Black Jack

Lettuce

Zone 12b Save Garden

🌱 65d to harvest Rosette

Sink your senses into Black Jack’s crisp, cool crunch—deeply colored leaves that feel silken yet substantial, with a fresh, subtl…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Direct Sow
Last Frost	Jan 1st
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Dec 25th
Harvest Begins	Feb 28th
Harvest Ends	Dec 31st

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	65
Sun Requirements	Part Sun
Growth Habit	Rosette
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Surface
Germination Temp (°F)	65
Min Soil Temp (°F)	40
Min Night Temp (°F)	35
Harden Off (days)	6

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why are my Black Jack plants getting distorted leaves and sticky sap, and what should I do?

That pattern is usually aphids feeding on new growth, often followed by sooty mold from their honeydew. Spray plants with a strong jet of water to knock aphids off, then apply insecticidal soap, coating the undersides of leaves; repeat every 5–7 days for 2–3 rounds. Avoid heavy nitrogen feeding, which encourages fresh aphid-prone growth.

How often should I water Black Jack during the main growing phase (around weeks 3–8)?

Keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy from when seedlings establish until near maturity: water when the top 1 inch of soil feels dry. Aim for deep, slow watering so moisture reaches the root zone, and reduce frequency if the soil stays wet or plants show yellowing. Consistent moisture during active leaf growth helps prevent stalling by heat stress.

How do I know when Black Jack is ready to harvest at about 65 days?

Harvest when the plant has reached full size and the edible portion looks mature and firm—typically around day 65, depending on temperature. For best flavor, harvest in the morning and avoid waiting until the plants look overly soft or beginning to decline, which can mean reduced quality. If you’re unsure, compare to labeled maturity timing and harvest the first few plants to test texture.

Sink your senses into Black Jack’s crisp, cool crunch—deeply colored leaves that feel silken yet substantial, with a fresh, subtly sweet bite. This Summer Crisp lettuce forms an attractive, compact head with a sturdy texture that holds its shape beautifully from garden to table, staying crisp and inviting through warm-season harvests. Ideal for fresh salads and vibrant summer platters, Black Jack brings a dark, elegant look and a satisfying crunch to every bowl.

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

For large Romaine types like Black Jack, start indoors for early size but transplant close to last frost so plants get cool-season growth before heat triggers bitterness and bolting.