Bok choy is a fast growing leafy green with thick, fleshy ribs, popular in Asian cuisine. It is in the brassica (cabbage) family. Best grown in the cool season, fall into winter or early spring.
Planting
- Direct seed or transplant 6 to 8 inches apart in February to April for spring production or September to October for fall production.
- If growing your own seedlings, start the seeds 3 weeks before you want to plant
- Bok choy is prone to bolting during warm weather.
Harvesting
- Harvest about a month after sowing, when they are about 1 foot tall.
- Entire plants may be harvested to thin the crop and give remaining plants more room.
- Bok choy will bolt (go to flower) quickly if not harvested.
Pest management
Boy choy is susceptible to the same pests and diseases that affect all brassica (cabbage family) crops. See Cabbage pests and disorders.
More links
- Video Growing Great Bok Choy [1 hr 1 min]
- Descriptions of similar Asian vegetables: Crucifer Family
- Asian Vegetable Trial
- Harvesting and Cooking Tips for Asian Vegetables
Recommended varieties for Santa Clara County*
| Fen Jen | Strong, beautiful, good germination |
| Golden Yellow | Lovely, tall, great roots, good germination |
| San Fan | Strong, tall, vigorous roots, good germination |
* Many other varieties may also do well here in Santa Clara County. This list is based on UC Master Gardener trials, taste tests, and feedback from local growers.