Harvest by removing outer leaves or the entire head. Varieties mature in 70 days. The easiest type of lettuce to grow is the leaf or bunching lettuce. Leaf lettuce should be thinned to 4 to 6 inches apart in the row for best growth. Leaves are harvested as they mature.
Leaves come in a wide variety of shapes and colors.
The best known variety is 'Black Seeded Simpson'. Others include 'Salad Bowl', 'Ruby', and 'Green Ice'. 'Red Sails', 'Oakleaf', and 'Bronze Leaf' have attractive foliage and good flavor as well. Leaf lettuce matures in 40 to 45 days. Plant at weekly intervals beginning in early April and again starting in mid August to extend the season of enjoyment. Most varieties available are heat resistant and slow to bolt.