Oakleaf
50d to harvest
Tender leaves unfurl like ruffled lace, with a crisp snap and a sweet, green-forward flavor that feels cool and clean from the first harvest. Oakleaf forms loose rosettes of oak-shaped foliage—deeply lobed, richly textured, and wonderfully steady in the garden—ideal for fresh, vibrant salads and quick tosses, as well as blending into leafy mixes and silky sauces.
Crop Dates
Growing note: In frost-free Zone 13b, grow this cool-season crop during the cooler dry season (October–February).
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Start Indoors | — |
| Climate | Frost-Free Climate |
| Transplant / Sow Outdoors | Oct 1st |
| Harvest Begins | Nov 20th |
| Harvest Ends | Feb 28th |
Crop Details
| Trait | Value |
|---|---|
| Days to Maturity | 50 |
| Sun Requirements | Part Sun |
| Growth Habit | Rosette |
| Support Needed | None |
| Planting Depth | Surface |
| Germination Temp (°F) | 40 |
| Min Soil Temp (°F) | 40 |
| Min Night Temp (°F) | 35 |
| Harden Off (days) | 5 |
Recommended Companions
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s a common problem for Lactuca sativa (oakleaf lettuce), and how do I treat it?
A frequent issue is powdery mildew, which shows up as a white, dusty coating on leaves and spreads in cool, humid conditions. Improve airflow by spacing plants and watering at soil level (not on leaves), then remove heavily infected leaves. If it keeps recurring, spray an approved fungicide labeled for leafy greens and follow the label reapplication interval.
How often should I water oakleaf lettuce during the main growing phase?
Keep the top 1–2 inches of soil evenly moist from emergence through harvest; lettuce roots dry out quickly and stress can trigger bitterness and bolting. In warm part-sun conditions, this usually means watering about 2–4 times per week, with deeper soakings so moisture reaches the root zone. Water in the morning and avoid waterlogged soil, since overly wet beds can encourage fungal leaf diseases.