The search for lettuce that tolerates the hot months of summer could be over for you. We have always loved Jericho but the Crisp Mint Lettuce has proven to be a worthy rival. The ruffled mint-colored leaves are crisp and sweet even in elevated temperatures. Young heads are rather open but tighten up as they mature, growing to a sturdy 10. Harvest mini or full-sized. Experiment by growing this as cut-and-come-again lettuce, (we discovered this is possible thanks to our resident groundhog).

300 seeds

PLANTING

Lactuca sativa

Germination:4-10 days

Germination Temperature:Optimum soil temperatures are 60-75F. Soil above 75F. inhibits germination.

Seed Sowing Depth: inch deep

Outside Sowing:Spring when the soil temperature reaches at least 50F. Sow 1 apart, thin to 6-12, depending on the size of lettuce you want, baby to full heads. Keep soil moist during germination. Sow every 2-3 weeks for a longer harvest period. Sow heavy seeded rows every 10-14 days for baby greens using 1 oz. Pinetree Lettuce Mix.

Starting Indoors:3-4 weeks before planting outside.Sow 2-3 seeds per cell/pot, thinning to one per cell/pot. Provide 60-70 F. soil temperatures. Transplant out, 8-12 apart in rows 12 apart.

How much does a packet plant:25-footsingle row

Harvest:Cut whole heads at the base or snip off individual leaves.

Tips:The Crisp Mint Lettuce needs fertile soil for optimum growth. Work in compost or well-rotted manure into your soil before planting. Provide adequate, even moisture for the best growth. Mulching helps retain moisture.