If you have limited space, or if you just want to try out an innovative way of growing lettuce, you can plant it in reclaimed rain gutters. Rain gutters provide an ideal space for growing lettuce since they lettuce plants have shallow root systems. You can mount gutters on the side of your house or shed, along a deck railing or under a windowsill as a small planter. All you have to do is cut the gutter to size, cap the ends and drill holes for drainage -- no labor-intensive digging or tilling required. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Place the length of gutter on a work surface. Slip one gutter cap on each end and ensure they lock into place.
2. Turn the gutter upside down on a work surface. Drill 1/8-inch-diameter holes through the gutter every 6 inches along the entire length. The holes will allow the gutters to drain. Use a drill and 1/8-inch bit.
3. Position gutter hangers along the surface where you want to hang the gutter every 3 to 4 feet. Drive the included screws through the mounting holes in the hangers into the surface with a screw gun to fasten them in place. Slide the gutter into the hangers to lock it into place.
4. Add potting soil to the gutter and fill it up so that it is level with the top edges of the gutter. Smooth over the top with your hands.
5. Water the soil thoroughly with a watering can filled with water. Make a 1/8-inch-deep furrow along the length of the gutter, in the center, with a trowel. Plant lettuce seeds into the furrow, planting approximately 60 seeds per foot. Cover over the seeds with potting soil and gently pack it down with your finger tips. Keep the soil moist at all times.
Tags: growing lettuce, gutter every, into place, length gutter, lock into, lock into place, potting soil