2026 Planting Guide
Fall cropWhen to Plant Lettuce in Texas
Complete guide to growing lettuce in Texas 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 Texas. 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
March 15
Wait until after this date
First Fall Frost
November 15
Harvest before this date
Monthly Task Timeline
Month-by-month guide for managing lettuce in Texas.
January - May
HarvestCheck maturity indicators, schedule equipment, harvest at optimal moisture content.
June - 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 Texas
These varieties have proven performance in Texas's climate and soil conditions. Always source certified seed from reputable dealers.
| # | Variety | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Black Seeded Simpson | Texas climate |
| 2 | Romaine | Texas climate |
| 3 | Buttercrunch | Texas climate |
| 4 | Red Sails | Texas climate |
Growing Tips for Texas
Region-specific advice from agricultural extension services and experienced Texas farmers.
Fall and spring crops — too hot in summer
Rio Grande Valley winter production
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
March 15
Wait until after this date before planting frost-sensitive crops outdoors.
First Fall Frost
November 15
Plan to complete harvest of warm-season crops before this date arrives.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to plant lettuce in Texas?
The optimal planting window for lettuce in Texas is September 15 to February 28. 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 Texas?
The best varieties for Texas include Black Seeded Simpson, Romaine, Buttercrunch, Red Sails. These varieties are adapted to local climate and soil conditions and have proven performance records.
When can I harvest lettuce in Texas?
The harvest window for lettuce in Texas is typically November 15 to May 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, Texas 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.