Learning how to grow mustard greens can add a nutritious and flavorful crop to your garden. These leafy vegetables mature quickly and offer impressive health benefits. Most Filipino gardeners find them easy to cultivate with minimal effort.

Mustard greens (Brassica juncea) belong to the cruciferous family alongside cabbage and kale. They contain high levels of vitamins A, C, and K, plus calcium and iron. Regular consumption supports immune function and bone health.

Before starting, choose a variety that suits your taste preferences. Some popular options include Green Wave, Southern Giant Curled, and Red Giant. Each offers slightly different flavors, ranging from mild to peppery.

These greens grow best in cooler weather, making them ideal for growing during our milder seasons. They withstand light frost and even improve in flavor after cool temperatures. This adaptability makes them perfect for year-round growing in many Philippine regions.

With proper care, you’ll harvest your first leaves in just 30-45 days from planting. This quick turnaround makes mustard greens perfect for beginning gardeners looking for early success.

Understanding Mustard Green Varieties

Several mustard green varieties grow well in the Philippines. Each offers unique characteristics in terms of appearance, flavor, and growth habits. Exploring different types helps you find the perfect match for your garden.

How big do mustard greens grow depends on the variety and growing conditions. Most types reach 30-60 cm tall with a similar spread when fully mature. Larger varieties like Green Wave and Southern Giant Curled need more space than compact types.

Green Wave produces deeply curled, frilly leaves with a moderately spicy flavor. It resists bolting in warm weather better than many varieties. The attractive plants grow to 45-60 cm tall with spreading leaves.

Southern Giant Curled features large, ruffled leaves with vibrant green color. Its mild flavor makes it versatile for cooking or adding to salads. This variety grows upright, reaching about 50 cm tall.

Red Giant offers stunning burgundy leaves with green undertones. Its spicy flavor intensifies with maturity. The striking color adds visual appeal to gardens and plates alike.

Mizuna has deeply cut, feathery leaves with a mild, pleasant taste. It grows in a compact rosette form. This Japanese variety withstands heat better than many other mustard greens.

Tatsoi grows in flat rosettes with dark green, spoon-shaped leaves. It has a very mild flavor similar to baby spinach. This variety handles cold extremely well and grows quickly.

How to Grow Mustard Greens from Seed

How to grow mustard greens from seed begins with timing your planting properly. In most Philippine regions, sow seeds during the cooler months of October through February. Highland areas allow longer growing seasons.

Start by preparing the soil thoroughly. Mustard greens prefer fertile, well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter. Work compost into the top 15 cm of soil before planting to improve fertility and structure.

How deep to plant mustard seeds affects germination success. The ideal depth is about 6 mm below the soil surface. Sowing too deeply delays emergence, while surface planting risks drying out. Cover seeds lightly with fine soil.

Space rows 30-45 cm apart for easy access during growth and harvest. Within rows, place seeds 2-3 cm apart for proper germination space. This allows enough room for initial growth before thinning.

Water the seeded area gently but thoroughly. Keep soil consistently moist during the germination period. Seeds typically sprout within 4-7 days when soil temperatures range between 10-25°C.

Once seedlings reach 5 cm tall with their first true leaves, thin them to stand 10-15 cm apart. This spacing allows proper air circulation and root development. Use the thinned seedlings in salads for an early harvest.

Caring for Young Plants

Young mustard green plants need consistent care to develop properly. Regular watering keeps soil moist but not waterlogged. Aim for about 2.5 cm of water weekly, adjusted for rainfall.

How do mustard greens grow best depends on several key factors. They prefer cool temperatures, consistent moisture, and fertile soil rich in organic matter. Given these conditions, plants develop quickly and produce tender, flavorful leaves.

Apply a thin layer of mulch around plants once they’re established. This conserves moisture, suppresses weeds, and keeps soil temperatures stable. Straw, dried leaves, or grass clippings work well.

Feed plants with balanced organic fertilizer when they reach about 10 cm tall. Fish emulsion or compost tea provides nutrients without burning tender leaves. Apply according to package directions.

Watch for pests like aphids and flea beetles that commonly attack young plants. Inspect undersides of leaves regularly. A strong spray of water often removes aphids effectively. Row covers protect against flea beetles.

Provide some afternoon shade if growing during warmer months. This prevents bolting (premature flowering) that makes leaves bitter. Shade cloth or planting near taller crops creates natural protection.

Mustard Greens Growing Temperature

Mustard greens growing temperature preferences range between 10-24°C for optimal development. These cool-season crops perform best during our cooler months. Temperature affects both growth rate and flavor.

Cool temperatures produce sweeter, more tender leaves. When temperatures stay below 21°C, plants develop slowly but produce superior flavor. Many gardeners prefer crops grown during the cooler season for this reason.

Hot weather above 27°C triggers bolting, where plants quickly produce flowers and seeds. This survival mechanism makes leaves turn bitter and tough. In warm regions, choose heat-tolerant varieties and provide afternoon shade.

Light frost actually improves flavor by increasing sugar content in leaves. Plants can withstand temperatures as low as -4°C for short periods. This cold-hardiness extends the growing season in highland areas.

For year-round production, succession plant every 2-3 weeks during favorable temperature periods. This provides continuous harvests before plants bolt in warmer weather. When temperatures rise, switch to more heat-tolerant varieties.

Water and Fertilizer Requirements

Consistent moisture produces tender, flavorful mustard greens. Water deeply when the top centimeter of soil feels dry. Irregular watering causes stress and bitter flavor development.

During hot, dry periods, water more frequently to prevent drought stress. Apply water at the base of plants rather than overhead to reduce disease risk. Early morning watering allows leaves to dry before evening.

Fertilize moderately throughout the growing period. Too much nitrogen creates excessive leaf growth with poor flavor. Apply balanced organic fertilizer or compost tea every 3-4 weeks.

Side-dress plants with compost midway through the growing season. Spread a thin layer around plants without touching stems. Water thoroughly after application to release nutrients into the soil.

Watch for nutrient deficiency signs like yellowing leaves or stunted growth. Address problems quickly with appropriate organic amendments. Foliar sprays of seaweed extract work well for micronutrient deficiencies.

Pest and Disease Management

Common pests affecting mustard greens include aphids, flea beetles, and caterpillars. Regular inspection helps catch problems before they become severe. Check leaf undersides where pests often hide.

Flea beetles create small holes in leaves, reducing yield and appearance. Row covers prevent access when placed immediately after planting. Diatomaceous earth sprinkled around plants also deters these pests.

Aphids cluster on new growth and undersides of leaves. Strong water sprays dislodge them effectively. For serious infestations, insecticidal soap provides control without harming beneficial insects.

Diseases like downy mildew appear during humid conditions. Space plants properly for good air circulation. Water at soil level rather than on leaves. Remove and dispose of affected leaves promptly.

Crop rotation prevents disease buildup in soil. Avoid planting mustard greens or related crops in the same location for at least two years. This breaks pest and disease cycles effectively.

How to Grow Mustard Greens in Pots

How to grow mustard green in pots offers flexibility for limited spaces. Choose containers at least 20 cm deep with good drainage holes. Larger pots allow more plants and require less frequent watering.

Use high-quality potting mix rather than garden soil. Commercial mixes provide proper drainage and nutrient content. Add compost for additional organic matter and slow-release nutrients.

Fill containers to about 2.5 cm below the rim. This allows space for watering without overflow. Firm soil gently but don’t compact it too much.

Sow seeds directly in containers 6 mm deep and 2-3 cm apart. After germination, thin seedlings to stand 10-15 cm apart. For immediate impact, transplant nursery seedlings at the same spacing.

Place pots where they receive at least 4-6 hours of sunlight daily. During hot months, morning sun with afternoon shade works best. Move containers as needed to adjust light exposure.

How to Grow Mustard Seeds in Pots

How to grow mustard seeds in pots for microgreens offers quick results. These tender young seedlings provide concentrated nutrition and flavor. They’re ready to harvest in just 7-14 days.

Choose wide, shallow containers at least 5 cm deep with drainage holes. Seed trays, recycled food containers, or specialized microgreen trays all work well. Clean thoroughly before use.

Fill containers with sterile seed-starting mix to about 1 cm below the rim. Moisten the soil thoroughly before planting. The surface should feel damp but not soggy.

How deep do you plant mustard seeds when growing microgreens? Unlike garden planting, these seeds need minimal covering. Spread them densely across the soil surface, then either press gently into the soil or cover with a very thin layer (less than 3 mm) of fine soil.

Cover containers with a clear lid or plastic wrap to maintain humidity during germination. Remove covers once the seeds sprout to prevent mold development. Keep soil consistently moist throughout growing period.

How to Grow Mustard Green Indoors

How to grow mustard green indoors allows year-round harvests regardless of outdoor conditions. Choose a sunny window facing south or west for maximum natural light. Supplement with grow lights if needed.

How do you grow mustard successfully indoors? The key elements include adequate light, proper containers, quality soil, and attention to indoor growing conditions. With these basics in place, you can enjoy fresh greens regardless of outside weather.

Select containers with good drainage and saucers to catch excess water. Deep containers allow proper root development. Self-watering planters work well for consistent moisture levels.

Use quality potting mix enriched with compost. Indoor plants rely completely on the nutrients you provide. Initially, rich soil reduces the need for frequent fertilizing.

Maintain indoor temperatures between 18-24°C for optimal growth. Avoid placing plants near heating vents or air conditioners that create temperature fluctuations or drafts. Consistent conditions promote steady growth.

Provide additional humidity in air-conditioned or heated rooms. Group plants together, use pebble trays with water, or mist occasionally. This mimics the natural humidity that mustard greens prefer.

Harvesting and Storage

Begin harvesting when plants reach 10-15 cm tall. For continuous production, pick outer leaves first while allowing centers to continue growing. This “cut-and-come-again” approach extends the harvest period significantly.

How do you harvest mustard greens for maximum yield and plant health? Use sharp scissors or a clean knife to cut leaves about 5 cm above the soil line. This preserves the growing point and allows plants to regrow. For larger harvests, cut the entire plant 2-3 cm above soil level.

Harvest in early morning when leaves contain maximum moisture and flavor. Use sharp scissors or knives to avoid damaging plants. Clean cuts heal quickly and minimize disease entry points.

For baby greens, harvest entire plants when they reach 7-10 cm tall. These tender leaves offer a milder flavor and a tender texture. Succession planting ensures continuous harvests of baby greens.

Store harvested leaves in perforated plastic bags in the refrigerator. They keep best at near-freezing temperatures with high humidity. Most varieties remain fresh for 5-7 days when properly stored.

Preserve excess harvest by blanching and freezing leaves. Alternatively, dry leaves for tea or powder for later use. Pickled mustard greens are traditional condiments in many Asian cuisines.

Extending Your Growing Season

Extend your mustard green growing season with simple techniques. Succession planting every 2-3 weeks provides continuous harvests. When one batch begins to bolt, younger plants take over production.

How do you grow mustard greens throughout the year? Combine season extension techniques with succession planting and variety selection. In many Philippine regions, you can maintain production for 8-10 months with proper planning.

Use row covers to protect plants from both heat and cold. Lightweight fabric creates a microclimate 2-3°C warmer than outside air. This extends growing seasons in both directions.

Grow heat-resistant varieties during warmer months. Some newer hybrids withstand higher temperatures without immediate bolting. These allow production into the early warm season.

Provide afternoon shade during hot periods using shade cloth, taller companion plants, or temporary structures. Reducing temperature stress extends productive life before plants bolt.

Consider hydroponic systems for indoor year-round production. Simple deep water culture or nutrient film technique systems require minimal space and provide ideal growing conditions regardless of outdoor weather.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I grow mustard greens year-round in the Philippines?

In most regions, the cooler months (October- February) work best. Highland areas allow longer growing seasons. During warmer months, choose heat-tolerant varieties, provide afternoon shade, and harvest younger leaves before they become bitter.

2. How often should I water my mustard green plants?

Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. During cool weather, watering every 3-4 days usually suffices. In hot, dry conditions, daily watering may be necessary. Container plants need more frequent watering than those in the ground.

3. Why are my mustard greens growing tall with few leaves?

This indicates bolting, where plants prepare to flower and produce seeds. It’s triggered by hot weather, long daylight hours, or root stress. Harvest remaining leaves immediately, as they’ll soon turn bitter. Replant during a cooler season.

4. Can I save seeds from my mustard green plants?

Yes, allow some plants to flower and form seed pods. When pods turn brown and dry, collect and store the seeds in a cool, dry place. Note that hybrid varieties won’t grow true from saved seeds, while open-pollinated types will maintain their characteristics.

5. How do I prevent pests without using chemicals?

Use physical barriers like row covers, practice good garden hygiene, encourage beneficial insects, and use organic deterrents like neem oil or insecticidal soap. Healthy plants grown in proper conditions naturally resist many pest problems.

6. Can I grow mustard greens alongside other vegetables?

Yes, they grow well with onions, garlic, mint, and nasturtiums, which help repel pests. Avoid planting near strawberries or pole beans, which may inhibit growth. Interplanting with slower-growing vegetables maximizes garden space.

7. Why do my mustard green seedlings look stretched and weak?

Insufficient light causes leggy growth. Provide at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily or use grow lights kept close to the seedlings. Proper spacing also prevents stretching as seedlings compete for light.

8. Can mustard greens be grown as a commercial crop?

Yes, their quick growth cycle and popularity in Filipino cuisine make them commercially viable. Focus on consistent quality, post-harvest handling, and relationships with restaurants or market vendors for reliable sales channels.

9. How can I prevent a bitter taste in my mustard greens?

Harvest young leaves before plants mature fully. Grow during cooler weather, as heat increases bitterness. Water consistently, as drought stress contributes to bitter compounds. Some varieties naturally taste milder than others.

10. Do mustard greens regrow after cutting?

Yes, when harvested properly by cutting leaves above the growing point, plants will produce new leaves. This cut-and-come-again approach works best during cool weather with plants that haven’t begun flowering.

Conclusion

Learning how to grow mustard greens provides both nutritional and culinary benefits. These versatile greens grow quickly with minimal care, making them perfect for beginning gardeners. Their adaptability to containers and indoor growing extends possibilities for everyone.

Start with quality seeds and proper soil preparation for best results. Pay attention to temperature, water, and light conditions as plants develop. Regular harvesting extends production and provides the most tender, flavorful leaves.

Experiment with different varieties to discover your favorites. Each offers unique flavors, textures, and growing characteristics. The diversity available ensures options for every taste preference and growing condition.

Whether grown in traditional garden beds, containers, or indoor settings, mustard greens reward growers with quick harvests of nutritious leaves. Their impressive vitamin and mineral content makes them valuable additions to healthy diets.

With the techniques shared in this guide, you can enjoy fresh mustard greens from your own garden throughout the growing season. Their ease of cultivation and quick returns make them perfect additions to Filipino home gardens.

A Complete Guide on How to Grow Mustard Greens