Interested in savoring the fresh taste of homegrown lettuce but short on garden space? Container gardening is the answer! Grow lettuce in containers for a convenient and satisfying experience, even in tight spots. Our guide will walk you through each step, ensuring a plentiful harvest of crisp, vibrant greens.
Step 1: Container Selection
Choose a container at least 6-8 inches deep and 12-18 inches wide, made of plastic, clay, or wood with drainage holes to avoid waterlogging.
Step 2: Lettuce Variety
Pick lettuce types like loose-leaf or romaine based on your preferences and container size. Compact varieties like ‘Salad Bowl’ or ‘Lollo Rossa’ are perfect for containers.
Step 3: Soil Preparation
Prepare a potting mix of equal parts compost, peat moss, and perlite or vermiculite for well-drained, fertile soil. Fill the container, leaving an inch of space below the rim.
Step 4: Planting
Sow seeds evenly on the soil surface, cover lightly with soil, and water gently. Alternatively, use transplants from a nursery.
Step 5: Ideal Conditions
Place the container where it gets 4-6 hours of partial sunlight daily, maintaining temperatures between 45°F and 75°F (7°C to 24°C).