Hi – Julien here!
I’d like to thank everyone for all the great feedback on the first issue of the newsletter.
Some readers were wondering if I made a mistake when I mentioned growing two-week-old lettuce in 90-degree temperatures.
No, that was not a typo, but there is a trick to it.
![two-week-old-lettuce-seedlings-in-tray two week old lettuce seedlings in tray](https://www.microfarmguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/two-week-old-lettuce-seedlings-in-tray.jpg)
In this issue, I’m going to:
- Explain how to start lettuce from seeds (in Hot weather)
- Discuss how to choose the right potting mix for vegetable gardens
- Plus, share some cool updates from the site…
So, let’s get started with:
🌿 How to Start Lettuce Seeds (In Hot Weather)
As mentioned before, lettuce is a cool-weather crop that is difficult to germinate once the temperature rises above 80°F.
And the average temperature where I live has been about 88 to 90°F lately. So, to get lettuce to germinate, I usually follow the steps below:
Step 1: Select Heat-Tolerant Lettuce Varieties
In other words, you need to choose lettuce that can handle the heat without going to seed too early.
My favorites include Minetto, Red Rapid, and Black Seeded Simpson.
![Red-Lettuce Red Lettuce](https://www.microfarmguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Red-Lettuce.jpg)
Step 2: Pre-Germinate Seeds Using Tissue Paper
This is my go-to technique to germinate lettuce seeds.
To do this, you have to put some tissue paper in a container and sprinkle seeds on top.
Then, water the seeds, cover the container, and place it in a cool spot. I usually put it under my bed.
You should see tiny roots in about 24 hours. At which point you’re ready to move on to:
![sprouted lettuce seeds on damp paper towel sprouted lettuce seeds on damp paper towel](https://www.microfarmguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/sprouted-lettuce-seeds-on-damp-paper-towel.jpg)
Step 3: Sow Seeds in Potting Mix
Now, at this point you have to fill a seed tray with some moist potting mix.
Then, plant two seeds in each cell. Water the newly planted seeds and place them in a cool spot.
I like to cover the tray with a piece of cardboard to keep the moisture in until I’m ready for:
![Lettuce-Seeds-In-Tray Lettuce Seeds In Tray](https://www.microfarmguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Lettuce-Seeds-In-Tray.jpg)
Step 4: Transition Seedlings to Sunlight
The seedlings will start to emerge about 24-36 hours after planting. So, be prepared to move them to a sunny area when you see the first sign of germination.
This initial exposure is the secret to growing lettuce in hot weather. Not only will the plants adapt to the heat, but they will also have a stronger structure.
![newly-germinated-lettuce-seedlings newly germinated lettuce seedlings](https://www.microfarmguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/newly-germinated-lettuce-seedlings.jpg)
All right, there you have it! This is how I’m able to grow lettuce despite the hot weather. Now, let’s take a look at the:
📬 Question Of The Week
This week’s question comes from a new reader, Shenelle Young, who writes:
“Hi Julien, I’m thinking about using an old fridge as a planter and filling it with potting mix. But I was wondering, is potting mix good for growing plants, or is it only for starting seedlings? – Shenelle, GD“
Hi Shenelle: Yes, you can grow plants using potting mix. It provides excellent growing conditions without the fear of soil-borne diseases.
However, you’ll have to ensure that you choose the right potting mix, since some types contain little to no nutrients at all.
To confirm this, check the label and packaging to see if it claims to “feed plants” or contains NPK or other fertilizers.
And, regardless of which type you get, be prepared to add compost, manures, or other sources of nutrients to the mix.
You’ll be amazed how quickly some plants can use up any available nutrients from the potting soil. – Julien
Ok, now back to you. Do you have a gardening question you’d like to share? Feel free to Ask It Here…
I’m looking forward to hearing from you. Talk about sharing, let’s check out our:
📸 Garden Spotlight
![hermit-crab-in-shell-garden hermit crab in shell garden](https://www.microfarmguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/hermit-crab-in-shell-garden.jpg)
This week’s photo was taken by my mom. At first she thought it was a snail, then got excited when she realized it was a soldier crab.
It was marching through the garden, heading towards the river in my backyard. I didn’t even know we had soldier crabs in the area!
I’d love to see what’s happening in your garden, whether it’s a blooming flower, a beautiful harvest, or a unique garden setup…
Send your photos for a chance to be featured in next week’s spotlight.
Now, it’s finally time to check out the new:
🌐 Community Board!
It’s been a productive week here at Micro Farm Guide, so let’s bring you up-to-date with the cool new features and other exciting stuff! For starters…
📢 Have you seen the new design for the garden guide as yet?
Not only does the new design look cooler, but it’s way more informative! Also,
🛠️ I finally fixed the mobile menu and added a search feature.
It is now much easier to browse the site on your phone. You can also search for the information you want by clicking the “🔎” icon in the site’s menu bar. Try it out!
📺 Also I came across this video on growing food in Alaska.
At first, I was intrigued by the idea but quickly became concerned after learning what’s making all this possible. You can watch the video here.
Do you have a story, video, or other interesting thing to share? You can send it here, and you could be featured next.
📧 Did I Miss Anything?
Send me a message to let me know what you’d like to see in future issues.
And remember, my newsletter goes out every Friday morning.
So, until next week, take care, stay safe, and keep growing!