Organic Rouge de Hiver Lettuce Seeds (Lactuca sativa) – Heirloom French Variety with Striking Red Leaves
Lactuca sativa
Minimum: 150+ seeds
Add a vibrant touch to your garden with Organic Rouge de Hiver Lettuce Seeds (Lactuca sativa). This exquisite French heirloom variety is renowned for its striking burgundy-red leaves and compact, upright heads. With a tender, crisp texture and a mildly sweet flavor, Rouge de Hiver Lettuce is perfect for adding color and crunch to salads, sandwiches, and wraps. Its unique appearance and rich taste make it a favorite among gourmet chefs and home gardeners alike.
Why Choose Organic Rouge de Hiver Lettuce Seeds?
- Beautiful Red Leaves: The standout feature of Rouge de Hiver Lettuce is its vibrant red and green leaves, which add visual appeal to any dish. This colorful variety can also add an attractive contrast when planted alongside other greens in the garden.
- Heirloom Quality: As a traditional French heirloom, Rouge de Hiver Lettuce has been treasured for generations for its exceptional flavor and resilience. This hardy Romaine-type lettuce is cold-tolerant and performs well in various climates, extending your growing season.
- Organic and Non-GMO: Our Organic Rouge de Hiver Lettuce Seeds are certified organic and non-GMO, ensuring you grow healthy, chemical-free produce straight from your garden.
- Versatile Use: With approximately 150 seeds per packet, you can enjoy a continuous supply of fresh, nutritious lettuce throughout the growing season. Perfect for salads, garnishes, and a variety of culinary creations.
Growing Tips for Organic Rouge de Hiver Lettuce Seeds
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Planting: Rouge de Hiver Lettuce thrives in cool weather, making it ideal for early spring or fall planting. Sow seeds directly into well-prepared soil about 1/8 inch deep, spacing them 12-18 inches apart. For successive harvests, plant seeds every 2-3 weeks.
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Soil: This variety prefers fertile, well-draining soil rich in organic matter. A pH level of 6.0 to 7.0 is optimal. Enhance your soil by mixing in compost or well-rotted manure before planting to improve moisture retention and nutrient availability.
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Sunlight: Rouge de Hiver Lettuce grows best in full sun to partial shade. In hotter climates, provide some afternoon shade to protect the leaves from excessive heat and prevent bolting.
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Watering: Consistent moisture is key to producing tender, sweet leaves. Water regularly, especially during dry periods, to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Mulching around the plants can help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
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Fertilizing: To encourage lush growth, feed your lettuce with a balanced fertilizer rich in nitrogen every 2-3 weeks. Be mindful not to over-fertilize, as too much nitrogen can cause the leaves to become overly tender and prone to pest damage.
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Thinning: Thin seedlings to 12-18 inches apart once they have a few true leaves. Proper spacing allows for adequate air circulation, reducing the risk of disease and encouraging robust growth.
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Pest and Disease Management: Watch for common lettuce pests like aphids, slugs, and snails. Use organic pest control methods, such as neem oil or diatomaceous earth, to protect your crops. Practice crop rotation and avoid overhead watering to minimize the risk of fungal diseases.
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Harvesting: Harvest Rouge de Hiver Lettuce when the leaves are full-sized and the heads are firm, typically 55-60 days after planting. Cut the entire head at the base or harvest outer leaves as needed for a continuous supply of fresh lettuce.
Culinary Uses for Rouge de Hiver Lettuce
- Salads: The tender, sweet leaves of Rouge de Hiver Lettuce add color and texture to fresh salads. Combine with other greens, fruits, nuts, and cheeses for a vibrant, flavorful dish.
- Sandwiches and Wraps: Use Rouge de Hiver Lettuce to add a burst of color and a crisp bite to sandwiches and wraps. Its sturdy leaves hold up well to various fillings, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
- Garnishes and Side Dishes: The eye-catching red leaves of Rouge de Hiver Lettuce make it an excellent garnish for various dishes. Use it as a colorful base for appetizers or a simple, elegant side salad.
- Stir-Fry and Soups: Unlike most lettuce, Rouge de Hiver can be lightly cooked. Add it to stir-fries or soups at the last minute to provide a mild, slightly sweet flavor and tender texture.
Health Benefits
- Nutrient-Rich: Rouge de Hiver Lettuce is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, C, and K, which support immune health, vision, and bone strength.
- Low in Calories: This lettuce variety is low in calories and high in fiber, making it a great choice for those looking to maintain a healthy weight while enjoying nutritious, satisfying meals.
- Antioxidant Properties: The deep red pigmentation of Rouge de Hiver Lettuce is due to its high anthocyanin content, a type of antioxidant that may help protect cells from damage and support overall health.
Order Your Organic Rouge de Hiver Lettuce Seeds Today!
Grow your own beautiful, nutritious lettuce with our Organic Rouge de Hiver Lettuce Seeds. Whether you’re a home gardener or a culinary enthusiast, this vibrant French heirloom variety is sure to impress. Order now and experience the joy of growing your own fresh, flavorful produce!