It was touch and go for the first two nights with temperatures below 20° F. Some of the lettuce's larger leaves withered up a bit. I did lose about half of them to the cold. However, the fish tank heaters kept the water at about 60°F which I believe is what saved some of the tender seedlings.
As you can see, the center growth is doing well. With the last two colder nights behind us, I decided to bring the lettuce from the seed room out into the greenhouse. They have responded wonderfully to the natural light and seem to be thriving.
After filling up the two tubs using the "Kratky Method" of hydroponics, I planted the remaining lettuce into my tower planters. I purchased these last year and they did an outstanding job growing different greens. It was 58°F. in the greenhouse while I planted the lettuce. I have to say it felt so nice to be out there with the sun shining and playing with the dirt once again. lol
This morning the lettuce is standing up nicely in their new container garden. The temperature only got down to 39°F. and two more inches of snow fell last night, yet, all of the plants look great.
As you can see in the photo, the shallots were getting too tall and falling over. The seed room where they were growing under lights is too warm for them. I decided to trim them and put them out onto the top rack of the greenhouse. I think they will do much better out there growing on in the colder temps.
Also, I moved all the brassica seedlings out as well hoping that the cooler temps will make them stronger. I did cover them with a dome last night to keep the cold air off them. They look like they did just fine for the first night outside. This is the earliest I have ever put seedlings out as I usually wait until mid-March before doing so. So far all of my plants are cool weather lovers so I believe they will do just fine.
Today, I will be starting some more seedlings and before I know it the greenhouse will be filling up with plants. Wow, can you believe that March is here already? I will keep you all informed on this year's progress. It is wonderful to be self-sustaining in today's macro-climate. I hope you are all able to grow at least something for yourselves to help with the rising costs of food.
Until next time, this is Sunscape
Sun. Scape. Ing Your Day
