Lettuce seeds can be planted directly into the garden soil.

Sow the seeds directly into the garden soil beginning in early spring starting 2 weeks prior to the last frost-free date. 

Plant the tiny seeds 1/4" deep and later thin to 10" apart. Seeds can be planted every 3 weeks for a staggered harvest or once again in late summer for a fall harvest. Fall planting can occur 10 weeks before your average first frost date.

Build up a raised row of soil about 8" wide. Scatter the seeds in a line on top and then cover with 1/4” to 1/2" of soil. Keep the soil evenly moist. Lettuce seeds will germinate in 5-10 days depending on the soil temperature. Germination is slower in the cold weather of spring. 

Lettuce has shallow roots so gently mulch around it to deter weeds and retain soil moisture.

The ways to harvest lettuce include harvesting it as a baby green by picking individual young leaves, harvesting the outer leaves as needed and letting the plants grow, or by harvesting the entire head by slicing it off about an inch above the soil.

Each packet contains 500 Little Gem Lettuce seeds. Lactuca sativa. Annual. Open-pollinated, heirloom, Non-GMO. Harvest in 50 days. 

This packet plants a 60' row with 72 plants. 

The term "Apple Romaine" refers to a specific variety of romaine lettuce, not a hybrid of an apple and lettuce. This variety is known for its bright, apple-green color and specific leaf characteristics. 

Color: Bright, vibrant apple green.

Texture: Sturdy, crisp, and crunchy, providing a satisfying "high loft" when prepared.

Shape/Edges: The leaves have a smooth surface with distinctive serrated (toothed) edges and a slightly cupped shape.

Growth Habit: The plant has an upright growth habit, making harvesting easier.

Taste: Like other romaine varieties, it generally has a mild, subtly sweet and earthy flavor, with a slight hint of bitterness that adds depth. 

The robust texture and flavor of Apple Romaine make it highly versatile. 

Salads: It is ideal for salads, including the classic Caesar salad, as its sturdy leaves can hold up to thick and creamy dressings.

Wraps/Sandwiches: The leaves' shape and strength make them an excellent, low-carb replacement for tortillas, taco shells, or bread.

Cooking: Unlike some softer lettuces, Apple Romaine holds up well to heat and can be grilled, braised, or added to soups and stir-fries. 

Name: Tom Thumb Lettuce

Type: Butterhead Lettuce (Heirloom Variety)

Shape & Size:

Small, compact, rosette-shaped heads

Typically 4 to 5 inches in diameter – ideal for single servings

Leaves:

Soft, tender, and buttery texture

Light green outer leaves with pale, creamy yellow interiors

Flavor:

Mild, sweet, and delicate

Less bitter than many other lettuces

Growth:

Fast-maturing – ready to harvest in as little as 50-55 days

Suitable for spring and fall planting

Performs well in small spaces and containers

Uses:

Perfect for individual salads or garnishes

Great for small gardens, raised beds, and patio containers

History:

An old heirloom variety dating back to the 1850s

Especially popular in Victorian-era kitchen gardens