4 Leafy Greens To Grow Now

Leafy greens are highly recommended for a healthy diet and can be found in many different varieties. Have you ever seen those plastic containers or bags of mixed greens in the store? All of those greens can be grown in your very own yard.

These greens grow fairly quickly, ranging from 3 to 8 weeks, depending on the plant. Since they are easy to plant, kids can get in on the fun. Below you can find instructions for getting started on your very own mixed greens container garden.
 Note: Although these plants will be grown at home, it is still just as important to be sure to wash them before eating.

What you’ll need:
-          6 inch deep window box container
-          Soil-less potting mix (can be found at any home and garden store)
-          Seeds (can be purchased with SNAP benefits!)

Arugula
This green has a rich and peppery flavor and is perfect for a spring salad. Arugula can be grown in the spring or fall.

Gardening Directions:
·         To grow arugula, you will need to space the seeds 3-5 inches apart
·         Cover with ½ inch of soil
·         Your plant should be ready for picking in 6-8 weeks
·         Water a moderate amount; do not over-water
Note: if the weather is hot and dry, this plant may grow flowers, which cause the plant to have a bad taste.

Kale
This leafy green is an excellent way to pack your dish full of nutrients. Kale will add a beautiful, dark green color and give an extra crunch. It can also be sautéed. This can be grown in from spring to fall.
 Gardening instructions:
·         Since these are big plant, space seeds 12-24 inches apart
·         Plant seeds ¼ - ½ inches deep
·         Expect 2 months growing time
·         Water a moderate amount; do not over-water

Mustard Greens
Mustard greens have a heartier, bitter flavor and bring a bright green color to any dish. This plant does best when planted in spring and in mid-summer.
 Gardening directions:
·         Space seeds 3-5 inches apart
·         Cover with ½ inch of soil
·         Expect to harvest in 3 weeks
·         Water a moderate amount; do not over-water

Spinach
Spinach is a classic addition to any dish, whether its sautéed or raw. It’s a great addition to smoothies and its dark green leafs are full of nutrients. Spinach is best planted in the spring or summer.
 Gardening Directions
·         Plant seeds 3-5 inches apart
·         Cover with ½ - 1 inch of soil
·         The spinach should be ready in 6 weeks
·         Water a high amount with good drainage

Spring has sprung! Get started on your green garden with these tips and you’ll be enjoying the nutritional benefits (and fun) in no time! Once you’ve harvested your plants you can give this mixed green recipe a try!

Citrus Spinach-Arugula-Kale Cold Salad
Recipe translated from tastykitchen.com
Serves 2

Ingredients:
½ cup baby spinach, chopped
½ cup baby arugula, chopped
½ cup baby kale, chopped
1 whole Ruby Red grapefruit
1 whole navel orange
½ whole red onion, sliced
¼ cups almond slivers (optional)

Dressing:
½ whole lemon, juiced
½ whole lime, juiced
3 Tablespoons canola oil
1 Tablespoon white vinegar
Salt and black pepper to taste

Preparation
Add baby spinach, arugula, and kale into a large mixing bowl. Peel and separate the citrus fruit in sections. Add to mixing bowl. Add sliced red onions, salt and black pepper. Toss very gently. Add almonds, if desired. In a smaller bowl, add dressing ingredients. Stir or mix well. Drizzle over salad. Gently toss and serve.