Choose a spot with full sun (or partial shade in warmer climates). Work compost into loose, well-draining soil to support shallow root systems.

Sow seeds very shallowly (⅛ to ¼ inch deep), as they need light to germinate. Space them 1 inch apart in rows 12-18 inches apart during early spring or late summer.

Keep the soil constantly moist. Lettuce has shallow roots, and drying out will cause the leaves to become tough and bitter, or cause the plant to bolt prematurely.

Once seedlings sprout true leaves, thin loose-leaf varieties to 4 inches apart, and heading varieties to 8-12 inches apart to allow proper maturation.

Harvest in 30-70 days depending on the variety. Pick individual outer leaves as needed for continuous growth, or cut the entire head off at the soil line.