Organic 'Buttercrunch' Lettuce
Organic 'Buttercrunch' lettuce (Lactuca sativa) from the seed company Gaia, a tender, sweet and incredibly resilient head lettuce
'Buttercrunch' lettuce is a heritage variety prized for its buttery, crisp texture , mild flavor , and compact, 15 cm heads. Its well-formed, firm, and juicy rosette makes it one of the best butterhead lettuces. It is slow to bolt , stress-resistant, and reliable even in variable conditions. Developed at Cornell University (often associated with Maïsell University in older records), it remains a beloved classic among gardeners.
Companion plants : Alliums, Radish, Marigold, Broccoli, Bean, Beetroot, Carrot, Nasturtium, Dill, Corn, Cucurbits, Coriander, Strawberry
Negative plants : Cabbage, Brussels sprouts, Celery, Parsley
Spread/carry : Small, compact, apple-shaped head
Plant height : 15 to 20 cm
Quantity per packet : 300 seeds
Certification : Certified organic by Ecocert Canada
Special features : Sweet flavor, compact buds, slow to flower, stress resistant, classic Butterhead type
Leaf color : Bright green
Texture/flavor : Tender, crunchy, sweet and buttery
Cold tolerance : Down to -7°C
Farming method
Sow directly outdoors as soon as the soil is workable , or start indoors 3 to 4 weeks before planting out. Sow the seeds 6–12 mm deep. Germination occurs in 7 to 10 days at temperatures between 5 and 20°C , with an optimum of 16–18°C (lettuce germinates poorly above 25°C). Plant in partial sun/semi-shade (level 2) with moderate watering (level 2). Space plants 15 cm apart, with 60 cm between rows.
Harvesting and preservation
Harvest at all stages , although the best flavor develops after a few cool nights in autumn. To extend storage, store in sand in a root cellar at 1–2 °C .
Usage ideas
• In classic buttered salads
• Ideal for sandwiches or wraps thanks to its tender leaves
• In mixed salads when harvested young
• As a mild base for summer salads
• As an accompaniment to hot dishes for a crunchy contrast
' Buttercrunch' lettuce is a sure bet: sweet, crisp, reliable, and hardy. An essential heirloom variety for any salad garden.
