Lettuce Seeds, Miner's

star-filled
3.7
8 Reviews
Sku:
#OG119
Min. seed count:
250
$4.00

Description

(Claytonia perfoliata) A native wild plant that makes a delicate, refined salad green rich in vitamin C. This exceptionally easy to grow annual has become a mainstay of market farmers and home gardeners, as it is a cold-hardy, cut- and-come-again green to grow in spring, winter and fall. 

Samples of wild claytonia were collected in 1735 by botanist John Clayton. The common name miner’s lettuce is a reference to the prospectors in the 1800s California gold rush who would forage this common wild green to fend off scurvy. It is a supreme choice for temperate and northern permaculture design as it makes a carefree and nutritious edible ground cover, returning each season from dropped seeds.

  • Annual, reseeds easily USDA zones 6 and warmer
  • 40 days to maturity
  • 4-8 hours of sun
  • Sprouts in 7-20 days 
  • Ideal Temperature: 60-80 F
  • Seed Depth: 1/4"
  • Plant Spacing: 4"
  • Frost Hardy: Yes

Growing Tips, Tricks and FAQs

Growing Tips

To ensure optimal growth, plant Miner's lettuce in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8. Incorporate compost or a balanced fertilizer into the soil before planting to provide essential nutrients. This lettuce prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade, especially in warmer climates. Regular watering is crucial to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged​.

When to Grow

Miner's lettuce is well-suited for cool-weather planting, thriving best in early spring and fall. It can tolerate light frosts, making it ideal for early spring and late fall cultivation. To extend the growing season, sow seeds every few weeks from early spring through late summer. In warmer regions, providing partial shade can help prevent bolting and ensure continuous growth throughout the season​​.

How to Sow and Plant

For best results, start Miner's lettuce seeds indoors 3-4 weeks before the last expected frost date. Sow the seeds 1/4 inch deep in seed trays and transplant the seedlings outdoors when they have at least two true leaves. Sow in thick bands for baby greens or space 8 inches apart for head lettuce. Alternatively, you can also direct sow the seeds outdoors as soon as the soil can be worked in spring​.

How to Grow

Miner's lettuce grows best in temperatures between 60-80 F. Maintain consistent moisture levels by watering regularly, and consider using mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. This lettuce variety benefits from a nitrogen-rich fertilizer, which supports vigorous growth and tender leaves. Regular weeding is necessary to minimize competition from weeds. In hotter climates, providing afternoon shade can help prevent the plants from bolting and ensure a longer harvest period.

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 1 year. Claytonia seeds do not store well so they should be used up annually or discarded.

FAQ

How long does it take for Miner's lettuce to mature?
It typically matures in about 40 days.

Can Miner's lettuce be grown in containers?
Yes, Miner's lettuce is suitable for container gardening. Ensure the container is at least 6 inches deep to accommodate the plant's root system.

How do I prevent Miner's lettuce from bolting in warm climates?
To prevent bolting, provide adequate water, offer partial shade during the hottest parts of the day, and harvest promptly once the heads are fully formed​.

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Lettuce Seeds, Miner's
star-filled
3.7
Customer reviews (8)
$4.00
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