Lettuce Seeds - Rouge D'Hiver

Rouge D'Hiver is a striking, heirloom variety of lettuce known for its deep red, ruffled leaves and its robust, sweet flavor. Often referred to as "Winter Red," this cold-tolerant lettuce can be grown in both spring and fall, providing fresh, flavorful greens even in cooler temperatures. Its unique coloration and tender texture make it a popular choice among gardeners and culinary enthusiasts alike. Perfect for adding a splash of color to salads, sandwiches, and wraps, Rouge D'Hiver is as beautiful as it is delicious.

Key Benefits

• Bold Red Color: The deep red leaves add vibrant color and visual appeal to salads and dishes.
• Cold-Tolerant: Thrives in cooler temperatures and is resistant to bolting, making it perfect for late fall or early spring planting.
• Sweet and Mild Flavor: The leaves offer a sweet, mild flavor without the bitterness often found in other lettuce varieties.
• Fast-Growing: Reaches maturity in 50–60 days, offering quick, fresh harvests.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, iron, and calcium, making it a healthy addition to any meal.

Variety Features

• Plant Characteristics: Forms loose, rosette-shaped heads with deep red, ruffled leaves and a tender, crisp texture. The inner leaves are greenish, while the outer leaves have a vibrant red color.
• Flavor Profile: Mild, slightly sweet flavor with a delicate texture.
• Growth Habit: Compact rosettes with a dense arrangement of leaves, making it suitable for small spaces and container gardening.
• Size: Typically grows to about 8–10 inches in diameter, forming a medium-sized head.

Planting Instructions

Planting Season

• Planting Time: Sow seeds in early spring or late summer for a fall harvest. Rouge D'Hiver is well-suited for cooler climates and can be grown into the fall and early winter.
• Temperature: Prefers cooler temperatures between 50°F–75°F (10°C–24°C), with a tolerance for light frost.

Planting Details

• Seed Depth: Plant seeds about 1/4 inch deep, either in seed trays or directly in the garden soil.
• Spacing: Space plants about 6–8 inches apart in rows 12–18 inches apart to ensure adequate air circulation.
• Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0–7.0. Organic compost or well-rotted manure can improve soil fertility.
• Sunlight: Best grown in full sun but can tolerate partial shade, especially in warmer climates or during the summer months.

Care Instructions

Watering

• Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Aim to provide about 1 inch of water per week.
• Water at the base of the plants to keep the leaves dry and prevent fungal diseases.

Fertilization

• Apply a balanced organic fertilizer at planting time to promote strong growth.
• Fertilize again when the plants are 4–6 inches tall to encourage healthy leaf development and prevent nutrient deficiencies.

Weeding and Mulching

• Keep the area around the plants free from weeds, which can compete for water and nutrients.
• Use mulch around the plants to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and keep the soil cool, especially during warmer weather.

Pest and Disease Control

• Pests: Watch for common lettuce pests like aphids and slugs. Organic pest control methods, such as neem oil or diatomaceous earth, can help manage infestations.
• Diseases: Rouge D'Hiver is relatively disease-resistant but can be susceptible to fungal infections. Avoid overhead watering to keep the leaves dry and practice crop rotation to reduce disease buildup.

Harvesting

• Maturity: Rouge D'Hiver Lettuce is ready to harvest in about 50–60 days.
• Size: Harvest when the leaves are fully developed and tender, typically when the head reaches 8–10 inches in diameter.
• Method: Gently cut the head at the base or harvest outer leaves for a continuous supply of fresh greens.

Storage

• Short-Term: Store harvested lettuce in the refrigerator in a perforated plastic bag or container for up to a week.
• Long-Term: Lettuce can be frozen, although the texture may change. It’s best used in cooked dishes if frozen.

Culinary Uses

• Salads: The vibrant red leaves and sweet flavor make it an excellent choice for fresh salads.
• Sandwiches and Wraps: Adds a crisp, sweet crunch to sandwiches, wraps, and burgers.
• Garnishes: Use as a colorful garnish for soups, stews, or roasted dishes.
• Tacos and Burritos: Pairs well with tacos and burritos for added crunch and flavor.

Conclusion

Rouge D'Hiver Lettuce is a versatile and cold-tolerant variety that adds both beauty and flavor to any garden. Its sweet, mild taste and vibrant red leaves make it an excellent choice for fresh salads, sandwiches, and as a decorative garnish. With its fast-growing nature, disease resistance, and ability to withstand cooler temperatures, Rouge D'Hiver is perfect for both beginner and experienced gardeners looking for a reliable, flavorful lettuce variety. Whether grown in containers or garden beds, it’s sure to provide delicious, nutritious greens throughout the growing season.