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Growing your own lettuce in June is a rewarding way to enjoy fresh, crisp salads right from your garden. Starting seeds early ensures a healthy, productive crop that can be harvested throughout the summer. Here are some essential tips to help you succeed with June lettuce seed starting.
Choosing the Right Lettuce Varieties for June
Not all lettuce varieties thrive in summer heat. For June planting, select heat-tolerant types such as:
- Loose-leaf lettuce
- Butterhead varieties
- Romaine or Cos lettuce
These varieties tend to withstand the warmer temperatures better and can provide a continuous harvest.
Preparing Your Seeds and Containers
Start by selecting high-quality seeds from a reputable supplier. Use seed-starting trays, pots, or any shallow containers with drainage holes. Fill them with a light, well-draining seed-starting mix.
Moisten the soil slightly before planting. Sow the seeds according to the depth instructions on the packet, usually about twice as deep as the seed’s size.
Optimal Growing Conditions
For successful germination and healthy seedlings, maintain the following conditions:
- Temperature: Keep soil temperatures between 60-70°F (15-21°C).
- Light: Provide at least 12-16 hours of light daily, using grow lights if necessary.
- Water: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Transplanting Seedlings into the Garden
Once seedlings have developed 2-3 true leaves and the outdoor conditions are suitable, harden them off by gradually exposing them to outdoor sunlight over a few days. Transplant them into your garden, spacing plants about 6-12 inches apart depending on the variety.
Choose a location with partial shade during the hottest part of the day to prevent bolting and heat stress.
Caring for Your June Lettuce
Maintain consistent watering to keep the soil evenly moist. Mulching around plants can help retain soil moisture and regulate temperature. Regularly check for pests like aphids or slugs and take appropriate action if needed.
Fertilize lightly with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every few weeks to promote healthy growth.
Harvesting and Enjoying Your Salad
Most lettuce varieties are ready to harvest within 30-60 days after planting. For loose-leaf types, pick outer leaves as needed, encouraging continuous growth. Head varieties should be harvested when they reach full size and firmness.
Enjoy your fresh, homegrown lettuce in salads, sandwiches, or wraps. Regular harvesting encourages new growth and prolongs your harvest season.