When to Plant Lettuce in Ohio

Lettuce is a cool-weather crop that is easy to grow and can be enjoyed throughout the growing season. Ohio gardeners can take advantage of the early spring and late fall weather to produce a bountiful crop of lettuce. In this article, we will discuss when to plant lettuce in Ohio, so that you can have a successful harvest.

Planting in Early Spring

One of the best times to plant lettuce in Ohio is in early spring. The ideal time to start planting is when the soil temperature has warmed up to around 45 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit. This usually occurs in late March or early April in Ohio. The seeds will then germinate quickly, and you can expect to see sprouts within a few days.

To ensure a successful spring planting, prepare your soil by tilling it to a depth of 6 to 8 inches. Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve the soil's fertility. When planting, sow the seeds about 1/8 inch deep and 1 inch apart. Water the soil regularly to keep it moist, but not too wet.

Planting in Late Summer or Early Fall

Another good time to plant lettuce in Ohio is in late summer or early fall. Mid to late August is an ideal time to sow lettuce seeds. The soil temperature is still warm, and there is plenty of time for the seeds to mature before the first frost.

When planting in late summer or early fall, choose a location that receives partial shade during the day. This will help protect the lettuce from the intense sun and heat, which can cause the leaves to wilt or turn bitter. Plant the seeds about 1/8 inch deep, and water the soil regularly to keep it moist.

Harvesting Lettuce

Lettuce is a fast-growing crop that can be harvested in as little as 45 days. The leaves are ready to harvest when they are 4 to 6 inches tall. When harvesting lettuce, cut the leaves close to the base of the stem using a sharp knife or scissors. This will encourage new growth and a continual harvest throughout the growing season.

If you want to harvest the entire crop at once, wait until the lettuce is fully mature, and the leaves form a tight head. This usually takes about 60 to 75 days after planting. Cut the stem at ground level, and the lettuce head can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Conclusion

Lettuce is a great crop to grow in Ohio. By planting in early spring or late summer, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest throughout the growing season. Be sure to prepare the soil properly, and water the plants regularly to keep the soil moist. Remember to harvest the lettuce when the leaves are 4 to 6 inches tall, or when the head is fully mature. Happy gardening!