Guides
Guides »

How to grow lettuce

How to grow lettuce

Lettuce is one of the easiest, quickest, and most rewarding crops you can grow, whether you're new to gardening or a seasoned pro. Known for its crisp texture, fresh taste, and versatility in the kitchen, lettuce thrives in cool climates and grows rapidly, offering a continuous harvest throughout the growing season. Ideal for gardens, containers, or even indoors, lettuce can provide fresh, delicious greens right at your fingertips.

How to grow lettuce from seed

Growing lettuce from seed is simple and rewarding. Begin by sowing seeds directly in garden beds or containers about ¼ inch deep in loose, fertile, and well-drained soil. Water gently to keep the soil consistently moist. Seedlings typically sprout within 7-10 days. Once your seedlings have emerged and developed a couple of true leaves, thin them out, leaving about 6 to 12 inches between plants, depending on your lettuce variety. Succession planting seeds every two weeks can provide a continuous supply of lettuce throughout the growing season.

When to plant lettuce

Lettuce is a cool-season crop that thrives best when temperatures are moderate. Plant lettuce seeds outdoors in early spring, about 4 to 6 weeks before your area's last frost date. You can also plant lettuce seeds in late summer for an autumn harvest. In regions with mild winters, lettuce can be grown throughout the winter months. Regular sowing intervals of every two to three weeks will help ensure a consistent supply of fresh greens.

How far apart to plant lettuce

Proper spacing depends on the variety of lettuce. For leaf lettuce varieties, space plants 6 to 8 inches apart to give each plant adequate room. For larger head lettuce varieties such as iceberg or romaine, provide more space, approximately 10 to 12 inches apart. Rows should be spaced about 12 to 18 inches apart to allow easy access for watering, weeding, and harvesting.

How much space lettuce needs

Lettuce doesn't need a lot of space but does require enough room for airflow and leaf development. Leaf lettuces typically require 6 to 8 inches between each plant, whereas head lettuce varieties need a bit more—about 10 to 12 inches—to form solid, healthy heads. Adequate spacing encourages healthy leaf production, reduces the risk of disease, and helps the plants to grow faster.

Does lettuce need a trellis

Lettuce does not require a trellis. It grows close to the ground in compact heads or loose-leaf clusters, making it perfect for raised beds, garden rows, or containers. Lettuce's naturally low-growing habit and shallow root system eliminate the need for additional support structures, simplifying maintenance.

Where to plant lettuce

Plant lettuce in fertile, well-drained soil enriched with compost or aged manure. Choose a location that offers morning sun and afternoon shade, especially in warmer climates. This helps protect lettuce from excessive heat, which can cause plants to bolt (produce flowers and seeds prematurely). Raised beds and containers also work exceptionally well because they allow for better drainage and easier control over soil quality.

How much sunlight lettuce needs

Lettuce prefers partial sunlight, ideally 4 to 6 hours of direct sun daily. Morning sun is beneficial as it helps the plants dry off quickly, reducing the risk of fungal diseases, while afternoon shade can protect plants from bolting during hotter parts of the season. In hot climates, providing partial shade or using shade cloth can significantly extend your lettuce-growing period.

What temperature lettuce grows in

Lettuce grows best at cool temperatures ranging from 45°F to 75°F (7°C to 24°C). It thrives in the cooler months of spring and autumn. High temperatures above 80°F (27°C) can cause lettuce to bolt, turning it bitter and tough. Managing the planting schedule and providing shade or choosing heat-tolerant varieties can help maintain quality lettuce harvests even in warmer conditions.

Can lettuce handle frost

Lettuce is somewhat frost-tolerant and can handle temperatures down to about 28°F (-2°C). However, extended exposure to freezing conditions can damage tender leaves. Protect lettuce from prolonged frost by using row covers or cloches. Mild frost can enhance the sweetness of certain lettuce varieties, making them tastier and more tender.

How much water lettuce needs

Lettuce plants thrive with consistent moisture levels, generally requiring about 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week. Lettuce has shallow roots, so consistent watering is crucial. Avoid overwatering or letting the soil dry out, as both can cause stress, bitterness, or even bolting. Applying mulch around plants can help maintain soil moisture and temperature.

How often to water lettuce

Lettuce should be watered frequently but not excessively, about 2 to 3 times per week, depending on climate and rainfall. Regularly check the soil moisture; when the top inch of soil feels dry, water thoroughly to keep the soil consistently damp but not waterlogged. In hotter weather, you might need to water lettuce daily or use drip irrigation to maintain moisture without promoting disease.

How long lettuce takes to grow

Lettuce is a fast-growing crop, usually ready to harvest within 30 to 70 days, depending on the variety. Loose-leaf varieties can mature in as little as 30 days, while head lettuces typically take 50 to 70 days. For continuous fresh greens, plant a new batch of lettuce seeds every two weeks throughout the growing season.

When to harvest/pick lettuce

Lettuce is ready to harvest when leaves reach the desired size—usually between 4 to 6 inches tall for leaf lettuce. Head lettuces can be harvested when they form firm, compact heads. Young, smaller leaves are tender and mild, perfect for fresh salads, while larger leaves are ideal for wraps or sandwiches.

How to harvest/pick lettuce

To harvest leaf lettuce, use scissors or garden shears to cut leaves about 1 to 2 inches above the soil, allowing plants to regrow for multiple harvests. For head lettuce, harvest by cutting the entire head at ground level. Harvest lettuce early in the morning when leaves are at their crispest and coolest.

Can you grow lettuce indoors

Lettuce grows exceptionally well indoors, making it perfect for year-round gardening. Use containers with drainage holes, high-quality potting mix, and provide at least 4 to 6 hours of bright sunlight daily or supplement with a grow light. Indoor lettuce cultivation ensures fresh greens regardless of outdoor weather.

How to grow lettuce in pots/containers

Choose shallow, wide containers (at least 6 to 8 inches deep) with adequate drainage. Fill pots with nutrient-rich potting soil, then sow lettuce seeds evenly across the surface. Thin seedlings to about 4 to 6 inches apart for leaf lettuce, or 8 to 12 inches for head lettuce. Water consistently, ensuring soil remains moist. Container-grown lettuce is ideal for patios, balconies, or any small space, making fresh greens easily accessible.