Saladin Lettuce, Organic

Saladin is an improved selection within the Salinas group, a lineage of lettuce developed by the USDA in California to revolutionize the lettuce industry.

• Breeding Legacy: It was developed to be a more rugged, reliable version of the traditional "New York" and "Great Lakes" varieties.
• The "Bolt-Free" Standard: Since its release, it has become a favorite for home gardeners because it handles the fluctuating temperatures of spring and summer much better than older Iceberg strains, which often turn bitter or go to seed at the first sign of heat.

• Unbeatable Crispness: Saladin produces heavy, dense hearts with a watery, refreshing crunch that defines the perfect summer salad.
• Disease Resistance: This variety boasts excellent resistance to Tipburn and Downy Mildew, two of the biggest enemies of garden lettuce.
• Heat Tolerant: While most crisphead varieties "bolt" (shoot to seed) when the sun gets hot, Saladin stays sweet and firm much longer into the season.
• Huge Harvests: Produces large, globe-shaped heads with beautiful, wavy, medium-green outer leaves protecting a blanched, creamy-white interior.

Saladin is the gold standard for texture. It is mild, refreshing, and the ultimate "vessel" for bold dressings.

The structural integrity of Saladin makes it far more versatile than loose-leaf lettuces:

1. The Classic Wedge Salad: Quarter a chilled head and top with blue cheese dressing, crispy bacon, and chives for a steakhouse-quality appetizer.
2. Low-Carb Wraps: The large, sturdy leaves are perfect for "lettuce cups" or as a bread substitute for burgers and tacos.
3. Perfect Sandwich Topping: Its high water content and "snap" provide the necessary contrast to rich meats and cheeses.
4. Grilled Lettuce: Believe it or not, a quick sear on a hot grill adds a smoky dimension to these dense heads while keeping the center cool and crisp.

• Days to Maturity: 70–80 days.
• Sun Requirements: Full Sun (Partial shade in very hot climates).
• Spacing: Plant 12 inches apart to allow the heads to reach full size.
• Hardiness: Moderate frost tolerance; best grown in spring and fall.

Gardener’s Tip: "To get those tight, firm heads, Saladin needs consistent moisture. Mulch around the base of the plants to keep the roots cool and the soil damp. If you do that, you'll be rewarded with the best Iceberg you've ever tasted."