On 08/14/2012 05:47 PM, David Hare-Scott wrote:
Todd wrote:
Hi All,

When I hear that a plat will "bolt" from the
hot weather, what does "bolt" mean?

Any way to prevent it?

Many thanks,
-T

It means for an annual to flower and go to seed too quickly, usually
this term is applied when we want the leaves (eg lettuce) not the
flowers or seeds. There are some cultivars that are said to be "slow
bolting". If you mulch heavily and put shade cloth over the plant to
keep the soil temperature down you may retard bolting in hot weather
somewhat. Once they decide to go there is nothing you can do. The only
real solution is to not grow the offender in hot conditions. So in my
climate (about zone 9b) despite lettuce being desired for summer salads
I don't grow them then.

David

Excellent explanation. Thank you