Organic 'Little Gem' Lettuce

Organic 'Little Gem' lettuce (Lactuca sativa) from the seed company Gaia, a tender, crisp, and delicately nutty mini-head lettuce

'Little Gem' lettuce is a small, compact, heirloom variety prized for its thick, crisp, tender leaves with a mild, slightly nutty flavor. Perfect for small gardens, tight borders, or container gardening, it quickly produces small, well-formed heads. Its juicy texture and refined flavor make it ideal for salads, serving in cups (leaf wraps), or as a fresh garnish. Easy, quick, and delicious, it's often a favorite among both novice gardeners and professional chefs.

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, tightly curled head
Plant height : 15 to 20 cm
Quantity per packet : 100 seeds
Certification : Certified organic by Ecocert Canada
Special features : Mini head lettuce, crisp and sweet, nutty flavor, ideal for small spaces, quick maturing

Leaf color : Light green
Texture/flavor : Tender, crunchy, sweet and subtly nutty
Cold tolerance : Down to -7°C

Farming method

Sow directly outdoors as soon as the soil is workable , or start your seeds 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 12 and 21°C , with an optimum of 16–18°C (avoid temperatures above 25°C). Space plants 15 cm apart, with 30 to 45 cm between rows depending on the bed. Place in partial sun/partial shade (level 2) and water regularly but moderately (level 2).

Harvesting and preservation

Harvest at any stage , although the flavor is optimal after a few cool nights. Cut the entire head or remove the leaves as needed. Store it in sand in a root cellar at 1–2°C to prolong its freshness.

Usage ideas

• In individual mini-salads with light dressings
• In lettuce wraps thanks to its stiff leaves
• In burgers or sandwiches for a soft crunch
• In mixed salad, harvested young
• As an accompaniment to hot dishes for textural contrast

'Little Gem' lettuce is a small, heirloom marvel: compact, fast-growing, delicious, and reliable. A must-have lettuce for small gardens or lovers of refined salads.