2026 Planting Guide
Fall cropWhen to Plant Lettuce in India
Complete guide to growing lettuce in India with optimal planting dates, recommended varieties, soil requirements, pest management, and harvest timing. Data sourced from national agricultural research organizations and FAO.
Monthly Planting Calendar
Visual overview of the lettuce growing season in India.
Quick Facts
Min. Soil Temp
10°C (50°F) minimum
Growing Period
45-75 days
From planting to harvest
Last Spring Frost
N/A
Tropical climate
First Fall Frost
N/A
No frost risk
Monthly Task Timeline
Month-by-month guide for managing lettuce in India.
January - April
HarvestCheck maturity indicators, schedule equipment, harvest at optimal moisture content.
May - September
Grow & MonitorIrrigate as needed, scout for pests, apply side-dress fertilizer, and manage weeds.
October - November
PlantPrepare soil, apply starter fertilizer, and sow seeds at recommended depth and spacing.
December
HarvestCheck maturity indicators, schedule equipment, harvest at optimal moisture content.
Best Lettuce Varieties for India
These varieties have proven performance in India's climate and soil conditions. Always source certified seed from reputable dealers.
| # | Variety | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Great Lakes | India climate |
| 2 | Grand Rapids | India climate |
| 3 | Iceberg | India climate |
| 4 | Chinese Lettuce | India climate |
Growing Tips for India
Region-specific advice from agricultural extension services and experienced India farmers.
Cool-season crop for northern plains
Nilgiris and Himachal Pradesh produce year-round
Growing demand from hotels and restaurants
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
No Frost Risk
India has a tropical or subtropical climate. Frost is generally not a concern, but altitude-dependent cold spells can occur in some areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to plant lettuce in India?
The optimal planting window for lettuce in India is October 1 to January 31. Soil temperature should reach at least 10°C (50°F) minimum before planting. The total growing period is 45-75 days.
What varieties of lettuce grow best in India?
The best varieties for India include Great Lakes, Grand Rapids, Iceberg, Chinese Lettuce. These varieties are adapted to local climate and soil conditions and have proven performance records.
When can I harvest lettuce in India?
The harvest window for lettuce in India is typically December 15 to April 15. The crop takes 45-75 days from planting to reach maturity.
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Data Sources
Data sourced from ICAR (Indian Council of Agricultural Research), state agricultural universities, and FAO India. 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.