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White Stem Chinese

Brassica rapa

$3.99

4 g Approximately

Pak Choi – White Stem Choi (Brassica rapa subsp. chinensis), also known as bok choy, is a versatile Asian green that grows well in cooler seasons and produces vibrant green leaves with thick, white stems. It’s popular in stir-fries, soups, and salads due to its mild, slightly peppery flavor.

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108 in stock

  • Days to Germination: 7-14 days
  • Days to Maturity: 40-50 days (baby leaves in 30 days)
  • Planting Time: Mid-fall to mid-winter; can also be planted in spring
  • Sunlight: Full sun in cool weather; partial shade in warmer climates
  • Soil Temperature: 50-70°F
  • Soil pH: 6.0-7.5
  • Plant Spacing: 9-12 inches apart in rows 12-24 inches apart
  • Height: Reaches 10-24 inches
  • Hardiness Zones: 1-9

Direct Sowing:

  • Timing: Sow seeds directly outdoors when soil temperatures are in the 60s°F.
  • Depth: Sow seeds 1/2 to 3/4 inches deep in rows spaced 12-24 inches apart.
  • Thinning: As seedlings grow, thin them to 9-12 inches apart by harvesting baby plants, allowing remaining plants to mature to full heads.

Indoor Sowing:

  • Timing: Start seeds indoors about 4 weeks before the last frost.
  • Hardening Off: Gradually expose seedlings to outdoor conditions over a week before transplanting.

Transplanting:

  • Place seedlings in well-draining, compost-rich soil, and keep the soil consistently moist.

Growing Tips

  • Moisture: Pak Choi requires regular watering to maintain its tender texture, especially during dry periods.
  • Fertilizer: Use organic compost or a balanced fertilizer to support growth.
  • Weed Control: Apply mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
  • Shade: In warm climates, provide some afternoon shade to reduce heat stress.

Harvesting

  • Baby Leaves: Harvest outer leaves at around 30 days.
  • Full-Size Heads: Harvest entire heads at 45-60 days or cut individual leaves as needed.
  • Storage: Harvested leaves can stay fresh for up to 3 months when stored in cool conditions.

Nutritional Benefits and Culinary Use

Pak Choi is a nutrient-dense green, high in vitamins A, C, and K, making it a valuable addition to the diet. Its mild flavor pairs well with various dishes, especially in Asian cuisine, where it adds both nutrition and crunch to stir-fries, soups, and fresh salads.