Lactuca sativa

Lactuca sativa, more commonly known as lettuce, is a cool-season, leafy vegetable with a native range that spreads from Siberia to the Mediterranean.  Though it is commonly grown for its application in culinary creations, lettuce is also a popular ornamental plant due to its variety of decorative foliage.  Most lettuce plants range in color from dark reds to bright greens, but there are some varieties that have yellow, gold, or blue-teal leaves as well.  When growing lettuce for consumption, it is crucial to harvest before flowering begins, as this will cause the plant to become bitter and die.  Harvesting approaches can vary based on the type of lettuce you grow, but the best time to harvest is always in the morning while the lettuce is hydrated. Loose leafy lettuces should be harvested from the outer leaves after they grow to 6 in / 15cm, while allowing the inner leaves to continue growing. Head lettuce should be harvested before it becomes elliptical, as this indicates a transition to the flowering stage, which will consequently ruin the lettuce.

An abundance of sunshine, typically an exposure of six hours, is essential for healthy and vigorous lettuce growth.  Light, organically rich, neutral in pH, and well-draining soil is ideal for growing a healthy crop of lettuce.  Maintaining an even soil moisture is important for most salad greens and lettuce is no exception.  Dry soil can lead to premature flowering, which will cause the leaves to taste bitter.  Watering regularly throughout the week as the top inch of soil dries out will often produce healthier plants than a single deep watering.  Enrich your soil with compost before planting, and fertilize with a high-nitrogen fertilizer after three weeks to promote hearty growth.  Planting outdoors in early spring or autumn will provide cooler temperatures, which can help prevent sun-scorching and premature flowering.  Learn more in the Plant Story community!



3-6 hours of sun per day, with protection from intense mid-day sun

Water moderately, allowing the top 3cm to dry out between watering.

Lactuca Sativa

Lactuca sativa

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