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Quintessential romaine with a glorious crunch, Plato II is perfect for summer heat, resisting bitterness and slow to bolt. Each ~10 inch head has a sweet, crisp center that is the most succulent treat! Plato II also has more resistance to Downy Mildew than many lettuces.
Though Plato II is one of our go-to summer lettuces, we’re delighted how well they grow into the fall, sweetening with the autumn chill.
A beloved variety from Frank Morton, Plato II will nourish us for many generations to come. This is how ‘heirlooms’ are born, Friends! We’re grateful for the countless generations of indigenous seedkeepers who have saved lettuce seed for millennia and we are thrilled to share this fresh selection of a delectably disease resistant romaine, both delicious and abundant, with you ~
Planting Method: Direct Sow or Transplant
To Direct Sow: Sow early spring, 1 inch apart. Enjoy thinnings and leave 12 inches between plants. Ample water grows sweetest lettuce. Sow every 3 weeks for consistent harvest til ~6 weeks before fall frost.
For Transplanting: Sow indoors early spring, 2 seeds per cell or soil block, and thin to 1. Harden off and transplant before/after last frost. Succession plant as above.
Seed Depth: 1/8 inch Days to Germination: 3 at 75°F; 8 at 60°F
Sun Needs: Full / Part
Spacing: 12 inches; rows 12 inches apart
Days to Harvest: 28 days to baby leaf; 55 to full size
Kyle Kubs (verified owner) –
I’m growing in the Northwest Highlands of New Jersey. Zone 5b by temperature.
Out of three different lettuces I’ve tried to grow this year, first ever growing lettuce, the Plato II is my favorite. Heavily rippled dark green leaves, crunchy & flavorful but not tough like some lettuces & greens can be.
Very reliable, nearly 100% germination rate, usually within just two to three days, started in mini soil block under grow lights. Once well established under the lights, they actually do pretty well in my too shady wooded property. Doesn’t like my alkaline soil but grows great in pots and even does very well entirely inside under the lights.
They didn’t love the summer heat & humidity but did fine and are really liking the cooler temperatures in fall.
This will be a regular in my garden. Great quality seed from Fruition that is acclimated to my northeast climate.
Melissa Knox –
Thanks for sharing your experience. We are glad to hear you are loving this variety as much as we do!