Pak Choi
Brassica rapa var. chinensis
Also known as
White Chinese Cabbage, Bok Choi
Brassica rapa var. chinensis (leaf) by おむこさん志望 (CC BY 2.5)
Full Shade
Moderate care
Moderate watering
Tender
13b
USDA zone
18°C
Minimum temperature
Expected size
Height | Spread | |
---|---|---|
30cm | Max | 30cm |
15cm | Min | 10cm |
Flowering
-
spring
-
summer
-
autumn
-
winter
This plant has no fragrance
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Pak Choi Overview
Brassica rapa var. chinensis is a tender biennial plant from the Brassicaceae family, that is often grown as an annual for the edible leaves. Commonly known as Pak Choi. Pak Choi is not as sensitive to heat and cold as Chinese Cabbage, and the striking white petioles and green leaves make it a must for edible landscaping. Can be prone to bolting in hot weather. The crisp leaves are slightly mustardy in taste.
Common problems with Pak Choi
Limit pest activity by keeping beds weed-free and handpicking caterpillars and bugs. Avoid wetting foliage if possible to prevent rots and fungal infections.
Pak Choi Companion Plants
How to harvest Pak Choi
Cut whole heads at soil level when they are compact and firm and before seed stalks form usually 8 to 10 weeks to after sowing. Complete the harvest before the arrival of freezing weather.
How to propagate Pak Choi
Seed
Sowing time in autumn, thinning is required afterwards. A spacing of 7.5-10 cm for seedlings, 20 cm for semi-mature plants, 25-30 cm for mature plants is recommended. Germination time is between 7-10 days.
Special features of Pak Choi
Crop rotation
Rotate with other vegetable groups only to use the same spot in 4 years!
Attractive leaves
Other uses of Pak Choi
Culinary
Edible
Often used in salads or stir-fries as a baby leaf, or used in a variety of Oriental dishes as a cooked vegetable when semi-mature.
Edibles to Sow Outdoors in June
Now the soil has warmed up, sow direct into prepared beds.
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