2026 Planting Guide
Spring cropWhen to Plant Lettuce in Missouri
Complete guide to growing lettuce in Missouri 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 Missouri. Red diamond markers indicate frost date boundaries.
Quick Facts
Min. Soil Temp
40°F (4°C) minimum
Growing Period
45-70 days
From planting to harvest
Last Spring Frost
April 10
Wait until after this date
First Fall Frost
October 18
Harvest before this date
Monthly Task Timeline
Month-by-month guide for managing lettuce in Missouri.
January - February
Off-seasonCover crop planting, soil testing, equipment maintenance, and planning for next season.
March - April
PlantPrepare soil, apply starter fertilizer, and sow seeds at recommended depth and spacing.
May - June
HarvestCheck maturity indicators, schedule equipment, harvest at optimal moisture content.
July - December
Off-seasonCover crop planting, soil testing, equipment maintenance, and planning for next season.
Best Lettuce Varieties for Missouri
These varieties have proven performance in Missouri's climate and soil conditions. Always source certified seed from reputable dealers.
| # | Variety | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Buttercrunch | Missouri climate |
| 2 | Romaine | Missouri climate |
| 3 | Black Seeded Simpson | Missouri climate |
| 4 | Tom Thumb | Missouri climate |
Growing Tips for Missouri
Region-specific advice from agricultural extension services and experienced Missouri farmers.
Early spring planting — March in southern MO
Fall crop: seed late August to September
Mulch with straw for moisture retention
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
April 10
Wait until after this date before planting frost-sensitive crops outdoors.
First Fall Frost
October 18
Plan to complete harvest of warm-season crops before this date arrives.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to plant lettuce in Missouri?
The optimal planting window for lettuce in Missouri is March 20 to April 20. Soil temperature should reach at least 40°F (4°C) minimum before planting. The total growing period is 45-70 days.
What varieties of lettuce grow best in Missouri?
The best varieties for Missouri include Buttercrunch, Romaine, Black Seeded Simpson, Tom Thumb. These varieties are adapted to local climate and soil conditions and have proven performance records.
When can I harvest lettuce in Missouri?
The harvest window for lettuce in Missouri is typically May 5 to June 30. The crop takes 45-70 days from planting to reach maturity.
Get planting reminders for Lettuce in Missouri
Sign up for free alerts when it's time to plant, fertilize, and harvest.
Data Sources
Data sourced from USDA NASS Crop Planting Dates, Missouri 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.