Description
Seeds | 1 gram (1,000 seeds) $3.50 |
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Antares Oakleaf
Heritage: France (Oakleaf Varieties), Oregon, USA (Antares)
The culinary use and cultivation of oakleaf lettuce in France has been recorded for centuries. French seed catalogues listed them as early as the 1770’s. This Antares variety of oakleaf was developed by plant breeder Frank Morton of Oregon, USA in the 1980’s.
Large upright leaves can grow up to 10″ (25cm) and are similar in shape to that of the Oak tree. A garden dazzler, these beautifully cut leaves shimmer in the sun with hues of pink, bronze and chartreuse. So pretty! Highly ornamental and wonderfully tender, with a mild flavour similar to almonds. This variety needs lots of space to fully develop. Bonus: Slow to bolt in summer heat. Matures in 45-50 days. (1,000 seeds/g)
Tips for Growing Luscious Lettuce! Lettuce is a cool weather crop, enjoying full sun until the weather heats up, then it will require some shade in the afternoon. We have the best results direct seeding as soon as the ground warms in early spring. Sprinkle seed sparingly on top of the earth. Cover with a very light sprinkling of lose soil. Gently tamp/press soil down so that the seeds are in contact with the earth. Lightly water, thinning to 6” (15cm) apart. For the most flavourful, sweet and crisp lettuce, be sure to harvest early in the morning. The best companion plants for Lettuce are; onions, radishes, carrots, strawberries, and cucumbers. Lettuce usually germinates within 3-10 days (60-70ºF/16-21ºC). Be aware, if temperatures exceed 80ºF/27ºC, seed may fail to germinate at all!