How to Grow Lettuce in Vertical Farms

Idrisa Mustafa Selemani
Jul 6
2 min read

Plant Name: Lettuce (Lactuca sativa, Family: Asteraceae)

Lettuce is one of the most popular crops for vertical farming due to its fast growth, low space requirements, and high market demand. Here’s a practical guide to growing it successfully in a vertical setup.

Growing Conditions

Growth Duration: 40 to 85 days, depending on variety and climate
Temperature Range: 12°C to 20°C cooler conditions favor better growth
Shading: May be necessary in hot climates to prevent leaf damage
Root Temperature: Roots should remain cool avoid overheating at all costs
Growth Uniformity: Lettuce requires consistent, fast, and even growth for market quality

Best Systems for Vertical Growing

Vertical Columns: Space efficient and suitable for leafy greens like lettuce
NFT (Nutrient Film Technique): A proven method for lettuce
Modified NFT with Gravel: Adds root support and improves performance
Rockwool: Commercially used substrate offering excellent results

Planting

Start with germinated seedlings in plugs or Rockwool cubes
Transplant to NFT channels or vertical columns at 2 3 leaf stage
Ensure adequate spacing for airflow and light exposure
Maintain pH around 5.8 6.2 and EC between 1.2 to 1.8 for nutrient solution

Common Problems

Tip Burn: Often caused by calcium deficiency or heat stress
Pests: Aphids and fungus gnats can be an issue in enclosed systems
Diseases: Root rot and downy mildew if humidity or temperature is poorly controlled

Harvest & Post-Harvest

Harvest when heads are firm and fully developed (usually after 40 to 60 days)
Cut just above the root zone, rinse, and cool immediately
Store at 0 to 4°C with high humidity (95%) to maintain freshness
Shelf life: 7 to 10 days under proper cold storage

Popular Varieties for Vertical Farms

Butterhead: Soft texture, compact heads (e.g., Bibb, Boston)
Romaine (Cos): Upright, crunchy, ideal for salads
Loose leaf: Fast growing, harvestable as baby leaves
Crisphead (Iceberg): Less common in vertical setups but possible with care

Focus on climate control, nutrient balance, and clean systems. With the right setup, lettuce in vertical farms can offer quick cycles, high yield, and great profitability.