Shikibu Green is a compact F1 pac choi hybrid bred for reliability and speed, reaching harvestable size in just 45 days. This dark purple variety is specifically selected for its resistance to premature bolting, a common frustration with Asian greens in variable climates. Hardy from zones 3 to 11, it thrives in moderate moisture and slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0, 7.5), making it adaptable across most North American gardens. Its compact growth habit fits neatly into small spaces, containers, and succession plantings throughout spring, summer, and fall.
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Moderate
3-11
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Moderate
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Shikibu Green's greatest strength lies in its cold tolerance combined with bolting resistance. Seedlings may bolt if exposed to temperatures below 50°F over multiple nights, but once established plants tolerate frost and even light freezes without flowering prematurely. This stability means you can sow from early spring through midsummer in most climates, and in the South or mild regions, it excels as a fall crop. The dark purple coloring and quick 45-day turnaround make it both beautiful and efficient.
Shikibu Green is harvested before flowering and used fresh in stir-fries, soups, and salads where its tender leaves and mild stems shine. The compact size and quick maturity suit both home gardeners seeking rapid harvests and market growers managing succession plantings.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Start seeds in 128 or 72-cell trays indoors 2 to 4 weeks before your planned transplant date. Maintain germination temperatures between 55 and 70°F. Avoid letting seedlings sit in cold temperatures below 50°F for extended periods, as multiple nights of cold can trigger premature bolting. Transplant out before seedlings become rootbound or stressed, as stressed seedlings are more prone to bolting.
Transplant seedlings outdoors once they are established but before they become rootbound or stressed. Space plants 6 inches apart with rows 18 inches apart. Shikibu Green is frost-tolerant, so it can go in the ground once soil is workable in spring. In mild climates or protected structures like high tunnels, fall transplanting is well suited for this variety.
Direct sow seeds from early spring through midsummer, sowing at soil temperatures between 55 and 70°F. In the South and mild climates, fall sowing is also an excellent option for a cool-season harvest.
Harvest Shikibu Green before the plant begins to flower, typically around 45 days after sowing or transplanting. Cut plants at or just above soil level, or harvest individual outer leaves for a longer season of production. The dark purple coloring makes it easy to spot when plants are mature and ready.
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