1.Sowing & Germination

Cimarron Red is a hardy variety that can handle light frosts better than many green lettuces. The red pigments in the leaves actually act as a natural "antifreeze" for the plant.When to Plant:Spring: Direct sow outdoors 4 weeks before the last frost.

• →Fall: Sow in late summer for a fall harvest. The red color becomes much more intense and vibrant as the nights get cooler.
• →Sowing Depth: 1/8-1/4 inch deep. Like most lettuce, these seeds need light to germinate. Cover them very lightly with fine soil or vermiculite.
• →Spacing: Sow 1 inch apart. Thin seedlings to 8–12 inches apart to allow for the tall, upright Romaine heads to develop.
• →Germination Time: 7–12 days.

2.Growing & Care

• →Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist. Because Romaine grows taller than leaf lettuce, it can dry out faster in the wind. Water at the base of the plant to keep the tightly bunched leaves from rotting.
• →Succession Planting: To have a steady supply of these beautiful red leaves, sow a small patch every 2 weeks.
• →Pest Alert: Slugs and snails love the tender leaves. Use organic slug bait or copper tape around containers if they become a problem.
• →Weeding: Keep the area clear of weeds; lettuce does not like to compete for the moisture it needs to stay crisp.

3.Harvest

• →Days to Maturity: 30 Days (Baby); 60–70 Days (Full Head).
• →Baby Leaf Method: Snip individual leaves when they are 3 inches tall for a "Gourmet Red" salad mix.
• →Full Head Method: Harvest the entire plant when the head has reached its full height (8–12 inches) and the center feels somewhat firm.
• →Regrowth: If you cut the head off 1 inch above the soil, the plant will often sprout a second, smaller "mini-head" of leaves!

4.In the Kitchen

• →Storage: Cimarron Red is a "sturdy" lettuce. After washing and drying, it will stay fresh in the refrigerator for 7–10 days, significantly longer than delicate butterheads.
• →Culinary Use: It provides a spectacular color contrast in salads. The leaves are crisp and have a sweet, nutty flavor. Because it is a Romaine type, the ribs are sturdy enough to be used in Caesar salads or even lightly grilled!
• →Nutrition: Red-leafed lettuces are generally higher in antioxidants (anthocyanins) and Vitamin A than green varieties.