Sandy Lettuce Seeds

Days to Maturity: 30 to 50 from direct sow

All-America Selections (AAS) Winner 2015

Congratulations to Sandy, the first lettuce since 1985 to become an All-America Selections winner. This delectable new oakleaf (green leaf) type looks as good as it tastes, with ruffled bright green leaves in densely packed whorls.

Just about 10- to 12-inches high and wide, it's compact enough to grow in a flowerpot on the patio, yet you'll get a long season of yields by picking just what you need and letting new leaves grow in to replace the old. Or, if you prefer, let the entire head mature, then slice it away at the base and enjoy scrumptious salads for the whole family.

And as good as Sandy tastes, its benefits to the gardener are immense. Very slow to bolt, it will keep its texture and flavor in the garden even in unseasonable heat—not a trace of bitterness affects these leaves, unlike most other varieties. It is also very resistant to powdery mildew, as well as downy mildew and tip burn. If you live in a climate with long, hot summers, Sandy is the one to grow!

Lettuce thrives in cold weather and can be sown directly into the garden, starting in early spring. For an even earlier harvest, sow indoors; the seedlings don't mind transplanting. If a fall crop is desired, begin in late summer. Grow in single rows, plants spaced 18 inches apart, or in containers.