Middle South
March, 2011
Regional Report
Favorite or New Plant
Monet's Garden Mesclun
My favorite seed selection for growing lettuce in containers is Monet's Garden Mesclun from Renee's Garden (www.reneesgarden.com). This mix includes equal parts Little Gem, Dutch Redina, Roughe Grenobloise, Red Salad Bowl, and Tango. Monet's Garden Mesclun grows as well in pots as it does in the garden and is especially productive when harvested by the "cut and come again" method. I also recommend Renee's Baby Mesclun Lettuces, Gourmet Mesclun Salad, and Sea of Red leaf lettuce.
Tool or Gardening Product
Jolly Gardener Potting Mixes
My choice for potting soil is Jolly Gardener, a product of Oldcastle Lawn & Garden. My "go to" formula is the Premium Moisture Mate Mix, which includes water holding polymers to reduce watering, as well as nutrients for four months of growth. I rate Jolly Gardener potting mixes as the best, especially for the hot and humid Middle South, because they hold their structure throughout the long growing season and nurture plants in even the most extreme growing conditions.
