Mizuna Seed (Brassica rapa var. nipposinica)

Mizuna Seed- my favorite leafy green!

Mizuna seed, a gem in the world of leafy greens, offers gardeners the chance to cultivate an ancient, versatile, and nutritious vegetable. Known scientifically as Brassica rapa var. nipposinica, mizuna is a Japanese mustard green characterized by its feathery, serrated leaves and a mild, peppery flavor. The seeds of mizuna hold the promise of a plant that is not only delightful in the garden but also a standout in culinary applications.

Thriving in cool temperatures, mizuna is an ideal crop for both spring and autumn gardens. Its resilience to cooler climates and ability to grow in a wide range of soil types make it an excellent choice for gardeners at any experience level. Mizuna seeds can be sown directly into the garden shortly before the last frost of spring or in late summer for a fall harvest. The plant’s fast-growing nature means you can enjoy fresh greens within a few weeks of planting.

In the kitchen, mizuna’s versatility shines. Its tender leaves can be enjoyed raw in salads, where they add a crisp texture and a subtle spiciness. Mizuna also holds up well to cooking, making it a fantastic addition to stir-fries, soups, and sautés. Its ability to complement a wide array of flavors—from Asian to Mediterranean—makes it a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike.

Nutritionally, mizuna is a powerhouse, packed with vitamins A, C, and K, along with antioxidants and phytonutrients that support overall health. Its high nutritional value, combined with its low calorie count, makes mizuna an excellent addition to any diet, particularly for those looking to increase their intake of leafy greens.

Cultivating mizuna from seed not only yields a bountiful crop of nutritious greens but also invites a piece of Japanese culinary tradition into your garden. Its ease of growth, coupled with its aesthetic appeal and delicious flavor, makes mizuna a must-try for any vegetable gardener looking to expand their repertoire with an exotic yet accessible leafy green.

For gardening tips: https://seedsandsoilorganics.com/category/alaska-seed-company/

Roughly 30-50 Seeds per packet

Growing Mizuna

Soil Preparation

1. Soil Type: Mizuna thrives in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.
2. Soil Preparation: Work organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, into the soil to improve its texture and fertility.

Planting

1. Direct Sowing:
   • Timing: Sow mizuna seeds directly in the garden 2-4 weeks before the last expected frost in spring or 6-8 weeks before the first expected frost in fall.
   • Spacing: Sow seeds ¼ inch deep and 1 inch apart in rows spaced 12-18 inches apart. Thin seedlings to 6-8 inches apart once they have grown a few inches tall.
2. Transplanting:
   • Timing: Start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost date.
   • Spacing: When transplanting, space the plants 6-8 inches apart in rows 12-18 inches apart.

Watering

1. Frequency: Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Water regularly, especially during dry periods.
2. Technique: Water at the base of the plants to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to disease.

Fertilizing

1. Initial Fertilization: Incorporate a balanced, slow-release fertilizer into the soil at planting time.
2. Ongoing Fertilization: Side-dress with a balanced fertilizer or compost tea every 3-4 weeks during the growing season.

Care

1. Weeding: Keep the area around the plants weed-free to reduce competition for nutrients and water.
2. Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the plants to help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.

Pests and Diseases

1. Pests: Watch out for aphids, flea beetles, and cabbage loopers. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil if infestations occur.
2. Diseases: Mizuna is generally resistant to most diseases but can be susceptible to downy mildew and leaf spot. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to minimize disease risks.

Starting Mizuna Seeds Indoors

Materials Needed

• Seed starting trays or pots
• Seed starting mix
• Mizuna seeds
• Watering can or spray bottle
• Plastic wrap or a humidity dome
• Grow lights or a sunny windowsill

Steps

1. Fill Trays: Fill seed starting trays or pots with a high-quality seed starting mix.
2. Sow Seeds: Sow mizuna seeds ¼ inch deep in the seed starting mix. If using trays, space seeds about 1 inch apart.
3. Water: Moisten the soil gently with a watering can or spray bottle. Ensure the soil is damp but not waterlogged.
4. Cover: Cover the trays with plastic wrap or a humidity dome to retain moisture and create a warm environment.
5. Place: Place the trays in a warm location, ideally between 65-75°F (18-24°C). Mizuna seeds usually germinate in 5-10 days.
6. Light: Once the seeds germinate, remove the plastic cover and place the trays under grow lights or in a sunny windowsill. Mizuna needs about 12-16 hours of light per day.
7. Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Water from the bottom if possible to avoid disturbing the seedlings.
8. Thinning: Once the seedlings have grown a couple of inches tall, thin them to prevent overcrowding, leaving the strongest plants.
9. Transplanting: When seedlings have 3-4 true leaves and the danger of frost has passed, harden them off by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over a week. Transplant them into the garden, spacing them 6-8 inches apart.

Following these steps will help ensure a successful mizuna crop, whether starting seeds indoors or sowing them directly in the garden.