Bibb Lettuce

A small compact butterhead lettuce producing tight, loosely folded heads of soft, buttery-textured leaves with a sweet, mild flavor. Highly regarded by restaurant chefs for presentation and flavor. Bibb is the heirloom butterhead also sold as Kentucky Limestone (originally called limestone lettuce), considered by many the finest American lettuce. It forms beautiful small cups perfect for serving appetizers.

✅ Plant alongside

Good neighbors that attract beneficial insects or deter pests

• Radish — Fast-maturing companion that breaks up soil; marks rows
• Carrot — Deep roots complement shallow lettuce roots for efficient bed use
• Marigold — Deters whiteflies and other foliar pests near lettuce
• Chives — Strong allium scent deters aphids that target lettuce

❌ Keep away from

🛡️ Pest & disease prevention

Proactive ways to stop trouble before it starts — tap a name with an arrow for its full guide

• Aphids →

  Inspect inner head leaves; water blast early in infestation; insecticidal soap

• Slugs →

  Beer traps; diatomaceous earth; hand-collect at night

• Bottom rot →

  Ensure drainage; avoid overhead watering; space for airflow at base

• Tipburn →

  Calcium deficiency during warm spells; consistent watering and avoiding excess nitrogen

🌾 Harvest & storage

Harvest entire small heads when they form a loose but distinct rosette, typically 5 to 6 inches across. Best flavor before any flower stalk appears. Cut at the base with a sharp knife. The inner leaves are the most prized. Refrigerate unwashed in a plastic bag for up to 1 week.

🥗 Nutrition & benefits

Excellent source of vitamins A and K, folate, and manganese. Inner pale-yellow leaves are more tender but outer green leaves contain more chlorophyll and nutrients. Very low in calories.