Plants For Bulk Growth

Chard

The first plant that I would suggest growing in "bulk" is Swiss Chard. I say this because it is high in many vitamins including vitamins A, K, and C; which is necessary for maintaining strong bones and teeth. It also is rich in minerals, protein, and dietary fiber. To sow chard, a trench measuring 2.5cm deep and the spacing between the seeds needs to be about 8cm apart. Then cover, water, and label. Swiss Chard is a type of vegetable whose leaves are always green with a stem that varies in color. It is a cool weather vegetable that can take from 1-2 weeks for germination  and up to 2 months to grow to be harvested. Considering how early into the semester, there is plenty of time in the semester to produce chard. The rows for chard should be spaced apart up to 45cm and each individual seed should be 1-1.5cm apart, placed 1/2in deep. A thin seedling must be spread from 8-12 inches apart. The leaves can be picked 3 inches after they've grown but must be done before the leaves reach 10 inches. Chard grows the best in well-drained soil rich in organic matter and in soil containing a pH level of 6.0-6.8. It needs to be evenly moist for quick, tender growth. 

Lettuce

Lettuce is a type of leaf vegetable. It is a good source of vitamin A and potassium,which is used for maintaining blood pressure, maintaining regularity in the contractions and relaxation of the muscles, prevention of cramping of the muscles, and since potassium functions as an electrolyte, it maintains the electrical conductivity of the brain, and impacts the brain function. It is also plays a vital role in enhancing the higher brain functions like memory and learning. Lettuce can be grow during anytime since it has adapted to cooler temperatures. It can survive warmer temperatures such as 80 degrees but it is required that the nights be cool. It takes 2-3 months for lettuce to grow depending on when it is planted. Looking at the time left in the semester, it could be pretty risky. It could be a possibility that the semester could be over before the lettuce has become ready for harvesting. Germination occurs between 40-80 degrees Fahrenheit. Spacing between the lettuce varies depending on the kind of lettuce. For Leaf lettuce types; 6” apart with 12” rows. For Iceberg lettuce; 12” apart with 18” row spacing. For Romaine lettuce; 8-10” apart with 12-16”. Lettuce favors an area with full sun to partial shade and a soil pH of 6.2-6.8. It is a heavy feeder and prefers a rich, well cultivated soil with good drainage.