Lettuce 'Iceberg'

Where to Plant
Plant Lettuce 'Iceberg' in a sunny or lightly shaded, sheltered position with fertile, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil. Before planting, remove weeds and work in well-rotted garden compost to improve the soil. Lettuce has relatively shallow roots, so soil that holds moisture without becoming waterlogged will help plants establish well and develop firm, crisp hearts.

Planting
Space plants around 25–30cm apart, with approximately 30cm between rows. Giving each plant enough room allows it to develop a good-sized, tightly packed head and improves airflow around the crop. Plant each plug at the same depth it was growing previously, gently firm the soil around the roots and water thoroughly. Keep newly planted plugs watered during dry autumn weather while they establish.

Watering & Feeding
Keep the soil evenly moist while plants establish and as the heads develop. During cool autumn weather they may need less frequent watering, so check the soil first and avoid keeping it excessively wet. Consistent moisture supports steady growth and helps the leaves remain crisp and tender.

Lettuce growing in fertile soil usually needs little additional feeding. Well-rotted compost incorporated before planting will provide a good start. If growth is slow or leaves become pale, apply a balanced liquid vegetable feed, following the manufacturer's instructions. Avoid overfeeding, as steady, healthy growth is preferable to producing lots of soft foliage.

Growing in Containers
Iceberg lettuce grows well in containers, making it a useful choice for patios and smaller growing spaces. Choose a pot with good drainage and allow around 25–30cm between plants so each lettuce has enough room to form a full head. Check the compost regularly and water when it begins to dry, while making sure excess water can drain freely during wet autumn and winter weather.

Protection in Colder Weather
A sheltered position will help autumn-planted lettuce establish as temperatures fall. During periods of hard frost or particularly cold weather, protect plants with horticultural fleece or a cloche. An unheated greenhouse or cold frame can also provide useful protection and help keep plants growing for longer through the cooler months. Remove or lift covers during milder spells to maintain good airflow and prevent excess moisture building up around the leaves.

Pests & Problems
Slugs and snails are among the main problems for lettuce, particularly around young plants during mild, damp autumn weather. Check plants regularly, including underneath the outer leaves, and keep the surrounding area clear of weeds and decaying plant material where pests can shelter.

Aphids can also gather on young leaves, while prolonged wet or overcrowded conditions can encourage rotting and fungal problems. Allow enough space between plants for good airflow, avoid waterlogging and remove badly damaged or decaying outer leaves promptly.

Good Companions
Lettuce 'Iceberg' can be grown alongside vegetables such as radishes, carrots, beetroot, onions and spring onions. Its relatively shallow roots and compact growth make it useful for filling gaps between slower-growing crops while they're still developing.

Make the Most of Your Growing Space
Iceberg lettuce grows well in vegetable gardens, raised beds and containers. When growing alongside other crops, make sure neighbouring plants won't heavily shade the lettuces or compete with them for moisture as the heads develop. Leaving enough space around each plant also improves airflow and gives the heads room to form properly.

Making the Most of Your Crop
Allow the plants to develop until the heads feel firm and well filled before harvesting. If some mature ahead of the others, harvest these first and leave the remaining plants to continue developing, helping you enjoy each lettuce while the leaves are at their crispest.

Crop Rotation
Lettuce doesn't require the strict crop rotation needed for crops such as brassicas, but it's still sensible to avoid repeatedly growing lettuce in exactly the same soil. Moving crops around where practical can help reduce the build-up of soil-borne pests and diseases.

Harvest When Firm
Cut whole lettuces once the heads feel firm and well filled. Harvesting at the right stage gives the crispest texture and best flavour.

Pick in Cool Conditions
Harvest early in the morning or later in the day when the leaves are cool and full of moisture for maximum freshness.

Cut Cleanly
Use a sharp knife to cut through the stem at the base and remove any damaged outer leaves before taking the lettuce into the kitchen.

Flavour
Fresh and mild with the crisp, refreshing crunch that makes iceberg lettuce such a favourite.

Best Enjoyed
Ideal for salads, sandwiches, burgers and wraps, where its crunchy texture really comes into its own.

Storage
Store whole heads in the salad drawer of the fridge and keep the leaves dry until you're ready to use them to help maintain their crisp texture.

Top Tip
For an extra-refreshing crunch, place freshly harvested leaves in cold water for a few minutes before serving.

Plug Plants
Supplied as healthy young plants with well-developed roots, plug plants are ready to be planted straight into their final growing position or potted on if preferred. Water well on arrival and keep the compost evenly moist while they establish.

Garden Ready Plants
Our Garden Ready plants have been professionally grown on, making them larger, stronger and ready to plant straight into the garden. They establish quickly, giving you a valuable head start towards your harvest.

9cm Potted Plants
Supplied in individual 9cm nursery pots, these well-established plants are ready to plant straight into vegetable gardens, raised beds or allotments. Simply plant, water thoroughly and keep the soil consistently moist while they settle in.

Upon Arrival
Remove your plants from their packaging as soon as they arrive and give them a thorough watering. If you can't plant them immediately, keep them in a cool, sheltered spot out of direct sunlight and drying winds, ensuring the compost remains moist until you're ready to plant.