PLANTING INSTRUCTIONS

Growing butterhead lettuce can be a delightful endeavor for gardeners of all experience levels. Known for its soft, buttery texture and mild, sweet flavor, butterhead lettuce forms loose heads with tender, folded leaves. This versatile green is perfect for salads, sandwiches, and wraps. With proper care and attention, you can enjoy multiple harvests of this nutritious vegetable throughout the growing season.

• Best Time to Plant: Butterhead lettuce is a cool-season crop that grows best in temperatures between 45°F and 75°F (7°C to 24°C). Plant seeds in early spring, as soon as the soil can be worked, or in late summer for a fall harvest. In milder climates, butterhead lettuce can also be grown throughout the winter.
• Soil Type: Butterhead lettuce prefers rich, well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Before planting, incorporate plenty of organic matter such as compost or aged manure into the soil to improve fertility and moisture retention. A loose soil structure will allow the shallow roots to develop properly.
• Spacing: Sow seeds approximately 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) deep. When directly sowing in the garden, plant seeds 1 inch (2.5 cm) apart in rows spaced 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 cm) apart. Once seedlings reach about 2 inches (5 cm) tall, thin them to stand 6 to 10 inches (15 to 25 cm) apart to allow proper head formation. For succession planting, sow new seeds every 2 to 3 weeks for continuous harvests.

CARE TIPS

• Watering: Consistent moisture is crucial for butterhead lettuce. The soil should remain evenly moist but not waterlogged. Provide approximately 1 to 1.5 inches (2.5 to 3.8 cm) of water per week, adjusting based on rainfall and temperature. Water gently at the base of plants to keep the foliage dry and reduce disease risk. Mulching around plants helps retain soil moisture and suppresses weeds.
• Fertilizing: Butterhead lettuce is a light to moderate feeder. Apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 2 to 3 weeks during the growing season. Alternatively, side-dress with compost or a slow-release organic fertilizer when plants are about 3 inches (7.5 cm) tall. Avoid excessive nitrogen, which can lead to loose, bitter leaves.
• Protection: In hot weather, provide shade to prevent bolting (premature flowering), which causes the lettuce to become bitter. Use shade cloth, plant taller crops nearby, or choose locations with afternoon shade during warmer months. During colder temperatures, protect plants with row covers or cold frames to extend the growing season.

HARVESTING

• When to Harvest: Butterhead lettuce is typically ready for harvest 55 to 70 days after planting, depending on the variety and growing conditions. Harvest when heads are formed but still relatively loose, about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 cm) in diameter. The outer leaves should be tender and the inner leaves should have a pale yellow to light green color.
• How to Harvest: You can harvest butterhead lettuce in two ways:
  • Harvest the entire plant by cutting it at the base, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) above the soil level, using a sharp knife or scissors.
  • Practice “cut-and-come-again” harvesting by removing only the outer leaves as needed, allowing the inner leaves to continue growing for future harvests. This method extends your harvest period significantly.

For best flavor and texture, harvest in the cool morning hours and refrigerate immediately.

TROUBLESHOOTING

• Common Issues: • Bolting: Premature flowering caused by high temperatures or long daylight hours. • Tip Burn: Brown edges on leaves due to calcium deficiency or inconsistent watering. • Aphids: Small, soft-bodied insects that cluster on leaves and stems, sucking plant juices. • Slugs and Snails: Nocturnal pests that create holes in leaves and leave slime trails.
• Solutions: • Bolting: Plant heat-resistant varieties, provide afternoon shade, and harvest before hot weather arrives. Ensure consistent watering and mulch to keep soil cool. • Tip Burn: Maintain consistent soil moisture, avoid over-fertilizing with nitrogen, and ensure adequate calcium in the soil. Consider using a foliar calcium spray if needed. • Aphids: Spray plants with a strong stream of water to dislodge aphids, introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs, or apply insecticidal soap if infestations are severe. • Slugs and Snails: Place shallow dishes of beer near plants, create barriers with diatomaceous earth or copper tape, or manually remove pests during evening inspections.