Lolla Rosso heirloom lettuce comes from Italy, where it has been sold in the markets of the Turin region of Italy for generations. Wild lettuce, however, from which modern lettuce is derived, originated in Asia Minor. The ancient historian Herodotus records its presence on the tables of 6th century Persian kings, and throughout the following centuries it became a popular crop all over Europe. Columbus brought it with him to the New World, starting its spread over the North American continent. Without a doubt, lettuce now holds a place in nearly every garden on the globe.

Below are a few ideas you could experiment with in your kitchen:

• Use it as salad
• As lettuce wraps.
• Use in wraps
• Layered into spring rolls and wrap
• Use for burger rolls
• Use with Rice and noodle bowl

Leave one seedling to grow per plant pod and these will sprout within 7-14 days and will be ready to harvest in 5-6 weeks. lettuce grows best at temperatures of 17°-23°.

Lettuce retains its crisp sweetness best when harvested in the morning.

Most types of lettuce will produce a second or even third crop after being cut, if the weather stays temperate; Lolla Rosso grows rather slowly, allowing for a longer harvest. Leaves of lettuce can be gathered all season until the main stem of the plant starts to grow, at which time the leaves will grow bitter. To harvest the entire plant when mature, cut it just above the surface of the soil; lettuce tastes best when fresh, but keeps in the refrigerator for about a week.

Plant in rich soil and full sun, in rows.

Since lettuce has very shallow roots, it needs adequate moisture in order to stay tender and sweet; keep the soil evenly moist. Applying mulch helps conserve moisture and control weeds.


Succession crops can be grown for fresh lettuce all season in areas with cool summers or warm winters; this is accomplished by planting a new crop every 2 weeks. For companion planting benefits, grow lettuce with onions, cucumbers, or carrots.