Ruby Streaks Mustard

Planting:
Direct seed in early spring. Sow thickly in wide rows or in beds. Cover lightly (about 1⁄4 inch deep). Plant every one to two weeks to insure a constant harvest.

Growing:
Choose an area with full sun to partial shade and soil pH of 6.2-6.8. Lettuce is a heavy feeder and prefers a rich, well cultivated soil with good drainage. Some success can be expected even in poor soils using the loose-leaf types. Add plenty of compost or well-rotted manure prior to planting. Benefits from regular feedings with a nitrogen rich fertilizer. Mulching is useful to keep soil cool and reduce weeds.

Harvesting:
Harvest when plants are 3-4 inches tall. Simply cut off the leaves above the soil. Under proper conditions the lettuce will regrow and provide a second harvest.

Pests and Diseases:
Protect mesclun mixes from flea beetles by using row covers. Slugs can cause problems with lettuce and can be controlled with slug bait.

Companions:
Most vegetables, carrot, garlic, onion and radish make the best companions.

Growing Microgreens:
Sow seeds in a shallow tray of potting mix and cover lightly. About 8 to 9 grams of seed should be enough for an 11 inch x 21 inch tray. Keep the soil moist but not wet. Seedlings should be grown in full light to keep them from stretching.

Harvest:
Once seedlings have 1 –2 true leaves they are ready for harvest. This can range from 10-20 days depending on the growing conditions and the type of micro green. To harvest cut the seedlings off just above ground level with a sharp knife or scissors. The plants will not regrow, so discard the left over soil and start a new batch.

Pests:
Damping off can be a problem with microgreens. Be sure and use fresh potting mix with each batch, do not over water and allow air to circulate around the seedlings.