After sowing your lettuce seeds, it’s natural to wonder when you’ll see those first signs of life. While lettuce germinates fairly quickly, understanding the timing and environmental needs helps you avoid overwatering, replanting too soon, or worrying unnecessarily.
How Long Does Lettuce Take to Germinate?
Under ideal conditions, lettuce seeds typically germinate in 7–10 days.
But timing depends on:
- Soil temperature (optimal: 10–18°C / 50–65°F)
- Consistent moisture (the top ½ inch of soil should stay damp)
- Seed depth (no deeper than ¼ inch)
- Good seed-to-soil contact with light exposure
In warm weather (above 24°C / 75°F), germination may be slower or uneven, especially for heat-sensitive varieties.
What to Look For
- Tiny green loops or threads emerging from the soil
- The first set of cotyledons (seed leaves), small and oval
- Followed by true leaves a few days later — slightly jagged and distinctly “lettuce-like”
If nothing appears after 12–14 days:
- Check for dry soil crust or seed depth
- Consider temperature and light exposure
- Avoid reseeding too early — disturb soil only after a full two-week wait
AiFarming keeps you on track: Our seed tracker logs your sowing date and expected germination window, with alerts if conditions suggest delay — so you always know what’s normal and when to act.