Keep Growing Greens!

Greens Photo by Sara Moran

By Sara Moran, County Extension Horticulture Agent for Midland and Ector Counties.

Welcome to the middle of summer, yes! Still hot and sunny; however, it is an excellent time to start planning for your cold-season greens. Growing greens can be a rewarding and relatively straightforward process.

Here are some general tips to help you successfully grow greens:

1. Choose the right greens: There are various types of greens you can grow, such as lettuce, spinach, kale, arugula, and Swiss chard. Visit the Permian Basin Master Gardener website for specific varieties (westtexasgardening.org>resources>vegetable cultivars).

2. Select a location: Greens generally prefer cool temperatures and full sun. However, our full sun is extreme! Find a spot in your garden or balcony that receives adequate light but is protected from intense heat and direct sunlight, especially during the hottest daytime hours.

3. Soil preparation: Greens thrive in well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Prepare the soil by removing weeds, trash, and rocks, loosening it with a garden fork or tiller, and incorporating compost or aged manure to improve fertility. If you prefer container gardening, look for container or potting soil mixes.

4. Seeds or transplants? Whatever works better for you is the best option. Seeds are cheaper, and you might get access to different varieties. It takes a little more patience, as you have to wait for them to germinate, grow, and harden off before transplanting. Follow the package instructions when sowing them in the ground. Transplants are 'ready-to-go.' You can transplant them the same day you purchase them. However, there might be a limited variety selection, and they will cost more. When ready to transplant, manage them carefully to avoid root damage.

5. Watering and moisture: Greens require consistent moisture to grow well. Water the plants regularly, keeping the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Avoid overhead watering whenever possible to prevent disease. Consider using a drip irrigation system or watering at the base of the plants.

6. Weed control: Keep the area around your greens free from weeds, as they can compete for nutrients and water. Regularly check for and remove any weeds near your plants. The smaller the weeds are, the easier they are to remove.

7. Harvesting: Most greens can be harvested when the leaves are young and tender. Harvest outer leaves individually or cut the entire plant about an inch above the soil level. This will allow the plants to continue growing and produce more leaves for future harvests. Use them fresh. Greens are great in salads, sandwiches, and soups. Many recipes are available online!

8. Succession planting: To ensure a continuous supply of fresh greens, consider succession planting. Sow seeds or transplant new seedlings every few weeks to replace harvested plants.

9. Pests and diseases: Monitor your plants regularly for pests such as aphids. Consider using organic pest control methods like handpicking, insecticidal soap, or introducing beneficial insects like ladybugs. Proper spacing and air circulation can help prevent diseases such as powdery mildew or damping-off.

Remember to check the specific requirements for the type of greens you are growing, as different varieties may have slightly different needs. If you have any questions or want more information, contact your Texas A&M County Extension Office in Midland County (432-686-4700) or Ector County (432-498-4071). You can also email me at sara.moran@ag.tamu.edu. We are here to help...Happy Gardening!