How to grow Lettuce in the UK
Lactuca sativa
Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) is a vegetable that grows well in UK gardens. Cut-and-come-again — pick outer leaves, plant keeps growing. This guide covers when and how to sow Lettuce, the soil and position it likes, watering and feeding, companion planting, and when to harvest.
When to sow & grow Lettuce
Sowing and harvest window through the year (UK):
Jan | Feb | Mar Sow | Apr Plant | May Sow · Harvest | Jun Harvest | Jul Harvest | Aug Sow · Harvest | Sep Harvest | Oct Harvest | Nov | Dec |
Soil, position & care
- Soil
- Fertile, free-draining soil enriched with garden compost
- Soil pH
- 6.5–7.0 (neutral)
- Position
- Open, sunny site
- Sowing depth
- 1 cm
- Spacing
- Thin to 30 cm
- Sowing
- Sow Mar–Aug; germination poor above 25°C so sow cool
- Growing
- Keep weed-free and evenly watered; mulch to hold moisture
- Harvest & upkeep
- Cut-and-come-again or harvest whole heads
- Watch for
- Slugs, aphids, lettuce root aphid
Companion planting for Lettuce
Grows well with:
Add Lettuce to your free 12-month plan and get watering & sowing reminders — no sign-up needed.
Lettuce FAQs
When should I sow Lettuce in the UK?
In the UK, sow Lettuce in March, May, August. Sowing across these months gives the plant the right soil temperature and day length to establish well.
What grows well with Lettuce?
Lettuce grows well alongside Beetroot, Carrot, Chervil, Chives, Dill, Garlic. Good companions can deter pests, attract pollinators or make better use of space.
How much sun does Lettuce need?
Lettuce prefers partial sun (3–6 hrs).
When is Lettuce ready to harvest?
Lettuce is typically ready to harvest in May, June, July, August, September, October in the UK.
Is Lettuce easy to grow?
Easy — good for beginners. Cut-and-come-again — pick outer leaves, plant keeps growing.