Thompson & Morgan Lettuce Lollo Rossa - 1 Seed Packet (250 Seeds)

Lettuce Lollo Rossa is a half hardy annual which can be sown from March onwards for harvest from J...

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This guide is for home gardeners looking to easily grow vibrant, red-edged lettuce for summer salads. The key benefit is a reliable harvest of attractive and flavorful lettuce with minimal effort. A potential caveat is the need for protection against birds and insects. Thompson & Morgan Lettuce Lollo Rossa seeds offer a half-hardy annual variety that produces compact, loose heads with distinctive crimson edges, perfect for direct sowing from spring through summer. It's an RHS AGM winner, known for its exceptional flavor and appearance, making it an ideal addition to any kitchen garden.

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Model Part Number23697
BrandThompson & Morgan

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FAQs

When is the best time to sow Lettuce Lollo Rossa seeds?

You can sow Lettuce Lollo Rossa seeds directly outdoors from March through to August for a continuous harvest.

How much space do the lettuce plants need?

After thinning, plants should be spaced approximately 30cm (12 inches) apart.

What is the RHS AGM?

RHS AGM stands for the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit, indicating the variety has been recognized for its outstanding garden performance.

How do I protect my lettuce from birds and insects?

Use fine netting or fleece to cover the young plants once they are established enough to handle after thinning.

Can I grow this lettuce in containers?

Yes, with adequate spacing and consistent moisture, Lollo Rossa can be grown in larger containers or raised beds.

What conditions does this lettuce prefer?

It prefers well-prepared, fertile, moist soil and can grow in full sun or partial shade.

What is the expected harvest time?

Harvesting can begin from June through to October, depending on when you sowed the seeds.

What does 'half-hardy annual' mean?

It means the plant is an annual that can tolerate light frost but will be damaged by severe cold, so it's best sown after the risk of hard frost has passed.

Troubleshooting

Seeds not germinating

Ensure soil is kept consistently moist and at a suitable temperature. Avoid sowing too deeply. Try a succession sowing if conditions were unfavorable.

Seedlings damaged by pests

Apply protective netting or fleece immediately after thinning seedlings. Check for slug or snail activity and remove manually.

Lettuce is bolting (going to seed)

Bolting is often caused by heat stress or inconsistent watering. Ensure consistent moisture and consider sowing in a location with some afternoon shade during hot periods.

Plants are leggy and weak

Thin seedlings to the correct spacing (30cm apart). Ensure plants are receiving adequate sunlight and nutrients from the soil.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Produces visually appealing lettuce with red edges.
  • Known for its excellent flavor.
  • Easy to grow, suitable for novice gardeners.
  • Reliable variety with RHS Award of Garden Merit.
  • Can be sown directly outdoors for convenience.
  • Provides a continuous harvest with successive sowing.

Cons

  • Requires protection from birds and insects.
  • Half-hardy, so vulnerable to severe frost.
  • Needs fertile, moist soil for best results.
  • Requires thinning of seedlings, which can be delicate.
  • Spacing of 30cm between plants is necessary.

Setup, Compatibility & Care

Sowing Outdoors:

  1. Choose a location that receives sun or semi-shade.
  2. Prepare the soil by finely raking it to ensure it is fertile and moist.
  3. Sow seeds thinly in drills 1cm (1/2") deep and 30cm (12") apart.
  4. Keep the soil consistently moist.

Thinning and Protection:

  1. Once seedlings are large enough to handle, thin them to 30cm (12") apart.
  2. Cover the seedlings with protective netting or fleece to prevent damage from birds and insects.

Ongoing Care:

  • Water regularly to maintain soil moisture, especially during dry periods.
  • Make regular sowings every few weeks from March to August for a continuous supply of lettuce.

Compatibility:

This variety is suitable for growing in most garden soil types, provided they are well-prepared and kept moist. It is compatible with companion planting techniques, though ensure adequate spacing.