Pak Choi White Stem (Bok Choy)

Bok choy, known also as pak choi prefers fertile, well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5 and requires full sun to partial shade. It grows best in cool temperatures between 50-75°F and can tolerate some frost but not extreme heat. The soil should be kept consistently moist, and the plant may benefit from occasional fertilization. Bok Choy is a fast-growing plant that can be harvested as soon as 40 days after planting.

As soon as soil can be worked, sow seeds 3" apart, 1/4" deep in rows 12" apart. Under ideal conditions, germination will occur in 5-7 days.  Thin to a final stand of one plant every 6-9".

Not recommended. Plants grown indoors are prone to bolting.

Insect Pests

Bok Choy is commonly affected by insect pests such as flea beetles, aphids, and caterpillars. To prevent and manage insect infestations, it may be beneficial to use row covers. Removing plant debris and rotating crops will also keep populations at bay. In severe cases, insecticidal soap or neem oil can be used as a last resort.

Diseases & Other Problems

Although not common, Bok Choy can be affected by several diseases, including black rot, downy mildew, and clubroot. To prevent these diseases, it is recommended to practice crop rotation and provide proper spacing between plants to allow for good air circulation. Overwatering and poor drainage can also lead to root problems.

Bok Choy can be harvested when the leaves are about 6-8 inches long, usually 40-60 days after planting. Use a sharp knife to cut the entire plant just above the soil level. The plant can regrow for a second harvest if the growing conditions are favorable. Store Pak Choi in a plastic bag or container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Rinse the leaves with cold water before using them. Avoid washing the leaves before storing them to prevent moisture buildup, which can cause the leaves to wilt and spoil faster.

CONSIDERATIONS:

Bok Choy is an outcrossing plant with pollination primarily being performed by bees and other insects. To maintain varietal purity, isolate at least one-quarter mile from all plants of the Brassica rapa species. This class includes turnip, rutabaga, mustard and some wild plants. If isolation by distance cannot be guaranteed, cover plants with netting or other physical barriers (pollinators will need to be introduced in this scenario).

HARVESTING SEED:

After flowering, the seed heads should be left on the plant until they have dried and turned brown. Cut the seed heads and lay flat on a tarp until completely dried. Once the siliques have dried, place stalks in a bag and stomp on them to release the seed. Winnow to separate the seed from the chaff and store seeds in an airtight container.

SEED LONGETIVITY:

Bok Choy seeds can maintain their viability for 3-5 years if stored properly. To ensure the longest possible viability, store the seeds in a cool, dry place in an airtight container or envelope.