Brassica rapa (Pekinensis Group)

The Pekinensis group of Brassica rapa is in the mustard family and goes by various names which sometimes overlap with the Chinensis group. They include Chinese Cabbage, Celery Cabbage, Napa Cabbage and Bok Choy. This group grows as broadleaved, compact heading types of Chinese cabbages.  The genus name Brassica is Latin for cabbage.

They are cool weather plants that will tolerate light frost and should be grown in the spring or fall. Plant in fertile well-drained soil in full sun and water as needed to keep the soil moist. Row covers are helpful to decrease insect problems. Use transplants in the spring or start seeds inside 6-7 weeks before the last frost date. Seeds can be direct sown for a fall crop.  A row cover can protect the plant from cold temperatures.  

This variety produces a dense, tall, barrel-shaped head.  The leaves that grow in an erect form are pale, thin and tender.  It can be harvested when the heads are a usable size.  They should feel firm and dense.  If not, they need more time before harvesting.  Once mature, harvest promptly as it tends to lose its quality.  The appearance of a flower stalk, calling bolting, signals the end of leaf growth, leaving the leaf with a bitter taste.  

Problems, Pests and Diseases: aphids, whiteflies, flea beetles, and caterpillars such as cabbage loopers, cutworms, and beet army worms. Slugs and snails may also be a problem. Diseases include club root, white rust, leaf spot, and rots such as damping off and bacterial soft rot.