Free shipping on orders over $60

Summer Bibb

Lactuca sativa

$3.99

820 mg Approximately

Bibb Butterhead Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) is a beloved heirloom variety known for its tender, buttery leaves and crisp texture. ItÕs perfect for salads, lettuce wraps, and garnishes, thriving in cool weather from fall to early spring. This variety is relatively heat-resistant compared to other lettuces, making it a versatile choice for different climates.

Disclaimer: Product images are provided for illustrative purposes only and may not be an exact representation of the product. The actual product may vary due to a variety of factors.

553 in stock

  • Days to Germination: 3-12 days
  • Days to Maturity: 60-65 days
  • Planting Time: Fall through early spring
  • Sunlight Requirement: Full sun, though partial shade is beneficial in warmer weather
  • Soil Requirements: Fertile, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.1-7.5
  • Spacing: 8-12 inches between plants; 12-18 inches between rows
  • Height: 10 inches
  • Frost Hardy: Yes, suitable for USDA Zones 3-12

Direct Sowing:

  • Sow seeds 1/8-1/4 inch deep in early fall or when the soil temperature ranges between 35-75¡F.
  • Space seeds 1 inch apart, with rows 12-18 inches apart. Thin seedlings to 8-12 inches for full head development.

Succession Planting:

  • Sow seeds every 2-3 weeks in cooler seasons to maintain a continuous supply of fresh lettuce.

Indoor Starting:

  • For early spring crops, start seeds indoors several weeks before the last frost. Transplant outdoors once soil can be worked.

Growing Tips

  • Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, as lettuce has shallow roots and is prone to bitterness if it dries out. Mulching can help retain soil moisture and control weeds.
  • Fertilizing: Enrich the soil with compost or organic matter before planting. Apply a balanced fertilizer as needed, especially if the soil is lacking in nitrogen.

Harvesting

  • Timing: Begin harvesting individual outer leaves once they reach a suitable size, or harvest the entire head once it forms, typically around 60-65 days after sowing.
  • Method: For a full head, cut just above the soil line. Bibb lettuce is best harvested in the morning for optimal crispness.
  • Storage: Freshly harvested lettuce can keep for up to a week in the refrigerator when wrapped in a damp paper towel.

Nutritional Benefits and Culinary Uses

  • Nutrients: High in vitamin A, K, and folate, with a mild, sweet flavor.
  • Culinary: Ideal for fresh salads, wraps, and sandwiches; adds a delicate, crisp element to any dish.

Bibb Butterhead Lettuce is an easy-to-grow, cool-weather crop that produces tender leaves perfect for fresh eating. With its adaptability and continuous sowing, you can enjoy fresh, crisp lettuce for months.