West Coast Seeds Tom Thumb Butterhead Lettuce Seeds
Tom Thumb is the oldest American lettuce still in cultivation, dating back to 1830. It's also the smallest lettuce of all, only growing to the size of a tennis ball. Tom Thumb is superb for containers, or even window boxes. 50-70 days, OP.
Approx. 435 seeds
Timing: Lettuce is fast growing and prefers cool conditions. Start seeds indoors in trays and transplant 3-4 weeks later. Or direct sow every 2-3 weeks starting in mid-spring. Optimal soil temperature for germination: 10-22°C (50-72°F).
Seeding: Sow seeds 5mm-1cm (1/4-1/2") deep.
Growing: If growing for baby leaf, space plants 2-12cm (1-5") apart. For full head size, space 30cm (12") apart. Allow 45-90cm (18-36") between rows. Soil with lots of organic matter that drains freely is best. A pH of 6.0-6.5 is ideal, so add compost and lime before planting. One cup of balanced organic fertilizer per 3m (10') will provide adequate nutrition.
Seed Specs: Canada No. 1 germination rate: 70%. Usual seed life: 3 years.