FREE SHIPPING ON USA ORDERS OVER $59! Priority Shipping on most live animals! Free GIFT with every order! Search
Cart (0)
Search Close
FREE SHIPPING ON USA ORDERS OVER $59! Priority Shipping on most live animals! Free GIFT with every order!
Left Right

Organic Tom Thumb Lettuce Seeds (Lactuca sativa) – Compact, Crisp Lettuce Perfect for Single Servings

$2.49
See full details

Lactuca sativa

Minimum: 150+ seeds

Experience the charm and convenience of Organic Tom Thumb Lettuce (Lactuca sativa), a delightful heirloom variety known for its petite, crisp heads. Ideal for small gardens, container growing, or those seeking perfectly portioned servings, Tom Thumb Lettuce is a favorite among gardeners and culinary enthusiasts alike. With its mild, buttery flavor and compact size, this lettuce is perfect for single servings, adding a fresh, crisp element to your meals.

Key Features:

  • Heirloom Variety: Tom Thumb Lettuce is a classic heirloom, cherished for its small, tightly-packed heads that are perfect for individual servings or small households.
  • Compact Size: Each head grows to about the size of a tennis ball, making it an excellent choice for container gardening, raised beds, or limited garden spaces.
  • Crisp Texture: The tender yet crisp leaves offer a mild, buttery flavor that enhances salads, sandwiches, and wraps.
  • Quick Maturing: Tom Thumb Lettuce matures quickly, typically within 45-55 days, allowing for multiple harvests throughout the growing season.
  • Versatile Culinary Use: Its mild flavor and crisp texture make it ideal for fresh salads, light sandwiches, and as a garnish for various dishes.

Growing Tips:

  • Planting: Directly sow seeds in early spring or late summer for a fall harvest. Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep and space them 6-8 inches apart in rows 12 inches apart. For a continuous harvest, sow seeds every two weeks.
  • Sunlight: Tom Thumb Lettuce thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade, especially in warmer climates.
  • Soil: Plant in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Incorporate compost or organic matter into the soil before planting to ensure healthy growth.
  • Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Regular watering is crucial, particularly during dry spells, to prevent the leaves from becoming bitter.
  • Fertilizing: Use a balanced, organic fertilizer to support healthy leaf production. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can lead to overly large heads that lose their compact charm.

Harvesting Tips:

  • When to Harvest: Tom Thumb Lettuce is ready to harvest when the heads are fully formed and about the size of a tennis ball, typically 45-55 days after planting. Harvest in the morning for the best flavor and crispness.
  • How to Harvest: Cut the entire head at the base or pick individual leaves as needed. If harvesting the whole head, leave enough of the base intact for possible regrowth.
  • Storage: Freshly harvested lettuce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. To maintain freshness, wrap the heads in a damp paper towel and place them in a plastic bag.

Culinary Uses:

  • Fresh Salads: Tom Thumb Lettuce is perfect for creating individual salads with its crisp, tender leaves and mild flavor. Dress lightly with vinaigrette to highlight its natural taste.
  • Sandwiches and Wraps: Use the compact heads as a fresh addition to sandwiches or as a wrap for a healthy, low-carb option.
  • Garnish: The small, visually appealing heads make a beautiful garnish for plates or as a base for serving other dishes.
  • Single Servings: Tom Thumb’s small size is ideal for single servings, reducing waste and ensuring every leaf is used at its peak freshness.

Nutritional and Medicinal Benefits:

  • Low in Calories: Tom Thumb Lettuce is a low-calorie option, making it perfect for light, healthy meals.
  • Rich in Vitamins: This lettuce variety provides a good source of vitamins A and K, essential for vision, immune function, and blood clotting.
  • Hydration: The high water content helps keep you hydrated, adding a refreshing element to your diet.
  • Digestive Health: The fiber in lettuce supports healthy digestion and helps maintain a balanced diet.

Why Choose Heirloom:

Growing heirloom varieties like Tom Thumb Lettuce connects you with gardening history while preserving the genetic diversity of our food supply. These open-pollinated seeds allow you to save seeds from your plants, ensuring a continuous supply of this delightful variety.

Perfect for Small Spaces:

Tom Thumb Lettuce is a must-have for gardeners with limited space. Whether you’re growing on a balcony, windowsill, or small garden plot, this compact variety offers a productive and flavorful option for fresh greens.

Specifications:

  • Botanical Name: Lactuca sativa
  • Seed Count: Minimum 50+ seeds per pack
  • Plant Type: Annual
  • Head Size: Tennis ball-sized
  • Days to Maturity: 45-55 days
  • Hardiness Zones: 3-10

Bring the convenience and charm of Organic Tom Thumb Lettuce to your garden. Order your seeds today and enjoy the fresh, crisp flavor of this compact heirloom variety, perfect for single servings and small spaces!