Sowing window (UK)March to August
Minimum soil temperature5°C at seed depth
Sowing depth1 cm
Spacing30 cm apart
Days to germination7 days
Days to harvest84 days
Sowing methodDirect sow outdoors
Frost hardyYes
Sunpartial-shade
Wateringmoderate
Plant familyAsteraceae

When should I sow Lettuce 'Lollo Rossa' in the UK?

In the UK, sow Lettuce 'Lollo Rossa' from March to August. It is normally sown direct outdoors. Wait until the soil has reached 5°C at seed depth rather than going by the calendar - lettuce will sit and rot in cold ground.

What soil temperature does Lettuce 'Lollo Rossa' need to germinate?

Lettuce 'Lollo Rossa' needs a minimum soil temperature of 5°C at seed depth to germinate reliably. Below that, germination is slow and patchy, and seed is more likely to rot than sprout. Measure at around 5cm down, in the morning, rather than trusting air temperature.

How deep and how far apart should I sow Lettuce 'Lollo Rossa'?

For Lettuce 'Lollo Rossa', sow it 1cm deep and space plants 30cm apart.

How long does Lettuce 'Lollo Rossa' take to grow?

Lettuce 'Lollo Rossa' takes roughly 84 days from sowing to harvest. Seed usually germinates in about 7 days.

Is Lettuce 'Lollo Rossa' frost hardy?

Yes. Lettuce 'Lollo Rossa' is frost hardy and will stand through UK frosts, so it can be left out over winter in most of the country.

Sowing data cross-checked against RHS growing guides and UK seed-merchant catalogues. Soil temperatures are the minimum for reliable germination, measured at seed depth.