Which is easier to grow: Leaf lettuce or head lettuce?

Leaf

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by Ruth Kongaika

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From experience, leaf lettuce is the easiest of all lettuce types to grow. They can grow in cooler weather and also in warm weather when planted in partial shade. As long as the soil is kept moist, they can be transplanted and take well in a variety of soil types. Also leaf lettuce matures quicker than head lettuce, and you can just take off a few of the outer leafs while the center leaves continue to grow.

You may be able to begin cutting leaf lettuce in as little as three weeks. By planting a fresh crop every couple of weeks, you will have an almost continuous supply of fresh lettuce for your salads and sandwiches. You can use a sharp knife or scissors to cut an inch or two above the ground and most varieties will grow back. It is better to cut leaf lettuce when it's young and sweet rather than later when it may become bitter.

Leaf lettuce comes in either green or reddish leaves, and comes in several varieties. Some have flat leaves, while others have frilly and lobed leaves. According to life123.com, leaf lettuce is better for you although it tastes a little different than head lettuce.

When starting out, seeds may be sown in single rows or can be spread out in a patch and then transplanted later. They can even be sown near the door. That way you can always have fresh lettuce at arms length. Leaf lettuce even can grow between and under taller vegetables, and since it takes up such a small space, it can even be grown amidst flowers.

Many people grow a container garden, which is a container where several different varieties of lettuce are grown. That way they can pick a mix of delicate and stronger leaf lettuce flavors for their salads.

Not many pests bother the leaf lettuce unless you have a bunny for which a fence would be the remedy. Organic sprays or water with a small amount of dish soap can be used to repel insects. Pellets can be used to detract snails. For aphids, you can grow nasturtiums near the lettuce, or for small infestations, just wash them off the plants before eating.

The key to growing crisp, sweet lettuce is to water often since lettuce consists mostly of water. Organic mulch can help to conserve moisture and keep the soil temperature cool.

Because of the ease of growth and care, leaf lettuce is the most widely planted salad vegetable. Just plant, water, harvest and then enjoy.

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