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Can You Grow Lettuce in California?

US · USDA Zone 9b · zones 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b

Grows well here

Lettuce grows excellently here — one of the best cool-season crops for your climate.

Plant zones

2b–9b

California last frost

mid-January

California first frost

late December

Days to harvest

30–60 days

When to plant Lettuce in California

Direct sow

Jan 10

Harvest

Feb 9 – Mar 11

Dates are approximate, based on California's average frost dates. Your exact yard may vary by microclimate.

About Lettuce

Lettuce is one of the fastest and easiest crops to grow — perfect for beginners and container gardens.

Sow directly in early spring — lettuce tolerates light frost. Harvest outer leaves for cut-and-come-again. Bolts in summer heat; replant in late summer for a fall crop.

Full lettuce growing guide →

Gardening in California

California spans more climate zones than any other state. Coastal regions are mild year-round; the Central Valley is hot and productive; mountains are cold; deserts are extreme.

See what grows well in California →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Lettuce in California?

Lettuce grows excellently here — one of the best cool-season crops for your climate.

What zone is California?

California spans USDA Zone 9b (5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b).

When do you plant Lettuce in California?

Plant Lettuce Jan 10, harvest Feb 9 – Mar 11.