Everything You Need to Know About Growing Parris Island Cos Lettuce

Are you looking for a lettuce cultivar that combines the best of modern characteristics with the charm of heirloom varieties? Meet ‘Parris Island Cos’ – the perfect romaine option for your garden.

Cultivation and History

Table of Contents

Bred in 1951 in South Carolina, ‘Parris Island Cos’ offers tight heads, disease resistance, and deliciously crisp leaves. Its heritage includes the dark green, sweet leaves of ‘Dark Green Cos,’ ideal for Caesar salads.

Propagation

If you’re starting from seed, sow them indoors four weeks before the last frost date or directly in the garden after the last frost. Thin seedlings to 3 inches apart and transplant outdoors after hardening them off.

How to Grow ‘Parris Island Cos’

This cultivar thrives in the heat and humidity of the south. Plant in loose, organically-rich soil with at least 4-8 hours of sun daily. Water consistently and shield from extreme heat if needed.

Growing Tips

Provide 4 to 8 hours of sun per day.
Keep the soil consistently moist.
Shade plants when temperatures climb over 80°F.

Harvesting

Mature heads are ready in 70 days, and young leaves can be harvested at your desired size. Enjoy the leaves fresh in salads or as a stuffing alternative.

Managing Pests and Disease

‘Parris Island Cos’ is resistant to many diseases but attracts pests like rabbits, deer, and slugs. Protect your plants with a wire cage or wall-mounted containers.

Where to Buy

Find ‘Parris Island Cos’ seeds from commercial growers like Burpee. For more options, search online retailers such as True Leaf Market.

Preserving

Store harvested heads and leaves in the crisper drawer with a desiccant. Wrap in a paper towel and a plastic bag to extend freshness.

Recipes and Cooking Ideas

Use ‘Parris Island Cos’ in a classic Caesar salad or any other favorite salad recipe. It’s also perfect for lettuce wraps.

Quick Reference Growing Guide

Plant Type: Annual vegetable
Water Needs: Moderate
Origins: Mediterranean region
Tolerance: Frost, cool temperatures
Hardiness (USDA Zone): 2-11
Maintenance: Low
Season: Spring, fall
Soil Type: Loamy, loose
Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
Soil pH: 5.8-6.5
Time to Maturity: 70 days
Soil Drainage: Well-draining
Spacing: 6-12 inches

Enjoy a Trip to the Islands

‘Parris Island Cos’ offers a delicious, versatile addition to your garden. Share your favorite recipes and growing tips in the comments below!

Discover more about growing lettuce with our guides:
– How to Plant and Grow Leaf Lettuce
– Why Homegrown Lettuce Is Bitter and How to Prevent It
– How to Plant and Grow ‘Winter Density’ Lettuce

Remember, cultivating ‘Parris Island Cos’ is a rewarding experience that will provide fresh, flavorful lettuce for your kitchen. Start growing today and enjoy the benefits of this exceptional cultivar!