Iceberg
70d to harvest
Crisp as freshly fallen snow, Iceberg forms tight, pale-green heads with a cool, watery crunch that practically sings with every bite. The leaves are thick and shingled, holding their snap through harvest and storage, making this crisphead a dependable centerpiece for fresh salads and bright, refreshing garnishes. Grow Iceberg for a classic, garden-grown crunch at about 70 days—clean, sturdy, and beautifully uniform from row to row.
Crop Dates
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Start Indoors | Apr 17th |
| Last Frost | May 15th |
| Transplant / Sow Outdoors | May 8th |
| Harvest Begins | Jul 17th |
| Harvest Ends | Sep 24th |
Crop Details
| Trait | Value |
|---|---|
| Days to Maturity | 70 |
| Sun Requirements | Part Sun |
| Growth Habit | Rosette |
| Support Needed | None |
| Planting Depth | Normal |
| Germination Temp (°F) | 65 |
| Min Soil Temp (°F) | 40 |
| Min Night Temp (°F) | 35 |
| Harden Off (days) | 6 |
Recommended Companions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a common disease problem for Lactuca sativa (iceberg lettuce) and how can I prevent it?
Leaf lettuce/iceberg commonly suffers from downy mildew (often showing pale yellow patches on the upper leaves with gray-purple growth underneath). Avoid overhead watering, keep seedlings spaced for airflow, and remove affected outer leaves early to slow spread. If conditions stay cool and damp, switch to a labeled downy-mildew treatment for leafy greens and keep the beds mulched to reduce splashback.
How do I tell when iceberg lettuce (Lactuca sativa) is ready to harvest?
Harvest when the head feels firm and compact when gently squeezed, with leaves tightly layered and no loose, open center. Typical timing is about 70 days from sowing, but focus on head firmness and size rather than the calendar alone. Cut the head at the base in the morning for crisp leaves, and pick before prolonged heat that can cause loosening.