Lettuce 'All Year Round' Seeds

Lactuca Sativa

Enjoy our All Year Round Lettuce, a butterhead variety with 20cm heads and a dense heart. Ideal for year-round cultivation, it boasts buttery green leaves and resists bolting, though protection from both frosts and hot weather is recommended.

Approximately 500 seeds.

Check out all our lettuce varieties suited to the subtropical climate here.

Lettuce Growing Tips

Location and Soil Preparation:

Lettuce is a cool-season crop, and its success often hinges on selecting the right location. Choose a spot that receives partial shade in warmer climates to prevent the leaves from wilting or becoming bitter. In cooler climates, full sun may be suitable. Well-draining soil rich in organic matter is essential for lettuce cultivation. Amend the soil with compost to enhance fertility and water retention. Raised beds or containers can be excellent choices, providing better control over soil conditions.

Sowing Seeds or Transplants:

Lettuce can be started from seeds directly sown in the garden or as transplants. If sowing directly, plant seeds in shallow furrows and cover them lightly with soil. Keep the soil consistently moist until germination, which usually takes about 7-14 days. Thin the seedlings to ensure proper spacing once they have a few leaves. Alternatively, you can start seeds in pots and transplant them into the garden when they are about 4-6 weeks old.

Watering and Fertilising:

Lettuce prefers consistently moist soil, so regular watering is crucial. Water deeply to encourage strong root development, but avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot. Mulching around the plants can help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Fertilise lettuce with a balanced, water-soluble fertiliser regularly to ensure steady growth (we use weekly applications of Seaweed Saver). However, be cautious not to over-fertilise, as this can result in overly lush growth and a bitter taste.

Harvesting and Pruning:

One of the delights of growing lettuce is the ability to harvest fresh leaves as needed. Loose-leaf varieties can be picked by removing outer leaves, allowing the centre leaves to continue growing. For head-forming varieties like Butterhead or Iceberg, harvest the entire head when it reaches the desired size. Romaine lettuce can be harvested by cutting the plant just above the soil level. 

Bolting Prevention:

Lettuce has a tendency to bolt, or prematurely produce flowers and go to seed, especially in warmer weather. To prevent bolting, choose slow-bolting varieties, like Butterhead or Romaine. Additionally, provide shade during the hottest part of the day, and keep the soil consistently moist. Harvesting regularly and promptly removing any bolting plants can also help extend the harvest season.

Pest and Disease Management:

Lettuce is generally a low-maintenance crop, but pests such as aphids, slugs, and snails may pose a threat. Regularly inspect your plants for any signs of pests and take appropriate action, such as using eco oil or introducing beneficial insects.