All about Growing Chinese Cabbage
El Chinese cabbage cultivation, also known as Bok Choy, has gained popularity in recent years not only in Asia, but also in Europe and America. This vegetable, from the family Brassicaceae, is valued for both its flavor and its nutritional benefits. In this article, we'll explore in detail how to grow Chinese cabbage, as well as its soil and climate requirements, varieties, care, and pests, among other important aspects. If you're interested in learning more about Chinese cabbage cultivation, This article is for you.
1. Origin of Chinese Cabbage
Chinese cabbage has its origin in the Far EastIt has been cultivated in China for centuries, and its consumption spread to Japan in the late 19th century. Today, its cultivation has expanded to many regions of the world, including Europe, where it has seen an increase in popularity among consumers seeking healthy alternatives in their diet.
2. Taxonomy and Morphology
Chinese cabbage belongs to the family Cruciferae and its scientific name is brassica campestris L. sp. pekingensis. It is often confused with romaine lettuce, as it has a very similar appearance. Its leaves are upright, with a long blade and pronounced veins. morphology The plant is characterized by:
- Initially erect leaves, which later form a concave shape.
- A growth cycle that varies between 70 and 90 days from sowing to harvest.
- It is a biennial plant that blooms in spring.
3. Edaphoclimatic Requirements
The requirements edaphoclimatic are crucial for the successful cultivation of Chinese cabbage. This plant is susceptible to extreme temperatures. Considerations include:
- Temperature: Ideal temperatures for its development range between 18 and 20 degrees Celsius. Temperatures below 8 degrees Celsius can cause the plant to become paralyzed.
- Ground: A medium-textured, porous, and moisture-retentive soil is recommended. The optimal soil pH should be between 6.5 and 7.
- Humidity: Chinese cabbage requires consistently moist soil. During periods of drought, adequate irrigation is vital to avoid water stress.
4. Varieties of Chinese Cabbage
There are several varieties Chinese cabbage, each with specific characteristics. Some of the most cultivated are:
- Asten: Cylindrical head, green blade and petiole, with very early growth.
- Misuka: 68-72 day cycle, with green leaves and elongated head, resistant to tipburn.
- HM, Yakami: Ovoid head and dark green leaf color, 70-day cycle.
- Shanghai: Square head, resistant to powdery mildew and turnip virus, ideal for harvesting in winter or spring.
5. Fertilization and Composting
Chinese cabbage is a crop that requires a high amount of nitrogenDuring soil preparation, it is advisable to apply:
- 50 g/m² of 8-15-15 complex fertilizer.
- 15 g/m² potassium sulphate.
- 20 g/m² of magnesium sulfate if levels are low.
For top dressing, fertilizers can be applied starting 15 days after sowing, using ammonium nitrate and potassium nitrate at a dose of 10 g/m².
6. Pests and Diseases
The cultivation of Chinese cabbage faces multiple challenges. plagues and diseases that can significantly affect production. The main ones are:
6.1 Pests
- Leaf miners (Liriomyza trifolii): They cause damage by feeding on the leaves, which can result in weakening of the plant.
- Cabbage fly (Chorthophilla brassicae): They can destroy the main bud of the plant, which affects its growth.
- Cabbage caterpillar (Pieris cabbage): The larvae of these butterflies are responsible for damage to leaves, which can jeopardize production.
6.2 Diseases
- Alternaria (Alternaria brassicae): Black spots on leaves, requiring preventative treatments every 7-10 days.
- Mildew (Peronospora brassicae): It causes small yellow spots and white fuzz on the underside of the leaves.
7. Nutritional Value
Chinese cabbage is prized for its nutritional value. Every 100g of fresh produce provides:
| Composition: | Value per 100 g |
| Water (%) | 95 |
| Proteins (g) | 1.2 |
| Fat (g) | 0.8 |
| Carbohydrates (g) | 3 |
| Fibers (g) | 0.6 |
| Ashes (g) | 0.7 |
| Calcium (mg) | 43 |
| Phosphorus (mg) | 40 |
| Iron (mg) | 0.6 |
| Sodium (mg) | 23 |
| Potassium (mg) | 253 |
| Vitamin A | 150 |
| Thiamine (mg) | 0.05 |
| Riboflavin (mg) | 0.04 |
| Niacin (mg) | 0.26 |
| Ascorbic acid (mg) | 25 |
Because of his low calorie content y high fiber content, is ideal for those people who seek to maintain a healthy dietThis also makes it a great ally in a balance diet.
8. Culinary Uses of Chinese Cabbage
Chinese cabbage can be consumed in various ways:
- Raw in salads.
- Cooked in soups and stews.
- Sautéed with other vegetables or meats.
Its versatility in the kitchen makes it a popular choice in many recipes, providing a unique flavor and crunchy texture. It is common in Asian cuisine, where it is often used in dishes such as kimchi, a very popular fermented dish in Korea.
Growing Chinese cabbage is not only a challenge for the farmer, but also a potential source of healthy and delicious food for the table. With proper care and a favorable environment, its cultivation can be very successful. For those interested in agriculture, growing Chinese cabbage represents an opportunity to diversify their crops and offer fresh products to their consumers. Knowledge of its requirements, as well as pest and disease management, are essential to ensuring a successful harvest.
I need to get Chinese cabbage seeds for my small home grow, where can I buy?
Hi Amelia.
It is likely that you will find them on ebay, or in nurseries.
A greeting.