Merlot Lettuce in a white dish on a white background.
Lettuce Seeds, Merlot
Merlot Lettuce held in the hand of a gardener.
Merlot Lettuce around a bowl of merlot salad.
Closeup of a head of Merlot Lettuce on a wooden table.
Merlot Lettuce in a white dish on a white background.
Lettuce Seeds, Merlot
Merlot Lettuce held in the hand of a gardener.
Merlot Lettuce around a bowl of merlot salad.
Closeup of a head of Merlot Lettuce on a wooden table.

Lettuce Seeds,
Merlot

4.882 ReviewsSKU: #LT158Min. seed count: 250
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Description

(Lactuca sativa) Leaf. Reputed to be absolutely the darkest red lettuce in existence, which should make it tops for anthocyanin (antioxidant) content as well! Leaf lettuce with wavy to frilly leaf margins and very crisp, waxy leaves! Excellent bolt resistance, and good cold tolerance for a late fall to winter crop. Recommended as a cutting type for baby greens production or cut-and-come-again harvesting. We feel, along with our friend William Woys Weaver, that this variety is destined to become a classic, and it certainly deserves it! A rich source of potassium and vitamin A.

Growing Tips: Merlot lettuce is best grown at 60-80 F. Start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date or direct sow outdoors in early spring or late summer for fall harvest. It thrives in well-drained, fertile soil with plenty of organic matter, requiring 4-8 hours of sun daily. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Lactuca sativa
Life Cycle
Annual
Sun Requirement
4–8 hr.
Days to Germinate
7–10
Days to Maturity
55
Planting Depth
¼ in.
Plant Spacing
8 in.
Ideal Temperature
60–80°F
Frost Hardy
Yes

When to Grow

Merlot lettuce is most suitable for USDA hardiness zones 4-9. Plant in early spring or late summer for fall harvests. 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

Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in well-prepared soil. Sow in thick bands for baby greens or space 8 inches apart for head lettuce. If starting indoors, transplant seedlings after the last frost date. Harden off seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over a week before planting them in the garden.

How to Grow

Maintain consistent moisture in the soil, avoiding both dry and waterlogged conditions. Mulch around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Use a balanced fertilizer or compost to support healthy growth. Monitor for pests like aphids and slugs, and use organic pest control methods if necessary. Harvest the lettuce when the leaves are crisp and full, typically 55 days after planting.

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

When should I harvest Merlot lettuce?

Harvest when the leaves are crisp and fully developed, typically 55 days after planting.

Can I grow Merlot lettuce in containers?

Yes, Merlot lettuce can be grown in containers. Ensure the container has adequate depth and drainage, and use a high-quality potting mix. Keep the soil consistently moist.

How do I protect Merlot lettuce from pests?

Protect Merlot lettuce from pests by using row covers, regularly inspecting for pests like aphids and slugs, and employing organic pest control methods such as neem oil or insecticidal soap.

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