Chinese Leaves 'Vitimo' F1 Hybrid (Summer/Autumn) - SeedsBrassica rapa (Pekinensis Group)Chinese cabbage

Sow Chinese Cabbage seed indoors from May to July. Alternatively direct sow outdoors into a well prepared seedbed. Sow at a depth of 13mm (½") and distance of 30cm (12") between rows. Successful seedlings can later be thinned to leave 30cm (12") between each plant.

Indoors, sow seed at a depth of 13mm (½") in trays of free-draining, seed sowing compost and cover with a layer of vermiculite. Place in a propagator or seal container inside a plastic bag at a temperature of 20-25C (68-77F) until germination which takes 4 -7 days. Once germinated, grow Chinese Leaves on in cooler conditions until all risk of frost has passed and plants are large enough to be transplanted with 2-3 true leaves.

Gradually acclimatise them to outdoor conditions over 7 - 10 days before transplanting Chinese cabbages into moist, rich, well drained soil in full sun. A moist soil is essential when growing Chinese Leaves. Prepare the soil in early spring by adding plenty of well rotted farmyard manure to the soil to improve its structure and fertility. Apply lime to acid soils to reduce the acidity and lessen the risk of clubroot. Plant Chinese Cabbages at a distance of 30cm (12") apart and cover with a protective netting or fleece to prevent attack from birds and insects. Place a collar around the stem of each plant to prevent cabbage root fly attacks. Water the plants thoroughly after planting.

Water Chinese Cabbages regularly particularly during dry periods to avoid bolting. Feed throughout the growing season with a high nitrogen feed. Hoe between plants regularly to prevent weeds from establishing and bring insect larvae to the surface.

Chinese Leaves can be harvested as a ‘cut and come again’ crop throughout the growing season by cutting leaves 2.5cm (1") above soil level with a sharp knife or scissors. Alternatively allow mature heads to develop for harvesting from June to October. Mature heads can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 weeks. Culinary note: Vitamin rich Chinese Leaves are particularly high in antioxidants and minerals, and also low in calories.

Seeds and garden supplies will normally be delivered within the time period stated against each product as detailed above. Plants, bulbs, corms, tubers, shrubs, trees, potatoes, etc. are delivered at the appropriate time for planting or potting on. Delivery times will be stated on the product page above, or in your order acknowledgement page and email.

Orders for packets of seed incur a delivery charge of £2.99.

Orders which include any other products will incur a delivery charge of £6.99.

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