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Organic Tennis Ball Lettuce Seeds (Lactuca sativa) – Historic Mini-Heads for Small Spaces and Container Gardens

$2.49
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Lactuca sativa

Minimum: 150+ seeds

Step back in time with Organic Tennis Ball Lettuce (Lactuca sativa), a charming heirloom variety dating back to the 18th century. Known for its small, soft, butterhead-style heads, this lettuce is perfect for those who garden in small spaces, containers, or have limited garden plots. The compact, tennis ball-sized heads are tender, sweet, and ideal for single servings or adding a touch of history to your salad bowl. Tennis Ball Lettuce is as practical as it is flavorful, making it a delightful choice for gardeners who value both tradition and taste.

Key Features:

  • Historic Heirloom Variety: Originating in the 18th century, Tennis Ball Lettuce has been a favorite for its compact size, tender leaves, and sweet flavor. Thomas Jefferson himself reportedly grew this variety at Monticello.
  • Compact Size: With its mini, tennis ball-sized heads, this lettuce is ideal for small gardens, raised beds, or container gardening, making it a versatile option for urban or space-conscious gardeners.
  • Butterhead Texture: The soft, buttery leaves form loose, tender heads that are perfect for fresh eating. The mild, slightly sweet flavor makes it a favorite for salads and garnishes.
  • Fast-Growing: Tennis Ball Lettuce matures quickly, allowing for multiple harvests throughout the growing season. It's a great option for early spring or fall planting.
  • Versatile Culinary Use: Whether used in salads, sandwiches, or as a garnish, Tennis Ball Lettuce adds a tender crunch and historical flair to your meals.

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 continuous harvest, plant seeds every two weeks.
  • Sunlight: Tennis Ball Lettuce prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade, especially in warmer climates.
  • Soil: Grow 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 promote healthy growth.
  • Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Regular watering is essential, especially during dry spells, to prevent the leaves from becoming bitter.
  • Fertilizing: Use a balanced, organic fertilizer to support healthy leaf production. Over-fertilizing can cause the leaves to lose their tender texture.

Harvesting Tips:

  • When to Harvest: Tennis Ball Lettuce is ready to harvest when the heads reach the size of a tennis ball, typically 45-55 days after planting. For the best flavor and texture, harvest in the morning when the leaves are crisp and cool.
  • How to Harvest: Cut the entire head at the base, or pick individual leaves as needed. If harvesting the whole head, be sure to leave enough of the base intact for potential regrowth.
  • Storage: Freshly harvested lettuce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Wrap the heads in a damp paper towel and place them in a plastic bag to maintain freshness.

Culinary Uses:

  • Fresh Salads: Tennis Ball Lettuce is perfect for creating delicate, flavorful salads with its tender leaves and sweet flavor. Pair it with a light vinaigrette to let its natural taste shine.
  • Sandwiches and Wraps: Use the soft leaves as a fresh addition to sandwiches or as a wrap for a low-carb, gluten-free option.
  • Garnish: The compact, visually appealing heads are perfect for garnishing plates or as a base for serving other dishes.
  • Single Servings: Due to its small size, Tennis Ball Lettuce is ideal for individual servings or small households, reducing waste and ensuring every leaf is used at its peak freshness.

Nutritional and Medicinal Benefits:

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

Why Choose Heirloom:

By growing heirloom varieties like Tennis Ball Lettuce, you're preserving the genetic diversity of our food supply and connecting with a piece of gardening history. Heirloom seeds are open-pollinated, allowing you to save seeds from your plants for future gardens, ensuring the continuation of these time-honored plants.

Perfect for Small Spaces:

Tennis Ball Lettuce is a must-have for gardeners with limited space. Whether you're growing on a windowsill, balcony, or small 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 a touch of history and flavor to your garden with Organic Tennis Ball Lettuce. Order your seeds today and enjoy the delightful taste and convenience of this compact heirloom variety!