Bloomsdale Savoy

Downy mildew on Savoy lettuce shows as pale yellow patches that later turn gray-purple on the underside of leaves, often after cool, damp weather. Improve airflow (space plants to the label rate and water early in the day) and remove badly infected leaves; avoid overhead watering. If it keeps spreading, use a labeled fungicide for downy mildew and follow the product’s reapplication schedule, focusing coverage on the leaf undersides.

Harvest when leaves are fully expanded with firm, sturdy texture and the outer leaves are large enough to use—typically around 45 days from sowing, depending on weather. Check for a crisp, thickened “savoy” leaf texture rather than tender, floppy growth; cut outer leaves first for a staggered harvest, or harvest the whole plant when the head/clump holds together well. If leaves start to look thin or bolt (tall flowering stalk forming), harvest immediately for best flavor.