Grower’s Reference Guide – Butterhead Lettuce
Introduction
Butterhead lettuce, known for its smooth, tender leaves and mild, buttery flavor, is a favorite among organic gardeners and salad enthusiasts alike. This leafy green is a staple in many home gardens due to its compact size, quick growth, and delicious taste. Plus, it thrives in cooler climates, making it an excellent choice for early spring or fall planting.
Fun Fact: Butterhead lettuce varieties, such as Bibb and Boston, get their name from the tender, buttery texture of their leaves, which makes them perfect for wraps and fresh salads.
Scientific Information
- Scientific Name: Lactuca sativa var. capitata
- Family: Asteraceae
- Common Varieties: Bibb, Boston, Tom Thumb
- Origin: Mediterranean region
- Key Characteristics: Loose, tender leaves forming a loose, rounded head. Mild, buttery flavor with a slightly crisp texture.
Growth Overview
- Annual or Perennial? Annual
- Growth Form: Compact, rounded head with loose leaves
- Toxicity: Non-toxic to humans and pets
- Size & Growth Rate: Reaches 6-8 inches tall and wide, matures in 45-60 days
- Hardiness Zones: USDA zones 4-9
Growing Conditions
Ecosystem & Climate
Butterhead lettuce thrives in cooler temperatures, ideally between 60°F and 70°F (15°C to 21°C). It’s well-suited for early spring and fall planting but can be grown year-round with adequate protection or indoor setups.
Soil & pH
- Ideal Soil: Rich, loose, well-draining soil with high organic content
- pH Level: 6.0 to 6.8
- Amendments: Add compost or well-rotted manure before planting to boost nutrient levels.
Watering & Humidity
- Frequency: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
- Method: Drip irrigation or ground-level watering to avoid wetting the leaves.
- Humidity Tolerance: Prefers moderate humidity; avoid waterlogged conditions.
Light Requirements
- Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
- Duration: 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day
Companion Plants
- Good Companions: Radishes, carrots, cucumbers, beans
- Bad Companions: Brassicas (like broccoli and cabbage), as they can attract similar pests
Pollination Needs
Lettuce does not rely on pollination for leaf production, but if allowed to bolt, it will flower and produce seeds that may cross-pollinate with other lettuce varieties.
Planting & Care
Propagation
- Seed Starting: Sow seeds directly into the garden 2-4 weeks before the last frost date.
- Depth: Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep and space them about 8-12 inches apart.
- Germination Time: 7-10 days
- Transplanting: Thin seedlings to maintain spacing.
Organic Fertilizers
- Compost Tea: Every 2-3 weeks during the growing season
- Worm Castings: Incorporate into the soil before planting
- Liquid Kelp: To boost overall plant health
Mulching & Pruning
- Mulch: Apply a 1-2 inch layer of straw or shredded leaves to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
- Pruning: Remove any yellowing or damaged leaves to maintain plant health.
Common Pests & Organic Solutions
- Aphids: Spray with a mild soap solution or introduce ladybugs.
- Slugs & Snails: Use crushed eggshells or copper barriers around the plants.
- Cutworms: Protect seedlings with collars made from paper or plastic.
Harvesting & Storage
When & How to Harvest
- Timing: Harvest when heads are full and firm, about 45-60 days after planting.
- Method: Cut at the base with a sharp knife.
- Frequency: Regular harvesting encourages continuous production.
Storage & Preservation Methods
- Fresh: Store in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Hydration Tip: Wrap in a damp cloth or paper towel to keep leaves crisp.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as lettuce becomes limp and unappetizing.
Usage & Nutrition Information
Edibility & Culinary Uses
Butterhead lettuce is prized for its soft, buttery leaves and mild taste, making it ideal for:
- Salads: A perfect base for fresh greens
- Wraps: Holds ingredients well without breaking
- Sandwiches: Adds a tender crunch
Nutritional Information (per 100g)
- Calories: 13
- Carbohydrates: 2.2 g
- Protein: 1.4 g
- Fiber: 1.0 g
- Vitamins: A, C, K, Folate
- Minerals: Potassium, Calcium, Iron
Health Benefits
- Hydration: High water content helps keep you hydrated.
- Bone Health: Rich in vitamin K, crucial for maintaining bone density.
- Heart Health: Low calorie and nutrient-rich, great for cardiovascular support.
Common Growing Issues & Troubleshooting
- Bolting: Prevent by planting in cool weather and maintaining consistent moisture.
- Tip Burn: Caused by calcium deficiency or uneven watering—apply compost tea to help.
- Pest Infestation: Regularly inspect plants and use organic insecticides or beneficial insects.
FAQs
Q: Can I grow Butterhead lettuce indoors?
A: Yes! Use grow lights and ensure at least 12-14 hours of light daily.
Q: How do I keep lettuce from bolting?
A: Keep soil moist, mulch to moderate temperature, and plant during cooler months.
Q: Is Butterhead lettuce frost-tolerant?
A: It can withstand light frost but will suffer from heavy freezes—use row covers if needed.
Resources & Further Reading
- Need Seeds? Butterhead Lettuce Seeds
- Books: “The Organic Gardener’s Handbook” by Frank Tozer
- Websites: