Butterhead Lettuce — Growing reference
| Scientific name | Lactuca sativa var. capitata |
|---|---|
| Seed germination (days) | 7–10 |
| Soil temperature for germination (°C) | 7.2–18.3 |
| First harvest or flowering (days) | 55–75 |
| Measured from | Seed |
| Plant spacing (cm) | 20.3–30.5 |
| Mature height (cm) | 15.2–25.4 |
| Mature spread (cm) | 20.3–30.5 |
| USDA hardiness zones | 2–11 |
| Light | Partial sun |
| Water | Moderate |
| Sowing method | Direct sow |
Growing directions
Scatter seeds on the surface of moist, moderately fertile, well-drained soil in partial shade to full sun and thin to 8–12 inches apart; butterhead (Boston/Bibb) lettuce forms a loose, soft, irregular head with velvety-tender, mild-flavored leaves that are more delicate and buttery-textured than the crisp crunchiness of romaine or crisphead types. It is more heat-sensitive than loose-leaf types and should be grown as a spring or fall crop in most climates — high heat causes rapid bolting and bitterness. Harvest the entire head when formed and compact, or harvest outer leaves individually for a cut-and-come-again approach. Excellent in simple green salads dressed with vinaigrette; the cupped leaves are also ideal for individual salad presentations. 'Bibb', 'Tom Thumb', 'Buttercrunch', and 'Boston' are classic varieties.
Source and local conditions
Typical planning ranges from OpenPlantDB (CC0). Cultivar, climate, season and growing method can change these values. Confirm the seed label and local guidance before planting.
Source & verification
OpenPlantDB · CC0