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November is a great time to start growing lettuce from seed, especially for gardeners in milder climates or those using indoor growing methods. Choosing the right varieties can ensure a continuous harvest through the cooler months. Here are the top 10 varieties of lettuce to start from seed in November.
1. Buttercrunch
Buttercrunch is a crisphead lettuce known for its sweet flavor and tender leaves. It is cold-tolerant and ideal for fall and winter planting. Its dense heads make it perfect for salads and sandwiches.
2. Romaine (Cos)
Romaine lettuce has a crunchy texture and a slightly bitter flavor. It is hardy and can withstand cooler temperatures, making it a popular choice for November planting. It also offers high nutritional value.
3. Little Gem
Little Gem is a small, compact romaine variety that matures quickly. Its small size makes it perfect for container gardening and for growing in limited space during the colder months.
4. Oak Leaf Lettuce
Oak Leaf lettuce features frilled, lobed leaves that resemble oak tree leaves. It is a tender, flavorful variety that thrives in cooler weather, making it suitable for November sowing.
5. Butter Lettuce (Lactuca sativa var. capitata)
Butter lettuce has soft, buttery-textured leaves that form loose heads. It is a popular choice for salads and can be grown indoors or outdoors during the fall season.
6. Red Leaf Lettuce
Red Leaf lettuce adds vibrant color to salads with its deep red or purple-tinted leaves. It is quick to germinate and tolerates cooler temperatures well.
7. Green Leaf Lettuce
Green Leaf lettuce is a versatile and fast-growing variety with tender, mild-flavored leaves. It is ideal for continuous harvests throughout the cooler months.
8. Crisphead Lettuce
Crisphead varieties, like Iceberg, are known for their crunchy texture and mild flavor. They can be started indoors in November for later transplanting or direct sowing in mild climates.
9. Butter Cos
Butter Cos is a type of romaine with a sweet flavor and tender leaves. It is resilient in cooler weather and provides a crisp texture perfect for salads.
10. Summer Bibb
Although typically a summer variety, Summer Bibb can be started indoors in November for early spring harvests. Its soft, buttery leaves are highly prized for salads and sandwiches.