How to Grow Bok Choy — Croft & Covey

Growing Conditions

Bok choy prefers cool, moist conditions with temperatures between 50°F and 70°F. It tolerates light frost and matures quickly, which makes it useful for filling gaps in the planting schedule. Full sun is preferred, though part shade in warmer weather slows bolting.

Cold climates: Direct sow in early spring 4–6 weeks before last frost, or start transplants indoors 3–4 weeks earlier. For fall, direct sow 6–8 weeks before first frost.

Warm climates: Focus on fall and winter plantings. Spring plantings in warm climates often bolt before producing usable heads.

Sowing & Planting

Sow ¼ inch deep, 2 inches apart in rows 12–18 inches apart. Thin to 6 inches for baby varieties, 12 inches for full-size. Transplants work well for fall plantings — start indoors 3–4 weeks before transplant date.

Care & Maintenance

Consistent moisture is important — irregular watering causes tip burn on leaves and promotes bolting. Mulch around plants to retain moisture. Bok choy is a moderate feeder; side-dress with compost at planting if soil is lean.

Common Problems

Bolting is the main challenge in spring. Choose slow-bolt varieties for spring plantings. Cabbage worms and aphids are common. Row cover at planting is the most effective prevention. Tip burn — brown edges on inner leaves — is caused by calcium deficiency or inconsistent watering, not a pest.

Harvest

Cut the whole head at the base when it reaches the desired size. Baby bok choy can be harvested at 4–6 inches; full-size heads at 10–12 inches. Harvest before any sign of bolting — once the center begins to elongate, flavor declines quickly.

Varieties

Baby bok choy varieties (Shanghai, Toy Choi) mature in 30 days and are ideal for small spaces or quick successions. Full-size varieties take longer but produce more per plant. For spring plantings, choose varieties specifically labeled as slow-bolt or heat-tolerant.