stunted Growth: Cold stress can halt growth and development.
Protecting Lettuce from Cold Temperatures
To protect lettuce from cold temperatures, consider the following strategies:
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Row Covers: Use floating row covers to insulate plants and trap heat.
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Mulching: Apply mulch around the base of plants to retain soil warmth.
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Cold Frames: Utilize cold frames to create a controlled environment for lettuce.
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Timing: Plant lettuce in early spring or late summer to avoid frost periods.
Methods to Protect Lettuce
| Method | Effectiveness | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Row Covers | High | Lightweight fabric that insulates and allows light through |
| Mulching | Moderate | Organic material that traps soil heat |
| Cold Frames | High | Miniature greenhouse to protect plants |
| Timing | High | Planting outside of frost-prone periods |
Conclusion
Temperatures below 32°F (0°C) are too cold for lettuce and can cause damage or death to the plants. By monitoring the weather and using protective measures like row covers, mulching, and cold frames, you can safeguard your lettuce crop and enjoy a healthy harvest even in cooler seasons. Proper timing of planting can also help avoid the risks associated with frost and freezing temperatures.
Frequently
Asked Questions (FAQ) about Planting Lettuce (Wosun)
1. What is the best time to plant lettuce?
The planting time for lettuce varies by region and climate conditions. In Northern and Central China, it is typically sown in September to October and transplanted in early winter or the following spring. In warmer regions like Sichuan, Yunnan, and Guizhou, it is also sown in September to October and transplanted in early winter. In Northwest China, lettuce is usually sown in greenhouses in spring and transplanted in April.
2. How should I prepare the soil for planting lettuce?
Choose a high, dry area with good drainage for the seedbed and apply 4000-5000 kg of well-rotted organic fertilizer per acre as a base fertilizer. For the planting site, select a well-drained area, apply the same amount of organic fertilizer, and prepare raised beds.
3. How do I treat lettuce seeds before planting?
Soak the seeds in cold water for 6-7 hours. Wrap the seeds in a damp cloth and place them in a warm environment (20-25°C) for germination. Once 80% of the seeds have sprouted, they are ready to be sown.
4. What is the proper spacing for transplanting lettuce seedlings?
Transplant the seedlings when they are 25-30 days old and have 5-6 true leaves. Plant
