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Iceberg lettuce is different from other types of lettuce, such as romaine or butterhead. Unlike softer lettuces, the iceberg has tightly packed, crispy leaves that make it a favourite in salads, burgers, and wraps.
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Growing iceberg lettuce at home allows you to enjoy fresh, pesticide-free greens that add a refreshing crunch to meals. Plus, it’s a cool-season crop, so it thrives in mild temperatures, making it perfect for home gardens, especially during spring and fall. Here’s how you can grow your own iceberg lettuce from seed, right in your kitchen garden.
Tips To Grow Iceberg Lettuce
Choose The Right Spot
Iceberg lettuce needs a cool environment with plenty of sunlight. Ideally, find a spot that gets around 4-6 hours of direct sunlight each day but also has partial shade, especially if you live in a warmer region. Iceberg lettuce grows best in temperatures between 45 and 75°F, so it’s important to avoid hot areas in the garden. If temperatures rise, consider using a shade cloth to protect the young plants.
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Prepare The Soil
Iceberg lettuce grows well in well-drained, nutrient-rich soil. The soil should be loose and slightly acidic, with a pH range of 6.0 to 6.8. To improve soil quality, add compost or organic matter before planting. This helps the lettuce roots absorb nutrients better and keeps the soil moisture balanced. Since iceberg lettuce has shallow roots, avoid using heavy soil, which can trap water and lead to root rot.
Planting The Seeds
Planting iceberg lettuce seeds is easy and can be done either directly in the garden or in pots. Sow seeds about 1/4 inch deep and 6-12 inches apart to allow each plant enough space to form a full head. Cover the seeds lightly with soil and gently water them. Germination usually takes about 7-10 days. If you’re planting indoors, you can start seeds in small trays or pots and then transfer the seedlings to the garden after they’re a few inches tall.
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Watering Carefully
Iceberg lettuce needs regular watering but is sensitive to overwatering. Water the plants gently, ensuring that the soil stays moist but not soggy. The best way to water is at the base of the plants to avoid wetting the leaves, which can lead to fungal issues. Check the soil daily to make sure it doesn’t dry out completely, especially during warmer weather. A good practice is to water early in the morning so the plants can absorb moisture throughout the day.
Fertilise Lightly
While iceberg lettuce doesn’t need heavy feeding, a little fertiliser can promote healthy growth. Use a balanced, nitrogen-rich fertiliser once the seedlings have developed a few leaves. Be careful not to over-fertilise, as too much nitrogen can cause the lettuce to grow more leaves than heads. Apply fertiliser every 2-3 weeks but reduce or stop fertilising as the lettuce heads start to form. Organic options like fish emulsion or compost tea work well if you prefer natural fertilisers.
Thin And Weed Regularly
Iceberg lettuce plants need space to grow properly, so thinning is essential. As the seedlings grow, thin them to maintain about 12 inches of space between each plant. This helps each plant develop a full head without competing for nutrients. Additionally, keep the area around your lettuce plants weed-free. Weeds can block sunlight and steal nutrients from your lettuce, so gently remove them by hand to avoid disturbing the lettuce roots.
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Harvesting Iceberg Lettuce
Iceberg lettuce is usually ready for harvest in about 70-80 days. Look for a firm head that feels tight and dense when you gently squeeze it. To harvest, cut the lettuce at the base with a sharp knife, leaving the roots in the soil if you’d like to try for a second, smaller crop. Harvesting in the morning keeps the lettuce crisp and fresh. After harvesting, rinse the lettuce and store it in the fridge, where it can stay fresh for up to a week.
