Vitaminny lettuce is a popular leafy green variety that has earned the respect of gardeners for its high productivity, delicate flavor, and ease of cultivation. It adapts well to a variety of conditions and grows well in all regions of the country. It's important to carefully study its characteristics and features and provide the plant with comprehensive and timely care.
Introduction to the variety
Developed in 2004 by breeders S. V. Maksimov and N. N. Klimenko of Agrofirm Poisk LLC, it has become one of the most sought-after varieties thanks to its high yield and excellent taste.
Suitable for both open-ground and greenhouse cultivation, it has good resistance to leaf-out, making it an attractive choice for large areas. Gardeners can harvest approximately 2.5-3.2 kg of greens per square meter.
Features of the plant and taste
The bushes reach a height of 21 cm and a diameter of 27 cm. The rosette is semi-erect, with large, oblong-elliptical, light green leaves. They are characterized by their considerable size, a strongly wavy margin, and a moderately bubbly surface.
- ✓ High resistance to flowering even with long daylight hours.
- ✓ Leaves retain their crispness and flavor even after harvesting for 48 hours.
The leaves are crisp, tender, and soft, without bitterness, with a refreshing flavor. The weight of a single head ranges from 190 to 250 g.
Growing and care
To successfully grow the crop, it's important to follow certain agricultural practices that ensure favorable conditions for growth and a high-quality harvest. Follow these recommendations:
- Choose sunny sites with loose, fertile, and moisture-retentive soil. Loamy or sandy loam soils with a neutral pH are best.
- In the fall, dig up the soil and add organic fertilizer (compost or rotted manure). In the spring, loosen the beds and level them.
- Sow seeds outdoors from mid-April to early May, when the soil warms to 10-12°C. Repeat every 2-3 weeks to ensure a continuous harvest. Plant at a depth of up to 1 cm. Space rows 25-30 cm apart, and plants within a row 20 cm apart.
- ✓ The soil pH level should be strictly within 6.0-7.0 to prevent leaf chlorosis.
- ✓ The soil must contain at least 4% organic matter to ensure adequate nutrition.
- × Avoid watering during hot periods of the day to prevent leaf burn.
- × Do not allow water to stagnate at the roots, as this can lead to fungal diseases.
Take care of your plants after planting to ensure a high-quality and abundant harvest. Follow these simple care steps:
- Watering. The plant requires regular watering, especially in dry weather. Apply water at the roots, avoiding dripping onto the leaves. The soil should be kept moderately moist but not waterlogged.
- Thinning. If seedlings become too dense, remove weak plants.
- Loosening and mulching.They improve oxygen access to the roots and prevent soil crust formation. A layer of straw or humus helps retain moisture and reduces weed growth.
- Top dressing. Use organic fertilizers, such as mullein or chicken manure infusion, diluted in water. Apply 10-14 days after germination and repeat as needed, especially if the leaves begin to lighten.
- Protection from pests and diseases. Bushes can be attacked by aphids and other insect pests. For prevention, use folk remedies. Garlic infusion or a soap solution are effective. Conduct regular inspections and, if necessary, apply biological protection products.
Harvest as the rosettes form and the plants reach the desired size. Cut the leaves early in the morning or evening to preserve their freshness and juiciness.
Reviews
Vitaminny lettuce is an excellent choice for both experienced gardeners and beginners looking to grow healthy and delicious greens in their garden. Thanks to its low maintenance, strong immune system, and tolerance to temperature fluctuations, this variety is a popular choice for adding variety to your daily menu. Proper care and minimal maintenance are essential.