Chihili Chinese Cabbage Seeds

How to Grow Chihili Cabbage:

• Grow Chihili Cabbage plants in full sun, in rich to average garden soil. Plants prefer cool weather. Like other cole crops, it does not like hot or humid weather.
• For a spring crop, directly sow seeds outdoors in early spring, as soon as the ground can be worked. Seeds can also be started indoors, for an earlier start. For a fall crop, sow seeds outdoors 8-10 weeks before the first frost.
• If planted in wet weather, elevate the soil a little prior to planting.
• Space seedlings 46 cm apart in rows 76 feet apart.
• Keep plants well-watered. The soil should be moist, not wet.
• Fertilize regularly with a general-purpose garden fertilizer.
• Keep plants well weeded early in their growth.

Insects and Pests:

• Chihili Cabbage plants are very susceptible to insects, especially aphids and cabbage loopers. Cabbage loopers are the larva stage of a moth. Try placing a screen over the plant so the female moth can not lay her eggs. Insecticides can also be used to control them. Aphids are controlled by frequent spraying. Organic controls in the form of soap or garlic sprays are also effective.

Harvesting:

• Pick Chihili cabbage after the heads are full and solid. You can also begin to harvest leaves as the plant reaches a size large enough for use in salads, soups, or your favourite recipe.