Head of De Russie Lettuce on a white background.
A freshly harvested De Russie Lettuce head on a wooden background.
A De Russie Lettuce head with the outer leaves peeled away in the Baker Creek Trial Greenhouse.
De Russie Lettuce growing in the greenhouse at the Baker Creek farm in Mansfield, Missouri.
Head of De Russie Lettuce on a white background.
A freshly harvested De Russie Lettuce head on a wooden background.
A De Russie Lettuce head with the outer leaves peeled away in the Baker Creek Trial Greenhouse.
De Russie Lettuce growing in the greenhouse at the Baker Creek farm in Mansfield, Missouri.

Lettuce Seeds,
De Russie

53 ReviewsSKU: #LT178Min. seed count: 250
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Description

(Lactuca sativa) Leaf. De Russie is lightly bronzed and speckled with purplish-red. The vivid olive green, leafy heads often look like they just came in out of the rain. Their deliciously crisp, crunchy texture does not disappoint. They are slow to bolt and tolerate cold fairly well—not surprising as the name suggests an origin in Russia.

Growing Tips: De Russie lettuce is a hardy, cool-weather variety known for its crisp texture and visually appealing speckled leaves. This variety performs best in well-draining, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter, with a pH level ranging from 6.0 to 7.0. Enhancing the soil with compost or well-rotted manure prior to planting will significantly improve its fertility and structure, providing an optimal growing environment for the lettuce.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Lactuca sativa
Life Cycle
Annual
Sun Requirement
4–8 hr.
Days to Germinate
7–10
Days to Maturity
90
Planting Depth
¼ in.
Plant Spacing
8 in.
Ideal Temperature
60–80°F
Frost Hardy
Yes

When to Grow

To avoid the heat of midsummer, which can cause lettuce to bolt, it is best to plant De Russie lettuce in early spring or late summer. In colder zones, gardeners should start seeds indoors about 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost date, harden the seedlings off, and set them out 2-4 weeks before the last frost, as this variety is frost hardy and tolerates cold fairly well. For a fall crop, direct sowing 12-14 weeks before the first expected frost allows the heads the roughly 90 days they need to mature in cooler temperatures, which is ideal for this variety. If you're not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

How to Sow and Plant

Seeds can be started indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost or sown directly into the garden. Make sure that the soil is well-draining and rich in organic matter. Amend with compost for better growth. Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep. Sow in thick bands for baby greens or space 8 inches apart for head lettuce.

How to Grow

De Russie lettuce grows best in full sun in cooler climates, while partial shade is beneficial in warmer areas to prevent wilting and bolting. The ideal temperature for optimal growth is 60-80 F. Water often to keep the soil evenly moist. Fertilizing with organic options can support healthy growth, although over-fertilization should be avoided to prevent excessive leafiness at the expense of head formation. Proper spacing and regular monitoring for pests and diseases are important to reduce risks and promote robust growth. Companion planting with herbs like dill or vegetables such as carrots can also support healthy growth and deter pests​.

How to Save Seeds

  • Lettuce is a self-pollinating annual, making it an easy crop for seed saving.
  • Choose the best and healthiest plants and allow them to send up flower stalks.
  • Once seed heads are dried and have turned a yellowish-tan color, cut the entire stalk and place in a bag.
  • Crush the seed heads in the bag and separate the chaff.
  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 years.

FAQ

Can De Russie lettuce be grown in containers?

Yes, it can be grown in containers. Choose a container at least 6-12 inches deep, ensuring it gets 4-8 hours of sunlight daily.

How often should I water De Russie lettuce?

Regular watering is necessary to keep the soil evenly moist. It is important not to let the soil dry out completely or become waterlogged.

When is the best time to harvest?

You can harvest the outer leaves as needed, or wait until the heads are fully mature, which typically takes about 90 days from planting. Harvesting in the morning will yield the crispest leaves.

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