This 19th century English lettuce is an almost universally popular classic and for a good reason. We like to think of Winter Density as a butterhead for the cold rainy months. Somewhere between a butterhead and romaine, it gets the best qualities of both: densely wrapped heads of tender leaves from the butterhead and elongated upright habit for good airflow and keeping it out of the mud from the romaine. Standing at about 8” it is a bit of a mini head, lending itself to denser plantings than full-sized lettuces. It’s a great choice to close out the lettuce growing season, hardy to light frosts, but shouldn’t be pigeonholed into that role as it is a great, bolt resistant succession cropper all season long. It does not tolerate heat during germination which triggers seed dormancy. UO
Note: Seeds will become dormant if exposed to high temperatures. Lettuce grows best in cooler weather.
PLANTING DEPTH:
1/8-1/4"
SPACING:
12" in rows 15" apart.
EMERGENCE:
2-10 days @ soil temp 68F and lower.
LIGHT:
Full sun to part shade
FERTILITY:
Medium. Prefers well-drained, and evenly moist soil and is sensitive to low pH.
ADDITIONAL NOTES:
Uneven watering can result in tip burn, the browning of the leaf margins, which is the result of an inability of the plant to move calcium to the growing edge fast enough to meet its growth needs. Consistent, evenly moist soil or calcium amendments can be beneficial if this seems to be a problem.
Hot weather can cause premature bolting. Generally, when the plants begin to stretch upwards (to flower), the leaves become bitter and the eating quality poor.
