Lettuce – Leaf – Black Seeded Simpson

Lettuce – ‘Leaf – Black Seeded Simpson’

• Growing Temp 55°F – 75°F

• Days to Maturity 45-55 days

Ease of Cultivation and Versatile Use: ‘Leaf – Black Seeded Simpson’ is a popular loose-leaf lettuce variety known for its tender, frilled leaves and excellent flavor. It is easy to grow, making it suitable for beginner gardeners. This lettuce can be harvested at various stages, allowing for continuous production throughout the growing season. It’s perfect for salads, sandwiches, and wraps, providing a fresh, crisp texture.

Direct Sowing: To direct sow ‘Black Seeded Simpson’ lettuce, plant the seeds outdoors in early spring or late summer when temperatures are mild. Sow the seeds 1/4 inch deep and thinly, ideally spacing them 6-12 inches apart in rows that are 12-18 inches apart. The seeds will germinate in 7-14 days. Lettuce prefers fertile, well-drained soil with full sun or partial shade. Keep the soil consistently moist to promote healthy growth, and expect to start harvesting in 45-55 days.

Early Sowing for Seedlings: For an earlier harvest, start ‘Black Seeded Simpson’ seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date. Plant the seeds 1/4 inch deep in seed trays filled with a quality potting mix, maintaining a temperature of 65°F-70°F for optimal germination. Once seedlings develop 2-3 true leaves and outdoor conditions are favorable, transplant them outdoors, spacing them 6-12 inches apart. Water thoroughly after transplanting to establish strong roots.

Harvesting: ‘Black Seeded Simpson’ lettuce is ready for harvest when the leaves are young and tender, usually around 45-55 days after sowing. To harvest, simply cut or pinch off the outer leaves, allowing the inner leaves to continue growing for multiple harvests. For the best flavor and texture, harvest in the cooler parts of the day, and use or store the lettuce promptly to maintain its freshness.