Lettuce Intred

WHEN TO SOW End of February to July

WHERE TO SOW Sowings can be made underglass, sow seeds into pots or trays of seed sowing compost at a temperature of 15-20C and lightly cover seeds with sprinkling of vermiculite or compost. Alternatively sow seeds from April thinly along rows 1.5cm (1/2in) deep and 30cm (12in) apart direct in the vegetable plot.

WHAT TO DO NEXT Sowings made underglass can be pricked out into individual pots or module trays and grown on until ready to harden off and plant out into the vegetable plot 30cm (12in) apart between the plants and the rows. Seedlings sown direct outside can be thinned once large enough to handle to 30cm (12in) apart. Thinnings can also be transplanted into other rows, watered in well during hot dry spells. MATURITY 10-12 weeks from sowing

HANDY TIP If sowing seed during very hot weather, place the seed packet in the fridge overnight and sow the next day. This cooling down of the seeds will help to improve germination.

NUTRITIONAL VALUE A good source of antioxidants such as beta-carotene, lutein and vitamin C as well as vitamin K.