Tatsoi, also known as Rosette Bok Choy or Spoon Mustard, is a leafy green vegetable that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. Here are some characteristics and growing information for tatsoi:
Characteristics:
Appearance: Tatsoi has small, dark green, spoon-shaped leaves that form a compact rosette.
Flavor: It has a mild, mustard-like flavor, making it a popular choice in salads and stir-fries.
Nutrition: Tatsoi is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium and folate.
Growing Methods:
Soil: Tatsoi prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH.
Sowing: Seeds can be directly sown in the garden or started indoors and transplanted later. Plant the seeds about 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep.
Spacing: Space tatsoi plants about 6-12 inches apart to allow room for growth.
Germination: Tatsoi typically germinates within 7-14 days.
Ideal Temperatures and Climate:
Temperature: Tatsoi thrives in cool to mild temperatures. It can tolerate light frost but may bolt (go to seed prematurely) in hot weather.
Growing Season: It is well-suited for spring and fall planting.
Harvesting Period:
Baby Greens: You can start harvesting tatsoi when the leaves are young, usually 3-4 weeks after planting. At this stage, the leaves are tender and have a milder flavor.
Mature Plants: For mature plants, harvest the entire rosette when it reaches about 6-8 inches in diameter.
Watering Preferences:
Moisture: Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Tatsoi prefers regular watering to ensure steady growth.
Mulching: Applying a layer of mulch around the plants can help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Light Preferences:
Sunlight: Tatsoi prefers partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate some shade, especially in warmer climates, but a balance of sunlight is ideal for optimal growth.