Organic 'Jester Crisphead' Lettuce

Organic 'Jester Crisphead' lettuce (Lactuca sativa) from Gaia Seeds, a unique head lettuce with vibrant colors

Jester Crisphead is an exceptional variety that combines the crisp texture of a head lettuce with a visually striking appearance. Its bright red , slightly wavy, semi-savoy leaves enclose a tender, pinkish centre . Unlike traditional head lettuces , it does not form a compact head, but rather a refined, colourful centre, perfect for enhancing salads and fresh dishes.

With a sweet and juicy flavor, it offers excellent garden stability and is heat resistant compared to other headed lettuces. Easy to grow , it adapts well to spring crops as well as fall harvests, where its flavor becomes even sweeter after a few cool nights.

Did you know?

Colorful lettuces, such as 'Jester Crisphead', contain more antioxidants than regular green lettuces. Their natural pigments, especially anthocyanins responsible for the red hue, help protect cells and strengthen the immune system.

Spread : Compact shape and slightly wavy leaves
Plant height : 20-30 cm
Quantity per pack : ± 200 seeds
Companion plants : Alliums, radishes, marigolds, broccoli, beans, beets, carrots, nasturtiums, dill, corn, cucurbits, coriander, strawberries
Enemy plants : Cabbage, Brussels sprouts, celery, parsley

Cultivation method

'Jester Crisphead ' lettuce is easy to grow in moist, organically rich, well-drained soil. It prefers a sunny to partially shaded location and benefits from regular watering to prevent premature bolting.

Direct seeding is recommended as soon as the soil can be worked in the spring, or in late summer for a fall harvest. Plants can also be started indoors 3 to 4 weeks before planting in the ground. Sow seeds 1/4 to 1/2" deep, spacing plants 6" apart and rows 12 to 18" apart.

Keep soil moist during germination (7-10 days) and thin out young plants to encourage their development. Rotating crops with other vegetables helps prevent soil depletion and foliar diseases.

Harvesting and conservation

'Jester Crisphead' lettuce can be harvested at any stage, whether as young leaves or when the heart reaches full maturity after 60 days . To prolong the harvest, cut the outer leaves, leaving the center intact.

For optimal preservation, store the leaves in a perforated plastic bag in the refrigerator at 1-2°C . If you want to prolong its freshness, wrap it in a damp cloth before refrigerating.

With its unmistakable crunch, vibrant color and smooth mouthfeel, 'Jester Crisphead' lettuce is a favorite choice for any gardener looking to combine aesthetics and flavor in their vegetable garden.