How To Grow The Delicious Green Superfood Mizuna

Growing Mizuna: A Fresh, Peppery Green for Your Garden

Mizuna is one of those greens that feels like a hidden gem in the garden. With its feathery leaves, mild mustardy kick, and incredible versatility, it’s a joy to grow and eat. I’ve had seasons where I couldn’t plant enough of it because we ate it faster than it grew!

What Exactly Is Mizuna?

First things first: mizuna is a Japanese mustard green that’s part of the brassica family. Think kale, broccoli, and cabbage, but with a personality all its own. It’s a cold-tolerant, fast-growing leafy green that works just as well in salads as it does in stir-fries.

If you’re a fan of arugula, you’ll love mizuna’s peppery bite—but without the bitterness. It’s also surprisingly hardy, thriving in conditions where other greens might sulk.

When and Where to Plant Mizuna

Mizuna prefers cooler weather, so your planting window depends on your climate. I like to sow my first batch in early spring, right after the last frost, and again in late summer for a fall crop. In mild winters, it can even overwinter under a row cover or in a cold frame.

Choose a spot with full sun or partial shade, and make sure the soil is rich and well-draining. I’ve had the best results when I add a scoop or two of compost before planting. Mizuna grows fast, but it appreciates a good start.

How to Plant Mizuna

You can plant mizuna from seed or transplant seedlings, but I prefer starting from seed. The direct-sowing method is quick and fuss-free.

1. Scatter the seeds in shallow rows, about 1/4 inch deep. Keep them spaced about 4 inches apart if you’re growing full-sized heads, or closer if you’re harvesting baby greens.
2. Water gently after sowing, and keep the soil consistently moist until you see tiny green sprouts in 5-10 days.
3. Once the plants start growing, thin them out if needed to give each one room to breathe.

If you’re like me and love a continuous harvest, sow new seeds every couple of weeks. This way, you’ll always have a fresh batch ready for salads or sautés.

Caring for Your Mizuna

Mizuna is one of the easiest greens to grow, but it does have a few preferences. Keep the soil evenly moist, especially during hot spells, to prevent the leaves from turning tough or bitter. A good layer of mulch can help with moisture retention and weed control.

Pests like flea beetles might occasionally show up, especially in spring. I’ve found that using floating row covers early on can keep them at bay. And because mizuna grows so fast, it often outpaces the pests before they become a problem.

How and When to Harvest Mizuna

Harvesting is where mizuna shines. The leaves are tender and ready to pick in as little as 20-40 days, depending on the variety. You can cut individual leaves as needed or harvest the entire plant at once. Either way, it keeps growing back for several weeks.

I like to use scissors to snip off the outer leaves first, leaving the center intact. This gives me a steady supply without disturbing the plant too much. If you’re harvesting baby greens, just trim them all at about 3-4 inches tall for the sweetest flavor.

Mizuna thrives under a "cut-and-come-again" approach, making it one of the most productive greens in my garden.

What to Do With Your Mizuna Harvest

This green is as versatile in the kitchen as it is in the garden. Toss it into salads, soups, noodle dishes, or even pizza. Its mild tang boosts the flavor without overpowering the dish. You can also sauté it with a little garlic and olive oil for a quick and delicious side.

One of my favorite ways to use mizuna is in a rice bowl with a soft-boiled egg, sesame oil, and soy sauce. It’s simple, nourishing, and so satisfying after a day of working outside.

Final Thoughts on Growing Mizuna

If you’ve been looking for a green that’s easy to grow, packed with nutrients, and endlessly useful in the kitchen, mizuna is it. This leafy superfood will reward you with weeks of harvests and flavors you’ll want to add to everything. Give it a spot in your garden—you won’t regret it.

Growing Mizuna is not only easy, but it is also beneficial for your garden and the environment. It is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, and after only 30-45 days you can have a full, abundant crop of flavorful and nutritious greens. Plus, with minimal water and minimal effort, you can definitely achieve great success in growing Mizuna in your own garden!