Organic 'Albabionda' head lettuce
Organic 'Albabionda' head lettuce (Lactuca sativa) from the seed company Gaia, a tender, sweet and bright lettuce for cool climates
'Albabionda' lettuce is a heirloom variety that forms a loose, elegant rosette of light green leaves with a yellowish tinge , revealing a mild, slightly sweet flavor . Its tender, crisp texture makes it ideal for fresh salads , and its preference for cooler temperatures makes it an excellent autumn or spring variety. Its steady growth and attractive appearance make it an aesthetically pleasing, productive, and easy-to-integrate choice for any vegetable garden.
Companion plants : Alliums, Radish, Marigold, Broccoli, Bean, Beetroot, Carrot, Nasturtium, Dill, Corn, Cucurbits, Coriander, Strawberry
Negative plants : Cabbage, Brussels sprouts, Celery, Parsley
Spread/Carry : Loose, heady rosette
Plant height : 15 to 20 cm
Quantity per packet : 150 seeds
Certification : Certified organic by Ecocert Canada
Characteristics : Pale green-yellowish foliage, mild flavor, tender texture, excellent in cool climates
Leaf color : Light yellowish green
Texture/flavor : Tender, crunchy, soft and slightly sweet
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 , with an optimum of 16–18°C (avoid temperatures above 25°C). Plant in partial sun/shade (level 2) with moderate watering (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, although the flavor is optimal in autumn after a few cool nights. For extended storage, keep the buds in sand in a root cellar at 1–2 °C .
Usage ideas
• In mild salads or tender green mixes
• In wraps thanks to its flexible sheets
• As a fresh sandwich topping
• In mixed salads when harvested young
• As an accompaniment to hot dishes for a touch of sweetness
'Albabionda' lettuce offers sweetness, brightness, and tenderness in an elegant and easy-to-grow heirloom variety. Perfect for gardeners seeking a bright and flavorful head lettuce suited to cooler seasons.
