Detailed Explanation of Key Techniques for Low-Temperature Germination of Lettuce
The temperature range for germination of lettuce and celery seeds is 5-25°C; germination is impeded above 30°C. When sowing lettuce and celery in summer and autumn, the air temperature is relatively high, so subjecting the seeds to low-temperature treatment can promote earlier and more uniform emergence. For low-temperature treatment, first wrap the seeds in gauze and soak them in well water at a temperature below 25°C. Lettuce...
The temperature range for germination of lettuce and celery seeds is 5-25°C; germination is impeded above 30°C. When sowing lettuce and celery in summer and autumn, the air temperature is relatively high, so subjecting the seeds to low-temperature treatment can promote earlier and more uniform emergence.
For low-temperature treatment, first wrap the seeds in gauze and soak them in well water at a temperature below 25°C. Soak lettuce seeds for 5-6 hours and celery seeds for 10 hours, then carry out low-temperature germination. There are 3 germination methods, which can be chosen according to actual conditions. First, wrap the seeds well in gauze and place them in a -5°C to -3°C cold storage for 24 hours, then place the frozen seeds indoors and let them thaw naturally; they will germinate in 2-3 days. Second, place the seeds wrapped in damp gauze in the refrigerator crisper compartment, maintaining 15-20°C; they will germinate in 3-5 days. Third, wrap the seeds well in damp gauze and suspend them in a well, 30 cm above the water surface inside the well; they will germinate in 3-5 days. During the germination process, replenish water in a timely manner, rinse the seeds at least once a day, and allow the seeds to receive appropriate light during the process. After germination, sow when soil moisture is suitable, and cover with straw curtains after sowing to retain moisture; if conditions permit, build a 1 m high shade shed to facilitate emergence.