Lettuce is quick, forgiving and useful in every garden, from crisp cos types to tender loose-leaf varieties. It is among the earliest crops to sow and harvest in the UK.

When and how to sow

Lettuce prefers cool weather. Sow little and often in module trays, on a windowsill or directly outdoors from March, using a cloche early in the season where needed. Continue sowing into late summer for autumn leaves, and sow hardy varieties under cover for winter crops.

Care

Keep the soil moist and fertile for tender, mild leaves. In a warm spell, give plants some afternoon shade and sow heat-tolerant loose-leaf varieties to reduce bolting. Space plants well and keep the bed free of weeds.

Common problems

Slugs, aphids and bolting are the main difficulties. Check plants regularly, use physical barriers or hand-picking for slugs, and protect young plants with fine mesh where appropriate. Harvest promptly before flower stems form.

Harvest

Pick outer leaves as required for cut-and-come-again crops, or cut whole heads at the base. Harvest in the cool of the morning where possible, before plants become bitter or run to seed.

Growing Lettuce: frequently asked questions

When should I sow lettuce in the UK?

Lettuce prefers cool weather.

What are common problems when growing lettuce?

Slugs, aphids and bolting are the main difficulties.

When is lettuce ready to harvest?

Pick outer leaves as required for cut-and-come-again crops, or cut whole heads at the base.

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.