Bijou
50d to harvest
Tender, jewel-toned leaves unfurl with a crisp, water-bright snap—Bijou loose-leaf lettuce brings a fresh, sweet-green flavor that feels clean and lively from the first handful. The foliage forms an airy rosette of finely textured, delicately ruffled leaves, delivering a pleasantly buttery bite without heaviness. Grow Bijou for salads and quick tosses, or for vibrant garnishes that add color and crunch to greens-forward plates.
Crop Dates
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Start Indoors | Apr 17th |
| Last Frost | May 15th |
| Transplant / Sow Outdoors | May 15th |
| Harvest Begins | Jul 4th |
| Harvest Ends | Sep 1st |
Crop Details
| Trait | Value |
|---|---|
| Days to Maturity | 50 |
| Sun Requirements | Part Sun |
| Growth Habit | Rosette |
| Support Needed | None |
| Planting Depth | Surface |
| Germination Temp (°F) | 70 |
| Min Soil Temp (°F) | 40 |
| Min Night Temp (°F) | 32 |
| Harden Off (days) | 5 |
Recommended Companions
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water Lactuca sativa during the main growing phase for best head/leaf quality?
During active growth (roughly weeks 2–6), keep the soil consistently evenly moist but not soggy, aiming for the top 1 inch to stay damp. Water deeply about 1–2 times per week depending on heat, and increase to more frequent light watering only if the soil dries out quickly—lettuce that dries and re-wets repeatedly tends to get bitter and go to seed early.
How can I tell when Bijou (Lactuca sativa) is ready to harvest?
Harvest about 50 days from sowing when leaves are fully formed and tender, with each plant reaching its typical rosette size for Lollo Rossa. Pick in the morning and look for crisp texture—if leaves start to look elongated or the plant begins stretching upward, harvest immediately before it turns bitter or bolts.