Corn salad, also called lamb's lettuce, is an exceptionally hardy salad crop for autumn, winter and early spring. Its compact rosettes provide mild leaves when lettuces are scarce. It is well suited to British allotments, raised beds and sheltered containers, needing little attention once established.

When and how to sow

Direct sow from August to October in fine, firm, moist soil for winter and spring leaves. Make shallow drills, sow thinly and cover lightly, then water with a gentle rose. Sow again in early spring for a later crop. Thin seedlings lightly to give rosettes room to develop. Choose sun or light shade; a cloche is useful for cleaner, faster winter growth.

Care

Keep soil evenly moist while seedlings establish, but avoid overfeeding because corn salad thrives in a compost-enriched bed without much extra help. Weed carefully, as young plants grow slowly at first. In most British winters it needs no protection, although a cloche or cold frame improves growth during prolonged cold or wet weather.

Common problems

Slugs and snails are the chief nuisance, chewing tender rosettes in damp autumn weather. Check regularly and keep nearby weeds and debris under control. Crowded, wet crops may develop mildew or leaf spotting. Thin plants, water the soil rather than foliage, and remove damaged leaves to improve ventilation around the crop.

Harvest

Cut whole rosettes at soil level once they are full but still compact, or pick a few outer leaves and allow centres to regrow. Harvest in the morning when leaves are crisp. A cloche keeps foliage cleaner through winter. Gather regularly before spring warmth encourages plants to flower.

Growing Corn Salad: frequently asked questions

When should I sow corn salad in the UK?

Direct sow from August to October in fine, firm, moist soil for winter and spring leaves.

What are common problems when growing corn salad?

Slugs and snails are the chief nuisance, chewing tender rosettes in damp autumn weather.

When is corn salad ready to harvest?

Cut whole rosettes at soil level once they are full but still compact, or pick a few outer leaves and allow centres to regrow.

General guidance for UK home gardens and allotments. Reference figures are typical values; your exact timing depends on your region, last-frost date and variety. Page updated 19 Sep 2026.