Partial Shade
Easy care
Moderate watering
Tender
13b
USDA zone
18°C
Minimum temperature
Expected size
Height | Spread | |
|---|---|---|
30cm | Max | 25cm |
20cm | Min | 15cm |
Flowering
spring
summer
autumn
winter
This plant has no fragrance
More images of Romaine Lettuce
Romaine Lettuce Overview
Cos or Romaine lettuce grows with a more upright or oval head shape, has sturdy leaves with firm ribs down their centres with dark outer leaves, slightly bitter taste and a crispy texture. It is considered to be more nutritious than crisphead lettuce and is usually the lettuce used in a Caesar salad.
Common problems with Romaine Lettuce
Slugs and snails feed on the leaves, control with organic snail bait or beer traps. Aphids may be a problem, encourage beneficial predators like lady bugs and spray organic insecticide when predators are not present.
Romaine Lettuce Companion Plants
How to harvest Romaine Lettuce
Leaves are harvested individually or as a whole plant. The plant is ready to harvest 60 to 70 days after planting. Harvest before a central stem forms. If temperatures are too high the plant will bolt forming a central stem with flowers and eventually seeds.
How to propagate Romaine Lettuce
Seed
Sow seeds in seed trays at a depth of 0.6 to 1.3cm. The optimal temperature for germination is around 20 °C. Transplant after 4 to 6 weeks.
Cuttings
If the whole plant is harvested and the base of the plant is kept in a bowl of water, the centre of the plant will continue to grow and form new leaves.
Special features of Romaine Lettuce
Crop rotation
To prevent soil diseases, follow lettuce planting with dwarf beans, carrots, cucumbers, squash or basil.
Pot plant
Indoor plant
Popular to grow in greenhouses or tunnels.
Wet sites
Salads are easily to grow in a hydroponic set-up.
Other uses of Romaine Lettuce
Edible
Leaves are eaten mostly raw, but can be cooked too.