Mei Qing Choi: How to Grow, Harvest, Fertilize, and Use Mei Qing Choi

My Journey of Growing Mei Qing Choi (Brassica rapa var. chinensis) in My Backyard

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As a self-proclaimed gardening enthusiast, I have always been fascinated by the process of growing unique and exotic vegetables. Among my many attempts at cultivating various species, none have captivated me quite like the Mei Qing Choi, also known as Chinese mustard or Japanese horseradish. In this article, I will share my personal experience of growing Mei Qing Choi from seed to maturity, and provide valuable insights and tips for fellow gardeners who wish to attempt this endeavor.

A Brief Introduction to Mei Qing Choi

Mei Qing Choi is a type of Brassica rapa var. chinensis, a cool-season crop native to China and Japan. It is a fast-growing, hardy plant that can thrive in a variety of conditions, making it an ideal choice for gardeners in temperate climates. The plant's unique flavor profile, which is a mix of spicy mustard and sweet cabbage, has made it a popular ingredient in Asian cuisine.

Preparing the Soil

Before planting Mei Qing Choi, it is essential to prepare the soil properly. I chose a spot in my backyard that receives partial shade and has well-draining, fertile soil. I added a 2-inch layer of compost to the soil to improve its fertility and structure.

Soil Requirements

• pH: 6.0-7.0
• Nutrient-rich soil with a balanced NPK ratio
• Adequate drainage to prevent waterlogged soil

Sowing the Seeds

I sowed the Mei Qing Choi seeds in late spring, when the weather was still cool. I followed the package instructions for sowing depth and spacing, which recommended a depth of 1/8 inch and a spacing of 6-8 inches between plants.

Sowing Tips

• Sow seeds in a well-draining seed starting mix
• Keep the soil consistently moist during the germination period (7-10 days)
• Transplant seedlings to individual pots or directly into the garden when they have 2-3 sets of leaves

Germination and Growth

After sowing the seeds, I waited patiently for them to germinate. Within 7-10 days, I noticed tiny white roots emerging from the seedlings. As the seedlings grew, I provided them with adequate light, water, and nutrients. I also kept a close eye out for pests and diseases, using organic methods whenever possible.

Germination and Growth Tips

• Provide seedlings with indirect light and maintain a consistent temperature (65-75°F)
• Water seedlings regularly, but avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot
• Fertilize seedlings with a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10 NPK) when they have 2-3 sets of leaves

Pruning and Training

As the seedlings grew, I began to prune and train them to encourage bushy growth and prevent them from becoming leggy. I removed any weak or spindly growth, and gently tied the stems to a trellis using soft ties.

Pruning and Training Tips

• Prune seedlings regularly to maintain a bushy shape
• Train seedlings to grow upwards using a trellis or stake
• Remove any damaged or diseased leaves or stems to prevent the spread of disease

Harvesting

After 60-70 days of growth, I was finally ready to harvest my Mei Qing Choi. The plants produced small, compact heads that were tender and flavorful. I carefully harvested the heads, leaving a small portion of stem attached to the plant to promote regrowth.

Harvesting Tips

• Harvest seedheads when they are small and tender
• Use scissors or a sharp knife to cut the stems, leaving a small portion attached to the plant
• Harvest frequently to encourage the plant to produce more heads

Conclusion

Growing Mei Qing Choi from seed to maturity was a rewarding experience that taught me valuable lessons about gardening and plant care. With proper preparation, care, and attention, anyone can cultivate this unique and delicious vegetable. If you're interested in trying your hand at growing Mei Qing Choi, I hope this article has provided you with the information and inspiration you need to get started. Happy gardening!