Iceberg lettuce is a popular variety known for its crisp and crunchy leaves. Here’s a guide on how to grow Iceberg lettuce from seeds:

1. Timing: Iceberg lettuce is a cool-season crop, so it’s best to sow the seeds in early spring or late summer for a fall harvest. Make sure the soil temperature is between 45°F and 75°F (7°C to 24°C) for optimal germination and growth.
2. Location: Choose a sunny location for your lettuce that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. However, in hotter climates, some shade during the hottest part of the day can help prevent the lettuce from bolting (going to seed) prematurely.
3. Soil preparation: Prepare the soil by removing weeds, rocks, and debris. Iceberg lettuce prefers well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to improve its fertility and moisture retention.
4. Sowing seeds: Sow the Iceberg lettuce seeds directly in the garden. Create shallow furrows in the soil, about ¼ inch deep. Space the seeds about 6 to 8 inches apart. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil or vermiculite and gently press them down. Water the soil gently after sowing to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.
5. Watering and maintenance: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water the lettuce plants regularly, providing about 1 inch of water per week. Avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf diseases. Mulching around the plants can help retain moisture and suppress weed growth.
6. Thinning: Once the seedlings have sprouted and developed their first true leaves, thin them to provide enough space for each lettuce plant to grow. Thin the seedlings to a spacing of about 10 to 12 inches apart. You can use the thinnings as baby greens for salads.
7. Fertilization: Iceberg lettuce doesn’t require heavy feeding, but you can apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer or a slow-release granular fertilizer according to the package instructions. Start fertilizing when the seedlings are established, and repeat every two to three weeks throughout the growing season.
8. Protection from pests: Protect your lettuce plants from common pests like slugs, snails, and rabbits. Use organic pest control methods or physical barriers such as netting or fences to keep them away. Regularly inspect your plants for any signs of pest damage and take appropriate measures.
9. Harvesting: Iceberg lettuce is ready for harvest when the heads are firm and fully formed. This usually takes around 70 to 90 days after sowing, depending on the variety. To harvest, use a sharp knife to cut the lettuce heads just above the soil level. If you prefer, you can also harvest the outer leaves as the plant continues to grow, allowing the inner leaves to develop further.
10. Storage: Iceberg lettuce is best consumed fresh, but if you have excess harvest, you can store it in the refrigerator. Wrap the lettuce heads in plastic or place them in a plastic bag to retain moisture. Stored properly, Iceberg lettuce can last for up to two weeks.

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