800 GREEN ICE LOOSE LEAF LETTUCE 1 GRAM Cultivating Green Ice Loose Leaf Lettuce: Green Ice Loose Leaf Lettuce is a popular variety known for its crisp and slightly sweet leaves. It is an excellent choice for home gardens as it is easy to grow and maintains its freshness when harvested. Below is an in-depth guide to cultivate Green Ice Loose Leaf Lettuce: 1. Climate and Soil: - Green Ice Loose Leaf Lettuce grows best in cool weather, ideally between 45-75F (7-24C). It thrives in spring and fall seasons but can also be grown during mild summers. - The soil should be well-draining and rich in organic matter. Loamy soil with a pH level between 6.0-7.0 is suitable for lettuce cultivation. 2. Seed Selection and Planting: - Choose high-quality lettuce seeds from a reputable supplier. Look for fresh, viable seeds that have been stored properly. - Start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date or sow them directly into the garden once the soil temperature reaches around 40F (4C). - Sow the seeds 1/4 inch deep and about 12-18 inches apart to allow enough space for the plants to grow. - Ensure good soil moisture until the seeds germinate, which usually takes 7-14 days. 3. Watering and Fertilizing: - Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry. - Mulching around the plants can help maintain soil moisture and prevent weed growth. - Apply a balanced organic fertilizer or compost once every 3-4 weeks to provide necessary nutrients for healthy growth. 4. Sunlight and Temperature: - Green Ice Loose Leaf Lettuce prefers partial shade to full sun. In extremely hot regions, providing some shade during the hottest parts of the day can protect the plants from wilting. - Monitor temperature fluctuations to prevent bolting, where the lettuce goes to seed prematurely. If temperatures rise consistently above 75F (24C), consider providing shade or using row covers to reduce heat stress. 5. Maintenance: - Regularly monitor the garden for pests such as aphids, slugs, or snails. Take appropriate measures like handpicking or using organic insecticides if necessary. - Keep the area free of weeds and maintain good air circulation to prevent disease development. - Harvest lettuce leaves promptly to encourage continuous growth. Begin picking outer leaves when they reach the desired size, leaving the inner leaves to mature. Popular Recipe for Green Ice Loose Leaf Lettuce: Spring Salad Ingredients: - Green Ice Loose Leaf Lettuce leaves, washed and torn into bite-sized pieces - Cherry or grape tomatoes, halved - Sliced cucumber - Sliced radishes - Crumbled feta cheese - Toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts - Lemon vinaigrette dressing (made with lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper) Instructions: 1. In a large salad bowl, combine the lettuce leaves, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, radishes, feta cheese, and nuts. 2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together all the ingredients for the lemon vinaigrette dressing until well combined. 3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients. 4. Serve immediately as a refreshing and healthy spring salad. Health Benefits of Green Ice Loose Leaf Lettuce: - Low-Calorie: Green Ice Loose Leaf Lettuce is an excellent choice for weight-conscious individuals, as it is low in calories and high in water content. - Nutrient-Rich: It is a good source of essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, and potassium. - Hydration: The high water content in lettuce helps in maintaining hydration levels and regulating body temperature. - Antioxidants: The presence of antioxidants like beta-carotene and lutein in lettuce contributes to overall health and reduces the risk of chronic diseases. - High Fiber: Including Green Ice Loose Leaf Lettuce in your diet helps improve digestion and promotes bowel regularity. Buy Seeds Online,Organic Seeds,Heirloom Seeds,Non-GMO Seed,Vegetable Seeds,Flower Seeds,Herb Seeds,Fruit Seeds,Garden Seeds,Seed Starter Kits ,Rare Seeds,Bulk Seeds,Indoor Gardening Seeds,Seed Catalog,Seed Packs for Sale,Sustainable Seeds,Greenhouse Seeds,Seed Suppliers,Planting Seeds ,Home Garden Seeds