Growing
Lentils are incredibly resilient cool-season crops that can withstand light frosts, making them a hardy choice for early spring planting once the soil has warmed to about 40 °F. To ensure your plants thrive, focus on soil preparation by incorporating high levels of phosphorus into the ground during spring preparation or even in the fall. If you are planting in a spot where peas or vetch haven't been grown recently, consider inoculating your seeds with Rhizobium leguminosarum bacteria. This helps the plant form the root nodules necessary to fix nitrogen from the air, which is vital for a healthy, productive crop.
As your compact bushes grow, keep an eye on the seed pods, which mature from the bottom of the plant upward. To prevent the seeds from shattering and falling to the ground prematurely, you should harvest once the lower pods have reached maturity. For the best long-term storage, ensure the seeds are dried to a low moisture content to prevent damage. Once harvested, keep your lentils unwashed and store them in a cool, dark place or a cellar to maintain their quality.
Plant Witch