Successional cropping methods

Question 1

what is the definition of successional cropping methods?

Answer 1

the regular sowing of salad and some veg crops to avoid a glut of produce - ensures a steady supply as required and avoids waste.

Question 2

what is a good method of sowing?

Answer 2

sow a few seeds frequently - avoid sowing too many seeds at one time.

Question 3

what crops work well for successional crops?

Answer 3

lettuce
spring salad onions
beetroot
dwarf carrots
radishes

Question 4

if you want to harvest lettuce in june, when should you sow the seeds in open ground?

Answer 4

March - sow them in open ground through to august to ensure regular harvests until end of October.

Question 5

where and when can you sow lettuces for harvesting October- December?

Answer 5

sow in frames, cloches or unheated glasshouses from the end of August - November.

Question 6

where can you sow lettuces to harvest in Jan - April?

Answer 6

sow in frames, cloches or unheated glasshouse regularly throughout October - November

Question 7

what does the success of successional crops rely on?

Answer 7

control of fungal diseases - esp. autumn/winter
protection from cold and frost
selection of the right variety

Question 8

name some lettuce varieties for successful successional cropping

Answer 8

Lettuce ‘Miranda’, Marcia, Pascal

Question 9

How can you extend the cropping season?

Answer 9

hort. fleece
starting plants in a frame or glasshouse
grow under a cloche or polytunnel
use black polythene sheet to warm the soil

Question 10

how is a black polythene sheet used as a mulch to warm up the soil?

Answer 10

lay over soil for around a month before planting/sowing - you can start to plant/sow about 10 - 12 days earlier than usual.