Field mustard (Brassica rapa)

Also known as: Bok choy, Napa cabbage, Bomdong

Field mustard (Brassica rapa) is commonly grown for its oil-rich seeds, which are processed to produce canola oil. This plant also attracts white butterflies, which feed on its flowers for nourishment.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Field mustard

Lifespan

Annual, Biennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

50 m to 1 m

Spread

40 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

4 mm to 5 mm

Flower Color

Yellow

Images of Field mustard

Quickly Identify Field mustard

Brassica rapa can be identified by its slender, upright stem, deeply lobed leaves, and small yellow flowers arranged in racemes. The plant often has a white, bulbous taproot if it is a root variety.

Scientific Classification of Field mustard

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Mustards, capers, and allies

Family

Cruciferae

Genus

Kales

Species

Field mustard

Planting and Growing of Field mustard

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 8 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

4-6 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-70℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Field mustard?

Brassica rapa typically requires around 200 ml per watering session. You should aim to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. The general rule of thumb is to water until the top layer of the soil is evenly moist, without letting the pot sit in standing water.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Field mustard? ›

What should I do if my Field mustard is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Field mustard? ›

How to save an overwatered Field mustard? ›

More About Watering Techniques→

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Field mustard?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours

Brassica rapa ideally needs full sun to partial sun conditions. This lighting encourages full-bodied growth and maximized nutrient absorption, ensuring the plant thrives and produces a bountiful crop.

What is the best light condition for Brassica rapa? ›

How can you achieve the ideal lighting for Brassica rapa? ›

What are the benefits of providing ideal light conditions? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Field mustard?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 70℉

Brassica rapa thrives best within a temperature range of 60°F to 70°F. This range provides the optimal conditions for photosynthesis and growth, ensuring healthy leaf development and robust plant vitality. Maintaining this environment allows the plant to efficiently produce energy, leading to better yields and quality.

What Soil is Best for Field mustard?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6 ~ 7.5

Brassica rapa thrives in soil that retains moisture well. This helps the plant maintain adequate hydration, which is crucial for its growth and health, especially during dry spells. The plant demands a soil rich in nutrients. High levels of organic matter foster robust growth and help prevent nutrient deficiencies, promoting vibrant, healthy foliage. While moisture retention is important, the soil also needs to drain well to prevent water-logging and root rot, ensuring a healthy root system. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Field mustard?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Brassica rapa, the appropriate amount of fertilizer depends on the growth stage and environmental conditions. Generally, use a balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half-strength, applying about 1-2 tablespoons per plant during the growing season. More About Fertilizing Techniques→

How to Prune Field mustard?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Begin by locating damaged, yellowing, or overcrowded shoots. These should be targeted for removal to optimize the plant's health and nutrient distribution. Cut at a 45-degree angle just above a leaf node to promote new growth. Ensure cuts are smooth to facilitate quick healing and reduce exposure to pests and diseases. Gather all pruned material and dispose of it properly. Diseased or pest-infested cuttings should be discarded far from the garden to prevent contamination. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Field mustard plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early spring, Late spring

Start by selecting healthy seeds. Soak them overnight to break the seed coat and promote germination. This pre-treatment can significantly improve the germination rate.

Select a healthy parent plant and cut a non-flowering stem with at least two nodes. Remove excess leaves to reduce water loss and dip the cutting in rooting hormone to stimulate root growth.

For division, choose an established plant and carefully dig it up. Gently separate it into smaller sections, ensuring each has roots and shoots. Replant these divisions into suitable soil immediately.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Field mustard plant?

Repotting frequency: Once a year

Look for signs like crowded roots, water pooling on the soil surface, or slowed growth. These are indicators that your Brassica rapa is outgrowing its pot. Early spring or autumn is ideal for repotting, as the plant is in its growth phase and can recover quickly.

Opt for a pot that's 2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. Ensure it has adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. A larger pot gives room for root expansion, supporting healthier growth and reducing the frequency of repotting.

Use a loamy, well-draining soil mix to encourage effective root aeration and drainage. A nutrient-rich soil will provide the necessary support for robust growth and reduce the risk of root rot.