Asian Greens - Scarlet Red Tatsoi

To Start Outdoors

In very early spring as soon as ground can be worked, prepare a well-drained, fertile garden bed in full sun. Sow seeds 1 to 2 inches apart in rows spaced 6 to 8 inches apart. Cover ¼ inch deep and keep soil evenly moist to ensure good germination. Thin to 4 to 6 inches apart when large enough to handle. Sow again in late summer for another fast-growing crop.

To Start Indoors

Sow seeds in a container of seed starting mix 1 to 2 inches apart and cover ¼ inch deep. Keep moist and provide a strong light source until seedlings are about 3 inches tall and ready to plant in the garden.

Thin or Transplant

Space seedlings 4 to 6 inches apart to give plants room to mature.

Growing Notes

Tatsoi thrives in nitrogen-rich soil and cool growing conditions. Be sure to thin seedlings and keep well-weeded and watered for best, sweet tasting heads. Feed 2 or 3 times during the growing season with fish emulsion or another high-nitrogen liquid fertilizer.

Harvest and Use:

Enjoy colorful early thinnings fresh in salads. Harvest the full, upright rosettes once they are densely packed and wellcolored. Chop the vitamin-rich leaves into vibrant stir-fries, or lightly sauté to preserve their sweet, mild flavor and crunchy texture. This stunning red variety is as nutritious as it is beautiful, loaded with healthy antioxidants.