Butterhead lettuce when to harvest
Butterhead lettuce is ready to harvest around 50-65 days after planting, or when the heads are firm and 6-8 inches in diameter. You can either cut the entire head at the base for a single harvest or use the "cut-and-come-again" method to harvest individual outer leaves, leaving the inner ones to mature.
6-8 inches = 15.24 - 20.32 cm
Harvesting methods
- Whole head: Cut the entire head at its base. This can be done about 50-65 days after planting when the plant has formed a mature, firm head.
- Individual leaves: Harvest outer leaves as needed, which allows the inner leaves to continue growing for a continuous harvest.
- Cut and come again: Cut off the leaves you need and leave a few of the smaller, inner leaves to allow the plant to produce a second harvest.
How to know when it's time
- Size: Harvest when the heads are firm and about 6-8 inches in diameter.
- Maturity: Harvest within 50-65 days after planting, or sooner if you need smaller leaves.
- Bolting: If you see the plant starting to send up a seed stalk, it's best to harvest immediately as the lettuce will become bitter.
- Lettuce Test: Cut a leaf and check for a milky substance; this is a sign the plant is moving out of its optimal stage.
