Is container growing effective for lettuce?
Written by
Paul Reynolds
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.When it comes to growing lettuce in containers, these tips work unbelievably well. Use containers that are at least 6 inches deep, have adequate drainage holes for roots, and use a quality potting mix meant for vegetables, rather than garden soil. Suppose you want to maximize growing potential in a limited space, use compact, space-saving varieties like Tom Thumb butterhead that have a high yield. Container gardening enables better pest control, as well as controlled moisture retention and improved soil quality, compared to traditional ground gardening. I have even grown lettuce in my apartment balcony year-round using these tips!
Container Setup
- Minimum 6 inch depth for adequate root space
- Drainage holes prevent waterlogging and root rot
- Use lightweight potting mix with perlite for aeration
- Elevate containers for airflow using pot feet or bricks
Maintenance Practices
- Water when top inch of soil feels dry
- Apply liquid fertilizer every 14 days
- Rotate containers weekly for even sun exposure
- Check daily during hot weather for moisture needs
When conditions are hot, be sure to maintain consistent moisture with self-watering containers or drip systems. Containers dry out faster than garden beds, and perennials in containers require more frequent watering than those in a garden bed. When checking soil moisture, insert your finger into the soil up to the first knuckle daily. Water thoroughly until water is draining from the bottom of the container. Avoid getting foliage wet to prevent fungal diseases.
Placement of containers should be for 4-6 hours morning sun with afternoon shade. Ensure that you rotate pots every week to promote even growth habits. During hot summer months, use shade cloth for protection during the hottest hours of the day. Move containers to sheltered locations during periods of torrential rain and high winds. These adjustments will protect your plants and help lengthen their growing season.
Every 14 days, fertilize container lettuce with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Nutrients are used up faster in container plants than in ground-grown lettuce. I routinely alternate using fish emulsion and seaweed extract for plant health. I also apply compost tea every month to continue to build soil. Reduce feeding as plants approach harvest to prevent nitrate accumulation.
You can continue harvesting with this method, known as the cut-and-come-again method, to achieve constant yields. Just clip the outer leaves 1 inch from the crown (yet leave the center of the crown intact) for continued growth. For heading varieties, when the plants are firm, you would harvest the whole plant. For harvesting in containers, we immediately replant with fresh soil and the next succession. Harvests are endless from a small area!
Read the full article: When to Plant Lettuce: Ultimate Growing Guide
