Sowing window (UK)August to September
Minimum soil temperature5°C at seed depth
Sowing depth1 cm
Spacing30 cm apart
Days to germination10 days
Days to harvest180 days
Sowing methodDirect sow outdoors
Frost hardyYes
Sunfull-sun
Wateringmoderate
Plant familyAsteraceae

When should I sow Winter Lettuce 'Arctic King' in the UK?

In the UK, sow Winter Lettuce 'Arctic King' from August to September. It is normally sown direct outdoors. Wait until the soil has reached 5°C at seed depth rather than going by the calendar - winter lettuce will sit and rot in cold ground.

What soil temperature does Winter Lettuce 'Arctic King' need to germinate?

Winter Lettuce 'Arctic King' needs a minimum soil temperature of 5°C at seed depth to germinate reliably. Below that, germination is slow and patchy, and seed is more likely to rot than sprout. Measure at around 5cm down, in the morning, rather than trusting air temperature.

How deep and how far apart should I sow Winter Lettuce 'Arctic King'?

For Winter Lettuce 'Arctic King', sow it 1cm deep and space plants 30cm apart.

How long does Winter Lettuce 'Arctic King' take to grow?

Winter Lettuce 'Arctic King' takes roughly 180 days from sowing to harvest. Seed usually germinates in about 10 days.

Is Winter Lettuce 'Arctic King' frost hardy?

Yes. Winter Lettuce 'Arctic King' is frost hardy and will stand through UK frosts, so it can be left out over winter in most of the country.

Sowing data cross-checked against RHS growing guides and UK seed-merchant catalogues. Soil temperatures are the minimum for reliable germination, measured at seed depth.