My Garden
lettuce
Lactuca sativa
Lactuca sativa, commonly known as lettuce, is an annual plant of the daisy family, Asteraceae. It is most often grown as a leaf vegetable, but sometimes for its stems and seeds. Lettuce is most often used for salads, although it is also seen in other kinds of food, such as soups, sandwiches and wraps; it can also be grilled.
| Category | Details | |
|---|---|---|
| Culinary Usage | Edible plant | |
| Duration to maturity | 45 days to harvest | |
| Estimated Plant Lifespan | 90 days lifespan | |
| Sun Requirements | 4-6 hours direct sunlight (Partial Sun) | |
| Pollination | Method: self pollination | |
| Watering Requirements | Method: top water Frequency: keep soil consistently moist | |
| Humidity Requirements | Level: moderate | |
| Temperature Range | Min: 10°C Max: 24°C |
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View Supplierwild carrot
Daucus carota
Carrots break up the soil, improving drainage for lettuce.
Common Onion
Allium cepa
Onions deter pests that can affect lettuce.
garden strawberry
Fragaria × ananassa
Strawberries and lettuce have similar growing requirements and can be planted together in a small space.
cabbage, broccoli, and allies
Brassica oleracea
Broccoli and lettuce compete for the same nutrients and can stunt each other's growth.
Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from lettuce leaves, causing them to curl, wilt, and yellow. They can also transmit diseases.
Slugs and Snails
Slugs and snails feed on lettuce leaves, creating irregular holes and leaving a slimy trail.
Steps:
- Sow seeds directly in the garden or start indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost.
- Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep and 1 inch apart.
- Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Thin seedlings to 4-12 inches apart when they have a few true leaves.
Neem oil
Natural insecticide for aphids and other pests.
Diatomaceous earth
Natural pest control for slugs and snails.
Compost
Improves soil fertility and drainage.