Chin Chin is a Batavia lettuce variety belonging to the Grand Rapids class, characterized by early maturity and good flavor, suitable for a variety of growing methods. This variety is noted for its high productivity.
Introduction to the variety
Chin Chin lettuce is ideal for eating raw or as a baby leaf. This productive variety is characterized by its compact size, which can weigh up to 400 g.
Other varietal characteristics:
- Lettuce leaves have a light green color, and when fully ripe, they have a yellowish tint.
- The leaf edge shape is very wavy and the texture of the lettuce is crisp.
- The leaves of this variety are collected in a neat rosette.
- They have a sweet taste without any bitterness.
- Chin Chin is an early ripening variety; it can be harvested as early as 30-38 days after the first shoots appear.
The term "baby leaves" originated in Western culinary traditions, where the emphasis is on health. "Baby leaves" are the youngest lettuce leaves, harvested just three weeks after sowing. These young leaves are considered richer in vitamins and minerals and have a mild and delicate flavor compared to mature leaves.
Agrotechnical subtleties
Its moderate difficulty and lack of specialized knowledge make Chin Chin lettuce accessible to amateur growers. This salad is ideal for planting in central Russia during spring, early summer, and fall, and in the south of the country, only in spring and fall.
Criteria for choosing a landing site
- ✓ The area should be protected from strong winds that can damage delicate lettuce leaves.
- ✓ The soil must be well-drained to avoid water stagnation and root rot.
To successfully grow this salad, you need to choose an open spot in the garden that is protected from direct sunlight.
Other rules:
- The distance between plants and rows should be 45-50×15-20 cm.
- Seeds should be planted from April 20 to May 10, depending on weather conditions and climate.
- It is important to provide the plantings with sufficient moisture; when watering, it is necessary to avoid getting water on the leaves.
- During periods of rapid growth, lettuce requires feeding with complex special preparations.
- When harvesting, you should carefully cut the greens at the ground, leaving a base at least 1-1.5 cm long.
- When the seedlings become dense, it is necessary to carry out the thinning procedure.
- The basis of care is weeding, fertilizing, loosening the soil between rows, and regular watering. Watering is done along the furrows.
Irrigation optimization
- • Use drip irrigation to minimize the risk of fungal diseases caused by water splashing on leaves.
- • Water early in the morning or late in the evening to reduce water evaporation.
Reviews
Victoria Kupriyanova, 57 years old, Voronezh.
A delicious salad—the leaves are so tender they melt in your mouth. This variety is perfect for all kinds of salads, burgers, and sandwiches. This is our favorite variety, highly recommended.
Anna Portko, 42 years old, Krasnodon.
I've been growing Chin Chin for three or four years now and am always pleased with the results. The bushes never get sick and aren't particularly demanding, but they do require careful feeding. Otherwise, the leaves won't be as large and succulent. Otherwise, it's a wonderful variety.
Kirill Varganov, 47 years old, Ivanovo.
We plant Chin Chin three times a season – in spring, summer, and early fall. It easily tolerates cold snaps, but needs to be watered regularly. It's also resistant to pests and other infections. We've also tried growing it on a windowsill. The results are good – it's possible, but it's important to keep the sun away from the leaves.
Chin Chin salad contains a range of vitamins, minerals, and trace elements, making it a preferred fresh dietary ingredient and a complement to home cooking. This variety is easy to grow, disease- and pest-resistant, and produces impressive yields.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the optimal soil pH level for growing?
Can you grow in containers on a balcony?
Which companion crops will improve growth?
How often should I apply fertilizer to maximize yield?
What are the signs of overwatering soil?
How to protect against slugs without chemicals?
Is it possible to collect individual leaves without cutting off the rosette?
What is the minimum temperature for seeds to germinate?
How to extend the shelf life of freshly picked leaves?
What weeds are most dangerous for this variety?
Can it be used for hydroponics?
How to avoid bolting in hot weather?
What natural fertilizers will increase the sugar content of leaves?
What is the interval between re-sowing in open ground?
Which lamps should you choose for providing additional lighting for seedlings in winter?