Black Seeded Simpson Lettuce

Black Seeded Simpson Lettuce

65 days. An early maturing leaf lettuce that produces leaves that are crisp, tender, and full of flavor. This is one of the most popular leaf lettuce varieties available. A perfect addition to salads and used for garnishes. One of the best varieties for home gardens. Slow to bolt. Cold, heat and drought tolerant. Plant produces baby lettuce in about 28 days.

Disease Resistant: DM, LD, TB

Open Pollinated. Non-GMO. Non-Treated. Heirloom.

*Approximately 1000 Seeds

Harvest: 65 Days

Germination: 7-10 Days

Light Requirements: Full sun

Planting Depth: 1/8-1/4”

Soil Requirements: Loose, fertile, sandy

Plant Height: 6-8”

Plant Spacing: 12-18”

Row Spacing: 18-30”

Growing Instructions

Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the average last frost. Plant 2-3 seeds per pot or cell 1/8-1/4” deep. Keep seeds moist, not wet. Thin seedlings to 1 per pot or cell when they are 1” tall. Harden off plants and transplant them into the garden 4-6 weeks before the average last frost.

In early spring, direct sow seeds in the garden as soon as the soil can be worked. Sow seeds 1/8-1/4” deep in fertile, sandy, well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0-6.5. Thin seedlings 12-18” apart in rows 18-30” apart. For a fall harvest, begin sowing seeds 6-8 weeks before the average first frost. Sow seeds every 2-3 weeks for a continuous harvest until the temperatures begin to exceed 80°F.

Add 2-3” of mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture, keep the roots cool and suppress weeds. Water when the soil is dry 1” down. To help prevent disease and avoid burning the leaves, water at the base of the plant. Lettuce needs at least 6 hours of full sun daily. It can tolerate light frost, but not heavy frost. Cover the plants to avoid damage from extremely cold temperatures.

Harvest leaves in the morning so that they will be crisp. As leaf lettuce plants mature, the outer leaves can be harvested as needed. The entire plant can be harvested by cutting it off at the base. Lettuce is best stored in the refrigerator crisper drawer in a plastic bag. It will store for up to a week.