Variety: Butterhead Lettuce Approx. 250 seeds Sowing: If growing lettuce in modules/pots, seeds can be placed on the surface of the soil with just a light sprinkling of soil on the top. If growing directly in the soil, seeds can be sown in 1cm deep drills and again a light sprinkling of soil on the top so ensure they get lots of light. Harvesting: Most lettuce varieties can be harvested between 30-70 days after planting or when your lettuce reaches it desired size. The majority of lettuce varieties will be ready around 45-55 days. Lettuce can be harvested by either picking off the outer leaves when ready or harvesting the entire head of lettuce in one go (depending on the variety). Information: There are many varieties of lettuce with a vast range of different textures and flavours so be sure to shop around and try as many as you can. Lettuce prefers a loose and well drained soil that should be kept moist. Lettuce needs light to germinate so its important when sowing, not to cover the seeds with too much soil. It is suggested to start lettuce seeds off in modules or pots to avoid the chances of slugs and snails destroying the crop and transplanting out when the seedlings are established. However the seeds will need to be harden off before moving them into the ground. They will however grow perfectly well in a pot as well. By starting seeds in modules or pots, you can extend the sowing period but generally lettuce is sown from March - July but can also be planted between July-August as well. Lettuce doesn't keep well beyond its peak so its better to stagger your sowing in 2/3 week intervals so there's less chance of waste and to ensure continuous cropping. Pests include slugs and snails as well as some types of birds as well. Using a fleece or cloche is recommended to protect your crop. Nutritional Information: Lettuce is packed full of vitamins such as Vitamin C, K and A and it also contains loads of folate. They are very low in sodium. Different varieties of lettuce contain an array of different vitamins and minerals so it is a good idea to have a mix of lettuce leaves in your portion to maximise your vitamin intake in one sitting.
