How to Grow Romaine in Water

Growing romaine lettuce (Lactuca sativa) in water supplemented with nutrients provides clean growing conditions, reducing the time spent washing it before enjoying its crisp leaves. Hydroponics -- growing plants in nutrient-rich water -- works well with crops that tolerate wet conditions, like romaine, However, plant roots also need oxygen, so take care not to submerge them completely. Sow romaine seeds every three weeks for a constant supply and shade the plants on hot, sunny days. Romaine grows 6 to 12 inches tall and wide, and you can harvest leaves as it grows.

6-inch-deep waterproof grow tray
1-inch-thick polystyrene panel
Sharp knife
Drill (optional)
Water-soluble fertilizer
Epsom salts
pH testing strips
2-inch net pots

Instructions

- 1
  Cut a polystyrene panel to fit tightly into the top of a waterproof grow tray, using a sharp knife. Drill or cut 2-inch-wide holes in the panel, in a staggered pattern of rows 8 inches apart, with holes 12 inches apart within rows and 4 inches from the edge of the panel.
- 2
  Mix 20-20-20 soluble fertilizer with enough water to fill the growing tray to a depth of 4 inches, at a rate of 2 level teaspoons of fertilizer per gallon of water. Add 1 level teaspoon Epsom salts per gallon of water and stir until all powders have dissolved. Check that the pH of the water is between 5.5 and 6.5 with a pH testing strip. Alternatively, use a ready-to-mix hydroponic nutrient solution, mixed according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- 3
  Place the grow tray in a level, sunny, sheltered site and pour in the nutrient solution. Put the polystyrene panel in the tray. It should not touch the solution beneath.
- 4
  Transplant lettuce seedlings into net pots, gently brushing excess compost, if any, from their roots. Insert the net pots into the holes in the polystyrene panel.
- 5
  Check the nutrient solution level every two or three days and top up with fresh solution as needed.
- 6
  Check romaine lettuce plants for signs of infestation, such as aphids, every two or three days. Squash or pick off pests. Plants are ready to harvest five or six weeks after transplanting.

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