Chijimisai Seeds,
Chijimisai

Chijimisai is ideally planted in the cool seasons of spring and fall. In milder climates, it can even be grown throughout the winter. Sow seeds in early spring as soon as the soil can be worked or in late summer to early fall for a fall crop. In areas with hot summers, avoid planting during the peak heat as this can cause the plants to bolt.

Sow Chijimisai seeds directly in the garden or start them indoors 4–6 weeks before the last frost date. When sowing outdoors, plant seeds about 1/4 inch deep and space them 12 inches apart once thinned in rows 12–18 inches apart. If starting indoors, transplant seedlings into the garden once they have developed their first true leaves and the risk of frost has passed.

Chijimisai grows best in full sun but can tolerate partial shade, especially in warmer climates. Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist, as dry conditions can lead to bolting. Applying mulch around the plants will help retain moisture and keep weeds at bay. Fertilize with a balanced organic fertilizer or side-dress with compost during the growing season to encourage vigorous growth.

• Like spinach, chijimisai is an annual, completing its life cycle in one year. To avoid selecting bolt-prone plants, don't save seeds from prematurely bolted ones.
• Let plants mature fully, harvest the dried pods, crumble the small round seeds into a jar or bag, then seal and store the seeds in a cool, dark, dry place.
• Bok choy and chijimisai cross-pollinate with other B. rapa species, such as spinach, but not with different species of Brassica, so it's safe to grow them next to mustard greens (Brassica juncea), for example.
• To ensure seed purity, isolate your bok choy from other blooming B. rapa by about a half mile or use caging techniques. Allow your healthiest plants to flower for a strong, diverse seed pool.