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Parris White Cos - Romaine

Lactuca sativa

$3.99

2 g Approximately

Parris Island Cos Lettuce (Lactuca sativa var. romana cv.), also known as romaine lettuce, is a classic variety with crisp, flavorful leaves and a creamy white heart. Developed by the USDA and Clemson University around 1950, this variety is known for its heat tolerance, bolt resistance, and disease resilience. Its upright heads reach 10-12 inches and offer nutritious, tender leaves, perfect for salads and lettuce wraps.

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275 in stock

  • Days to Germination: 5-14 days
  • Days to Maturity: 21-68 days
  • Planting Time: Early spring and fall; in mild climates, it can also be grown in winter.
  • Sunlight Requirement: Full sun to part shade
  • Soil Temperature: 40-70¡F (ideal for germination)
  • Soil Requirements: Well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0
  • Spacing: 10 inches apart, rows 1-2 feet apart
  • Plant Height: 10-12 inches
  • Heat and Frost Tolerant: Yes

Direct Sowing:

  • Timing: Sow seeds as soon as the soil can be worked in spring or about 2-4 weeks before the last frost. Ideal soil temperature is 40-70¡F.
  • Depth: Plant seeds 1/8 inch deep in rows spaced 1-2 feet apart. Thin seedlings to 10-12 inches apart once they reach 1/2 inch tall.

Indoor Starting:

  • Timing: Start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost. Transplant seedlings outdoors once they have at least two true leaves.

Succession Planting:

  • To extend harvest, sow every 3 weeks from early spring through summer, especially in regions with mild summers. In warm regions, partial shade helps prevent bolting in summer.

Growing Tips

  • Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Applying mulch around the plants conserves moisture and controls weeds.
  • Fertilization: Use a nitrogen-rich fertilizer or add compost to encourage growth. Fertilize again mid-season for a prolonged harvest.
  • Shade: Provide afternoon shade in hotter climates to help prevent bolting.

Harvesting

  • Timing: Harvest in the morning for the best flavor and crispness.
  • Method:
    • Whole Plant: Cut at ground level for full-head harvesting.
    • Outer Leaves: Harvest outer leaves as needed, allowing inner leaves to continue growing for a prolonged harvest.

Nutritional Benefits and Culinary Uses

  • Nutrients: High in vitamins A, C, and K, iron, and folate.
  • Culinary: Use in fresh salads, lettuce wraps, or as a crunchy addition to sandwiches.