It’s that time of the year when garden projects are at the top of your list of things to do. It is especially true this year with so many of you being stuck at home.
If you are fortunate enough to have a bit of space to plant a garden, now is the perfect time to get started. The good news is, in about two and a half to three weeks you will have an abundant harvest of salad greens for your table. And be sure to share with some of your harvest with someone who might not be as fortunate as you.
To get you started, here are a few of the most popular varieties.
Mesclun – this traditional mix of salad greens originates from the Provence region of southern France and usually includes chervil, arugula, leafy lettuces and endive; although it is not uncommon for growers to combine a mix of whatever is available. If planting in your own garden, mesclun grows best in early to late spring.
Butterhead – relatively easy to grow, butterhead lettuces are soft, with a buttery texture whose leaves form into very loose “heads”. The flavor is somewhat mild and sweet and tastes best with a mild salad dressing as a way of complimenting rather than masking its succulent flavor.
Romaine – romaine lettuce is perhaps the sturdiest of salad greens and is tolerant of heat. The leaves grow upward into a tall head of sturdy leaves with firm ribs that remind you of the leaves of Swiss chard. Mild in flavor, romaine can be used not only in salads, but also on sandwiches and in green smoothies.
Arugula – with a bit of a bite in flavor, it is also known as rocket. Arugula is an annual plant, which means it has to be planted each growing season. A nice addition to other salad greens, especially spinach, it is a favorite in steak salads. One of my favorite recipes is to use as a bed for grilled fresh peaches with a nice drizzle of balsamic.
For recipes and ideas of what to grow in your garden, be sure to purchase a copy of my cookbook, Farm Girl in The City – Of Food and Love. You can purchase from my online store; the link is listed here in the blog.
If you have questions, hit me up. I would love to hear from you. In the meantime, Happy Planting!
Deigratia,
Bonnie
Because life should be good. How good is that…
