Lettuce Catalogna (Cut-and-come-again)

Description

Heirloom, from 1686′. Lettuce ‘Catalogna Cerbiatta’ is a highly ornamental Oakleaf type variety that produces masses of deeply lobed leaves which are perfect for baby leaf salads. A Cut and Come again variety, the thick leaves have good flavor and texture and the compact plants will grow easily in a pot as well as in the garden. 40 days to harvest. This variety tolerates heat very well but also excels in cooler climates.

Sowing:

Sow under protection: February to March (Plant out April)

Sow directly outdoors: March to July The perfect temperature for germination is 4 to 16°C (40 to 60°F) rates decline above 20°C (68°F). The perfect temperature for growth is 16 to 18°C (60 to 65°F) Sow at a seed depth of 6 to 12mm (¼ to ½in) Seed will germinate in 7 to 14 days. Sow seeds in short rows about 30cm (12in) apart. To do this, make a shallow trench with a cane about 15mm (¾ in) deep. Space the rows 20cm (8in) apart. Tip a small amount of seed into your hand, take a pinch, and spread thinly along the trench. Cover with soil, label, and water. If birds are a problem in your garden, spread netting to prevent them from eating the seed. When the seedlings are about 2cm (1in) tall, thin them out to give them space to grow, 15 to 20cm (6 to 8in). Make successional sowings at 14-day intervals.

On a hot day, water the soil thoroughly before sowing.