Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Planting
- Prepare your garden bed or containers by mixing potting soil with compost and a slow-release fertilizer to create a nutrient-rich environment. Sow the iceberg lettuce seeds about 1/4 inch deep and 6-12 inches apart to allow for proper growth.
Watering
- Water the seeds immediately after planting and maintain consistent moisture, ensuring the soil is damp but not waterlogged. Water daily or every other day, depending on the climate, to support healthy seedling development.
Thinning
- Once seedlings emerge and reach a few inches in height, thin them to their strongest plants, leaving about 12 inches between each plant. This allows remaining plants to develop full heads.
Protection
- Protect your growing lettuce from pests and harsh weather by covering the area with garden netting. This preventative measure ensures your lettuce can grow undisturbed until harvest, yielding perfect heads.
Harvesting
- Harvest your iceberg lettuce when the heads are firm and compact, typically 60-80 days after planting. Cut the entire head at the base to prepare your perfect wedge salads.
Notes
Iceberg lettuce thrives in cooler weather, so planting in early spring or late summer is ideal. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot and consider companion planting with other leafy greens or herbs to deter pests naturally.
