Organic 'Saladier' ​​lettuce (Lactuca sativa) from McKenzie seed company, curly lettuce with loose apple-green leaves, sweet and crisp

This loose-leaf curly lettuce forms a generous rosette of finely cut , bright apple-green leaves. The leaves are thin , tender , and crisp , with a supple texture that makes them easy to pick leaf by leaf. It reaches approximately 20 to 25 cm in diameter at maturity, without forming a tight head. This variety is known for its slow bolting , even when temperatures rise.

Prized for its heat resistance and lack of bitterness , it ensures a regular harvest over a long period. Its loose-leaf habit allows for successive cuttings, ideal for home gardens and container gardening . Safe for bees , it integrates perfectly into organic vegetable gardens . It is equally suited to successive sowings and cultivation in pots 30 cm and larger.

Companion plants: Chives, onions, garlic, basil, peas, radishes, oregano, zinnia
Plant enemies: None notable

Spread/Habit: Loose leaves, open rosette
Foliage height: Approximately 20 cm
Seed producer: McKenzie
Seed type: Open pollination
Physical seed type: Organic seeds
Quantity per packet: Approximately 625 to 675 seeds
Special features: organic , slow to flower , gentle , extended harvest , safe for bees

Leaf color: Green
Texture/flavor: crunchy, juicy, sweet
Cold tolerance: Good tolerance to cool temperatures , sensitive to frost

Farming method

Sow directly in the garden once all risk of frost has passed and the soil temperature is between 5 and 27°C . Lightly press the seeds onto the surface and cover with about 1.3 cm of fine soil , then water gently. Space the seedlings 2.5 cm apart in rows 45 cm apart, then thin to 20 cm between plants when the seedlings have 2 to 3 pairs of leaves.

Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, with regular watering equivalent to about 5 cm of water per week . Grow in full sun or partial shade for best results. Sow successive batches every 3 weeks until August to ensure a continuous harvest . A light mulch helps retain moisture and keep the leaves clean.

Harvesting and preservation

Maturity is reached in approximately 50 days , but the leaves can be harvested earlier as needed. Pick the outer leaves as they appear to encourage continuous regrowth and prevent over-ripening.

The leaves can be kept for a few days in the refrigerator, unwashed , in a perforated bag. For optimal freshness , harvest early in the morning and consume quickly.

Usage ideas

• Fresh green salads
• Mixed baby shoots
• Filling for sandwiches and wraps
• Vegetarian meal bowls
• Accompaniment to summer dishes

A reliable variety, easy to grow and well-suited to changing conditions, the organic 'Saladier' ​​lettuce from McKenzie Seeds offers freshness and consistency throughout the season. A sure choice for a simple, productive, and flavorful vegetable garden.