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Lactuca sativa Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Cultivation Notes: Prefers a light sandy loam[1]. Succeeds in most well-drained, humus-rich soils but dislikes acid conditions[1, 16]. Plants strongly dislike dry conditions, quickly running to seed in such a situation. Early and late sowings are best in a sunny position, but summer crops are best given a position with some shade in order to slow down the plants tendency to go to seed and to prevent the leaves becoming bitter[18, 20]. The garden lettuce is widely cultivated in many parts of the world for its edible leaves and is probably the most commonly grown salad plant. There are many named varieties[183] capable of providing fresh leaves throughout the year if winter protection is given in temperate areas. There are three main forms of lettuce:- L. sativa capitata. L. is the cabbage lettuce, it forms a heart in a similar way to cabbages. L. sativa crispa. L. is the cos lettuce, this has longer, thinner leaves and a more erect habit, it does not form a compact heart. L. sativa angustana. Vilm. is the celtuce, this is grown more for its thick central stem which is used in the same ways as celery[1]. Lettuces are quite a problematic crop to grow. They require quite a lot of attention to protect them from pests such as slugs, aphids and birds. If the weather is hot and dry the plants tend to run very quickly to seed, developing a bitter flavour as they do so. In wet weather they are likely to develop fungal diseases. In addition, the seed needs to be sown at regular intervals of 2- 3 weeks during the growing season in order to provide a regular supply of leaves. Lettuces make a good companion plant for strawberries, carrots, radishes and onions[18, 20, 201]. They also grow well with cucumbers, cabbages and beetroot[201]. For further Lactuca sativa gardening information |
