Growing your own butterhead lettuce is a total game-changer, and honestly, it’s a must-have for anyone who loves fresh greens. There’s just nothing like that crunch straight from the garden! If you’re wondering when you can finally start tossing those homegrown leaves into a bowl, here’s the scoop on harvest time.
Harvesting depends on the variety
When exactly you’ll be heading out with your garden shears depends mostly on the variety you chose to plant. Some fast-growing types are ready to go in as little as six to eight weeks after sowing. These speedy little guys stay a bit smaller, which makes them perfect if you’re growing lettuce in pots on your patio. On the other hand, some of the larger heirloom varieties can take up to four months to fully mature.
The best way to track your timeline is to check the back of your seed packet for the “days to maturity.” But here’s a pro tip: don’t wait too long! You can harvest your lettuce as soon as the head reaches a size you’re happy with. If you aren’t ready for a full salad feast, you can just pluck off the outer leaves and leave the center (the “heart”) intact. This “cut-and-come-again” method keeps the plant growing so you can enjoy fresh leaves for a longer period. However, if you’re planning to store your lettuce in the fridge for a few days, it’s best to harvest the whole head at once to keep it crisp.
