Bok Choy often referred to as Chinese Cabbage or Pak Choi is a leafy green vegetable belonging to the same family as cabbages. Becoming more popular in cooking with its crisp white stems and sweet leaves it is great in stir fries, coleslaw, soups. Easy and quick to grow, it is a must have in the garden.
Planting Calendar
Bok Choy and Pak Choi can be planted from spring to late autumn
Harvest In
30-45 days
Bok Choy and Pak Choi are quick to grow and are usually ready to harvest within 30-45 days. Harvest by picking the entire plant at once.
Prepare
Position
Both of these Asian green varieties like to be grown in a sunny position with protection from hard frosts.
Soil
When planted into the ground, Bok Choy likes a free draining soil that is rich in organic matter. To improve the organic content in your soil, break up the soil and add Kings Compost and Kings Sheep Pellets and Natures Organic Fertiliser then mix together well. When growing in containers, plant into Kings Container mix or Living Earth Organic Vegetable Mix
Plant
Gently remove the seedling from the tray and plant into the cultivated soil. Space plants 30cm apart and in rows 40cm apart so they have plenty of space to grow. Alternatively they can be sown directly into the garden, raised beds or containers that are at least 30cm deep. Water in well after planting and liquid feed with Aquaticus Garden Booster.
Care
Watering
Water to keep the soil just moist, overwatering may cause the plants to rot.
Feeding
Feed throughout the growing season with Aquaticus Garden Booster and Kings Organic Vegetable fertiliser following the instructions carefully.
Protecting
Protect your young seedling from slugs and snails by applying Quash, the pet friendly option.
Spraying
Leaf Miner and White Butterfly Caterpillar can be treated by spraying with Bugtrol.
General Care
When using sprays, chemicals or fertilisers always read the label and follow the instructions. Apply sprays in the evening to avoid harming beneficial insects.
Beginner Tip
Bok Choy and all Asian greens are fast growing, so be sure to provide enough water for juicy crisp plants.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water Bok Choy?
Water to keep the soil just moist, overwatering may cause the plants to rot.
When is the best time to plant Bok Choy?
Plant Bok Choy in early spring or late summer for a fall harvest. It prefers cooler temperatures.
How do I harvest Bok Choy?
Bok Choy and Pak Choi are quick to grow and are usually ready to harvest within 30-45 days. Harvest by picking the entire plant at once.
Are there different varieties of Bok Choy?
There are several varieties, including baby Bok Choy and Shanghai Bok Choy. Each has a slightly different size and flavour.
How can I prevent pests from damaging Bok Choy?
Use row covers to protect young plants and consider natural insecticides or companion planting to deter pests like aphids and cabbage worms.
