Buttercrunch lettuce is a popular, heat-tolerant butterhead variety favored for its soft texture and mild flavor. It forms a loose, cup-shaped head, distinguishing it from crisphead or loose-leaf types. Understanding the optimal timing and methods for harvest is important for enjoying the sweetest, most tender leaves.
Identifying Peak Readiness
Buttercrunch lettuce is ready for harvest 50 to 65 days after planting from seed, or about 30 days after transplanting seedlings. The ideal time is determined by the plant’s appearance, specifically before it begins “bolting.” Bolting occurs when the plant sends up a central flower stalk, shifting energy from leaf growth to reproduction. This process causes a surge of the bitter compound lactucin in the leaves.
Look for a loose, cup-shaped head measuring six to eight inches across that feels firm to the touch. The leaves should be a rich, medium-green color, with inner leaves appearing slightly blanched or lighter. Harvesting before bolting is crucial, as heat tolerance only delays the onset of bitterness. If the main stem starts to elongate, or if a milky white sap appears when a leaf is broken, the plant is bolting and must be harvested immediately to salvage the flavor.
Harvesting Techniques and Methods
Gardeners use two primary methods for harvesting Buttercrunch lettuce: the whole head harvest and the cut-and-come-again method.
Whole Head Harvest
The whole head harvest involves collecting the entire plant at once for a single, large yield. Use a sharp knife or garden shears to make a clean cut across the base of the plant, just above the soil line. Leaving a small stub of about one inch above the ground may allow the root system to re-sprout a smaller second harvest in two to three weeks.
Cut-and-Come-Again Method
This method allows for a prolonged harvest period by selectively removing only the outermost, mature leaves. Leave the inner cluster of smaller leaves and the growing point intact. This encourages the plant to continue producing new leaves from the center, enabling a continuous supply of fresh greens for several weeks.
Post-Harvest Handling and Storage
Proper handling immediately after harvest maximizes the crispness and shelf life of Buttercrunch lettuce. Gently wash the leaves to remove any soil or debris. Thoroughly dry the leaves using a salad spinner or by blotting with a clean towel, as excess moisture promotes rapid decay.
For storage, place unwashed lettuce heads or dried leaves in a loose plastic bag or an airtight container lined with a paper towel. The paper towel helps absorb residual moisture or condensation. Storing the lettuce in the refrigerator’s crisper drawer maintains the cold temperature and high humidity optimal for leafy greens. When stored correctly, Buttercrunch lettuce maintains quality for three to seven days.