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LETTUCE Black Seeded Simpson Leaf (Heirloom) (Lactuca sativa)

Black Seeded - Simpson

Lactuca sativa

$3.99

4 g Approximately

Black Seeded Simpson Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) is a popular heirloom lettuce variety known for its early maturity, heat tolerance, and productive growth. This large, loose-leaf lettuce has light green, crisp, tender leaves with a mild flavor, making it perfect for salads. It’s an ideal choice for home gardeners due to its resilience and ability to grow in various climates.

Disclaimer: Sold individually — price is for 1 seed packet only. Image shows multiple packets for display purposes only.

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.

104 in stock

  • Days to Germination: 7-10 days
  • Days to Maturity: 45-60 days
  • Planting Time: Early spring through fall
  • Sunlight Requirement: Full sun to partial shade
  • Soil Requirements: Well-drained, rich in organic matter with a pH of 6.0-6.8
  • Spacing: 8 inches apart in rows spaced 12-18 inches
  • Height: 10-20 inches
  • Frost Hardy: Yes, suitable for USDA Zones 2a-11b

Direct Sowing:

  • Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in early spring or as soon as the soil can be worked.
  • Space seeds 2 inches apart in rows 12-18 inches apart. For baby greens, sow more densely.

Succession Planting:

  • For continuous harvests, sow seeds every 2-3 weeks until temperatures become too hot. In cooler regions, continue planting throughout fall.

Indoor Starting:

  • For an early spring crop, start seeds indoors about 4 weeks before the last frost. Transplant seedlings outdoors once they are hardened off.

Growing Tips

  • Watering: Water lettuce regularly to keep soil moist but avoid waterlogging. Use drip irrigation or a gentle watering method to prevent soil compaction.
  • Mulching: Applying mulch around plants helps retain moisture, reduce weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
  • Fertilization: Mix compost or a balanced organic fertilizer into the soil before planting, and supplement with liquid fertilizer every few weeks.

Harvesting

  • Timing: Harvest young leaves as baby greens or allow the plant to mature fully. Black Seeded Simpson is best harvested before bolting to avoid bitterness.
  • Method: For leaf lettuce, pick outer leaves as needed or cut the entire plant at the base. For baby greens, harvest about 1 inch above the soil.

Nutritional Benefits and Culinary Uses

  • Nutrients: High in vitamins A and B, along with minerals like iron and calcium.
  • Culinary: Use fresh in salads, wraps, or as garnish. Its sweet, non-bitter flavor makes it ideal for raw preparations.

Black Seeded Simpson Lettuce is an excellent, easy-to-grow variety for gardeners of all experience levels. Its fast growth and heat tolerance provide a reliable, flavorful crop that is ideal for spring and fall gardens.