Autumn lettuce is typically sown during the hot summer and early autumn seasons, when high temperatures make seed germination challenging. To ensure healthy growth, special care must be taken to produce strong seedlings. The ideal germination temperature ranges between 15°C and 18°C, with a maximum of 28°C, and light is essential for successful sprouting. Therefore, it's crucial to use low-temperature germination techniques before planting in the summer or autumn.
There are several effective methods to improve germination:
1. **Well Hanging Method**: Soak the seeds in well water (around 15°C) or cold water for 5–6 hours, then rinse them 2–3 times to remove mucus and impurities. Slightly dry the seeds, place them in a damp cloth bag, and hang them about 10–30 cm above the well surface, where the temperature remains around 15°C. Water the well once or twice daily for 3–4 days to maintain moisture.
2. **Refrigeration Method**: Soak the seeds for 24 hours, then rinse thoroughly and wrap them in gauze. Place them in a refrigerator at 3°C–5°C for 24 hours. Afterward, move them to a cool, ventilated area. Germination will be slow, but once the white tips appear, spread the seeds in a shaded, well-ventilated space with indirect light. Mist them regularly to keep them moist. After 2–3 days, when the shoots turn pale green, they are ready to be sown. These germinated seeds grow uniformly and have better stress resistance.
3. **Sand Mixing Method**: Soak the seeds for 1–2 hours, then mix them with moist sand. Place the mixture on an air-raid shelter or near a water tank, keeping it cool and moist. Germination should occur within 3–4 days.
4. **Irrigation Covering Method**: After preparing the seedbed, level it finely and sow the dry seeds. Cover them with a thick layer of straw, then secure the straw with bricks or stones. Water the bed every evening, and the seeds should germinate within 2–3 days.
5. **Growth Regulator Method**: In high-temperature conditions (30°C–40°C), you can soak the seeds in a solution of gibberellic acid (5 mg/L) for about 8 hours, then rinse them with tap water. This method increases the germination rate to around 80%. After sowing, use a shade net, a cloud cover, or plant under a melon stand to provide protection from direct sunlight. Alternatively, intercrop with unearthing cabbage to create a cooler microclimate.
By using these techniques, gardeners can successfully grow autumn lettuce even in warm weather, ensuring better germination and healthier plants.
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