Get Growing With Tatsoi 8 Easy Tips
Updated on
September 9, 2023

Growing Tatsoi
If you're looking for a nutritious, easy to grow leafy green that also adds an exotic touch to your plots, then Tatsoi might be the perfect option. With a rich flavour and versatile uses, it'll be a real hit in your garden. Here are 8 simple tips to get you started!
Get Growing With Tatsoi in 8 Easy Tips
Tip 1: Choose the Right Location
Plant tatsoi in a location that receives partial shade, especially in hot climates. It thrives in well-draining soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.5.
Tip 2: Prepare the Soil
Amend the soil with organic matter, such as compost or aged manure, to improve its fertility and drainage. Remove any weeds or debris from the planting area.
Tip 3: Start Indoors
Sow tatsoi seeds indoors about 4-6 weeks before the last frost date. Use seed-starting trays or pots filled with a seed-starting mix. Keep the soil consistently moist until the seeds germinate.
Tip 4: Transplant Carefully
When the seedlings have developed their first true leaves, gently transplant them into your garden. Handle the delicate roots with care to avoid damage.
Tip 5: Water Regularly
Maintain consistent moisture levels in the soil by watering your tatsoi regularly. Aim to keep the soil evenly moist, but avoid overwatering, as it may lead to root rot.
Tip 6: Fertilize Sparingly
Use a balanced organic fertilizer once or twice during the growing season to provide tatsoi with essential nutrients. Avoid over-fertilization, as it can cause excessive leaf growth and a bitter taste.
Tip 7: Prevent Pest Problems
Protect your tatsoi from common pests like aphids, flea beetles, and cabbage worms by using physical barriers, such as row covers or netting. Monitor your plants regularly and take appropriate action if pests are detected.
Tip 8: Harvest at the Right Time
Harvest tatsoi leaves when they reach a size of 4-6 inches. Cut the outer leaves first, leaving the inner ones to continue growing. Regular harvesting promotes continuous growth and extends the harvest season.
Remember, tatsoi is a versatile and nutritious green that can be enjoyed raw in salads or cooked in stir-fries, soups, and other dishes. Happy gardening and bon appétit!
- Seed-starting trays or pots
- Seed-starting mix
- Organic compost or aged manure
- Watering can or hose
- Balanced organic fertilizer
- Row covers or netting
- Garden scissors or shears
Tatsoi is a delicious and nutritious leafy green vegetable native to Asia that is becoming popular with home gardeners in the United States. It’s known for its mild, sweet flavor and its high vitamin C content. If you’ve been thinking of adding this nutritious vegetable to your home garden, here are 8 easy tips to get you started:
1. Choose The Right Varieties
There are several varieties of Tatsoi available. To get the best yields, choose varieties like Chinese Green Dragon and Red Tatsoi. Both produce heavily and are fairly easy to cultivate.
2. Plant At The Right Time
Tatsoi is a cool-season crop and grows best in temperatures ranging from 45 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. You can plant it in spring (between 10 and 12 weeks before the last frost), or in early autumn (6 to 8 weeks before the first frost date).
3. Find The Perfect Spot
Choose a spot in your garden with full sun and well-drained soil. If you’re planting in spring, be sure to select a spot that has adequate soil warmth in order to ensure germination. Tatsoi is a versatile crop and can even be planted in containers and raised beds.
4. Fertilize And Mulch
Tatsoi does best with regular fertilizing. Use an organic fertilizer with a higher nitrogen-to-potassium-ratio for best results. Applying a thick layer of mulch around the plants helps the soil hold moisture and keeps weeds away.
5. Water Regularly
Tatsoi needs to be adequately watered in order to grow healthy and produce a good yield. Keep soil moist and water it well at least once a week. Pests and diseases tend to attack stressed plants, so be sure to provide enough water and regular monitoring.
6. Control Pests And Diseases
Monitor your Tatsoi frequently for signs of pest infestations and diseases. A few common pests are aphids, slugs, and caterpillars. Diseases include leaf spot on the leaves and stem rot. To control these, use organic insecticides and fungicides.
7. Harvest With Care
When Tatsoi is ready for harvest (about 45-60 days after planting), use scissors or a knife to cut the leaves at the base. Avoid pulling the vegetables to prevent root damage. Tatsoi can be kept in the fridge for several days in an airtight container.
8. Enjoy The Fruits Of Your Labor
Tatsoi makes a delicious addition to your salads, sandwiches, and stir-fries. You can also steamed it or sautéed it with garlic or onions for a tasty side dish. Enjoy a nutritious and flavorful vegetable that you grew yourself!
Making Tatsoi a part of your home garden is easy with these 8 simple tips. Choose the right varieties, plant it at the right time, and find the ideal spot for growing. Don’t forget to fertilize and mulch, water and monitor frequently for pests and diseases, and harvest with care. And once the vegetables are ready, enjoy all the flavorful goodness of Tatsoi in your meals!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Tatsoi?
Tatsoi, also known as Spoon Mustard or Rosette Bok Choy, is a leafy green vegetable that belongs to the Brassica family. It has dark green, spoon-shaped leaves that form a dense rosette. Tatsoi is widely popular in Asian cuisine and is known for its mild and slightly peppery flavor.
How do I grow Tatsoi?
Growing Tatsoi is relatively easy. Here are some tips to get you started:
1. Start by selecting a sunny location for your Tatsoi bed. It prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
2. Prepare the soil by adding compost or well-rotted manure to improve its fertility and drainage.
3. Sow the Tatsoi seeds directly into the soil, about half an inch deep. Leave a gap of 8-10 inches between each plant to allow for proper growth.
4. Maintain consistent soil moisture by watering regularly, especially during dry spells. Avoid overwatering, as Tatsoi prefers moist but not waterlogged soil.
5. Apply a balanced organic fertilizer every three to four weeks to promote healthy growth.
6. Keep an eye out for pests, such as aphids and flea beetles. Control them with organic pest control methods if necessary.
7. Harvest Tatsoi leaves when they reach a desired size, usually around 30-40 days after sowing. You can either pick the outer leaves or cut the entire rosette.
8. Rotate the Tatsoi planting location each year to prevent the buildup of diseases or pests.
Can I grow Tatsoi in containers?
Yes, Tatsoi can be grown in containers, making it an excellent choice for urban gardeners or those with limited space. Choose a container that is at least 8-10 inches deep and wide enough to accommodate multiple plants. Ensure the container has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. Follow the same growing tips mentioned above, but remember to water containers more frequently, as they tend to dry out faster than ground beds.
When is the best time to plant Tatsoi?
Tatsoi is a cool-season vegetable that thrives in temperatures between 45°F and 75°F (7°C and 24°C). It can be grown in both spring and fall. For spring planting, sow the seeds as soon as the soil is workable and danger of frost has passed. In fall, sow the seeds around 6-8 weeks before the first expected frost date. Tatsoi prefers cooler weather, so avoid planting during the heat of summer.
Can I eat Tatsoi raw?
Absolutely! Tatsoi can be eaten raw or cooked, depending on your preference. Its tender leaves have a mild and slightly peppery taste, making them a delightful addition to salads, sandwiches, and wraps. When eaten raw, Tatsoi retains its fresh crunch and vibrant flavor. However, it can also be lightly sautéed, steamed, or stir-fried, resulting in a tasty cooked green.
Is Tatsoi a nutritious vegetable?
Yes, Tatsoi is highly nutritious and offers various health benefits. It is a rich source of vitamins A, C, and K, which are essential for supporting healthy vision, boosting immunity, and promoting blood clotting. Tatsoi also provides dietary fiber and minerals such as calcium, potassium, and iron. Including Tatsoi in your diet can contribute to overall well-being and a balanced nutrient intake.
Where can I buy Tatsoi seeds or seedlings?
Tatsoi seeds and seedlings can be found at local garden centers, plant nurseries, or through online seed suppliers. Ensure you purchase high-quality seeds or healthy seedlings from a reputable source. Consider choosing organic options, as they are cultivated without the use of synthetic pesticides or fertilizers.
Can I save Tatsoi seeds for future planting?
Yes, you can save Tatsoi seeds for future planting. Allow some of your Tatsoi plants to bolt and produce flowers. As the flowers fade, they will form seed pods. Once the seed pods turn brown and dry, collect them and store them in a cool, dry place. After a couple of weeks, gently crush the seed pods to release the tiny seeds. Store the seeds in a labeled envelope or airtight container. Properly saved Tatsoi seeds can remain viable for several years.
Remember, Tatsoi is a versatile and rewarding vegetable to grow. By following these tips and guidelines, you'll soon enjoy a bountiful harvest of this delicious and nutritious green. Happy gardening!Growing Tatsoi offers huge benefits to you and your garden. Not only is it easy to grow, but it's incredibly healthy and delicious too! You'll get to enjoy its crunchy texture and savory flavor, along with the added bonus of added nutrients in your diet. So why wait? Get growing now and experience the flavor and health benefits of Tatsoi!