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Lettuce

Lactuca sativa · Asteraceae

The gardener's calendar

The right move for September

Ideal time to plant lettuce: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.

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ID card

Foliage
Deciduous, tender and succulent
Flowering
Summer (pale yellow)
Adult size
20 to 30 cm in height
Growth
Fast (30 to 60 days depending on variety)
Hardiness
Not very hardy, sensitive to intense cold
Origin
Mediterranean Basin and Near East
Soil type
Rich, well-drained, neutral pH
Cycle
Annual, grown annually or biennially

Care

Watering

Keep the soil constantly moist without waterlogging to prevent crown rot. Water regularly, preferably in the morning at the base of the plants. During hot periods, increase frequency to prevent premature bolting. Lack of water also causes bitterness and less tender texture.

Light exposure

Lettuce prefers a sunny location with 6 to 8 hours of sunlight daily, but tolerates partial shade, especially in summer. Afternoon shade limits excessive bolting and maintains more tender texture. Avoid overly shaded areas that slow growth.

Soil preparation

Enrich the soil with well-decomposed compost or potting soil before planting. Soil rich in organic matter promotes rapid growth and more tender leaves. Ensure good drainage to prevent root asphyxia. A slightly neutral pH (6.5 to 7) is ideal.

Fertilizing

Apply a balanced fertilizer (NPK) moderately at planting time or light application during growth if the soil is not very rich. Excess nitrogen promotes lush foliage but may reduce flavor. A single application is generally sufficient for a short growing cycle.

Harvesting and cutting

Pick outer leaves as soon as they reach the desired size, which extends production. For complete harvest, cut the lettuce at soil level when the head is well formed. Perform this operation preferably in the morning to maximize freshness and crispy texture.

Diseases and pests

Watch for leaf rot in case of excessive moisture or poor air circulation. Slugs and snails are the main pests: install physical barriers or copper mulch. Good ventilation and controlled watering prevent most fungal problems.

Did you know?

Lettuce has been cultivated since ancient Egypt, where it already featured in pharaohs' gardens over 4,500 years ago. Its scientific name Lactuca comes from the Latin 'lac' (milk), as the plant produces a white milky sap when its stems are broken — a characteristic that fascinated ancient botanists and earned it an association with soothing properties.

Where to buy it

Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.

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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.