Lettuce Seeds, May Queen

star-filled
4.5
22 Reviews
Sku:
#LT118
Min. seed count:
250
$3.00

Description

(Lactuca sativa) Bibb/Butterhead. This delicate butterhead is the crown jewel of the heirloom garden. Tender yellow hearts are gently blushed rose, and the leaves are ethereally soft with the buttery sweet flavor signature of an old-fashioned European butterhead type. Manageable medium-sized heads with early maturation and silky soft leaves made this a popular European heirloom during the early 19th century. This variety is high in vitamin A. 

  • 50 days to maturity
  • 4-8 hours of sun
  • Sprouts in 7-10 days
  • Ideal Temperature: 60-80 F
  • Seed Depth: 1/4"
  • Plant Spacing: 8"
  • Frost Hardy: Yes

Growing Tips, Tricks and FAQs

Growing Tips

May Queen lettuce performs best in cool weather. Plant early in spring or in fall for a treat that gourmet chefs love. This variety thrives in well-drained, fertile soil rich in organic matter, requiring full sun to partial shade. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.

When to Grow

May Queen lettuce is suitable for USDA hardiness zones 4-9. It should be planted in early spring or fall for a later harvest. For specific planting dates, consult your local USDA hardiness zone chart.

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 promote healthy growth. May Queen lettuce is resistant to many diseases but monitor for pests like aphids and slugs. Harvest the lettuce when the heads are firm and crisp, typically around 50 days after planting.

How to Save

  • Lettuce is a self-pollinating annual, making it an easy crop for seed saving.
  • Do not harvest plants. 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 May Queen lettuce?
Harvest May Queen Lettuce when the heads are firm and crisp, usually around 50 days after planting. 

Can I grow May Queen lettuce in containers?
Yes, May Queen Lettuce can be grown in containers. Ensure the container has adequate depth and drainage, and use a high-quality potting mix. Maintain consistent watering to keep the soil moist.

How should I grow May Queen lettuce?
It thrives in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0 to 6.5. It requires full sun to partial shade, with 4-8 hours of sun daily, and consistent moisture. The ideal growing temperature is 60-80 F.

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Lettuce Seeds, May Queen
star-filled
4.5
Customer reviews (22)

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