It’s incredible how much seed you can get from just one head of Coastal Star lettuce! This particular head was among the first I transplanted into my garden, and it took nearly the entire season to complete its growth cycle. I harvested the flower heads in August and let them dry in a grocery bag in the greenhouse.
Now it's September and time to collect the seeds. Here’s a glimpse of the seeds before separating them from the chaff. I’ve made it about halfway through the process and already have more than enough for my own use and to sell online.
There’s an old wives’ tale that growing crops from seeds harvested in the same location will yield better results. I tested this theory last year with Red Romaine Lettuce, and the results were impressive. Not only did the heads thrive, but the seeds I harvested had a 100% germination rate. Encouraged by this success, I saved seeds from at least 10 different lettuce varieties this year. I’m confident they will flourish in PNW gardens!
