Hi, Folks; As you may remember, I'm moving up to AL, Zone 8a from FL, zone 9b.. Growing lettuce or spinach in zone 9 has been an exercise in futility for me.. Since I love these veggies I'm hoping to be able to grow them in zone 8; so, any helpful hints, tips from any of you folks in z8 or z7 will be greatly appreciated.. Seems that now (early-mid September) is about the time to be planting those crops?? Hank
Hank, we are in 8b here in Central Texas, and I plant leaf type lettuces in mid-October, since the soil has cooled enough by then for the seeds to germinate well. (Bloomsdale Long Standing)spinach I plant at about the same time, or up to the first week in November. It doesn't do much, but overwinters and comes on great in February. I think you'll find both lettuce and spinach does well in your new place.
Thank you, Jane, for your reply and encouragement.. I'll try that spinach variety you mentioned.. Hank
I didn't realize how spoiled I was to be able to grow that kind of stuff most of the summertime. I realize everything doesn't grow everywhere for the same length of time or even at all but just didn't think about spinach and lettuce. that would be a hardship for me. Barb in Pa.
Last year I planted at the end of November and had lettuce, spinach, swiss chard and kale all winter long. I planted carrots, too. They stayed small but were good in soups and stew. Most of them produced until it got hot in April. I might add peas this year. There aren't as many weeds to pull in a winter garden either. dooley
