The spacing between individual Lactuca sativa seedlings or starts during planting is a crucial determinant of their growth and overall yield. Inadequate spacing can lead to overcrowding, while excessive spacing may underutilize available garden space. This inter-plant distance must be carefully considered to optimize resource allocation and plant health.
Proper plant distance promotes adequate air circulation, reducing the risk of fungal diseases. It also ensures that each plant receives sufficient sunlight for photosynthesis and access to essential nutrients from the soil. Historically, gardeners have observed that appropriate spacing results in healthier plants, larger heads (for head lettuce varieties), and more abundant leaf production (for leaf lettuce varieties).