Buttercrunch lettuce takes a while to run to seed so there is plenty of time after it matures for harvesting. [3] X Research source
Use a long handled kitchen knife with a thin blade. Do not pull on the lettuce plant or you will disturb the roots. [4] X Research source
You can continue picking leaves this way until the plant goes to seed and you have to replace it with a new seedling. [8] X Research source
This harvesting technique is commonly known as a ‘cut-and-come-again’ method. [9] X Trustworthy Source Royal Horticultural Society Leading gardening charity in the U. K. providing resources for identifying, growing and caring for flowers and other plants Go to source Be careful when cutting. If you cut into or below the crown, the plant might die.
While washing your lettuce, remove any damaged leaves. Pests to watch out for when rinsing lettuce include slugs, aphids, and small green caterpillars. [11] X Research source
A salad spinner is a great alternative for drying lettuce before eating or storing. [13] X Research source
You may have to replace the paper towels after a few days if they become too wet. [14] X Research source
Refrigerate lettuce immediately after harvesting. Clean, properly stored loose lettuce leaves should keep in the fridge for up to 10 days. Heads of lettuce have a longer fridge life and will last up to three weeks.
