Lettuce: Sow and Grow GuideUpdated 14 days ago

Lettuce is a cool-season crop that is easy to grow and provides a quick, fresh harvest. Here's a concise guide to successfully sowing and growing lettuce.

When to Sow

Sow lettuce seeds outdoors 2-4 weeks before the last frost in spring, or as soon as the soil can be worked. For a continuous harvest, sow seeds every 2-3 weeks. In warmer climates, lettuce can also be sown in late summer for a fall harvest.

Outdoor Sowing

Choose a location with full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Sow seeds 1/8 inch deep, spacing them 6-12 inches apart, depending on the variety. Lettuce seeds are very small, so it’s important to sow them thinly. After sowing, water gently and keep the soil consistently moist until germination, which usually takes 7-10 days.

Indoor Sowing

For an early start, sow lettuce seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost. Use seed trays or small pots with a light, well-draining soil mix. Sow seeds on the surface or lightly cover them with soil. Keep the soil moist and place the trays in a bright, cool location. Transplant seedlings outdoors once they have 2-3 true leaves and the danger of frost has passed.

Care and Maintenance

Lettuce prefers cool weather and consistent moisture. Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist, especially during dry spells, but avoid waterlogging. Mulch around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds. To prevent bolting (premature flowering), plant lettuce in a location that receives some afternoon shade in warmer weather.

Pests and Diseases

Common pests include aphids, slugs, and snails. Use row covers to protect young plants, and consider organic pest control methods if necessary. Lettuce is generally disease-resistant, but good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering can help prevent fungal issues like downy mildew.

Harvesting

Lettuce can be harvested at any stage, from baby greens to full-sized heads. For leaf lettuce, harvest outer leaves as needed, allowing the plant to continue growing. For head lettuce, cut the entire head at the base when it reaches the desired size. Harvest in the morning for the best flavor and crispness.

Garden Use

Lettuce is perfect for succession planting in garden beds, containers, or even as an edging plant. It’s a great companion plant for taller crops like tomatoes, which can provide some shade. Lettuce can also be interplanted with other cool-season crops like radishes and carrots for an efficient use of garden space.

For further details, visit the full guide on the Botanical Interests Blog.