Diamond (Diamond) lettuce is a medium-maturing head lettuce variety of the Iceberg type, developed by the Dutch seed company Enza Zaden. The plant forms a semi-erect rosette about 18-20 cm tall and 25-30 cm in diameter, with a flat, compact head weighing from 300 to 600 grams. The leaves are large, dark green, slightly puckered, and slightly wavy at the edges, with a crisp texture and excellent flavor. Due to its characteristics, Diamond lettuce is widely used fresh, as well as for salads, side dishes, and smoothies.
This variety is distinguished by high stress resistance and adaptability to various climatic conditions and agronomic practices, making it popular among farmers. It is resistant to downy mildew and bolting, which contributes to stable yields of 2.1–3.5 kg per square meter. The maturation period is 55–60 days, allowing cultivation in open and protected ground throughout the spring-summer and autumn seasons.
Diamond lettuce can be grown either by seedling method or direct sowing. Seeds are sown at a depth of 0.5–0.7 cm into moist soil, and seedlings emerge within 7–10 days. Seedlings are transplanted at 22–28 days old, when they have developed 4–5 true leaves, following planting schemes of 25x25, 30x25, or 30x30 cm. During the vegetative stage, regular watering, soil loosening to a depth of 2–3 cm after each watering or rain, weed removal, and fertilization 1–2 times per month are recommended to ensure optimal growth and development.
