When I planted the fall garden, I didn't have a clue we would hit such a dry spell. Normally the advantage of planting cooler crop plants is they require less attention.
So, my fall garden ended with areas of highs and lows because our pond water began to shrink. I was watering more than normal and had to make a difficult decision, what to keep and what to let go.
I chose to focus on the Italian lettuce; that was possibly the best decision because I use these greens almost daily.
Growing lettuce is a great reminder of how I grew up and for generations we keep the same good activity going.
Enjoying Arugula
I already had a nice crop of arugula, but I wasn't sure about keeping them because they were getting pretty big. I went ahead to add more so we could have mature and young plants.
Arugula has been around since Roman times; I love it fresh and cooked. It's also a wonderful addition to soup because it has this buttery nut with a zip of pepper flavor.
It's my go to for many dishes including when I make dogfood. Kramer loves it!
This is an easy-care plant that does well in cooler temperatures. I also grew it through the summer in a shaded area. So, when you plant, especially in the warmer zones make sure you are providing natural shade.
If you have an interest in planting Italian Lettuce, visit Seeds from Italy Here.
Enjoying Chicory & Romaine
Two of my additional favorites include chicory and red romaine. Both are easy to grow and again when planted in the right area can do well in all seasons, especially winter.
For the most part all lettuce does better in the cooler seasons, they just pop with wonderful growth that will keep the gardener satisfied during the quieter months.
Both of these varieties grow into almost a flower shape and offer the most beautiful display. Sometimes you don't even want to harvest but knowing they will grow back the hesitation fades quickly.
Growing lettuce over winter isn't something that I came up with. My family has always enjoyed fresh and cooked Italian greens topped with a good olive oil and red vinegar.
They grew in our backyard garden and at grandmas and when the freeze arrived, we just covered them with tarps until it passed.
I do the same thing today and it is such a blessing to have fresh Italian lettuce growing as we travel into winter. A neat reminder that I have a strong heritage that keeps giving back when I put in the effort.
Encouraging Goodness,
Carole West
These Lettuce Seeds at Seeds from Italy
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