How to Grow Black Seeded Simpson Lettuce
Black Seeded Simpson Lettuce
Lactuca sativa var. crispa
vegetableBlack Seeded Simpson is a classic loose-leaf lettuce variety prized for its tender, frilly green leaves and excellent flavor. It's a heat-tolerant heirloom variety that produces abundant foliage without forming a tight head. This fast-growing lettuce is ideal for succession planting and continuous harvests throughout the season.
When should you plant Black Seeded Simpson Lettuce in your zone?
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Example Black Seeded Simpson Lettuce timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Black Seeded Simpson Lettuce
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Black Seeded Simpson Lettuce
Around Jun 1≈ 45 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Black Seeded Simpson Lettuce dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 4-9; can grow year-round in mild climates
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Get my Black Seeded Simpson Lettuce timeline →Growth Stages
Germination & Seedling
7-14 daysTiny cotyledons emerge and develop 2-3 true leaves; delicate seedlings with minimal root system
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bright light; maintain 60-70°F temperatures; thin to proper spacing when 2-3 inches tall
Vegetative Growth
14-21 daysPlant develops 4-8 leaves; foliage becomes increasingly frilly and vibrant green; rosette form begins to establish
Maintain consistent moisture; apply balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks if needed; monitor for slugs and aphids; provide afternoon shade in hot weather
Leaf Development & Expansion
15-25 daysFrilly, deeply lobed leaves multiply and expand rapidly; plant forms a loose, open rosette; stems remain tender and succulent
Continue regular watering; watch for bolting in heat (plant will form flower stalk); harvest outer leaves to encourage continued production; increase watering frequency in heat
Harvest-Ready & Maturity
Ongoing (2-4 weeks or more)Plant reaches full size with abundant crispy, tender leaves; rosette is full and productive; maximum flavor and texture achieved
Begin harvesting outer leaves immediately; can continue harvesting for 2-4 weeks if managed properly; pinch off any flower buds that form; provide afternoon shade to extend harvest window
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with water to dislodge; use insecticidal soap; introduce ladybugs; neem oil as last resort
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and
Hand-pick at dusk; use copper tape barriers; shallow dishes of beer; diatomaceous earth around plants
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Remove infected plants; control aphid populations; choose resistant varieties; sanitize tools
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Remove affected leaves; use row covers on young plants; spinosad spray if severe
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Ensure good air circulation; avoid overhead watering; remove infected leaves; sulfur dust fungicide
Uses
Fresh salads and greens
CulinaryBlack Seeded Simpson's tender, frilly leaves are perfect for fresh salads, lettuce wraps, and green smoothies. The delicate texture and mild, slightly sweet flavor make it ideal for both gourmet and everyday eating. [source]
Baby leaf microgreens
CulinaryYoung, tender Black Seeded Simpson leaves can be harvested at 30-40 days as baby greens, offering concentrated flavor and tenderness for upscale culinary applications and restaurant presentations. [source]
Nutritional greens
MedicinalLettuce is rich in vitamin K, folate, and antioxidants. It contains compounds that support bone health and may have mild sedative properties, making it valued in traditional herbal medicine. [source]
Continuous garden harvesting
HouseholdBlack Seeded Simpson's leaf-by-leaf harvest capability allows home gardeners to enjoy fresh lettuce continuously throughout the season without replanting, making it economical and sustainable. [source]
Pollinator and beneficial insect support
WildlifeWhen allowed to bolt, Black Seeded Simpson produces small yellow flowers that attract bees and provide food for beneficial insects. The seeds also feed birds and finches. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Begin harvesting outer leaves when plant is 4-6 inches tall (30-40 days); use scissors or pinch leaves off at base; harvest in early morning for crispest texture; can harvest individual leaves continuously or cut entire plant 1-2 inches above soil for regrowth; best flavor when harvested cool and tender; avoid harvesting during heat of day
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Black Seeded Simpson is an heirloom variety that has been grown continuously since the 1850s, making it one of the longest-established lettuce varieties still in common cultivation.
- 🌱 The 'black seeded' designation refers to the dark color of the seeds, which distinguishes it from white-seeded lettuce varieties; the seed color does not affect the leaf color or flavor.
- 🌱 This lettuce variety is particularly heat-tolerant compared to other loose-leaf lettuces, making it ideal for spring and early summer gardens where other lettuces might bolt quickly.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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