Lettuce Little Gem Pinilla

Lettuce 'Little Gem Pinilla' is a compact, mini romaine lettuce variety. Here's a guide on how to grow 'Little Gem Pinilla':

**1. Planting Time:**
- Lettuce is a cool-season crop. Plant 'Little Gem Pinilla' in early spring or late summer to avoid extreme heat.

**2. Site Selection:**
- Choose a location with well-draining soil and partial shade. In hot climates, lettuce benefits from some shade during the hottest part of the day.

**3. Soil Preparation:**
- Ensure well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Work compost into the soil before planting to improve fertility.

**4. Planting Seeds:**
- Sow lettuce seeds directly into the prepared soil. Plant the seeds shallowly, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep. Space them according to the recommendations on the seed packet.

**5. Watering:**
- Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Lettuce prefers even moisture to prevent bitterness and bolting.

**6. Fertilization:**
- Use a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer according to the package instructions. Avoid excessive nitrogen, as this can lead to rapid growth and potentially bitter leaves.

**7. Thinning:**
- Once the seedlings are a few inches tall, thin them to allow proper spacing. Crowded plants can lead to disease and poor air circulation.

**8. Mulching:**
- Apply a layer of organic mulch around the lettuce plants to conserve soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

**9. Pest Control:**
- Keep an eye out for common lettuce pests such as aphids, slugs, and snails. Use organic methods or insecticidal soap to control pests if necessary.

**10. Harvesting:**
- Harvest 'Little Gem Pinilla' when the heads are small and compact, typically around 4-6 inches in height. You can cut the entire head or harvest outer leaves.

**11. Successive Planting:**
- To ensure a continuous harvest, consider successive plantings every few weeks.

**12. Protecting from Extreme Temperatures:**
- In hot weather, provide shade to prevent the lettuce from bolting and becoming bitter.

**13. Companion Planting:**
- Plant lettuce near companion plants like radishes, carrots, or herbs to deter pests.

**14. Post-Harvest Care:**
- After harvesting, store lettuce in the refrigerator to maintain its crispness.

By following these guidelines and adjusting them based on your local climate and growing conditions, you can successfully grow Lettuce 'Little Gem Pinilla.'