Butterhead Lettuce Seeds

West Coast Seeds, Butterhead Seeds - Additional Information

How to Grow Butterhead Lettuce

Planting Schedule:
Butterhead Lettuce thrives in cool weather, making early spring and fall ideal planting times. In warmer climates, it can be grown year-round. Sow in short rows every 2-3 weeks post-last frost to ensure a steady harvest.

For summer crops, consider shading methods like cloches to extend growing into winter. Seeds germinate best at soil temperatures between 10-22°C (50-72°F) and may take 7-15 days to sprout.

Sprout seeds indoors or pre-sprout on damp paper towels in the fridge to overcome high summer soil temperatures. Look for varieties with good bolting resistance for summer planting.


Seed Starting:
Either direct sow or start seeds indoors for transplanting. Plant seeds about 5mm (¼") deep, ensuring the soil remains moist for even germination. Thin heading varieties are 30cm (12") apart, and looseleaf types are 20-25cm (8-10") apart, with rows 45-90cm (18-36") apart. For baby leaf lettuce, denser planting in narrow rows is effective for easy harvesting.

Note: Pelleted seeds should be covered by 1cm (½") of soil and kept evenly moist to ensure germination.


Growing:
Butterhead Lettuce prefers soil with a pH of 6.0-6.5, rich in organic matter. Prepare beds with compost and lime three weeks before planting, and add a cup of balanced organic fertilizer per 3m (10') row. Harden off seedlings by reducing watering and gradually introducing them to outdoor conditions to minimize shock and bolting. Regular watering is crucial to prevent bitterness.


Harvesting
Harvest leaves individually or wait for the entire head to mature. Summer lettuce has a brief prime condition, so harvest quickly. In cooler seasons, lettuce remains harvestable for longer, allowing for a more flexible harvest schedule.

Butterhead Lettuce Pests & Diseases

Flea Beetles:
Choose resistant plant varieties to prevent flea beetle infestations, keep your garden clean, and use floating row covers. Crop rotation can also help. Applying diatomaceous earth can deter them, while neem oil and pyrethrin-based insecticides are effective treatments. Use organic options as a last resort to preserve beneficial insect populations.


Slugs:
Combatting slugs involves clearing garden debris and drip irrigation to dry the soil. Use copper tape or sharp materials like crushed eggshells or diatomaceous earth to create barriers. Beer traps can lure and drown slugs, while handpicking them during the evening can also help. Use iron phosphate-based baits c in severe cases, but apply them only as needed and according to the instructions.