Vegetable Grow Guides
How to Grow Organic Lettuce from Seed
Lactuca sativa
About Lettuce
Lettuce is a cool-season crop. Leaf types are fastest; butterhead and romaine take longer; crisphead needs the most care. Heat makes it bitter and bolt. Use organic nitrogen (compost, fish emulsion, alfalfa) — skip 10-8-4 blends.
When to Plant
Direct-sow 4 weeks before last frost, then every 2 weeks until days regularly exceed 75°F. Sow again in late summer for fall. In heat, use shade cloth or switch to heat-tolerant varieties.
How to Plant
Sow ⅛–¼ inch deep. Leaf lettuce: thin to 4–6 inches. Heading types: 10–12 inches. Rows 12–18 inches. Keep evenly moist. Works in shallow containers.
When to Harvest
Leaf: cut outer leaves or shear 1 inch above the crown for cut-and-come-again. Head: cut at the base when the head is full but still slightly springy. Harvest in the morning.