Ice Queen

Lettuce

Zone 10b Save Garden

🌱 75d to harvest Rosette

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

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Dec 4th
Last Frost	Jan 1st
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Jan 1st
Harvest Begins	Mar 17th
Harvest Ends	Dec 31st

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

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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.

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.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 40°F and nights stay above 35°F before moving outdoors. Harden off for 6 days first.

Expert Note

Start cool and transplant just as nights are improving—Ice Queen’s slow-bolting habit rewards steady cool weather for maximum crunch.