2026 Planting Guide
Fall cropWhen to Plant Lettuce in California
Complete guide to growing lettuce in California with optimal planting dates, recommended varieties, soil requirements, pest management, and harvest timing. Data sourced from USDA and state extension services.
Monthly Planting Calendar
Visual overview of the lettuce growing season in California. Red diamond markers indicate frost date boundaries.
Quick Facts
Min. Soil Temp
40°F (4°C) minimum
Growing Period
45-75 days
From planting to harvest
Last Spring Frost
February 15
Wait until after this date
First Fall Frost
December 1
Harvest before this date
Monthly Task Timeline
Month-by-month guide for managing lettuce in California.
January - June
HarvestCheck maturity indicators, schedule equipment, harvest at optimal moisture content.
July - August
Grow & MonitorIrrigate as needed, scout for pests, apply side-dress fertilizer, and manage weeds.
September - October
PlantPrepare soil, apply starter fertilizer, and sow seeds at recommended depth and spacing.
November - December
HarvestCheck maturity indicators, schedule equipment, harvest at optimal moisture content.
Best Lettuce Varieties for California
These varieties have proven performance in California's climate and soil conditions. Always source certified seed from reputable dealers.
| # | Variety | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Iceberg | California climate |
| 2 | Romaine | California climate |
| 3 | Green Leaf | California climate |
| 4 | Red Leaf | California climate |
| 5 | Butter | California climate |
Growing Tips for California
Region-specific advice from agricultural extension services and experienced California farmers.
Salinas Valley is "Salad Bowl of America"
Year-round production with seasonal shifts
Drip irrigation on raised beds
Pest & Disease Watch
Monitor for these threats throughout the growing season. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is recommended.
Aphids
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Slugs
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Loopers
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Leaf miners
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Downy mildew
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Companion Planting
These plants grow well alongside lettuce, improving pest control, pollination, and nutrient availability.
Frost Dates
Last Spring Frost
February 15
Wait until after this date before planting frost-sensitive crops outdoors.
First Fall Frost
December 1
Plan to complete harvest of warm-season crops before this date arrives.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to plant lettuce in California?
The optimal planting window for lettuce in California is September 1 to March 31. Soil temperature should reach at least 40°F (4°C) minimum before planting. The total growing period is 45-75 days.
What varieties of lettuce grow best in California?
The best varieties for California include Iceberg, Romaine, Green Leaf, Red Leaf, Butter. These varieties are adapted to local climate and soil conditions and have proven performance records.
When can I harvest lettuce in California?
The harvest window for lettuce in California is typically November 15 to June 15. The crop takes 45-75 days from planting to reach maturity.
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Data Sources
Data sourced from USDA NASS Crop Planting Dates, California Cooperative Extension Service, and NOAA frost date records. Last updated: March 2026.
Planting dates are averages and may vary by county, elevation, and local microclimate. Always consult your local extension office for the most precise recommendations.