Sowing Salads for Winter

Blog post by Robbie

The weather is currently so mild here in Wiltshire that I have already taken full advantage by sowing some 'Lamb's Lettuce' or Corn Salad.

Sowing
The back of the packet will say to sow seeds at fortnightly intervals from late summer to late autumn (so not beyond November) in a sunny position and well drained soil.

Because it's warm at the moment I've sown mine directly into a (25cm high, 45cm diameter) patio planter with special drainage holes.  The packet says I should sow in drills 12mm (½in) deep and 15cm (6in) apart every two weeks.  I like being different so I am largely ignoring this advice in favour of creating a spiral effect by sowing from the middle outwards, a new ring every fortnight.

Thinning out 
This is garden-jargon and it refers to the process of removing weaker seedlings to make room for stronger ones.  Basically, when the seedlings spring up you will notice that they might be quite crowded.  Especially if you're a crazy sowing maverick like I am and put too many in one spot!
You can't transplant them (plant them elsewhere), as we are outside of the growing season and they really won't like being disturbed.  Don't fret though - there are likely to be over 500 seeds in your packet so plenty to go round!

Winter cropping
The lettuce should make it through the winter outside if it's in a sheltered sunny position.  However, I'm taking no chances and will be protecting my crop from frost using a cloche or fleece blanket. I must also make sure they are kept moist - but if they are too wet the crops will likely freeze if left standing in a pool of water.

Why don't you try sowing your own winter salad? I managed to find this one online, but is sure to be sold by any one of our stockists.

Good luck and please comment below if you are also sowing winter salads or have a question to ask...