Tatsoi Plant Info
Tatsoi (Brassica rapa) is indigenous to Japan where it has been cultivated since 500 A.D. This Asian green belongs to the cabbage family of Brassicas. A low growing annual with small, spoon-shaped leaves, tatsoi is also called spoon mustard, spinach mustard, or rosette bok choy, of which it is a close relative of. They have a mild mustard-like flavor. The plant looks similar to spinach; however, the stems and veins are white and sweet. The plant with its distinctive green, spoon-like leaves, only grows to about an inch (2.5 cm.) high, but it can reach a foot (31 cm.) across! This little plant thrives in cool weather; it can even withstand temps down to -15 degrees F. (-26 C.) and can be harvested out from under a snowfall.
How to Use Tatsoi
So, the question is, “How to use tatsoi?” As mentioned, tatsoi is often found in baby mixed greens and used for salads, but it can also be cooked. It is rich in beta carotene and Vitamins A, C, and K along with calcium, potassium, phosphorous, and iron. Tatsoi tastes much like Bok choy and, as such, is often added to stir fries. It is also used in soups or lightly sautéed as with spinach. The beautiful leaves make a unique pesto as well.
Tatsoi Growing Instructions
A rapid grower, tatsoi is ready to harvest in just 45 days. Since it likes cooler temps, it can be planted in the fall for a second crop in many areas. Although tatsoi thrives in cool temps, growing tatsoi should be situated in full sun in well-draining soil. Prep the planting site by tilling down 6 to 12 inches (15-31 cm.) to loosen any compacted soil. Incorporate 2 to 4 inches (5-10 cm.) of compost or manure prior to seeding or add a balanced organic fertilizer. Sow tatsoi seeds directly into the garden two to three weeks prior to the last expected frost in the spring. While tatsoi likes cool weather, frosty spring conditions can cause the plants to bolt. You may want to start seeds inside six weeks before the last frost and then transplant the young seedlings no earlier than three weeks before the last frost. Thin the young plants to at least 6 inches (15 cm.) apart when they are about 2 to 4 inches (5-10 cm.) tall. Water your tatsoi with 1 inch (2.5 cm.) of water each week. Laying a 2 to 3 inch (5-8 cm.) layer of hardwood mulch will aid in water retention and regulate soil temperatures. Tatsoi can be harvested as early as three weeks from planting for baby greens, or wait the full seven weeks to harvest the mature outer leaves of the rosette. Leave the rest of the plant to continue growing or cut tatsoi off at soil level to harvest the entire rosette. Plant tatsoi seeds every three weeks for a continuous crop. If you have a cold frame, you can continue to plant through mid-winter in some areas. Tatsoi does beautifully when planted together with other greens such as:
Lettuce Mustard Kale Escarole Mizuna Spinach
