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Lettuce

Lactuca sativa

beginner level

A cool-season crop perfect for beginners, lettuce grows quickly and provides fresh salad greens throughout spring and fall.

Quick Growing Facts

Sun Requirements
partial shade
Water Needs
high
Time to Harvest
30-60 days
Hardiness Zones
4-9
Mature Size
6-12 inches
Soil Type
Loose, fertile

Planting Instructions

  • Direct sow 2-3 weeks before last frost
  • Succession plant every 2 weeks
  • Space 4-6 inches apart for leaf lettuce
  • Keep soil temperature below 75°F

Care Instructions

  • Keep soil consistently moist
  • Provide shade in hot weather
  • Harvest outer leaves first
  • Apply balanced fertilizer weekly

Companion Plants

Radishes
Carrots
Chives

These plants grow well together and can provide mutual benefits like pest control, improved soil health, and efficient space usage.

Common Pests & Issues

Aphids
Slugs
Rabbits

Watch out for these common pests and diseases. Early detection and prevention are key to maintaining healthy plants.

🍽️ Culinary Uses

Salads
Sandwiches
Wraps
Smoothies

💪 Nutritional Benefits

Low calorie
Vitamin A
Folate
Fiber

Ready to Start Growing Lettuce?

Check out our companion planting guides and learn about creating productive plant guilds for your garden.