What does it all mean?

[MPH]

Hi all,

I remember somewhere on this site that it says "no question is to stupid".  So here goes with a few of mine!  I've purchased some seeds today and am a little unsure of sme of the terms/instructions.  I think I know what they mean but would like reassuring!

1) Drills - are these just "V" shaped trenches?

2) cut and come again [for lettuces] - does that mean I can just pick the leaves I want and can leave the lettuce in the ground for it to continue growing?

3) I have sowed some sweetcorn in newspaper pots as recommended somewhere?  The packet instructs me to place inside a polythene bag until after germination which takes 7-10 days.  Two questions:
a) does this mean a sealed, clear polythene bag?
b) is "after germination" the point at which I can see shoots?

I think that's all for now.  I'll be down on the lottie tomorrow so will no doubt be back with a few more questions (like, "where did those weeds come from?!).

Thanks in advance,
Martin

[MPH]

[aquilegia]

Ooh - goody - questions I can answer!

1) Drills - are these just "V" shaped trenches?
yes - to the depth of sowing. So if you are to sow 1/2inch deep, V-shape is 1/2inch deep.

2) cut and come again [for lettuces] - does that mean I can just pick the leaves I want and can leave the lettuce in the ground for it to continue growing?
Yes.

3) a) does this mean a sealed, clear polythene bag?
Yes

b) is "after germination" the point at which I can see shoots?
Yes. At least that's what I've taken it to mean. (sometimes I leave mine in longer to help retain the moisture. But watch out for dampening off.)

4) where did those weeds come from?!
I only wish I knew! ;D

[MPH]

Thanks, looks like I'm picking up this gardening lingo  ;)  

Now all I need to do is grow something  ;D

 

[gilgamesh]

Drills - in the case of peas etc. where you want a 2-3" wide drill, don't make it V shaped, make it flat bottomed - the best tool for making drills of either shape is a draw hoe, use at an angle to make V shaped drills, edge down for wider ones.

[tim]

MPH - you'll see 'loose leafed' lettuce in the catalogues but , for a quickie, SEARCH for fristina - the one we have found so good this last year. = Tim

[kenkew]

Your sweet corn will grow without poly bags now. Keep 'em on the top shelf were it's warmest. When they get to an inch tall put 'em down a shelf or two out of the sun so they will divert energy to roots and not leaves.

[tim]

Pssst, MPH!
You wouldn't know it, but you're using the boss's logo. There are lots of other possibilities. = Tim

[MPH]

Thanks for the tips guys.

(and thanks Tim, I've changed it now  ::) )