Planting Lettuce
Sow lettuce seeds in average soil in full sun in early spring for first crop. Sow in late summer for fall crop.
Lettuce can germinate when the soil temperature is as low as 40°F and performs best when air temperature is between 60-70°F.
Sow every two weeks to extend harvests.
In late summer, sow in protected areas that stay below 75 degrees F.
Sow thinly in rows 12 inches apart and cover with ¼ inch of fine soil.
Follow the spacing recommended on the seed packet for specific varieties.
Firm lightly and keep evenly moist.
Seedlings emerge in 7-10 days.
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How to Grow 
Thin to stand 8 inches apart when seedlings are 1-2 inches tall.
Keep plants well watered during dry periods to promote rapid, uninterrupted growth.
The plant is shallow-rooted, so avoid disturbing the soil around the plants when weeding.
Unless there is regular rainfall, plants must be watered deeply at least once a week and more frequently during periods of drought.
Mulch with a layer of compost or clean straw to help the soil retain moisture.
Harvesting
It’s best to gather in the morning when the leaves are crisp, sweet, and full of moisture.
Cut the plants at root level or pull with the root attached and cut the root off later.
Harvested to be eaten raw.
Many gardeners cover leaves in damp paper towels.
Keep the cut plants as cool as possible.
Put the cut plant into a perforated plastic bag and refrigerate. Stores for 5-6 days.
Harvest butterhead types when they have formed heads and the leaves are sizeable.
Harvest looseleaf types anytime the leaves are large enough to use.
Lettuce is a typical green in salads. It adds crispness to sandwiches and can be used as a garnish, poached, braised, or added to stews and soups.