Have you ever thought about growing the valerianella in an easy and innovative way? Find out how the technique of sow under a newspaper can help you get a lush and healthy plant. Not only is it a simple method, but it also protects the seeds from the cold and promotes uniform growth. Read on to discover all the basic steps!
Land preparation and site selection
To get started, it is essential to prepare the ground correctly. Valerianella thrives in well soil drainedso make sure you work the soil to a depth of at least 20cm. Add a mixture of garden soil, sand e compost to improve soil structure.
Remember to choose a sunny place or partially shaded for planting your lamb’s lettuce. This plant doesn’t like standing water, so avoid areas where water could pool.
The time of sowing
Valerianella can be sown from July a October directly in the open field or in pots. The innovative technique of sow under a newspaper it is perfect for protecting seeds from the cold and birds. Distribute the seeds in rows about 8-15 cm apart.
Use an old newspaper: dampen it slightly and place it over the freshly scattered seeds. The newspaper will help maintain soil moisture and ensure even germination. Don’t cover all the ground, leave free areas to promote air circulation.
Care and maintenance
Once the seeds have been sown and covered with newspaper, it is essential to maintain the soil constantly humid but not soaked. Check humidity regularly and water gently without removing the newspaper.
When the young seedlings begin to grow, thin them to maintain a distance of approximately 8-10 cm between each plant. This will promote healthy and vigorous growth. Don’t forget to remove weeds that may compete with your small lamb’s lettuce plants.
Harvesting lamb’s lettuce
Valerianella is ready to be harvested approximately 2-3 months after sowing, depending on climatic conditions. You can begin harvesting the outer leaves as the plants continue to grow. Staggered sowing every 15 days will allow you to have a continuous supply of fresh leaves for the whole year.
Don’t wait too long to harvest, or the leaves may turn bitter. With this simple technique and some precautions, you will always have a lush lamb’s lettuce ready to enrich your salads.
