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Can You Grow Lettuce in North Carolina?

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

Grows well here

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

Plant zones

2b–9b

North Carolina last frost

late February

North Carolina first frost

early December

Days to harvest

30–60 days

When to plant Lettuce in North Carolina

Direct sow

Feb 28

Harvest

Mar 30 – Apr 29

Dates are approximate, based on North Carolina'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 North Carolina

North Carolina spans the mountains (Zone 5b-6a), Piedmont (Zone 7a-7b), and coastal plain (Zone 8a). Long warm seasons support tobacco, sweet potatoes, and a wide range of vegetables.

See what grows well in North Carolina →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Lettuce in North Carolina?

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

What zone is North Carolina?

North Carolina spans USDA Zone 7b (5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a).

When do you plant Lettuce in North Carolina?

Plant Lettuce Feb 28, harvest Mar 30 – Apr 29.