Lactuca sativa
Little Gem is a Mini Cos style of lettuce which is ideal for Farmers Markets. It is very suitable for pot, tub and basket gardening where space is very short or when a full sized lettuce is to much.
It has a lovely rich taste ideal for Ceasar salads.
It can be grown all year round in most areas and is a good producing summer lettuce.
Lettuces do not like hot weather and prefer the shade. They should be sown often to ensure continuous supply.
Sow the seeds very shallowly and rake in lightly. Keep the soil moist for the continued life of the plant and you will be rewarded with lovely salad greens. Any dryness will result in bitter leaves and bolting will result.
Sow in all months in mild areas and cease sowing during mid winter in cold areas and during hot conditions or whenever they can be expected to arise.
Lettuces grow well under trees where they receive dappled shade.