Some of the heads are soft and loose, others more rigid and densely packed—and all of that individuality makes it a little bit tricky to divide our lettuces into neat, specific size categories. And, if that’s not tricky enough, we offer most varieties at every stage of the plant’s growth, and they all have unique characteristics at each step up the ladder.
So we get it when our chefs get a little confused.
Size of Lettuce: Breaking it Down
When you break it down to the basics, the similarities and consistencies between our lettuce varieties become clearer. Hopefully this primer will help you see the method to our sizing madness.
We offer three sizes of lettuce—petite, ultra, and baby. Every variety is a full head of lettuce unless ordered loose as part of our mesclun mix.
Petite: Our smallest size. At this stage, all varieties are quite similar and comprise four smooth-edged, paddle-shaped leaves that are 2 to 3 inches long. *Petite rosettes have about 8 leaves per head.
Ultra: Our middle size. At this stage, each head is typically comprised of about eight leaves. The head and its individual leaves have taken on the variety’s identifiable shape and characteristics. The leaves are typically 3 to 4 inches long. *Ultra rosettes have about 20 leaves per head.
Baby: Our largest lettuces. At this stage, each head is typically comprised of about 12 leaves that are 4 to 6 inches long, with more pronounced ribbing. A two-pound box of baby lettuce, ordered straight or mixed, typically includes 10 to 12 heads, depending upon the variety. *Baby rosettes have about 20 leaves per head, and a 2-pound box includes about 15 heads.
Here to Help With Fresh Produce Sizing
Of course, if you need further clarification on the sizing of our lettuce or any of our Farm-fresh vegetables, you can always call us at 419-433-4947 and ask for a product specialist to help you find the exact size and variety of lettuce you need!