Catalogna Rossa
45d to harvest
Sink your senses into Catalogna Rossa’s crisp, ruby-tinged leaves—cool, fresh, and vividly flavored with a gentle bitterness that turns beautifully lively in the garden. Expect loose, upright rosettes with deeply ribbed, red-streaked foliage and a satisfyingly snappy texture, ready in about 45 days for repeat harvests. Ideal for fresh salads and vibrant platters, its striking color also shines when folded into sauces and quick pickling-style preparations for a bold, garden-bright finish.
Crop Dates
Growing note: Zone 1a has only 30 frost-free days — shorter than this crop's 45-day maturity. Outdoor planting is not viable; use protected cultivation.
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Last Frost | Jun 15th |
| Growing Approach | Protected Environment Only |
Crop Details
| Trait | Value |
|---|---|
| Days to Maturity | 45 |
| Sun Requirements | Part Sun |
| Growth Habit | Rosette |
| Support Needed | None |
| Planting Depth | Normal |
| Germination Temp (°F) | 40 |
| Min Soil Temp (°F) | 40 |
| Min Night Temp (°F) | 32 |
| Harden Off (days) | 6 |
Recommended Companions
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water Catalogna Rossa during peak growth, and what soil moisture level should I maintain?
During the main growth phase, keep the top 1–2 in (2–5 cm) of soil evenly moist, not soggy—typically watering every 2–4 days depending on heat and wind. If you press a finger into the soil, it should feel moist but not wet or muddy; dry, crumbly soil will cause bitter, poorly expanded leaves. Water early in the day at the base so the leaves don’t remain wet.
How do I know when Lactuca sativa (Catalogna Rossa) is ready to harvest?
Harvest at about 45 days when heads/leaf rosettes are well developed and leaves are tender but fully sized, typically before leaves get overly thick or bitter. For the most reliable quality, pick in the morning, and cut the outer leaves (or the whole plant if it’s at full size) just above the crown to encourage fresh regrowth if you want multiple pickings.