Starting guide to grow bok choy (brede tom pouce)
- Crop Rotation Group
Brassicas (Cabbage family) - Soil
Select a sunny spot with well-drained soil. Adding compost improves fertility and ensures healthy growth. - Position
Plant bok choy where it receives full sunlight throughout the day. - Frost Tolerance
Bok choy tolerates light frost. However, cold spring temperatures can trigger early bolting. In autumn, light frost enhances its sweetness and flavor. - Feeding
Prepare the soil by mixing a balanced organic fertilizer before planting. Fertilizing supports healthy leaves and faster growth. - Companions
Grow bok choy alongside other greens like spinach or lettuce in mesclun mixes. Miniature varieties are perfect for square-foot gardens or small containers. - Spacing
Single Plants: Space each plant 7 inches (20 cm) apart.
Rows: Maintain a 7-inch (20 cm) spacing between plants and a 9-inch (25 cm) row gap.
sowing and planting
Plant bok choy seeds twice yearly for two harvest seasons: spring and late summer. Sow seeds in double rows, keeping 10 inches (25 cm) between rows. Plant seeds 2 inches (5 cm) apart and barely cover them with soil. Thin seedlings gradually to 8 inches (20 cm) apart. Miniature varieties can grow closer together, with just 3 inches (8 cm) spacing. A garden planner helps track the best sowing, planting, and harvesting dates.
Bok choy, also called pac choi, is quick and straightforward to grow. Its mild flavor makes it a favorite in stir-fries and salads.
harvesting and watering tips
Harvest mature plants by pulling them up completely. Use them fresh in your kitchen for the best flavor.
Flea beetles often chew small holes in leaves during spring. In autumn, pest problems reduce significantly. Protect plants with row covers to minimize beetle damage.
Keep soil evenly moist, especially during dry spells. Regular watering prevents stress and supports faster leaf production.
- Varieties
Choose from standard or miniature bok choy (brede tom pouce) types. Miniature versions are ideal for limited spaces or container gardening.
benefits of seasonal planting
Planting in late summer provides stronger flavors and fewer pest issues compared to spring sowing. Cooler weather supports slower, more robust growth.
- Planting Calendar
Use historical weather data from your area to plan planting dates. A planting calendar ensures an optimal growing schedule for bok choy in your region. - Cooking Tips
Bok choy is versatile and delicious. Use it in stir-fries, soups, or as a steamed side dish. Both leaves and stems are edible, offering a crunchy and mild texture.
