What are Asian Greens?
Wellies and Waxjackets has combined a variety of plants under the umbrella of Asian greens, all of which belong to the Brassica family. These greens share similar tastes, thrive in comparable conditions, and are well-suited for quick cooking methods such as steaming or stir-frying, as well as for fresh consumption in salads.
The naming conventions can be quite confusing, varying by region in Asia. For instance, the term "Choy" (or "Choi") is the Chinese word for leafy vegetables. Although many of these greens are referred to as cabbage, they do not resemble the Western varieties. In China alone, what is commonly called white ‘cabbage’ can be referred to as bok choy, buk choy, pak choy, or baak choi.
Note on Classification
Due to the challenges of categorising these plants reliably, Wellies and Waxjackets has grouped them collectively as Asian greens. While they technically fall under the brassica family (which includes kale and cabbage), this classification simplifies organisation for easy access.
Why Grow Asian Greens?
To assist in the decision-making process for what to grow, Wellies and Waxjackets employs a rating system that considers various factors. Key aspects include taste, nutritional value, cost-effectiveness, harvest size, timing, and the availability of organic options.
How Many to Plant
Estimating the number of Asian greens to plant can be tricky, as they are harvested both whole and as individual leaves. Leaf harvests work well in autumn and winter, while whole plants are generally better for spring. Asian greens tend to have a shorter shelf life compared to other greens like lettuce, being more susceptible to pests and bolting. It’s advisable to start with no more than 0.3m² per person and continue to sow in succession.
Suitability for Different Growing Environments
Being fast-growing and relatively compact, Asian greens can flourish in containers, raised beds, or directly in the soil.
Sowing and Harvesting Periods
First Early Asian Greens (sown in February for a mid/late spring harvest)
This experimental technique tested in 2022 proved successful. As winter crops begin to bolt in February, Wellies and Waxjackets found that sowing Asian greens in early February, with varieties resistant to bolting, can yield plants ready for harvest by March.
Second Early Asian Greens (sown in March for a late spring harvest)
Limited varieties are suitable for March sowing due to their tendency to bolt. However, bolting-resistant varieties like Joi Choi and Mizuna may still thrive.
Early Main Crop Asian Greens (sown in July for an autumn harvest)
Asian greens prefer cooler weather, so sowing for summer harvest is not ideal. Starting in late July allows for outdoor growth leading to an autumn harvest.
Main Crop Asian Greens (sown in early August for autumn and early winter harvest)
The most reliable time for sowing Asian greens is early August, with a second sowing mid-August to cover any unexpected gaps. These crops will continue to grow well into winter under plastic protection.
Winter Crop Asian Greens (sown in September for a late winter harvest)
Sowing in early September allows for continued harvest through winter, with early spring replacements such as beetroot benefiting from the warmth.
Recommended Varieties
Wellies and Waxjackets has been growing a selection of Asian greens in 2022, with some new varieties introduced. Only the best-performing types are highlighted.
How to Sow
Direct sowing into a 40-cell tray is common, as these plants grow reliably and quickly, allowing for planting at 21-30 days old.
How to Prick Out/Pot On
Pricking out should be done carefully, as Asian greens have more delicate stems than other brassicas. Ensuring the plants do not get too large before pricking out is crucial.
Where to Plant
Asian greens thrive in well-drained, neutral to slightly alkaline soils rich in organic matter. A sunny spot is ideal for early spring and autumn growth, while light shade can be beneficial during late spring and early summer. They can tolerate light frost, but extreme temperatures may lead to bolting.
How Many to Plant
Planting density depends on the variety and harvesting method. For example, Pak Choi can be harvested as young plants or allowed to mature, influencing spacing. Experimenting with planting densities can yield surprising results.
How to Plant
For details on planting techniques and products used, refer to the guide on planting. Asian greens are easy to germinate, making direct sowing a preferred method.
Protecting and Supporting Plants
Early plantings, particularly in late autumn and winter, benefit from protection, ideally under plastic. Spring seedlings are often vulnerable to flea beetle attacks, necessitating protective measures.
How to Feed and Water
Applying a good mulch of 2 inches of compost before planting is ideal. While extra nitrogen is often recommended, We do not typically feed after planting. Keeping the soil moist but not saturated is essential.
How to Prune/Manage While Growing
Regularly inspect plants for dead or damaged leaves and check for slugs and caterpillars during harvesting.
How and When to Harvest
Multiple harvesting strategies can be employed, from small heads to individual leaves. Since spring crops may bolt quickly, it's essential to harvest efficiently. For autumn and early winter crops, individual leaves can be harvested from September to January, with whole plants removed in early February.
How to Store
Asian greens are best consumed fresh. Loose leaves can store for a week, while intact heads last up to two weeks.
How to Eat/Cook
The crunchy ribs and tender smaller leaves are excellent in salads, while larger plants are ideal for stir-fries, steaming, or inclusion in soups and curries.
How to Deal with Pests and Diseases
Asian greens face fewer pest issues in cooler weather, but early-season flea beetles and autumn caterpillars can pose significant threats. Slugs are also a common issue.
When and How to Remove the Plants
The ideal method for removal is to cut the stem just below the soil surface, leaving the roots intact. If the roots impede future crops, they may need to be twisted out.
What to Plant Before
The preceding crops depend on the sowing succession:
| Succession | Plant These Before Asian Greens | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| First Earlies | Spinach, carrots, turnips, winter lettuce | |
| Second Earlies | Spinach, carrots, turnips, winter lettuce | |
| Early Main Crop | Spinach, lettuce, broad beans, early beetroot, early brassicas | |
| Main Crop | Almost anything | |
| Winter Crop | Peppers, tomatoes, cucumbers |
What to Plant After
Subsequent crops vary by succession:
| Succession | Plant These After Asian Greens | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| First Earlies | Almost anything; typically peppers | |
| Second Earlies | Anything | |
| Early Main Crop | True spinach, garlic, salad onions, Japanese onions | |
| Main Crop | Lettuce, radish, turnips, early brassicas | |
| Winter Crop | Lettuce, radish, turnips, early brassicas |
What to Interplant With
Due to their rapid growth, Asian greens are not ideal for interplanting. However, relay planting in an existing bed that will soon be cleared can work, though it carries some risks.
When interplanting, key considerations include:
- Does one plant enhance the other’s nutrient access?
- Does one plant provide pest and disease protection?
- Do they draw water and nutrients from different soil levels?
- Do they grow at different rates to avoid competition during harvesting?
- Does one plant offer shade or wind protection?
- Can one serve as a backup in case the other fails?
- Does one deter pests or attract beneficial insects?
