Step-by-Step Growing Guide
Lettuce prefers fertile, moisture-retentive soil at pH 6.0–7.0. Work in generous compost before sowing — lettuce roots are shallow and feed heavily from the top 15cm. Direct-sow seeds 3mm deep, spacing rows 30cm apart; thin seedlings to 20–25cm apart for heading types or 15cm for loose-leaf. Germination is inhibited above 25°C, so chill seeds in the fridge for 24 hours before sowing in warm weather. Lettuce needs consistent moisture — water 2–3 times per week to keep the top 5cm moist; drought stress causes bitterness and bolting. Drip irrigation keeps foliage dry and reduces tip-burn. Feed with a nitrogen-heavy liquid fertiliser (20-10-10) every 2 weeks for rapid, tender leaf growth. In climates warmer than 20°C, provide afternoon shade with 30% shade cloth to extend the season. Succession-sow every 14 days for continuous harvest through spring and autumn.