Lettuce – ‘Summer Bibb’

Growing Temp 60°F – 75°F
Days to Maturity 50-60 days

Ease of Cultivation and tender, buttery leaves: Summer Bibb lettuce is a popular heirloom variety known for its soft, buttery-textured leaves and mild, slightly sweet flavor. It is relatively easy to grow, especially in cooler weather, though it can tolerate some heat compared to other lettuce varieties. Summer Bibb is a great choice for fresh salads, sandwiches, and wraps, making it a versatile addition to your kitchen garden.

Direct Sowing: To sow directly, plant the seeds outdoors as soon as the soil reaches at least 60°F, spacing them 1/4 inch deep and about 8 inches apart. Rows should be spaced 12–18 inches apart. The seeds will germinate in 7–10 days under optimal conditions. Keep the soil consistently moist and provide partial shade during hotter weather to avoid bolting. You can begin harvesting the outer leaves as soon as the plants are large enough to handle, around 50–60 days after sowing.

Early Sowing for Seedlings: For an early start, sow seeds indoors 4–6 weeks before the last expected frost. Use seedling trays with a light, well-draining potting mix and maintain a temperature between 65–70°F for proper germination. Once the seedlings have developed two true leaves and the danger of frost has passed, transplant them into the garden, spacing the plants 8 inches apart in rows. Water well after transplanting and mulch around the plants to help retain moisture and keep the soil cool.

Harvesting: To determine when Summer Bibb lettuce is ready to harvest, look for heads that are compact, with soft, loosely bunched leaves. Harvest individual outer leaves when they are 4–6 inches long or cut the entire head when it reaches 6–8 inches in diameter. It’s best to harvest in the morning when the leaves are crisp and cool for optimal flavor and texture. If left too long, the plant may bolt and develop a bitter taste.