Black Seeded Simpson lettuce is a popular heirloom choice for small-space and beginner gardeners. Known for tender leaves with a mild, buttery flavor, this variety thrives in cool weather and can be grown in containers or raised beds. The seeds listed below come from reputable brands and offer different pack sizes to suit both trial planting and bulk cultivation. This guide highlights five readily available options, their key features, and practical tips for successful germination and harvest.
| Product | Brand | Seed Count / Size |
|---|---|---|
| Black-Seeded Simpson Lettuce Seeds 50 Count | COOL BEANS N SPROUTS Store | 50 seeds |
| Burpee Black Seeded Simpson Lettuce Seeds | Burpee Store | 2000 seeds |
| Black-Seeded Simpson Lettuce Seeds 100 Count | COOL BEANS N SPROUTS Store | 100 seeds |
| NatureZ Edge Lettuce Seeds (Black Seeded Simpson) | NatureZ Edge Store | Includes Black Seeded Simpson among 4 varieties |
| 7000 Black Seeded Simpson Lettuce Seeds | Unknown Brand on Listing | 14+ grams of seeds |
Black-Seeded Simpson Seeds 50 Count
Brand COOL BEANS N SPROUTS Store offers a 50-count package of Black Seeded Simpson lettuce seeds. The listing notes that the quantity corresponds to what’s shown in the title and emphasizes USA-grown, made-to-order seeds. This option is well-suited for new gardeners testing germination and early-season harvests. The heirloom nature supports open-pollination traits that many home growers associate with traditional greens, delivering dependable germination and familiar leaf texture when grown in well-drained soil and cool spring temperatures.
Burpee Black Seeded Simpson Lettuce Seeds
Burpee’s listing provides a large packet with 2000 seeds, reflecting Burpee’s long-standing role in home gardening. This bulk quantity is ideal for multiple plantings or larger garden beds. The variety’s reputation for tenderness persists through generations, making it a reliable choice for salads and baby greens. Gardeners should sow outdoors after the last frost, allowing about 45 days from planting to harvest, with consistent moisture and light, nutrient-rich soil to maximize leaf production.
Black-Seeded Simpson Seeds 100 Count
The 100-count option from COOL BEANS N SPROUTS Store mirrors the 50-count offering, with an emphasis on American-grown, made-to-order seeds. This mid-size pack suits gardeners who want consistent germination for a few beds or containers. Black Seeded Simpson is known for its upright, compact heads and a gentle, buttery flavor, making it a popular staple in early-season salads and sandwiches when grown in cool, partial shade or morning sun.
NatureZ Edge Lettuce Seeds – Black Seeded Simpson
NatureZ Edge offers a four-variety mix that includes Black Seeded Simpson along with Red Romaine, Bibb Butterhead, and Green Ice. The seeds are marketed as non-GMO and heirloom, appealing to gardeners who value heritage varieties and open-pollinated traits. The packaging emphasizes ease of use, with clearly labeled packets designed for straightforward planting and organization. This option supports diverse salads and color in beginner-friendly hydroponic or traditional garden setups in the USA.
7000 Black Seeded Simpson Seeds for Planting
This bulk listing advertises a large quantity suitable for extensive garden plots or community gardens. With 14+ grams of seeds, it suits growers seeking a long-term supply for ongoing plantings across multiple seasons. While the listing lacks a detailed brand identity, bulk packs are often favored by those who operate small farms, CSA programs, or educational garden projects. Ensuring proper stratification and consistent soil moisture will help maximize germination rates in this option.
Buying Guide
Key considerations when selecting Black Seeded Simpson lettuce seeds:
- Seed count and value: Choose pack size that matches your planting plan. Small trials may benefit from 50–100 seeds, while larger gardens benefit from 2000+ seeds per packet.
- Germination and vigor: Look for seeds labeled as open-pollinated or heirloom; these traits often correlate with reliable germination in typical home garden soils and temperatures.
- Growing conditions: Black Seeded Simpson performs well in cool weather. Plan for early spring or fall plantings, with well-draining soil and consistent moisture.
- Planting method: Seeds can be started indoors for an earlier harvest or sown directly outdoors in prepared beds with shallow depth and light soil coverage.
- Harvest timing: Expect leaves ready for harvest roughly 45 days after sowing, depending on climate and care. Regular picking can promote new leaf growth.
- Non-GMO and heritage considerations: Some buyers prefer non-GMO or heirloom seeds for taste, texture, and gardening philosophy.
- Brand reliability and packaging: Reputable brands like Burpee and clearly labeled USA-made seeds often indicate quality control and freshness.
Comparative Considerations
When weighing options, consider how you plan to use the harvest. For salads and baby greens, tender leaves with quick turnaround times are advantageous. If you garden for continuous leaf supply, bulk seeds may reduce the frequency of replanting. For beginners, starter packs from established brands reduce risk, while mixes including Black Seeded Simpson provide variety without needing multiple seed purchases.
Planting Tips For Best Results
Prime the bed with compost and ensure soil pH remains near neutral (6.0–7.0). Sow seeds in rows or wide bands with shallow coverage, and thin seedlings to 6–8 inches apart if needed. Keep the bed evenly moist, not waterlogged, and provide light fertility through balanced, organic fertilizer. In cooler climates, protect young transplants with lightweight row covers to extend the growing window and reduce bolting risk in warm spells.