Pak Choi
Brassica rapa subsp. chinensis
A quick-growing Asian brassica for the UK garden. It does best in cool, moist conditions, with regular sowings from late spring through summer and a steady supply of water to slow bolting.
Growing Guide
Step-by-step instructions for growing Pak Choi
Planting Calendar
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Sow Small Batches
every 3 weeksSow thinly around in shallow drills, then repeat every 21 days for a steady supply. Cover lightly with fine soil and keep the row moist while the seed germinates.
Thin Seedlings
When seedlings have a couple of true leaves, thin them to one plant every . Use the thinnings in the kitchen if they are healthy, and keep the strongest plants growing on.
Protect From Pests
Check plants from for slug and snail damage, especially on soft young leaves. Use barriers, hand-picking, or pellets where needed, and keep the area tidy so pests have fewer hiding places.
Water Regularly
From , keep the soil evenly moist so plants grow away quickly and are less likely to bolt in warm spells. Water at the base rather than over the leaves, and give a good soak whenever the top of the soil starts to dry.
Harvest Leaves or Whole Plants
Start picking from once plants are firm enough to crop. Take outer leaves for cut-and-come-again harvests, or cut whole plants at soil level when they reach eating size.
Companion Plants
Tap a plant to see why it works (or doesn't) with Pak Choi.
Good companions
Plants to avoid
Why companion planting matters
Companion planting can deter pests, improve pollination, and make better use of space. Some plants confuse pests or attract beneficial insects; others improve soil or offer shade to neighbours that need it.
Suggested Varieties
Popular varieties of Pak Choi to consider
Joi Choi
A reliable green pak choi with good bolting tolerance and crisp stems.
Mei Qing Choi
A compact mini pak choi that suits smaller gardens and containers.
Green Stem
A standard green-stemmed type with quick growth and a mild flavour.
Suiho
A productive hybrid pak choi grown for uniform heads and steady cropping.
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