AGRILABH LETTUCE-LOLLO-ROSSA SEEDS

Seeds can be started indoors or outdoors for a summer crop; Indoors: Sow 2 seeds to a cell, removing the weaker seedling as soon as the first true leaves appear on the plant. Plant outdoors once the seedlings are considered large enough. Outdoors: Sow seeds thinly in 2cm deep drills which are 30cm apart.

Lollo Rossa lettuce is a beautiful and flavorful variety with curly, deep red leaves. It is a cool-season crop that can be easily grown from seeds. Here’s a guide on how to grow Lollo Rossa lettuce:

1. Timing: Lollo Rossa lettuce is a cool-season crop, so it’s best to sow the seeds in early spring or late summer for a fall harvest. The optimal soil temperature for germination is between 45°F and 75°F (7°C to 24°C).
2. Location: Choose a location for your lettuce that receives partial shade or dappled sunlight. While lettuce prefers cooler temperatures, Lollo Rossa can tolerate some shade to prevent the leaves from becoming bitter in hot weather.
3. Soil preparation: Prepare the soil by removing weeds, rocks, and debris. Lollo Rossa lettuce prefers well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Work in compost or well-rotted manure to improve the soil’s fertility and moisture retention.
4. Sowing seeds: Sow the Lollo Rossa lettuce seeds directly in the garden. Create shallow furrows in the soil, about ¼ inch deep. Space the seeds about 6 to 8 inches apart. Sprinkle the seeds evenly along the furrows and cover them with a thin layer of soil or vermiculite. Gently press them down and water the soil lightly.
5. Watering and maintenance: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water the lettuce plants regularly, providing about 1 inch of water per week. Avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf diseases. Mulching around the plants can help retain moisture and suppress weed growth.
6. Thinning: Once the seedlings have sprouted and developed their first true leaves, thin them to provide enough space for each lettuce plant to grow. Thin the seedlings to a spacing of about 10 to 12 inches apart. You can use the thinnings as baby greens for salads.
7. Fertilization: Lollo Rossa lettuce doesn’t require heavy feeding, but you can apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer or a slow-release granular fertilizer according to the package instructions. Start fertilizing when the seedlings are established, and repeat every two to three weeks throughout the growing season.
8. Protection from pests: Protect your lettuce plants from common pests like slugs, snails, and rabbits. Use organic pest control methods or physical barriers such as netting or fences to keep them away. Regularly inspect your plants for any signs of pest damage and take appropriate measures.
9. Harvesting: Lollo Rossa lettuce is typically ready for harvest 50 to 70 days after sowing, depending on the variety and desired size. You can harvest the outer leaves individually as needed or cut the entire head off at the base when it reaches the desired size. Leave the inner leaves to continue growing for future harvests.
10. Storage: Lollo Rossa lettuce is best consumed fresh, but if you have excess harvest, you can store it in the refrigerator. Place the leaves in a plastic bag or airtight container with a damp paper towel to maintain moisture. Properly stored, Lollo Rossa lettuce can last for up to a week.

FAQ

What is Lollo Rossa lettuce?
Lollo Rossa is a loose-leaf lettuce with frilly, red-tinged leaves.

When should you plant Lollo Rossa seeds?
Plant in early spring or fall for the best growth.

How far apart should Lollo Rossa seeds be planted?
Space seeds or seedlings about 6-8 inches apart.

How long does it take for Lollo Rossa seeds to germinate?
Germination typically occurs within 7-14 days.

What growing conditions does Lollo Rossa prefer?
It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-draining, moist soil.