How to Grow Komatsuna
Brassica rapa var. perviridis
Komatsuna is one of the fastest and most forgiving leafy greens you can grow. Direct sow outdoors from early spring to early autumn, or under cover for winter harvests. Seeds germinate in 4-5 days and leaves are ready in as little as 4 weeks for baby leaf, or 6-8 weeks for full-sized plants. Harvest cut-and-come-again by taking outer leaves, or cut whole heads. Cold-hardy and heat-tolerant (though it bolts in prolonged heat). Mild mustard flavour eaten raw in salads or cooked like spinach. Succession sow every 2-3 weeks for continuous supply.
When to Start
Direct sow outdoors as soon as soil reaches 8°C — typically early to mid spring. Can also be started indoors 3 weeks earlier for a head start.
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Growth Stages
Approximate days from start
Care Essentials
- Light balanced feed every 2-3 weeks during active growth. Avoid excess nitrogen which can make leaves tough.
- Extremely fast-growing and cold-tolerant. Ideal for succession sowing from early spring to autumn. Bolts in hot weather, so provide light shade in summer.
Growing Conditions
- Min. soil temperature
- 8°C+
- Germination temperature
- 10–25°C
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- Sow indoors
- —
- Transplant out
- —
- First harvest
- —
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Spacing & Planting
| Plant spacing | 15 cm |
| Row spacing | 30 cm |
| Sow depth | 1 cm |
| Mature height | 30 cm |
| Mature spread | 25 cm |
Growing Conditions
| Min. soil temperature | 8°C |
| Germination temperature | 10–25°C |
| Base growth temperature | 5°C |
| Photoperiod sensitivity | day neutral |
Frequently Asked Questions
- How far apart should I plant Komatsuna?
- Plant Komatsuna 15cm apart with 30cm between rows.
- When can I harvest Komatsuna?
- Komatsuna is ready to harvest approximately 25 days after transplanting.
- Is Komatsuna frost hardy?
- Komatsuna is classified as Hardy.
