Rosaine

Lettuce

Zone 8b Save Garden

🌱 50d to harvest Rosette

Velvety leaves unfurl in a serene, butter-soft rosette—Rosaine’s tender texture feels almost satin under the fingertips. Expect a…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Feb 23rd
Last Frost	Mar 23rd
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Mar 23rd
Harvest Begins	May 12th
Harvest Ends	Nov 12th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	50
Sun Requirements	Full Shade
Growth Habit	Rosette
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	60
Min Soil Temp (°F)	40
Min Night Temp (°F)	35
Harden Off (days)	5

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why are my Lactuca sativa (Rosaine) leaves developing ragged holes and sticky slime, and what should I do?

These symptoms are most often from slugs or snails, which thrive on lettuce leaves and leave silvery trails or slime. Hand-pick at dusk, remove hiding spots (boards/weed debris), and use a physical barrier (copper tape around beds or collars on individual plants). If pressure is high, set slug bait formulated for snails/slugs and keep it away from pets and beneficial insects.

How often should I water Lactuca sativa during the main growing phase to keep it from bolting or getting bitter?

During active leaf growth (roughly weeks 3–6), keep the soil consistently evenly moist—water whenever the top 1/2 inch feels dry. Aim for deep, slow watering that reaches the root zone rather than frequent splashes, because uneven moisture can trigger stress and bitterness. In full shade, you’ll usually water less often, but do not let the soil dry out fully between waterings.

How can I tell when Rosaine lettuce (Lactuca sativa) is ready to harvest around day 50?

Harvest when heads/rosettes are firm for their size and the outer leaves are fully expanded and crisp, typically around 50 days from sowing (varies by temperature). If leaves start to look elongated or the plant shoots upward, you’re past the prime harvest window. Cut outer leaves for a second flush, or harvest the whole plant once the rosette is at the desired fullness.

Velvety leaves unfurl in a serene, butter-soft rosette—Rosaine’s tender texture feels almost satin under the fingertips. Expect a mild, sweet-green flavor with a gentle, creamy finish that shines in fresh salads and makes a lovely base for light, spoonable blends, as well as quick pickling-style tang when you want a crisp bite. At about 50 days, this butterhead forms neatly and reliably, rewarding home gardeners with a premium harvest that stays pleasantly succulent from garden to bowl.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 40°F and nights stay above 35°F before moving outdoors. Harden off for 5 days first.

Expert Note

For best flavor and disease pressure control, grow butterhead lettuce in cool weather and avoid heat stress once nights stay warm.