Question
hi folks,

I have noticed that the plants from a mesclun mix seed packet are a bit more bitter than I remember in years past. Even the young plants seem to be less delicate in flavor early on. Can you think of any reasons for this result? I myself don't mind much, but a fellow community gardener who has the same complaint remarked that she and her family don't like their lettuce much either this year and may dig it out to plant something else.

I am about to do 2nd crop (again, as [previous second crop isn't coming in very good-- too much rain her in Burlington VT maybe) and would make some changes to cultivation/planting beds/? if it might help. I will be getting some nitrogen in, as a recent soil test showed excess p and K and low N. my ph is good. so I guess a second question might be what is a good organic nitrogen source? I have a bit of 5yr composted horse manure available, and will add that in, but perhaps something else too?

Thanks in advance for any suggestions!

sincerely,
Karen Dawson

Answer
I would not add too much composted horse manure, it is high in salt and over time will make your soil unable to sustain plant growth. It would better to get some sheep, goat, or rabbit (cold manures - do not need to be composted) and add those to your soil.

Bitterness can be caused by plant stress, if the roots are too hot or if the soil becomes too dry before watering. Your soil needs to be moist (not wet) and cool at all times. This can be accomplished with a good layer of alfalfa mulch, about 3 inches, which will also bring lots of earthworms, which are the best fertilizers you can have in a garden.

You should also test the acidity/akalinity of your soil and adjust the soil pH to around 6.5-7.  

A good organic Nitrogen source is blood meal, or you can side feed with fish fertilizer. You should also add calcium; and other trace minerals available in a kelp meal or seaweed meal.   

Planet Natural is a good source for organic soil ammendments.  Check our website for more information on soil building:

http://www.avant-gardening.com