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July is a great month to start planting lettuce, especially in regions with warm summers. Lettuce thrives in cooler weather, but with proper selection and timing, you can enjoy fresh greens throughout the season. Choosing the right varieties can make all the difference in your summer garden.
Why Choose the Right Lettuce Varieties in July?
Planting the right varieties of lettuce in July helps ensure a successful harvest. Some types are more heat-tolerant and resistant to bolting, which is when lettuce prematurely flowers and goes to seed. Selecting heat-resistant varieties allows you to enjoy fresh lettuce even during the hottest days of summer.
Best Lettuce Varieties to Plant in July
- Butterhead Lettuce – Known for its soft, buttery leaves and mild flavor, varieties like ‘Bibb’ and ‘Boston’ are good choices. They tend to bolt less quickly in warm weather.
- Romaine Lettuce – With its crisp texture and elongated leaves, romaine is a popular summer lettuce. Look for heat-tolerant varieties like ‘Parris Island’ or ‘Little Gem.’
- Oak Leaf Lettuce – This loose-leaf variety has a distinctive shape and can handle warmer temperatures better than some other types.
- Summer Lettuce Hybrids – Many seed companies now offer hybrids specifically bred for heat tolerance. Examples include ‘Summer Bibb’ or ‘Heatwave’ series.
Tips for Growing Lettuce in July
- Plant in partial shade to protect from the hottest sun.
- Keep soil consistently moist to prevent bolting.
- Use mulch to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
- Consider starting seeds indoors or in a shaded area and transplanting outside.
- Harvest regularly to encourage new growth and prevent flowering.
Conclusion
Starting lettuce in July is possible with the right varieties and care. Opt for heat-tolerant types like butterhead, romaine, or oak leaf, and employ shading and moisture management techniques. With these strategies, you can enjoy fresh, homegrown lettuce throughout the summer months.