Red Oakleaf Lettuce Starts
The elegant Red Oakleaf Lettuce Start.
Red Oakleaf Lettuce is a hardy annual. Leaves turn a deep burgundy as they mature. Grow in full sun for deep-red color and best growth. This lettuce shows some heat resistance and is unappealing to our voracious Northwest slugs. Looseleaf type lettuces do not form a compact head, and are grown for their tender, delicate leaves which grow from a central stalk. They usually reach maturity between 45-55 days after germination, though larger leaves can be collected throughout the growth period. This variety is commonly used in salads and sandwiches.
Lettuce is tolerant of a wide range of soils, but prefers well-drained, cool, loose soil with plentiful moisture and pH 6.2 to 6.8. Sensitive to low pH. Lime to at least 6.0. To encourage tender and tasty growth, make sure location is rich in organic compost matter. Amend prior to planting if needed. Space plants 6″ apart, with 12″ between rows.
Transplant starts in early spring, as soon as you can work the soil. To get an early start, prepare beds the previous fall by working in manure or compost and raking smooth to leave a fine seedbed. Seeds need light to germinate; sow at a very shallow depth by covering with a thin layer of growing medium.
With its tender, burgundy-red leaves, red oak leaf lettuce can add color and texture to any salad. Aside from its visual appeal, this loose-leaf lettuce cultivar also offers many health benefits. Red oak leaf lettuce has been shown to lower cholesterol absorption, provide exceptionally high amounts of flavonoids and other antioxidants, and deliver plenty of pro-vitamin A which is crucial for good eye health.
