Yu Choy Sum Seeds - Jung Green - Brassica rapa var. parachinensis

2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11

USDA Zones 2-11 - Grows as a cool-season annual in all zones. It is a frost-tolerant crop but will bolt (go to seed) in extreme heat.

Best performance in Zones 3-10 during the cooler parts of the year.

Northern zones (2-5) - Plant in early spring as soon as the soil is workable, and again in late summer for a fall harvest. Row covers can be used to extend the season.

Hot climate zones (9-11) - Best grown in late fall, winter, and early spring. Avoid planting during the peak of summer heat, as this will cause the plants to bolt quickly. In areas with mild winters, it can be grown year-round.

Soil temperature critical - Requires cool soil for germination, with optimal soil temperature between 55-75F. Germination is poor in hot soils.

Growing season needs - Requires 30-40 days from seed to maturity, making it an excellent crop for succession planting and extending the harvest.

Learn more about USDA Hardiness Zones here

When to Plant:
Plant seeds directly outdoors in early spring as soon as the soil is workable, about 2-4 weeks before the last frost date. For a continuous harvest, plant a new batch of seeds every 2-3 weeks. For a fall crop, sow seeds in late summer, about 6-8 weeks before the first expected frost.

Location and Soil:
Choose a location that receives full sun to partial shade. In warmer climates, some afternoon shade is beneficial to prevent bolting. Yu Choy Sum prefers rich, well-draining soil with a good amount of organic matter. A soil pH between 6.0 and 7.5 is ideal.

Sowing Seeds:

Prepare the garden bed by loosening the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches and mixing in compost.

Sow seeds 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep and space them 2-4 inches apart. For baby greens, you can sow more densely and thin as needed.

Cover the seeds lightly with soil and gently water to moisten the seedbed.

Keep the soil consistently moist until seedlings emerge, which typically takes 5-10 days.

Care and Maintenance:

Watering: Provide consistent moisture. Irregular watering can cause the plants to become stressed and bolt. Water at the base of the plant to keep the leaves dry and prevent fungal diseases.

Fertilizing: A balanced, all-purpose fertilizer can be applied once the plants are established to encourage vigorous growth.

Pests and Diseases: Watch for common brassica pests like cabbage worms and aphids. Row covers can be used to protect seedlings from pests.

Harvesting: Begin harvesting when plants are young and tender. Harvest the entire plant by cutting it at the base, or harvest outer leaves and stems to allow for new growth. For the best flavor, harvest before the flowers open fully.