By eHow Home & Garden Editor
Till the soil thoroughly, breaking up soil clumps and removing stones and other debris. (Lettuce seeds are tiny, and any obstacle can hinder germination.)
Dig in plenty of compost and well-cured manure to ensure the kind of soil lettuce needs: well-draining yet moisture-retentive, and rich in the nitrogen necessary for good leaf development.
Set plants 8 to 16 inches apart, depending on the variety. (Check the plant label or a comprehensive gardening book for mature size.) When in doubt, err on the side of distance - crowded plants and poor air circulation invite disease and insect problems.
Keep the soil moist, but avoid watering in the evening: Foliage that stays wet overnight is prone to disease. Mulch to conserve moisture and keep the soil cool, and feed every three weeks with seaweed extract or compost tea.
eHow Home & Garden Editor
Comments
Anonymous said
on 11/22/2005 Cut greens with scissors, they grow back a lot faster. This is probably due to the smooth cut surface as opposed to the jagged edge from tearing off leaves.
Anonymous said
on 11/22/2005 When you cut your lettuce, leave 2 inches above the soil. I never knew this until my boyfriend's mom scolded me! Oops!