Sugar loaf is a lettuce plant that is also known as meatwort. Although it is cultivated in this country, it is still not very common. Since the question of cutting occasionally comes up, we would like to shed more light on it here.
When and how should you cut sugarloaf?
Cutting sugarloaf is especially relevant at harvest time. Starting in late September or early October, cut off the heads just below the head with a sharp knife; Alternatively, if necessary, only harvest individual heads for fresh preparation.
Sugarloaf makes heads
Within eight to twelve weeks after sowing or planting, the sugar loaf forms loose, elongated heads that are made up of several layers of leaves. This growth habit makes it clear that cutting is not part of sugarloaf care.
Pruning at harvest time
Depending on the weather and planting time, the harvest time for this type of lettuce begins at the end of September or beginning of October. Those who have grown the seedlings early can even look forward to an earlier harvest in August. Then the sugar loaf head can be cut off from the root. A sharp knife is ideal for this.
Place the knife directly below the head. The root is allowed to remain in the ground, where it will rot over time.
Freshly cut for current needs
This salad is best prepared fresh, so if possible, you should not harvest the bed all at once. Only cut off as many heads as you currently need.
- Sugarloaf stays fresh in the bed for a long time
- can overwinter in the bed when there is light frost
- Under ideal conditions, the harvest season can extend into winter
- especially in mild regions and mild winters
Tip
Short storage is also possible in the vegetable compartment of the refrigerator at home. Beforehand, the sugar loaf is wrapped in a plastic bag.
Cut for longer storage
If it gets uncomfortable outside and Sugar Loaf is threatened with constant rain or severe frost, you should harvest all the heads. You can cut them all off, wrap them separately in damp paper and then store them in a cool place.
For two other storage methods, you should not cut off the heads, but pull them out of the ground with the roots. Only then cut off the outer, loose leaves. Then hang the prepared heads upside down in a cool room or hammer them loosely into moist sand.
