Description
Lollo Lettuce is the quintessential loose-leaf variety, prized for its decorative, frilly, and crinkled texture. Unlike traditional hearting lettuces, it forms a soft, open rosette of leaves. It has a mild, sweet, and wonderfully tender flavour with a slightly crisp bite, making it a perfect base for any salad. It holds dressing beautifully and is a favourite for adding volume and flair to gourmet plates. It’s also an excellent “cut-and-come-again” variety, allowing you to harvest leaves as needed for a continuous supply.
Planting Your Seedling
When to Plant: Lollo is one of the most versatile lettuces for Malta. Plant out your seedlings in early autumn (September/October) and throughout the winter and spring (until May) for the best results. While it can handle some summer heat, it grows best and is least likely to ‘bolt’ (go to seed) in the cooler months.
Location/Sun: In the cooler months, a spot with full sun is ideal. In the peak summer heat (June – August), plant in a location that receives morning sun and afternoon shade to prevent scorching and bitterness.
Soil & Potting: Lollo needs rich, well-draining soil. Enrich your garden bed or pot with plenty of compost before planting. If using pots, choose a container at least 20 cm deep and space plants about 20-25 cm apart.
Watering (Crucial in Malta): Lettuce is over 90% water, so consistent watering is essential—especially in Malta’s dry climate. Keep the soil constantly moist, but not waterlogged. Water frequently (daily in hot weather), aiming the water at the base of the plant to keep the leaves dry and prevent rot.
Fertiliser: A light feed every 3-4 weeks with a balanced organic liquid fertiliser will encourage rapid, tender growth.
Harvesting (Cut-and-Come-Again): To enjoy your lettuce for weeks, do not harvest the entire head. Instead, use a pair of scissors or your fingers to snip off the outer leaves as you need them. Leave the inner leaves and the central growing point intact; the plant will quickly regrow new leaves.
Bolting (Going to Seed): If the weather gets too hot, the plant will send up a central stalk and the leaves will become bitter. Harvest the entire plant immediately if you see a stalk starting to form.
Why Buy Seedlings? Skip the delicate germination stage! Our strong, young Lollo Lettuce seedlings are ready to plant straight into your garden or pot, giving you a head start and a higher chance of a successful, continuous harvest of crisp, tender leaves.
