Chinese cabbage - Michihili

100 Seeds

Michihili is a traditional Chinese cabbage variety that produces long, cylindrical heads with crisp white stems and tender light-green leaves. It is widely used in salads, stir-fries, soups, kimchi, and pickling. This cool-season vegetable grows quickly and performs exceptionally well in the Gulf during the cooler months.

Best Planting Time

• October to January (recommended)
• Can also be sown in late September in cooler Gulf regions.
• Avoid sowing during spring and summer, as high temperatures can cause premature bolting.

Seed Preparation

• No soaking is required.
• Sow fresh, high-quality seeds directly.
• No cold stratification is needed.

Soil Preparation

Use fertile, loose, moisture-retentive, well-drained soil.

Recommended mix:

• 40% Garden soil
• 30% Compost
• 20% Coco peat
• 10% Perlite or coarse sand

Ideal soil pH:

• 6.0–7.5

Sowing Method

• Sow directly in the garden or in seed trays.
• Plant seeds 0.5–1 cm deep.
• Keep soil evenly moist during germination.
• Transplant seedlings when they have 4–5 true leaves.

Temperature & Light

• Ideal germination temperature: 15–22°C
• Ideal growing temperature: 15–22°C
• Requires 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
• In warmer Gulf areas, provide light afternoon shade.

Watering

• Keep the soil consistently moist.
• Water when the top 2–3 cm of soil begins to dry.
• Avoid irregular watering, which may cause splitting or poor head formation.
• Ensure good drainage.

Germination Time

• 4–8 days

Plant Spacing

• 30–40 cm between plants.
• 45–60 cm between rows.

Harvesting

• Harvest approximately 65–85 days after sowing.
• Heads are ready when they are firm, compact, and fully developed.
• Cut at the base with a sharp knife.
• Young leaves can also be harvested earlier for salads.

Fertilization

• Mix compost into the soil before planting.
• Feed with a balanced vegetable fertilizer every 2–3 weeks.
• Increase potassium slightly during head formation.
• Avoid excessive nitrogen late in the season.

Gulf Climate Tips

• Grow only during the cool season.
• Mulch around plants to keep the soil cool and conserve moisture.
• Water early in the morning.
• Harvest promptly once heads become firm to maintain the best quality.
• Monitor for aphids, cabbage worms, flea beetles, whiteflies, slugs, and downy mildew.
• Michihili Chinese Cabbage grows well in raised beds, vegetable gardens, large containers, and hydroponic systems throughout the Gulf.