In zone 5, where the minimum temperature range may drop at -23 Centigrade (according to USDA hardiness zones), growing crops like lettuce, which prefer cool weather but can’t handle freezing, can feel a bit tricky.
And honestly, it’s true: you can’t grow lettuce outdoors in open soil during a Zone 5 winter. The ground is too frozen, and the light is too limited. But that doesn’t mean winter lettuce is off the table.
By the way, the planting time of any crop depends on various factors (region and plant type), but when it comes to growing lettuce in a greenhouse or any indoor setup, you just have to consider the right variety and the right steps for lettuce planting and that too at the right time.
Can You Grow Lettuce During Winter of Zone 5B?
Zone 5b is the subzone of USDA zone 5, which is considered a colder zone, meaning that winter is very harsh, with a minimum temperature range of 26C to -23C.
Keep in mind that lettuce cannot handle this range, and its growth stages may stop. So, in zone 5, lettuce can be grown through a greenhouse setup, and of course, a greenhouse is exactly made for that year-round harvest of quick-growing crops like lettuce.
When to Sow Lettuce in Zone 5b Greenhouse (Winter Timing)
In Zone 5b, cold weather usually starts by mid-October. That’s when most gardens slow down. But if you have a greenhouse, you still have time to plant.
Try sowing your lettuce in early to mid-October, while the soil is still a little warm, bove 40°F (4°C), and there is enough light during the day.
If your greenhouse stays a bit warm inside, you can even try planting a little later in October. But earlier is better, so your lettuce can grow a bit before the real cold begins.
How to Grow Lettuce in A Greenhouse in Zone 5B During Winters?
First, Choose Winter Lettuce Varieties:
Start by picking the winter lettuce varieties. Some types handle colds better than others. For winter growing, whether in a greenhouse or outdoors, gardeners often have success with:
- Winter Density
- Arctic King
- Valdor
- Black Seeded Simpson
Then, Grow Lettuce By Following Linked Steps
Once your lettuce variety is chosen, the growing process is pretty straightforward. If you’re new to this setup, here is a helpful guide on how to grow lettuce in a greenhouse, including tips on winter and summer growing.
I have linked some supporting content in this guide, so I think reading only it is not enough, you must read other content that is helpful to recognize zone 5 and effective steps to plant lettuce in a greenhouse.
