Butterhead Bibb

Lettuce

Zone 4b Save Garden

Botanical illustration of Butterhead Bibb

🌱 55d to harvest Rosette

Buttery, tender leaves unfurl in a loose, cloudlike rosette—cool to the eye and delicately sweet on the palate. Butterhead Bibb f…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Apr 15th
Last Frost	May 13th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	May 13th
Harvest Begins	Jul 7th
Harvest Ends	Sep 27th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	55
Sun Requirements	Part Sun
Growth Habit	Rosette
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Surface
Germination Temp (°F)	70
Min Soil Temp (°F)	40
Min Night Temp (°F)	35
Harden Off (days)	5

Recommended Companions

Parisian Pickling Cucumber

Kaleidoscope Mix Carrot

Salt and Pepper Cucumber

Marketmore 80 Cucumber

Paris Market Carrot

Rat's Tail Radish

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are my butterhead (Bibb) leaves getting mushy and brown at the soil line, and what should I do?

Mushy, brown bases on Bibb are often caused by damping-off or early rot from consistently wet soil and poor airflow. Remove affected plants, improve drainage, and water only at the soil surface (not on leaves). Space plants closer to label spacing and thin promptly so heads form in drier, better-ventilated conditions.

How often should I water butterhead (Bibb) during the main growing phase to prevent bolting and keep heads tender?

During head formation, keep the soil evenly moist with about 1 inch of water per week, adjusting to rainfall and heat. Water deeply 1–2 times weekly rather than frequent light sprinkles, and check that the top 1 inch of soil stays slightly moist but not soggy. If the soil dries out fully between waterings, Bibb can stress and become tough or bolt.

When is butterhead (Bibb) ready to harvest, and how do I know the heads are ripe?

Harvest at about 55 days when heads feel firm but still tender and the leaves are flexible (not crunchy) when pressed gently. Look for the center to be well formed with leaves that are pale to light green, depending on your variety. For best flavor, cut in the morning and harvest before the head starts to elongate upward toward bolting.

Buttery, tender leaves unfurl in a loose, cloudlike rosette—cool to the eye and delicately sweet on the palate. Butterhead Bibb forms a compact head with spoon-soft texture and a gentle, green crunch that stays succulent from first harvest through the season’s early rhythm. Ideal for fresh salads and elegant cups of greens, it’s a favorite for gardeners who want a quick 55-day payoff and a truly refined bite.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 40°F and nights stay above 35°F before moving outdoors. Harden off for 5 days first.

Expert Note

For the sweetest, most tender Bibb heads, keep soil evenly moist and transplant early enough to harvest before hot weather sets in.