Butterhead lettuce (Lactuca sativa) produces small heads which are perfect for salads or sandwiches with their soft, green, sweet, bunched, and tender leaves.  Check out local growers, catalogs and online for lots of heirloom varieties to choose from. In Carteret County, sow in early spring and late fall, full sun preferably. Plants should be spaced 8 inches apart, ¼ depth and in 12 inch rows. Seedlings should emerge in 7-10 days. It will reach maturity in approximately 75 days, but may be longer if growing through the fall and early winter. At maturity, plants are about 9-15 inches in height and 6 inches wide. Lettuce can also be grown in containers although it requires deep watering at least weekly and lots of nitrogen.

Harvest lettuce early to avoid bitter or tough leaves by picking the leaves you want.  Also, harvesting in the morning when the leaves are moist is preferred. Lettuce can be susceptible to bugs such as caterpillars, slugs and snails, but also animals such as rabbits. Powdery mildew and mosaic virus can also be issues. Regular inspection and cleaning and trimming of damaged leaves will help contain these issues.

If there is a particular plant that you have an issue with or need help identifying, visit North Carolina Cooperative Extension or call (252) 222-6352.

Written by Michael W. Thomas, Extension Master Gardener Volunteer - Carteret County