How to Make a Beautiful and Nutritious Lettuce Globe
While driving through a neighborhood in the summer, you are sure to see more than a couple of hanging baskets full of bright, beautiful flowers. Hanging baskets are popular not only because they allow you to display your flowers up off the ground but also because they make it easy to plant several types of flowers together. But did you know you can use hanging baskets for plants other than flowers? Hanging baskets can be used to make lettuce globes that add a splash of green to your summer decor, and also provide fresh lettuce for your family all summer. These globes only take a couple of hours to make, and with these helpful tips, you’ll be on your way to fresh salads in no time.
Gather Supplies
Before you get started, you will need to gather the necessary supplies. These can be found at your local dollar store and gardening center.
- A Hanging Basket
- Potting Soil
- Lettuce Starts or Seeds
- Terrarium Moss
- A Long Necked Watering Can
Layering
The first thing you’re going to want to do is to soak your moss in water for about 10 minutes and then set it in a strainer to let the excess water drip off. Don’t squeeze all the moisture out you want it damp. Next, you will want to pack an inch of moss into the bottom of your planter, followed by an inch of soil.
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Planting
If you opted to start from seeds, this is the time to scatter them across your soil. If you decided you wanted to get a jump-start on your lettuce and bought seedlings, you will want to lay them horizontally on top of your soil. Gently thread your starter’s leaves through the openings in your basket. Doing this will train your plants to grow out of your globe the way you want.
Keep Layering
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Continue layering your moss, soil, and lettuce until you have filled your basket almost to the top. Leave about an inch between the top of your last layer and the top of your basket for the next step. Make sure your seedling roots or all of your seeds are completely covered with soil.
Add Your Top
Use that last inch of space to add one final layer of moss and soil without adding any lettuce. If you want your hanging basket to have a top on it, now is the time to attach it.
Hang-Time
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Now is the time to pick a spot to hang your planter if you haven’t already. An area with direct or at least partial sunlight that is also sheltered from direct wind is best. Attach your planter’s chains and get it hung up. If you have any extra moss, pack it in around the edges of your planter to help keep your soil secure. Give your water a thorough watering.
Lettuce Care
Once your lettuce is planted and hung up, the hard work is done. Lettuce is a relatively low maintenance plant, and growing in a hanging globe keeps you from having to weed. Just water regularly and enjoy your crisp, fresh lettuce.
Here’s a simple video instructions:
