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Iceberg Lettuce Production in California

Thomas Turini, Michael Cahn, Marita Cantwell, Louise Jackson, Steven Koike, Eric Natwick, Richard Smith, Krishna Subbarao and, Etaferahu Takele (2011)

Summary

The major production areas for iceberg (crisphead) lettuce (Lactuca sativa) in California are the central coast (Monterey, San Luis Obispo, San Benito, Contra Costa, and Santa Clara Counties), the southern coast (Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties), the Central Valley (Fresno, Kings, and Kern Counties), and the southern deserts (Imperial and Riverside Counties). Production is highest in Monterey County, followed by Imperial County. This fact sheet addresses soil requirements, cultural practices, pest control, harvesting and handling techniques, with a limited explanation of how the market works.