For gardeners who are looking to add a little variety to their vegetable gardens, lentils might be worth considering.
Lentils are a pulse crop that is grown throughout the world, and they can be found at most grocery stores.
While lentils do not have a lot of flavor on their own, they can be cooked in many different ways and added to dishes for extra nutrients.
You can grow lentils from the grocery store, but you will need to pre-soak them overnight to soften them up so they will germinate. They are easy to grow at home and don’t require a lot of space.
Where can you get lentils for growing?
Lentils can be found at most grocery stores, and they are usually located in the dried bean or pulse section.
The price will vary depending on the store, but lentils are generally affordable.
If you want to grow lentils from scratch, you can also purchase them online.
There are a few different varieties available, so make sure to select one that is suited for your climate.
A good first choice is the Country Creek Acres lentil offer on Amazon with high germination rates within 1 to 2 days.
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Are lentils easy to grow?
Lentils are easy to grow and don’t require a lot of space. They can be grown in most climates, and they will grow well in either full sun or part shade.
The biggest challenge with growing lentils is that they need plenty of water to thrive.
Make sure you provide them with a steady supply of water, and you should also mulch them to help retain moisture.
Lentils will mature in about 60 days, and you can harvest them when they are a deep green color.##When should you plant lentils?
The best time to sow is from spring until early summer (April through June). Transplant them outside in the garden when the soil has warmed up and all danger of frost has passed.
If sowing straight into the beds, wait until after the final frost.
Can lentils be grown for greens?
Yes, lentils can be grown for greens, which are commonly known as lentil sprouts or lentil microgreens.
Lentil greens are young, tender shoots that can be harvested and consumed before the plants mature and produce lentil seeds.
Here’s how you can grow lentils for greens:
Seed selection: Choose lentil seeds specifically labeled for sprouting or microgreen production.
These seeds are typically untreated and are suitable for consumption in their young stage.
Soaking and rinsing: Start by soaking the lentil seeds in water overnight or for about 8-12 hours.
Rinse the seeds thoroughly after soaking to remove any debris or impurities.
Sprouting method: There are a few different methods you can use to sprout lentil seeds. One common method is to spread the soaked seeds evenly on a damp paper towel or sprouting tray.
Another option is to use a sprouting jar or container with a mesh or sprouting lid. Follow the instructions specific to your chosen method.
Sprouting conditions: Lentil seeds require a warm and moist environment for sprouting. Keep the seeds in a well-ventilated area with indirect sunlight.
Rinse the seeds twice a day, gently draining off excess water, to keep them moist but not waterlogged.
Growth and harvesting: After a few days, you will start to see the lentil seeds germinating and sprouting.
As the shoots grow, they will develop green leaves. Let the shoots grow to a desired length, typically around 2-3 inches, before harvesting.
Harvesting and consumption: To harvest lentil greens, use clean scissors or a sharp knife to cut the shoots just above the soil line or the sprouting medium.
Rinse the harvested greens thoroughly to remove any remaining seed hulls or debris. Lentil greens can be used in salads, sandwiches, stir-fries, or as a garnish for various dishes.
How do you plant lentils?
Lentils can be planted by scattering them on the surface of the soil and then covering them with a thin layer of soil.
You can also plant them in rows, spacing the seeds about 1 inch apart.
Make sure to water you lentils well after planting.
How much space do lentils need?
Lentils can be grown in a small garden plot or in containers.
A 10-foot by 10-foot garden plot should be enough for a family of four.
If planting in containers, use a container that is at least 12 inches deep and 6 inches wide.
You can plant lentils as close as 1 inch apart, but they will grow better if they are spaced 2-3 inches apart.
What type of soil do lentils need?
Lentils grow well in most types of soil, but they prefer a soil that is light and has good drainage.
Add organic matter to the soil before planting to help improve the drainage and nutrient level.
If your soil is heavy or clay-based, you can mix in some sand or straw to help improve the conditions.
How long does it take for lentils to germinate?
Lentils will germinate in 1 to 3 days if the proper conditions are met.
Make sure to keep the soil moist, but not wet, until they germinate.
Once they have germinated, lentils need about 1 inch of water per week. If there is a drought, you may need to water them more often.
How do you care for lentils?
Lentils do not require a lot of care, but it is important to keep the soil moist. If the soil dries out, the plants will die.
If you are having trouble keeping the soil moist, try mulching your lentils with straw or leaves to help retain moisture.
Fertilize your plants with compost or manure every few weeks to help them grow healthy and strong.
Pinch off the flowers as they form to direct all of the plant’s energy towards producing pods.
How do you harvest lentils?
Lentils can be harvested when they are a deep green color, but they will be more flavorful if you wait until they have browned a little.
To harvest, simply clip the pods off of the plant with shears.
Make sure to harvest all of the pods, as leaving some on the plants will allow them to continue producing.
Are lentils a good source of protein?
Lentils are an excellent source of protein, and they also contain fiber, iron, and B vitamins.
One cup of cooked lentils contains about 18 grams of protein.
FAQs
Can I plant lentils that I bought from the grocery store?
Yes, you can plant lentils from the grocery store, as they are generally whole, unprocessed seeds.
What do I need to do to prepare store-bought lentils for planting?
Lentils do not need to be soaked before planting. Just ensure that they are free of any damage or disease.
What conditions do lentils need to grow?
Lentils thrive in well-drained soil, with a neutral pH, in full sun. They can withstand some light frost but do best in cool, dry conditions.
How long does it take for lentils to grow from seeds?
Lentils typically take about 80 to 110 days from planting to harvest.
How deep should I plant the lentils?
Lentils should be planted about 1 to 1.5 inches deep in the soil.
Can lentils be grown in pots?
Yes, lentils can be grown in pots, but ensure the pot is deep enough for the plant’s root system, and that it has adequate drainage.
How often should I water my lentil plants?
Lentils prefer relatively dry conditions, so they should be watered sparingly, once the soil becomes dry to the touch.
Do lentils require any specific nutrients or fertilizers?
Lentils are legumes, which can fix nitrogen from the atmosphere. They typically require minimal additional fertilizer. However, a balanced organic fertilizer can be used at planting time if the soil is deficient in nutrients.
Can I harvest lentils at any time?
Lentils should be harvested when the pods have dried on the plant. They should be firm to the touch and the seeds inside should be hard.
How should I store harvested lentils?
Once harvested, lentils should be dried thoroughly and then stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. They can be kept for up to a year.
Conclusion and final thoughts 💭
Lentils are a versatile and easy-to-grow vegetable that can be added to many different dishes.
They are a good source of protein, and they also contain fiber, iron, and B vitamins.
Plant lentils in the spring and enjoy a bounty of fresh pods in the summer.
