Species Chinese mustard
Green stem and stalks with yellow flowers on green leaves.

Chinese mustard

Brassica juncea

The Chinese mustard (Brassica juncea) is a popular and invaluable plant species due to its amazing versatility. Its tender leaves can be used as a salad green or sautéed, while the seeds and pods can be used for pickling, oil production and spice powders. Chinese mustard is a valuable source of vitamins and minerals, and its pungent mustard flavor is an ideal addition to many dishes. It is easy to grow and quick to mature, with an impressive tolerance for frost and drought. Chinese mustard is an iconic plant in many of our kitchens, providing us with delicious and nutritious dishes.

Cycle:

Annual

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Cutting,Layering Propagation,Division,Grafting Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

2 - 11

Flowers:

Flowers

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Fruits:

green,yellow,brown Fruits Ready In Fall

Leaf:

Yes

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Chinese Mustard (Brassica juncea) should be watered deeply once or twice a week. The soil should be moist, but not soggy. If the soil becomes too dry, the tips of the leaves and stems may begin to brown. If the soil quality is poor, more frequent watering may be necessary. It is generally best to water Chinese Mustard in the cool morning hours so the plant can take up moisture before the sun gets too hot. If you live in an especially warm climate, you should check the soil for signs of dryness and water as needed.

sunlight

Chinese mustard (Brassica juncea) grows best when receiving 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Although direct sunlight is best for Chinese mustard, plants in partial shade can also be successful. If grown in partial shade, they should have about 4-6 hours of direct sunlight with diffuse light the rest of the day. For best results, the sunlight should be consistent throughout the day with no more than a 1 hour break of light.

pruning

With regards to pruning Chinese mustard (Brassica juncea) plants, it is best to do so after the plant has begun to flower. Begin by trimming the top of the plant to encourage side branches to form. This will result in a bushy plant with a greater yield of fruits. Remove any competing shoots or dead flowers. After harvesting, cut all the stems to the ground to promote better air circulation and prevent diseases. Prune lightly and selectively only when necessary to ensure a good harvest.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Harvest Fruit

Harvesting of Brassica juncea typically begins in July and continues through October.

Starts Flowering

Brassica juncea typically starts flowering in April or May.

Harvest Fruit

Harvesting of Brassica juncea typically begins in July and continues through October.

Hardiness Map