Kailan Farming: How to Plant and Grow Chinese Broccoli

July 13, 2023 by Lauro Braganza

If you are here because you want to plant and grow Chinese broccoli in pots, you are in the right place so continue reading.

Welcome to our blog post on Kailan farming, where we will explore the fascinating world of Chinese Broccoli and learn how to plant and grow this delicious vegetable right in your own pots. Whether you have a sprawling garden or just a small balcony, Chinese Broccoli can be cultivated easily and enjoyed fresh from your own home.

Known for its vibrant green leaves and tender stems, Chinese Broccoli is a popular ingredient in many Asian cuisines. With its slightly bitter flavor and crisp texture, it adds depth to stir-fries, soups, and salads. But before we dive into the planting process, let’s first discover more about this versatile vegetable. So grab your gardening gloves and let’s get started on this exciting journey of growing Chinese Broccoli!

What is Chinese Broccoli

Chinese Broccoli, scientifically known as Brassica oleracea var. alboglabra, belongs to the cruciferous vegetable family. It is also commonly referred to as Gai Lan or Kai-lan in Cantonese, and Kailan in Tagalog. This leafy green vegetable has a distinct appearance that sets it apart from its Western counterpart, broccoli.

With long stalks and broad leaves, Chinese Broccoli showcases an elegant and robust structure. The stems are thick and crisp, while the dark green leaves have a glossy sheen. Unlike regular broccoli with its compact florets, Chinese Broccoli forms small yellow flowers when left to mature.

grow chinese broccoli in pots — Chinese Broccoli in pots

Native to China, this nutrient-rich vegetable has spread its roots across various Asian countries including Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Indonesia. However, it’s worth noting that China remains one of the top-producing countries of Chinese Broccoli.

In recent years, there has been growing interest in cultivating Chinese Broccoli commercially in the Philippines due to its high demand and nutritional value. While local production may not yet match that of larger-scale growers like China or Thailand for now – home gardeners can still enjoy the benefits of growing their own supply right at home! So let’s delve into the exciting world of planting and growing Chinese Broccoli in pots!

Is Chinese Broccoli Being Produced Commercially in the Philippines?

In recent years, there has been an increasing demand for Chinese Broccoli in the Philippines due to its health benefits and versatile culinary uses. As a result, local farmers have started cultivating this vegetable on a commercial scale.

The tropical climate of the Philippines provides favorable conditions for growing Chinese Broccoli throughout the year. The plant thrives in well-drained soil with plenty of sunlight. Farmers are able to harvest multiple times from each crop since Chinese Broccoli grows fast.

One advantage of growing Chinese Broccoli commercially is its high productivity. With proper care and cultivation techniques, farmers can achieve impressive yields per hectare. This not only fulfills domestic demand but also creates opportunities for export.

Moreover, producing Chinese Broccoli commercially helps boost local agriculture by providing income-generating opportunities for farmers. It also promotes food security by diversifying crop options available in the market.

Commercial production of Chinese Broccoli in the Philippines is steadily growing as more people recognize its value both as a nutritious vegetable and as a profitable agricultural venture.

How to Plant and Grow Chinese Broccoli Commercially

To plant and grow Kailan, you can follow these step-by-step instructions:

Select a suitable planting location: Choose a site that receives full sun or partial shade. Chinese broccoli prefers well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.
Prepare the soil: Clear the planting area of any weeds, rocks, or debris. Loosen the soil to a depth of 8 to 10 inches using a garden fork or tiller. Incorporate organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility and drainage.
Sow the seeds: Chinese broccoli can be grown from seeds. Sow the seeds directly into the prepared soil, spacing them about 6 to 12 inches apart. Plant the seeds about ¼ to ½ inch deep. Cover the seeds lightly with soil and gently pat them down.
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist during germination and seedling establishment. Water the plants regularly, providing about 1 inch of water per week. Adjust the frequency and amount of water based on the weather conditions and the moisture levels of the soil.
Thinning: Once the seedlings are about 3 to 4 inches tall, thin them to provide enough space for the remaining plants to grow. Thin the seedlings so that they are spaced about 12 to 18 inches apart. This allows adequate airflow and prevents overcrowding.
Fertilization: Chinese broccoli benefits from regular fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 14-14-14 formulation, according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Generally, apply the fertilizer every 4 to 6 weeks throughout the growing season. Alternatively, you can use organic fertilizers like compost or well-rotted manure.
Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as straw or wood chips, around the base of the plants. Mulching helps to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and maintain a more consistent soil temperature.
Pest and disease control: Chinese broccoli may be susceptible to pests like aphids, flea beetles, and caterpillars. Monitor your plants regularly and take appropriate action if you notice any signs of pest damage. You can use organic pest control methods or consult a local gardening expert for specific recommendations.
Harvesting: Chinese broccoli is typically ready for harvest about 60 to 70 days after sowing the seeds. Harvest the plant when the central stem is about 8 to 12 inches tall and before the buds start to open. Cut the stems just above ground level using a sharp knife or shears. You can continue to harvest side shoots as they develop for an extended harvest period.

Remember to consult local gardening resources or experts for region-specific recommendations regarding planting times and specific varieties of Chinese broccoli that thrive in your area.

How to Grow Chinese Broccoli in Pots or Containers

To plant and grow Chinese broccoli in a container, you can follow these step-by-step instructions:

Choose a suitable container: Select a container that is at least 12 inches deep and has a diameter of 12 to 18 inches. Make sure the container has drainage holes at the bottom to prevent waterlogging.
Select a potting mix: Use a well-draining potting mix specifically formulated for container gardening. Avoid heavy garden soil, as it may hinder drainage and cause root rot.
Sow the seeds: Fill the container with the potting mix, leaving about 2 inches of space at the top. Sow the Chinese broccoli seeds directly into the soil, following the recommended spacing of 6 to 12 inches apart. Plant the seeds about ¼ to ½ inch deep, and cover them lightly with soil.
Watering: After sowing the seeds, thoroughly water the container until the water drains out from the bottom. Water the Chinese broccoli regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Monitor the moisture level and adjust the watering frequency accordingly.
Fertilization: Container-grown plants benefit from regular fertilization since nutrients can leach out more quickly. Apply a balanced fertilizer, such as a slow-release granular fertilizer or a water-soluble fertilizer, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Generally, fertilize every 4 to 6 weeks during the growing season.
Placement and sunlight: Place the container in a location that receives full sun or partial shade. Chinese broccoli requires at least 4 to 6 hours of sunlight per day for optimal growth. If needed, rotate the container periodically to ensure even exposure to sunlight.
Pest and disease control: Keep an eye out for common pests such as aphids, flea beetles, and caterpillars. Check the plants regularly, and if you notice any signs of pest damage, take appropriate action using organic pest control methods or consult a gardening expert for guidance.
Harvesting: Chinese broccoli is typically ready for harvest about 60 to 70 days after sowing the seeds. Harvest the plant when the central stem is about 8 to 12 inches tall and before the buds start to open. Cut the stems just above the soil level using a sharp knife or shears. You can continue to harvest side shoots as they develop for an extended harvest period.

Remember to choose a container with adequate drainage, provide regular watering, and ensure sufficient sunlight to promote healthy growth. Container-grown plants may require more frequent watering than those in the ground, so monitor the moisture level of the potting mix to prevent drying out or waterlogging.

Yield and Productivity

Yield and productivity are essential factors to consider when growing Chinese broccoli. The yield per hectare can vary depending on various factors such as soil quality, climate conditions, cultivation techniques, and pest management.

Chinese broccoli has the potential for high yields if grown under optimal conditions. On average, it can produce around 15-20 tons per hectare. However, with proper care and management practices, this yield can be significantly increased.

To ensure maximum productivity, it is crucial to select healthy seeds or seedlings from reputable sources. Proper seedbed preparation and transplanting techniques also play a significant role in achieving higher yields.

Maintaining adequate moisture levels through regular irrigation is vital for the optimal growth of Chinese broccoli plants. Providing sufficient nutrients through organic fertilizers or balanced chemical fertilizers will promote vigorous plant growth and enhance overall productivity.

Additionally, practicing good weed control measures helps minimize competition for resources and allows Chinese broccoli plants to thrive better. Regular monitoring of pests and diseases is necessary to prevent any potential damage that could reduce crop yield.

Final Thoughts

Chinese broccoli, also known as kailan or Chinese kale, is a versatile and nutritious vegetable that can be easily grown in pots. Whether you have limited space or simply prefer container gardening, planting and growing Chinese broccoli at home is a rewarding and enjoyable experience.

By following the steps outlined in this article, you can successfully cultivate your own supply of fresh Chinese broccoli right on your balcony or patio. Remember to choose a suitable pot size, provide adequate sunlight and water, fertilize regularly, and protect the plants from pests.

Not only will you benefit from having access to this delicious leafy green vegetable whenever you need it, but you’ll also have the satisfaction of knowing that it was grown with your own hands. So why not give it a try? Start your own mini kailan farm today!

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