(Summer/Autumn)
Sweet, crisp flavour. Lettuce Little Gem Pearl is a special selection of the ever-popular Cos variety. Seeds are in the RHS Vegetable Collection. Compact plants produce small, sweet, crisp hearts of outstanding flavour. Perfect for the garden or growing in containers.
Sow seeds March to August. Sow seeds thinly in well prepared, fertile soil 1cm (½in) deep, in rows 30cm (12in) apart. Germination can be erratic during warmer weather conditions, therefore water the soil prior to sowing. Sow in succession through the season for continuous supply.
Thin seedlings to 15-20cm (6-8in) apart. Ensure plants are kept well watered during dry weather. Use cloches to extend the season.
Prefers well drained, moist, rich, soil conditions.
The dark green leaves of lettuce are a good source of beta-carotene and Vitamin A.