How many days does it take for lettuce to sprout?

Lettuce is one of the common vegetables in our daily diet. Lettuce prefers a cool climate and is not heat-resistant. The most suitable growth temperature is 15-20℃. Planting lettuce requires sufficient water and fertile, well-drained soil. So how many days does it take for lettuce to sprout and emerge from the soil? Let’s take a look with the editor below.

1. How many days does it take for lettuce to sprout and emerge from the soil?

Lettuce usually sprouts and emerges from the soil within 3 to 10 days. Lettuce seeds germinate faster at suitable temperatures, and the optimal germination temperature is 16-19℃. Within this temperature range, lettuce seeds will usually emerge 3-5 days after sowing. If the temperature drops below 4°C, the germination of seeds will slow down significantly and may take longer to emerge. Keeping the soil moist will also help speed up germination. Lettuce seeds need proper moisture after sowing to promote germination and seedling growth.

2. Lettuce planting method

1. Soil selection

Lettuce has a shallow root system, so it should be planted in sandy loam or loam with good air permeability, rich organic matter content and good drainage. Avoid choosing areas with heavy clay soil or low-lying waterlogged areas.

2. Land preparation and fertilization

Before sowing or planting, deep plowing should be carried out, the depth is generally 20 to 30 cm. At the same time, 2,000 to 3,000 kilograms of high-quality decomposed manure, 50 kilograms of triple compound fertilizer , and 30 kilograms of potassium sulfate are applied per mu as base fertilizer. After the soil is plowed and harrowed, it is made into flat ridges, the width of which is generally 1.2 to 1.5 meters.

3. Sowing time

Choose the appropriate sowing time according to local climatic conditions and planting plans. In the north, lettuce is usually sown in late March to early April in spring or in August to September in autumn. In the south, sowing can be done all year round, but mainly in spring and autumn.

4. Seed treatment

Before sowing, the seeds can be treated with low temperature germination to increase the germination rate and germination speed. Soak the seeds in clean water for 24 hours, take out, wash, wrap with gauze and put in the refrigerator at -3℃ to -5℃ for 24 hours, then put in a cool place indoors to let it melt gradually. After 3 to 5 days, when 80% of the seeds are white, they can be sown.

5. Sowing method

Before sowing, water the seedbed thoroughly. Then, spread the treated seeds evenly on the seedbed and cover them with a thin layer of soil (about 1 cm thick). After sowing, cover with shade net or straw to keep moisture, and remove the covering in time after seedlings emerge.

6. Seedling management

Keep the seedbed moist and avoid drought and waterlogging. At the same time, attention should be paid to preventing and controlling underground pests, snails and other hazards. When the seedlings have 4 to 6 true leaves, they can be transplanted.

The above is an introduction to how many days it takes for lettuce to germinate and emerge from the soil. Lettuce can be sown directly from seeds or planted by transplanting seedlings. The seeds usually need to be soaked before sowing to promote germination.