Organic 'Jericho' Lettuce
Organic 'Jericho' lettuce (Lactuca sativa) from the seed company Gaia, a heat-resistant romaine with a vibrant crispness
'Jericho' lettuce is a heritage romaine variety of desert origin, renowned for its exceptional heat tolerance . Its crisp , bright green leaves retain a mild, fresh flavor even in high summer temperatures. It forms a robust head and is slow to bolt, making it an ideal variety for hot climates or unpredictable summers. Perfect for crunchy salads , wraps, or as a garnish, it remains one of the best lettuces for extending the season into the height of summer.
Companion plants : Alliums, Radish, Marigold, Broccoli, Bean, Beetroot, Carrot, Nasturtium, Dill, Corn, Cucurbits, Coriander, Strawberry
Negative plants : Cabbage, Brussels sprouts, Celery, Parsley
Spread/Carry : Upright and compact Roman head
Plant height : 25 to 30 cm
Quantity per packet : 100 seeds
Certification : Certified organic by Ecocert Canada
Special features : Very heat resistant, slow to rise, crisp, mild, robust romaine
Leaf color : Bright green
Texture/flavor : Crunchy, soft, refreshing
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 seeds 6–12 mm deep. Germination occurs in 7 to 10 days at temperatures between 12 and 21°C , optimum 16–18°C (avoid temperatures above 25°C). Place in partial sun/partial shade (level 2) and water moderately (level 2). Space plants 15 cm apart, with 30 to 45 cm between rows depending on the bed.
Harvesting and preservation
Harvest at any stage: young leaves, developed heart, or mature head. However, optimal flavor is achieved after a few cool nights in autumn. Store in sand in a root cellar at 1–2°C for extended preservation.
Usage ideas
• In crisp romaine salads
• In summer wraps , thanks to its good hold
• As a Caesar salad or as a base for poke bowls
• Lightly pan-fried or grilled for a warm romaine lettuce
• In a bright green mixed salad when harvested young
'Jericho' lettuce combines resilience , sweetness , and crispness , excelling where other lettuces fail in the heat. An essential heritage romaine for hot gardens or long summers.
