Lettuce Renee's Caeser Duo - Renee's Garden

START SEEDS OUTDOORS

In cool early spring weather, start seeds in finely worked soil in full sun. Sow 1/4 in. deep and 1 in. apart and cover lightly. Tend carefully and keep evenly moist. Gradually thin seedlings out, allowing remaining plants to stand 10 to 12 in. apart so heads have room to mature. For a constant supply, make several sowings a few weeks apart until summer weather turns hot. Plant again in late summer for fall harvest.

GROWING NOTES

Lettuce thrives in cool conditions with consistent moisture. Weed, water and thin carefully for best quality heads. If birds are attracted to the young seedlings, cover them with floating row covers or netting. 

HARVEST AND USE

Savor young thinnings in your first spring salads. Then harvest plants by cutting mature heads when they feel firm and well-filled out. Pull and discard or compost overmatured plants if they begin to elongate ("bolt") in hot weather as they are bitter at this stage. These crispy colourful romaines are perfect for centerpiece Caesar salads that rival the finest restaurant. Use  top quality ingredients to make dressing, or you can find a favorite recipe on Renee's website: reneesgarden.com/recipes