Care
Fertilize 3 weeks after transplanting. Lettuce prefers soil that is high in humus, with plenty of compost and a steady supply of nitrogen to keep if growing fast. Use organic alfalfa meal or a slow-release fertilizer.
Make sure soil remains moist but is well-drained.
Retain moisture with mulch throughout the summer months.
Lettuce will tell you when it needs water. Just look at it. If the leaves are wilting, sprinkle them anytime—even in the heat of the day—to cool them off and slow down the transpiration rate.
Some thinning may be required for directly sown seedlings; use the space guidelines above.
Weed by hand if necessary, but be careful of plant roots: They are shallow.