How to Plant Pak Choi
Have you ever thought about growing fresh pak choi on your own balcony, looking at the vibrant ones in the market? Once you master the correct method, you'll find that this seemingly delicate leafy green is actually very easy to grow. This article will guide you through the complete process of growing pak choi at home, from site selection to harvest.
Preparation Before Planting Pak Choi
Three-Step Soil Improvement
Choose a south-facing planting area and mix leaf mold soil with garden soil in a 1:3 ratio. Lay a 3cm thick layer of gravel at the bottom of the planting box to ensure good drainage. One week before planting, mix in decomposed sheep manure at a rate of 2kg per square meter.
Seed Selection Tips
Early-maturing varieties like 'May蔓' are suitable for cultivation from March to October, while late-maturing varieties like 'Suzhou Green' perform better from October to the following March. Online purchased seeds should have a production date within one year, with a germination rate of over 90%.
Key Points for Cultivation Management
Golden Ratio of Water and Fertilizer
After seedlings emerge, water with diluted fish protein fertilizer solution (500 times) every week. When the leaves have grown 4 true leaves, follow the 'three waterings, two fertilizations' principle: water thoroughly 3 times a week, alternating between applying wood ash extract and EM bacteria solution.
Pest and Disease Control Network
Setting up a 40-mesh insect-proof net can block 80% of caterpillars. When aphids are found, spray with chili water (200g fresh chili + 1L water soaked for 48 hours) for 3 consecutive days. Using a solar-powered insect killer light at night can also be more effective.
Timing Selection and Adjustment
Open-Air Planting Calendar
The best seasons in the Yangtze River Valley are spring and autumn, with 35 days from sowing to harvest in March to May, and 50 days from September to November. In the Yellow River Valley, it is recommended to plant from mid-April to early June for spring sowing.
Advantages of Facility Cultivation
Greenhouse planting can extend the cycle to the whole year. Using double-layer greenhouse film and ground heating cables in winter can keep the ground temperature stable at over 15°C. Using sunshades in summer can reduce the temperature by 3-5°C, preventing bolting.
Once you master these techniques, you'll find that it only takes one month from sowing to harvest. Regularly rotating the plot can yield 6-8 harvests per year. Picking a few fresh leaves for cooking next time, the satisfaction of having fresh produce straight from the table is the unique charm of urban farming.