Growing lettuce in hot weather

[David J]

I'm awed by the lettuce growing I see in the pages of the AP websites. Many AP'ers are in hot climates in Australia. Can you grow lettuce on a raft system when the outside temps are 38 degrees? What are the temperature ranges for growing lettuce in an AP system?

[Ravnis]

I've tried it, but have not had luck with it when it is that hot. Romaine is probably your best bet. My most productive plant growth periods is fall, winter and spring.

[GaryD]

Hi David,

I'm awed by the lettuce growing I see in the pages of the AP websites. Many AP'ers are in hot climates in Australia. Can you grow lettuce on a raft system when the outside temps are 38 degrees? What are the temperature ranges for growing lettuce in an AP system?

Many varieties of lettuce tend to bolt in hot weather. Locate some local hydroponic growers in your area and see what they're doing.

Water temperatures are certainly more stable in raft systems......and that translates into lower root zone temperatures - a critical growth consideration for lettuce.

Gary