Salad Greens – Lettuce – Cos

Cos Lettuce, also known as Romaine Lettuce or Cos Salad, is a popular leafy vegetable that belongs to the Lactuca sativa species. It is a cool-season annual plant that thrives in moderate temperatures. Cos Lettuce prefers a position that receives full sun or partial shade, making it suitable for growing in various locations in your garden. When it comes to soil type, it grows best in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0. The soil should be enriched with organic matter to promote healthy growth.

For spacing, it is recommended to plant Cos Lettuce approximately 25 to 30 centimetres apart in rows that are spaced around 45 to 60 centimetres apart. This spacing allows the lettuce heads to develop properly without overcrowding. The first harvest of Cos Lettuce can typically be done when the outer leaves are large enough to be picked. This usually occurs around 8 to 10 weeks after sowing, depending on the specific variety and growing conditions. It is important to harvest the leaves before they become overly mature and bitter. When

determining how many plants to grow, consider the desired yield and consumption. Planting multiple rows of Cos Lettuce can ensure a continuous supply of fresh leaves. A common guideline is to plant around 8 to 10 plants per square meter, but you can adjust the quantity based on your needs. Cos Lettuce is known for its elongated, crisp leaves and mild, slightly sweet flavour. It is commonly used in salads, sandwiches, and wraps, adding a refreshing crunch to your dishes. The leaves can be harvested individually as needed or the entire head can be harvested at once.