Butterhead Lettuce

• Appearance: Butterhead lettuce is known for its loose, round heads with soft, tender leaves that have a buttery texture. The leaves are light green, with some varieties featuring a slightly yellow or reddish tint.
• Fragrance: Butterhead lettuce has a mild, fresh, and slightly sweet scent, typical of leafy greens.
• Hardiness: Butterhead lettuce is a cool-season crop that thrives in mild temperatures. It is relatively hardy but can be sensitive to extreme heat, which may cause it to bolt (go to seed) early.

• Culinary: Butterhead lettuce is widely used in salads, sandwiches, and wraps for its mild flavor and tender texture. It pairs well with a variety of dressings and can be used as a base for many dishes.
• Ornamental: While primarily grown for its edible qualities, butterhead lettuce can also be used in edible landscapes or container gardens due to its attractive, lush appearance.

• Days to Sprout: Butterhead lettuce seeds typically sprout in 7-10 days under optimal conditions.
• Mature In: Butterhead lettuce matures in 50-75 days, depending on the variety and growing conditions.
• Yield: A single butterhead lettuce plant produces one head, but successive plantings can ensure a continuous harvest throughout the growing season.

• Pests/Insects:
  • Common Pests: Butterhead lettuce can be affected by aphids, slugs, and caterpillars.
  • Treatments: Use row covers to protect plants, and apply organic pest control methods like insecticidal soap or diatomaceous earth. Hand-pick pests or use beer traps for slugs. Maintaining good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering can also help prevent fungal issues.

Harvest butterhead lettuce in the morning when the leaves are crisp and full of moisture. For the best flavor, pick the entire head just before use. If harvesting leaves, take the outer ones first, allowing the center to continue growing.