Teagan Lettuce

Growing Instructions

Teagan Lettuce can be grown much like other lettuces, but in warmer climates, it's an easier lift than most other lettuces. It's suitable for spring and fall planting in most areas, and because it can handle warmth, you might even have success in early summer when other lettuces would bolt. Teagan grows much like a leaf lettuce or "summer crisp" lettuce, getting to a full size in roughly 55–65 days from planting. Start seeds indoors 3–4 weeks before your intended transplant date, or direct-sow in the garden if conditions are cool. Lettuce seeds germinate best around 60–70°, and they need light to germinate, so just press into the soil or cover with a fine sprinkling of soil. If starting indoors, transplant seedlings when they have 4–6 true leaves. Space or thin seedlings about 10"–12" apart to allow them to form a full head. It grows well in full sun during mild weather. In hot climates or mid-summer, provide partial shade in the afternoon to keep it cool. Soil should be fertile and well-drained with plenty of organic matter. Keep the soil consistently moist since drought stress can make the lettuces bitter or prompt bolting.

Harvest, Storage, and Use

For the fullest heads, wait until the center starts to form a bit of a head as the inner leaves bunching a bit, like a very loose cabbage. At that stage, the head might be 10"–12" across.m To harvest the whole head, cut it at the base with a sharp knife just above the soil line. Shake off any soil and remove a few of the outermost leaves if they're a bit floppy or have soil on them. Harvest in the early morning if possible since that's when lettuce is plump with water and sweetest. Warm afternoons can make it a bit limp or bitter by the end of the day. After cutting, it’s best to rinse the head in cool water to remove any dirt and cool it down. Then let it drain and store it in the refrigerator in a produce bag or container where it can keep for a week or more.

Teagan lettuce is fantastic for salads. The mix of green and red-tinged leaves makes for a beautiful salad bowl on its own. You can also use the leaves on sandwiches, tacos, or burgers. The midribs (leaf stems) are thick but tender, adding a satisfying bite. The texture is sturdy enough that you can even grill or braise this lettuce. Cut a head into halves or quarters, brush with a little olive oil, and put it on a hot grill or skillet for just a minute or two to char the edges.