Ice Queen

Family: Asteraceae Leafy Green

Cool, crisp, and strikingly refreshing—Ice Queen forms tight, snow-white heads with a glassy crunch and a clean, delicate sweetness.

The leaves are thick and resilient, holding their ruffled, pale-green heart with a satisfying bite that stays crisp in the garden. Ideal for crisphead salads and elegant fresh platters, Ice Queen is a standout choice when you want a beautiful head lettuce that looks as pristine as it tastes.

Light: Part SunMaturity: 75 DaysHabit: Rosette

Planting schedules and alerts are optimized for Columbus (Zone 6b).

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Mar 28th
Last Frost	Apr 25th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Apr 25th
Harvest Begins	Jul 9th
Harvest Ends	Oct 16th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	75
Sun Requirements	Part Sun
Growth Habit	Rosette
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Surface
Germination Temp (°F)	45
Min Soil Temp (°F)	40
Min Night Temp (°F)	35
Harden Off (days)	6

Culinary Notes

Chef's Note

Ice Queen’s thick, glassy leaves stay crisp and stand up to sharp, acidic dressings without going greasy or collapsing. Use it when you want that cold, refreshing snap—then let briny salt and tang (lemon/vinegar) do the loud work.

Best Uses

cold iceberg-style salads where you want maximum bite (not wilted leaves)
crisp lettuce cups for fresh fillings—holds structure without turning limp
shredded crosswise in slaws with a lighter touch of vinegar
fresh platter lettuce wedges with vinaigrette and flaky salt

Flavor Profile

glassy, water-crisp crunch clean, delicate sweetness thick, resilient leaves with a snappy bite mild, refreshing finish with low bitterness

Kitchen Pairings

lemon vinaigrette blue cheese cherry tomatoes cucumber grilled chicken bacon

Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease most commonly hits Lactuca sativa (iceberg-type lettuce), and how can I treat it early?

Watch for aphids and slugs/snails on young Lactuca sativa, especially in warm, humid weather. Rinse aphids off with a strong spray and encourage lady beetles; for slugs, hand-pick at dusk and set copper tape or boards as barriers around beds. If you see gray, fuzzy mold on leaves (botrytis) or sudden leaf rot, remove affected leaves immediately and space plants to improve airflow so foliage dries quickly after watering.

How often should I water Lactuca sativa during the main growing phase, and what soil moisture level should I maintain?

During the ~60 days leading up to harvest (after seedlings establish), keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged—aim for evenly damp soil to about 1 inch deep. Water in the morning, typically 2–3 times per week depending on heat, increasing frequency when leaves begin to droop or soil dries out quickly. Avoid letting the soil swing between very dry and very wet, because Lactuca sativa is prone to stress that can trigger bitter flavor and premature bolting.

How do I tell when Lactuca sativa is ready to harvest (75 days to maturity)?

Harvest when heads/rosettes feel firm for their size and outer leaves are fully expanded and crisp, usually around day 75. If you gently press the head and it gives a little instead of springing back firmly, it’s ready; if it feels loose, wait a bit. For best texture, harvest in the cool part of the day and cut at the base just above the soil line.