Lettuce is a cool-weather lover that grows well in both spring and fall gardens.
This popular leafy green grows steadily and is not very demanding if it is kept sufficiently watered. In addition, lettuce grows well in raised beds and containers, making it ideal for small spaces too.
Lettuce is an annual member of the sunflower family, Asteracea. The four main types of lettuce are round lettuces, crisp head lettuce, romaine lettuce and loose-leaf lettuce.
Timing: In the summer, when soil temperature is over 22°C, seeds do not sprout well. For germination, optimal soil temperature is 10-22°C (50-72°F). Aim to plant seeds about 60 days before your first frost date.
Sowing: Direct sow 5mm-1cm (¼ – ½”) deep, 30cm (12”) apart or start indoors then transplant. Add compost and lime 3 weeks before planting.
Growing: Seeds sprout in 2-15 days depending on soil temperature. Ideal pH: 6.0 – 6.5.
For adequate nutrition, allow ample drainage in the soil and add one cup of fertilizer per 3m (10’) of row.
Thin or transplant loose-leaf types of lettuce 20-25cm (8-10”) apart. Heading types of lettuce should stand 30cm (18”) apart.
It is essential to water lettuce regularly to prevent bitterness in the leaves.
Harvesting: Luckily fall and winter plants stay in better condition longer than those harvested in the summer.
Harvesting depends on the type of lettuce – slowly pick individual leaves from the outside of romaine and loose-leaf types. Otherwise, wait to harvest full heads once matured.
Lettuce can be refrigerated in a loose plastic bag for up to 10 days.
Protection: Using a cloche, cold frame or greenhouse over mid-late August will extend harvests into winter, keeping frost off the leaves and prevents the soil from getting waterlogged.
Practice crop rotation to prevent disease.
Pests and Disease: Tipburn, when the tips of the leaves turn brown, is caused by calcium deficiency or lack of moisture.
Lettuce makes the perfect base for any number of salads. Grow and pick lettuce right from your home to accompany fall dinners.