Red Iceberg

Lettuce

70d to harvest

Crisp as freshly fallen snow, Red Iceberg forms tight, rounded heads with a dramatic blush of deep ruby to wine-red at the outer leaves. The texture is satisfyingly crunchy from core to edge, with tender, pale centers that stay sweet and clean in cool weather. Grow Red Iceberg for standout salads and elegant layering—its striking color makes every bowl look garden-fresh from the first bite to the last.

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Apr 27th
Last Frost	May 25th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	May 25th
Harvest Begins	Aug 3rd
Harvest Ends	Aug 29th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	70
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Rosette
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	70
Min Soil Temp (°F)	40
Min Night Temp (°F)	30
Harden Off (days)	6

Recommended Companions

Watermelon Radish Radish

Santo Cilantro

Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease most commonly affects Lactuca sativa (iceberg lettuce), and how can I manage it?

A frequent issue is downy mildew and tip burn-like stress, often triggered by cool-wet conditions and inconsistent moisture. Improve airflow with wider spacing, avoid wetting the leaves when watering, and remove the worst leaves early to slow spread. If mildew appears, use a labeled fungicide for lettuce/downy mildew and keep the soil evenly moist (not soggy) to reduce stress-related damage.

How do I know when my red iceberg lettuce (Lactuca sativa) is ready to harvest?

Harvest at about 70 days when heads feel firm and have filled out, with crisp outer leaves and minimal leaf floppiness. Use the “gentle squeeze” test—if the head compresses easily, give it a few more days. Cut the head at the base early in the day for the best crispness, and don’t wait until leaves start to yellow heavily at the center.