Grow Lettuce in Pakistan: Moji Mall Guide
Share
Growing lettuce (سلاد پتہ) at home is easy, fast, and rewarding, especially during Pakistan’s mild winter season. Fresh lettuce is crisp, refreshing, and packed with nutrition, perfect for salads and sandwiches. Here’s a simple guide to growing lush salad leaves successfully at home.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Best Sowing Time | October to February |
| Ideal Temperature | 15°C to 22°C |
| Germination Time | 5–10 days |
| Transplant Time | 3–4 weeks after sowing |
| Spacing | 8–10 inches between plants |
| Harvest Time | 45–65 days after sowing |
Step 1: Sow Seeds 🌱
When to Sow:
- Sow seeds from October to February, when the weather is cool and pleasant.
- The ideal soil temperature for germination is 15°C to 22°C.
- Avoid sowing in hot months, as lettuce tends to bolt quickly in heat.
How to Sow: Direct sow seeds in pots or beds or start in trays. Sow seeds 0.25 inch deep, and lightly cover them with fine soil.
Germination Tips: Seeds usually germinate in 5–10 days. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged during this early stage.
Step 2: Transplant Seedlings 🌿
When to Transplant: If sowing in trays, transplant seedlings when they have 3–4 true leaves, around 3–4 weeks after sowing.
How to Transplant: Plant into 10–12 inch wide pots or garden beds, spacing plants 8–10 inches apart for full-sized heads or closer for leaf harvesting.
Aftercare: Water gently after transplanting and protect young plants from strong winds.
Step 3: Care for Plants 🌞💧
Sunlight Needs: Lettuce grows best with 4–6 hours of direct or filtered sunlight daily. Too much strong sun may stress the plants.
Watering: Water lightly 2–3 times a week, keeping the soil moist but never soggy. Consistent watering is important for tender leaves.
Feeding Schedule: Add compost to soil before sowing. Light feeding with liquid organic fertilizer once after transplanting can boost growth.
Step 4: Protect Plants 🐛
Common Pests: Watch for aphids, slugs, and caterpillars feeding on tender leaves.
Natural Protection: Spray neem oil every 10–12 days (1 teaspoon neem oil + 1 liter water + few drops soap), and handpick visible pests.
Common Problems:
- Bolting (flowering early): Happens if weather turns hot — sow during cool months.
- Wilted Leaves: Usually from underwatering — adjust watering immediately.
- Bitter Leaves: Caused by heat stress — plant early in cool weather and water regularly.
Step 5: Harvest Leaves 🥬
When to Harvest: Lettuce is ready for cutting 45–65 days after sowing, depending on the variety.
How to Harvest:
- For loose-leaf types: Cut outer leaves when they are 4–6 inches tall, leaving the center to keep growing.
- For full heads: Harvest the whole plant at soil level when heads feel firm.
Bonus Tip: Frequent harvesting of leaves encourages new growth and extends the harvesting period.
FAQs
Can I grow lettuce in pots?
Yes, lettuce grows very well in 10–12 inch wide pots with rich, loose soil.
Does lettuce need full sun?
Partial sun (4–6 hours daily) is enough. Too much strong sunlight can cause bolting or bitterness.
Why are my lettuce leaves bitter?
Bitter leaves usually mean heat stress. Sow early in cool months and keep soil evenly moist.
Can I regrow lettuce after cutting?
Yes, if you harvest only outer leaves, the plant will continue producing more leaves.
How often should I water lettuce?
Water 2–3 times a week, adjusting based on weather. Consistent moisture gives the best quality leaves.
Growing lettuce at home is quick and highly rewarding. With just a little care during the cool season, you’ll enjoy fresh, crisp salad leaves full of flavor — perfect for healthy meals every day.
