Can you regrow lettuce after harvesting leaves?
Written by
Benjamin Miller
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.Regrowing lettuce can be determined by the cutting technique used and by the variety grown. I have successfully revived butterhead plants five times now using the inch-abbasi method - a method where you cut the remaining leaf structures about 1 inch (2.5 cm) from the soiled tissue. This preserves the meristem of the plant allowing quick regrowth of new leaves.
Harvesting Techniques
- Cut outer leaves at 45° angle 1 inch (2.5 cm) above base
- Use sterilized shears to prevent disease transmission
- Harvest in morning when leaves are fully hydrated
Regrowth Conditions
- Maintain 60% soil moisture with drip irrigation
- Apply fish emulsion every 14 days
- Rotate containers for even sunlight exposure
Choosing the right container is important for healthy regrowth. My 10-inch (25 cm) self-watering pots, which allow me to harvest over an extended time frame due to maintaining moisture levels, are a good option. Don't use glazed ceramics as they don't let the air flow which will cause root rot. Fabric pots with a 30% perlite mix (perlite is a very light, granular product) will regenerate material 40% faster than plastic containers.
Managing light avoids regrowth bitterness. Give full morning sun for four hours, then cover with shade cloth. I set up my balcony with an adjustable shade cloth. I have purchased two frame systems that hold 30% shade, connected to a pulley system for height adjustment. Still, my plants receive 1,200 lux light exposure without any heat stress.
When the leaves are half their original size, remove the plant. Take the spent plants and compost them, preparing a nutrient tea or infusion - steep two cups (470 ml) of leaves per gallon (3.8 L) of water for 48 hours. This organic fertilizer provides an increase in growth rates of 25% for new seedlings.
Read the full article: How to Grow Lettuce: Expert Tips for Every Gardener
