How to Sow and Plant
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Sow Komatsuna seeds outdoors from early May to early September in well-prepared soil. Space seeds approximately 25 cm apart for larger leaves ideal for cooking, or 10 cm apart for tender young greens perfect for salads. After germination, thin seedlings to maintain these distances, ensuring ample room for healthy growth. Choose a sunny or partially shaded spot to enhance germination success. Regularly water the soil to keep it moist but not waterlogged, supporting even sprouting and strong establishment. This simple sowing routine encourages a bountiful harvest of flavorful mustard spinach leaves throughout the growing season.
Komatsuna thrives in well-drained soil with consistent moisture and benefits from regular watering to keep leaves tender. Provide partial to full sunlight for optimal growth and healthy foliage development. To encourage larger leaves suitable for cooking, space plants about 25x10 cm apart; for tender baby greens, a closer spacing of 25x5 cm works well. Harvesting can begin once leaves reach the desired size, and successive pickings will promote continuous growth. This calcium-rich leafy green is adaptable and responds well to fertilization with balanced nutrients to maintain vigorous growth throughout its season.
For optimal growth, sow Komatsuna seeds outdoors from early May to early September. Space seedlings 25x10cm for mature leaves ideal for stir-frying, or 25x5cm for tender young leaves perfect in salads. These fast-growing plants thrive in well-drained soil and enjoy consistent moisture. Harvest leaves regularly to encourage continuous growth and a fresh mustard flavor. Komatsuna’s versatility makes it a great addition to your garden, providing nutrient-rich, calcium-packed greens throughout the warmer months into autumn. Ensure ample sunlight and avoid waterlogging to keep plants healthy and vibrant.
What is Komatsuna and what makes these seeds special?
Komatsuna, also known as Brassica rapa var. perviridis or mustard spinach, is a fast-growing leafy green prized for its tender loose leaves and fresh mustard flavor. These seeds produce calcium-rich greens that are great for stir-fries or salads, offering a nutritious and versatile addition to your garden.
When is the best time to sow Komatsuna seeds outdoors?
The ideal time to sow Komatsuna seeds outdoors is from early May to early September. This period allows for a continuous harvest of tender greens throughout the warmer months and into autumn.
How should I space Komatsuna seeds when planting?
For larger leaves suitable for cooking, space seeds about 25 cm apart. For tender young salad greens, space seeds closer at approximately 10 cm apart. After germination, thinning seedlings to maintain these distances helps ensure healthy growth.
What growing conditions does Komatsuna prefer?
Komatsuna thrives in well-drained soil with consistent moisture and benefits from partial to full sunlight. Regular watering keeps the leaves tender, and balanced fertilization supports vigorous growth throughout the season.
How and when can I harvest Komatsuna leaves?
You can begin harvesting once the leaves reach your desired size. For baby greens, pick earlier; for cooking leaves, allow plants to mature more. Successive harvesting encourages continuous growth and a plentiful supply of flavorful mustard spinach.
How many seeds are typically included and what yield can I expect?
There are approximately 400 seeds per gram, providing ample opportunity to grow a plentiful supply of fast-growing Komatsuna for fresh autumn harvests and beyond.
