Planting Tips: Leaf lettuce is usually direct-seeded into the garden as soon as the soil can be worked. However, if you live where hard spring freezes are common, wait a few weeks until the weather warms up a bit. Sow the seeds about ¼ inch deep, spacing them so the plants can grow about six inches apart. Once the seedlings emerge, thin them to stand about a foot apart for best growth.

I like to start my Romaine and head lettuces indoors about a month before the last expected frost, then set the transplants out about a foot apart. Keep the plants well watered and weeded.

Harvesting Tips: Leaf lettuces can be cut and will grow back for multiple harvests. Romaine can be picked as baby leaves for salads, or you can let the main head mature.

Seed Saving Tips: I always save a plant at the end of the row to let go to seed. Since lettuce can cross-pollinate, plant different varieties in separate areas of the garden. When a plant bolts and begins to flower, it will soon set seed. Once the seed stalks are dry, cut them and place them into a paper bag. Shake the bag to release the seeds, then dry them thoroughly before storing in an airtight, rodent- and insect-proof container.