Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) is a cool-weather crop that thrives in the temperature range 60-65 degrees F, the seed germinates best at about 75 degrees F. Sow the seed 1/4” deep and thin to 10-16” to maintain good air circulation around the plants. Soil should be cool and moist during the germination period.
Notes: If the temperature exceeds 80 degrees F lettuce will often fail to germinate. Mulch the plants to keep the root temperature cool.
Notes: The glucose content of lettuce harvested in the morning may be 2-1/2 times greater than lettuce harvested in the early afternoon. For best quality and maximum sweetness harvest by 7-8 AM.
Leaf lettuce is generally more heat-tolerant, and contains the largest diversity of attractive heirlooms.
A member of the daisy family, lettuce is most commonly eaten raw in the West but often cooked in Chinese quisine.
We offer varieties from three groups:
1. Romaine (L. sativa var. romana), has a long head and pronounced rib down the middle of the leaf. Romaine is tolerant of heat, unlike many other lettuces, making it ideal for cultivation in Florida.
2. Butterhead (L. sativa var. capitata) has loose heads and includes Boston, Bibb and others.
3. Looseleaf (L. sativa var. crispa) has very tender and mild leaves. Includes oak leaf and lollo rosso (Red Leaf) lettuces. Also heat tolerant.
