When to Plant Lettuce in Georgia
Fast-growing and forgiving. Plant in spring and fall for a nearly year-round supply of fresh salad greens.
The Short Answer
Georgia Frost Dates
Your planting dates depend on which part of Georgia you're in. Here are the frost date ranges by region:
| Region | Zones | Last Frost (Spring) | First Frost (Fall) |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Georgia Mountains | 6b, 7a | Apr 5 - Apr 20 | Oct 10 - Oct 25 |
| Central Georgia | 7b, 8a | Mar 15 - Apr 1 | Nov 1 - Nov 15 |
| South Georgia | 8a, 8b, 9a | Feb 28 - Mar 15 | Nov 10 - Nov 25 |
Lettuce Planting Schedule for Georgia
North Georgia Mountains (Zones 6b, 7a)
Average last frost: Apr 5 - Apr 20 · Average first frost: Oct 10 - Oct 25
Central Georgia (Zones 7b, 8a)
Average last frost: Mar 15 - Apr 1 · Average first frost: Nov 1 - Nov 15
South Georgia (Zones 8a, 8b, 9a)
Average last frost: Feb 28 - Mar 15 · Average first frost: Nov 10 - Nov 25
Growing Lettuce in Georgia
State-Specific Growing Tips
North Georgia mountains: sow from March through May for spring, and August through October for fall — the mountain climate supports excellent lettuce for much of the year. Piedmont/Atlanta: sow from September through November for fall/winter harvest, and February through April for spring. South Georgia: October through March. In the Piedmont, lettuce benefits from afternoon shade during the warmer shoulder seasons. Georgia's acidic Piedmont clay needs lime amendment if pH is below 6.0 — lettuce is sensitive to acidic conditions.
Recommended Varieties for Georgia
For Georgia's mild winters, standard varieties work beautifully: Buttercrunch, Red Sails, and Romaine all produce well. For the shoulder seasons when bolting is a risk, choose Jericho or Nevada. Georgia's UGA Extension provides variety recommendations suited to the state's specific growing windows.
Common Challenges in Georgia
Bolting is the primary concern once spring temperatures climb above 80°F. Aphids are common on winter lettuce. Slugs are abundant in Georgia's humid conditions — iron phosphate bait is effective. In the Piedmont, red clay can crust over the soil surface and prevent tiny lettuce seeds from emerging — top-dress with fine compost for better germination.
Growing Tips
Succession plant every 2-3 weeks for continuous harvest. Shade cloth extends the season into warmer months.
Companion Planting
Plant lettuce alongside these companions for better growth:
The Bottom Line
Last reviewed: March 29, 2026