Pak Choy
Pak choy ((Shanghai green) is a variety of Chinese cabbage that is cultivated as a leaf. It is a fast-growing brassica that can be used as baby leaves or fully grown in various dishes, fresh, lightly steamed or cooked. Mature plants grow to form tightly packed, upright rosettes with white stems and large green leaves.
Maturing timespan: 5-10 weeks
Season: Spring
Exposure: Mild, damp weather, moderate sun
Difficulty: Easy
Planting
Pak Choy is best grown in mild, damp weather such as spring and early summer, as well as early autumn. Hot temperatures can trigger early bolting. Plant in fertile soil in a warm, sunny area for spring planting or shaded area for summer crops. Weed the area and rake the soil to a fine texture. Plant the seeds ¾ inch deep in rows 1 foot apart. To prevent overcrowding, thin the seedlings and use the smaller plants in salads. Plant indoors and transplant once they are at least 4 inches tall, or plant directly outside.
Caring for the Plant
Water regularly when the soil starts to dry out. Water in the mornings to avoid attracting slugs overnight with damp soil. Weed the soil regularly. Keep the plant shaded in the summer to avoid early bolting/flowering. If the plants start to produce flower stems, remove them before the buds open and harvest the rest of the plant near the stem.
Harvesting
To harvest pak choy plants, baby leaves are ready in around 30 days. Cut off individual leaves taking a few from each plant. They will continue to produce leaves until the plants start to flower. Semi to full sized pak choy should be ready to harvest in 45-75 days. Cut directly through the base of the stem with a sharp tool.
Seed Saving Instructions
When the pak choy plants grow tall and produce flowers, and some of the seed pods start to turn brown, use a sharp tool to cut the plant at the base of the stalk. Collect the seeds when the plant is dry, avoid mornings or after the plant has been watered. Place the stalks in a bucket or bag to dry out. Seeds will start to release, and when they are completely dried out take the seed pots and split them lengthwise to release the seeds. Store the seeds in a cool, dry place until they are planted.
Sources
- Pak Choi. How to grow Pak Choi | RHS Vegetables. (n.d.). https://www.rhs.org.uk/vegetables/pak-choi/grow-your-own
- How to harvest bok choy seeds. How to Harvest Bok Choy Seeds. (n.d.). https://aptgarden.blogspot.com/2011/07/how-to-harvest-bok-choy-seeds.html