UC Master Gardeners, Santa Clara County, CA
University of California
UC Master Gardeners, Santa Clara County, CA

Bok Choy

Garden Help > Vegetables

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White and Green Bok Choi, by Aziz Baameur
White and Green Bok Choi, by Aziz Baameur
Pest management: Boy Choy has the same pests and diseases that affect all brassicas (cabbage family crops). See Cabbage cultural tips, pests, and diseases

The Basics

When to plant

  • February to April and September to October.
  • Bok choy is prone to bolting if planted too early or during warm weather.

Care overview

  • Select a sunny spot with well-amended, fertile soil. 
  • Sow the seeds 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep.
  • When plants are about 4 inches tall, thin to 6 to 8 inches apart. 

Harvest window

  • 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.

Video

More links

Recommended Varieties for Santa Clara County*

Fen Jen Strong, beautiful, good germination
Golden Yellow Lovely, tall, great roots, good germination
Mei Qing Mixed germination, medium strong, roots okay
Pat Choi green Small plants, very weak roots, poor 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.

 
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