Buttercrunch Lettuce

Lettuce needs plenty of water -- usually about 1-2 inches per week. Water lettuce deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. During hot weather, make sure to check the soil more often and increase the amount of water if necessary. It is important to avoid over-watering, as this can cause the plant's leaves to become limp and yellow. In general, it is best to water lettuce at the base of the plant in the morning, so that water won’t pool and cause damage to its delicate leaves.

Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) requires about 6 hours of sunlight each day to grow optimally. Full sun is best for direct-seeded lettuce, especially if the plants are young. To prevent wilting, it is recommended that lettuce be grown during the morning and early afternoon hours. Partial shade can be helpful in very hot and humid climates, but lettuce growth may be stunted and less productive without direct sun exposure. Plants may require less sunlight in the late summer or early fall months if temperatures are warmer than normal. Proper watering and fertilization are also important for healthy lettuce production.

Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) should generally be pruned 4-6 weeks after its final planting. This is usually when it is around 15-20 cm (6 inches) tall and forming its first true leaves. Pruning should be done either by pinching off the top 2-3 cm (1 inch) of the main shoot or snipping the tips of any side shoots that develop off the main stem. This will encourage the lettuce plant to form a bushy shape, prevent it from bolting (forming flowers prematurely) and ensure it remains compact and productive for a longer period. If more foliage is needed, simply wait 3-4 weeks and prune again. Prune any flowers that have appeared to ensure the plant is directing its energy into leaf production rather than flowering.