Red Deer Tongue

START SEEDS OUTDOORS

In cool early spring weather, sow seeds in finely worked soil in full sun. Sow seeds about 1 inch apart over the entire seedbed or in wide rows, then cover lightly and evenly with 1/4 inch of fine soil. Firm soil gently and water with a fine spray. Keep seedbed evenly moist. Plant again as weather cools in late summer for fall salads.

GROWING NOTES

Thin seedlings to stand about 6 inches apart so they have room to grow and mature. Heirloom Red Deer Tongue grows and tastes best grown in mild spring or cooler fall weather with consistent moisture. To extend the sowing season slightly, sow in light shade or erect a canopy of loosely woven shade cloth over the bed. Birds are often attracted to tender young seedlings, so protect them with netting if necessary.

HARVEST AND USE

To harvest, wait until the plants form open, loose heads with leaves about 6 inches tall. Use scissors to cut leaves about 1 to 2 inches above the soil level. Water well and fertilize lightly and if weather is still cool, plants will re-grow tasty leaves for another cutting. These tasty, deep red leaves show off in the salad bowl and add interest to any sandwich. Hot summer temperatures turn this heirloom lettuce bitter; plant and harvest in cooler weather.