Scientific Name: Lactuca sative
Order: Asterales
Family: Asteraceae
Genus: Lactuca
Plant Type: Vegetable
USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-9
Soil pH Level: 6.0-7.0
Soil Texture: Well-Drained & Loamy
Sun Exposure: Partial
Appearance Description: Lettuce grows in shades of green. Their heads are formed with multiple "leaves."
How to Plant:
1. Work the soil until it has a smooth and broken-up consistency.
2. Amend native soil with compost, manure, or any other material.
3. Dig a narrow trench about 1/4-inch deep.
4. Leave a 1-foot gap between each row.
5. Drop seeds into rows and cover with soil.
6. Water generously after planting.
How to Maintain:
1. Keep the soil constantly moist; water regularly.
2. Fertilize 3 weeks after planting with a specially formulated fertilizer.
3. If leaves begin to wilt, more water is needed.
4. Mulch throughout the summer months to retain moisture.
5. If weeds emerge, remove by hand.
How to Harvest:
1. Lettuce should be harvested just before fully developed and mature.
2. Lettuce is ready when the leaves can be easily broken and are large.
3. To remove, cut the entire plant from the ground.
4. Check your garden regularly because mature lettuce will go bad quickly.
5. It is best to harvest in the morning before the sun is peaked.
Storage Tips:
Lettuce can be refrigerated for up to 10 days before being preserved.
Top Varieties:
1. King Crown
2. Mission
3. Wallop
4. Paris White Cos
5. Red Sail
Fun Facts:
1. Lettuce is a member of the sunflower family.
2. In the United States, lettuce is the 2nd most popular vegetable.
3. Darker lettuce leaves include more vitamins and minerals than lighter ones.
Related Soil:
Schultz Moisture Plus Potting Mix
Related Plant Food:
Schultz All Purpose Water Soluble
Schultz Flower & Vegetable Extended Feed
Schultz All Purpose Extended Feed
Schultz Granular Tomato & Vegetable Plant Food
Schultz Granular All Purpose Plant Food
