Pak Choi

100 Seeds

Pak Choi, also known as Bok Choy, is a fast-growing cool-season leafy vegetable with crisp white stems and tender green leaves. It is widely used in stir-fries, soups, salads, and steamed dishes. Pak Choi matures quickly and is ideal for home gardens, raised beds, hydroponic systems, and containers. It grows exceptionally well in the Gulf during the cooler months.

Best Planting Time

• October to February (recommended)
• Can also be sown in late September in cooler Gulf areas.
• Avoid planting during hot summer weather, as high temperatures may cause bolting.

Seed Preparation

• No soaking is required.
• Sow fresh, healthy 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 seed trays.
• Plant seeds 0.5–1 cm deep.
• Thin seedlings after germination.
• If using trays, transplant when seedlings have 3–4 true leaves.

Temperature & Light

• Ideal germination temperature: 15–25°C
• Ideal growing temperature: 15–24°C
• Requires 5–7 hours of direct sunlight daily.
• In warmer Gulf regions, light afternoon shade helps prevent bolting.

Watering

• Keep the soil evenly moist at all times.
• Water whenever the top 2–3 cm of soil begins to dry.
• Avoid allowing the soil to become completely dry.
• Ensure good drainage to prevent root diseases.

Germination Time

• 4–8 days

Plant Spacing

• 20–30 cm between plants.
• 30–40 cm between rows.

Harvesting

• Baby leaves can be harvested in 25–30 days.
• Full-sized plants are ready in 40–55 days.
• Harvest by cutting the entire plant at the base or pick outer leaves as needed.

Fertilization

• Incorporate compost before planting.
• Apply a balanced vegetable fertilizer every 2–3 weeks.
• Avoid excessive nitrogen late in the growing season.

Gulf Climate Tips

• Grow only during the cool season.
• Mulch around plants to keep roots cool and reduce moisture loss.
• Water early in the morning.
• Harvest promptly once plants reach full size to avoid bolting.
• Monitor for aphids, flea beetles, cabbage worms, whiteflies, and downy mildew.
• Pak Choi grows exceptionally well in raised beds, containers, hydroponic systems, and vegetable gardens throughout the Gulf.