Lettuce, Always and Forever

At the beginning of July, it’s not unusual to find that lettuce sown or transplanted in May suddenly starts to grow. However, a common phenomenon occurs: the picked leaves give off a milky sap and taste bitter. This means that your lettuce is “going to seed”, i.e. producing flowers, and can no longer be eaten. The cooler the spring and summer temperatures, the longer you can delay this transformation… but sooner or later, your lettuce will no longer be fit for consumption.

The good news is that it’s almost never too late to sow lettuce. You can sow a second crop now and, if this new generation also goes to seed, consider sowing a third crop at the end of August.

Change Location

Unlike spring-sown lettuce, which prefers full sun, summer lettuce is best sown in a semi-shaded spot. This will protect it somewhat from the intense summer heat and reduce the speed at which it goes to seed. To sow correctly, place the seeds at a depth of only 6 mm, covering them well. Water generously and, after the plants have emerged, mulch around them to soften the impact of the intense sun. This method will significantly extend the harvesting period.

Heat-Resistant Lettuces

If you’re looking for a lettuce variety that doesn’t go to seed, or very rarely, romaine lettuce is an excellent option. For continuous harvesting from June to October, harvest the lower leaves while leaving the rest of the plant intact. By responding to this harvesting method, the plant will produce new leaves again and again. This technique extends the fresh lettuce consumption period throughout the season.

Lettuce to Die For

In addition to its gustatory benefits, lettuce can also be a decorative asset in your garden. Think red leaf lettuce, of which there are dozens of varieties. The famous Château de Villandry in France is renowned for its magnificent ornamental gardens, mixing red and green lettuces to stunning visual effect. You can reproduce this effect at home, using lettuce not only for cooking, but also as a decorative element.

Lettuce Care

Maintaining your lettuce doesn’t stop after sowing. To ensure an abundant harvest, it’s crucial that the soil doesn’t dry out too much, especially during dry spells. Regular watering keeps the soil moist, which is essential to avoid water stress that could accelerate seed set.

Using an organic mulch, such as straw or shredded leaves, also helps maintain soil moisture. This mulch helps reduce water evaporation, keeps roots cool and inhibits weed growth. Once the plants are well established, proper mulching becomes an essential component of successful cultivation.

Harvest

When it’s time to harvest, it’s best to pick the outer leaves first, allowing the central ones to continue growing. This method, known as “progressive harvesting”, ensures constant production of fresh leaves and reduces the risk of going to seed.

With proper care and regular sowing, you can extend the harvesting period of your lettuce throughout the summer season. Whether you choose heat-resistant varieties or decorative lettuces, you can enjoy this versatile and tasty vegetable all summer long.

Larry Hodgson published thousands of articles and 65 books over the course of his career, in both French and English. His son, Mathieu, has made it his mission to make his father’s writings accessible to the public. This text was originally published in Le Soleil on July 4, 2024.