Great Lakes 118
75d to harvest
Crisphead perfection with a cool, watery crunch—Great Lakes 118 forms tight, well-filled heads that feel satisfyingly dense in the hand. Expect sweet, clean flavor with a buttery bite and crisp, deeply veined leaves that hold their structure beautifully from garden to table. Ideal for fresh salads and elegant wedge-style presentation, this steady performer is a favorite for gardeners who want reliable heads with a satisfying crunch at harvest.
Crop Dates
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Start Indoors | Feb 23rd |
| Last Frost | Mar 23rd |
| Transplant / Sow Outdoors | Mar 23rd |
| Harvest Begins | Jun 6th |
| Harvest Ends | Nov 12th |
Crop Details
| Trait | Value |
|---|---|
| Days to Maturity | 75 |
| 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) | 28 |
| Harden Off (days) | 6 |
Recommended Companions
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water lettuce (Lactuca sativa) during the main growing phase?
During active leaf growth, keep the top 1–2 inches of soil evenly moist—usually about 1 inch of water per week, adjusted for heat and rain. Water in the morning and aim at the soil to prevent wet foliage, since lettuce develops problems faster when leaves stay damp. If the plants wilt during the day but recover overnight, increase the frequency slightly rather than soaking less often.
How do I know when Great Lakes 118 lettuce (Lactuca sativa) is ready to harvest?
Harvest around 70–80 days after sowing (about 75 days to maturity) when heads or leaf clusters are firm and well-sized for your spacing. For crisp texture, harvest in the cool part of the day and pick when leaves are fully expanded but before the plant begins bolting (going tall with a flowering stalk). If you can gently squeeze a head/cluster and it feels tight rather than loose, it’s ready.