Days to Maturity: Approximately 65-75 days from transplant to full head harvest (baby leaves or hearts ready in 45-60 days).
Sun Needs: Full sun to partial shade (6+ hours of direct sun ideal); in Utah's hot summers, afternoon shade helps delay bolting and keeps leaves tender and less bitter.
Season Type: Cool-season crop; plant early spring (as soon as soil is workable, around 40°F+) or late summer for fall harvest—tolerates light frosts well but bolts in prolonged heat above 80°F.
Plant Habit & Support: Tall, upright heads 10-12 inches tall and 6-8 inches wide; no support needed—space 8-12 inches apart for full heads or closer (6 inches) for cut-and-come-again baby leaves or hearts.
Other Notes: Bolt-resistant and vigorous; watch for aphids, slugs, tip burn (from calcium issues or uneven moisture), or downy mildew—good airflow, consistent moisture, and organic mulch (like straw or compost) reduce problems; excellent for succession planting every 2-3 weeks to maintain fresh supply through cool seasons.
Best Planting Method: Transplant when soil is cool and workable in early spring or late summer for fall crops. Space plants 8-12 inches apart in rows or beds; plant at the same depth as in the pot. Amend soil with compost for fertility and excellent drainage—raised beds are beneficial in heavier or alkaline Utah soils to avoid waterlogging. Organic mulch (such as straw, compost, or grass clippings) around plants retains moisture, moderates soil temperature, and suppresses weeds.
Watering Needs: Maintain consistently moist soil (1-2 inches per week) without sogginess—even moisture is key to preventing bitterness, bolting, or tip burn; drip irrigation or careful base watering keeps foliage dry in dry Utah air. Mulch helps hold moisture during warmer spells; containers dry out faster, so check daily to support crisp leaves.
Fertilization Needs: Incorporate compost or balanced organic fertilizer at planting for nutrient-rich soil. Lettuce is a light feeder—apply a light nitrogen-rich side-dressing (like compost tea or fish emulsion) midway if growth is slow or leaves pale, but avoid excess to prevent soft, disease-prone foliage. Harvest outer leaves as needed for cut-and-come-again (encourages regrowth) or cut the whole head at the base when mature and firm; regular picking keeps quality high and extends production before bolting. It's great for containers.