How to Grow Kai Lan
Brassica oleracea var. alboglabra
Half Hardy Cool Season Continuous Harvest
Kai lan is an Asian brassica grown for its thick, tender flowering stems — harvested just as the buds begin to open. Sow direct or start indoors in spring; plants are ready in around 60 days. Cut the main stem to trigger side shoot regrowth for multiple harvests. Cover with insect mesh and keep soil moist for best results.
When to Start
Sow indoors 6 weeks before last frost, or direct sow outdoors after frost risk has passed and soil reaches 10°C.
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Growth Stages
Sow seeds
Day 0 Germination
~7 days Harvest
~60 days Seed to harvest ~60 days
Approximate days from start
Care Essentials
- Incorporate well-rotted compost or a balanced granular fertiliser before sowing. Apply a nitrogen-rich liquid feed once plants are established to promote leafy stem growth.
- Kai lan is a productive Asian brassica harvested for its thick, sweet stems and flower buds. It tolerates more heat than other brassicas and can be grown through spring and early summer. Cover with insect mesh to protect against flea beetle and caterpillars.
Growing Conditions
- Min. soil temperature
- 10°C+
- Germination temperature
- 15–25°C
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- Direct sow
- —
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Spacing & Planting
| Plant spacing | 20 cm |
| Row spacing | 30 cm |
| Sow depth | 1 cm |
| Mature height | 40 cm |
| Mature spread | 25 cm |
Growing Conditions
| Min. soil temperature | 10°C |
| Germination temperature | 15–25°C |
| Base growth temperature | 5°C |
| Photoperiod sensitivity | long day |
Frequently Asked Questions
- How far apart should I plant Kai Lan?
- Plant Kai Lan 20cm apart with 30cm between rows.
- Is Kai Lan frost hardy?
- Kai Lan is classified as Half Hardy.
