How to grow Pak Choi in the UK
Brassica rapa chinensis
Pak Choi (Brassica rapa chinensis) is a vegetable that grows well in UK gardens. Quick crop — 4-6 weeks. Bolts in heat — best in spring/autumn. Stir-fry favourite. This guide covers when and how to sow Pak Choi, the soil and position it likes, watering and feeding, companion planting, and when to harvest.
When to sow & grow Pak Choi
Sowing and harvest window through the year (UK):
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr Sow | May | Jun Harvest | Jul Sow · Harvest | Aug Harvest | Sep Harvest | Oct Harvest | Nov Harvest | Dec |
Soil, position & care
- Soil
- Rich, moisture-retentive soil
- Soil pH
- 6.5–7.0
- Position
- Open, sunny site
- Sowing depth
- 1 cm
- Spacing
- Thin to 20 cm
- Sowing
- Sow Jul–Aug — spring sowings bolt; fast and cool-season
- Growing
- Keep weed-free and evenly watered; mulch to hold moisture
- Harvest & upkeep
- Harvest whole or as cut-and-come-again leaves
- Watch for
- Flea beetle, slugs, caterpillars
Companion planting for Pak Choi
Grows well with:
Keep apart from:
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Pak Choi FAQs
When should I sow Pak Choi in the UK?
In the UK, sow Pak Choi in April, July. Sowing across these months gives the plant the right soil temperature and day length to establish well.
What grows well with Pak Choi?
Pak Choi grows well alongside Beetroot, Celery, Dill, French Marigold, Pot Marigold, Mint. Good companions can deter pests, attract pollinators or make better use of space.
What should you not plant near Pak Choi?
Keep Pak Choi away from Strawberry, Beef Tomato, Cherry Tomato, which can compete with it or share pests and diseases.
How much sun does Pak Choi need?
Pak Choi prefers partial sun (3–6 hrs).
When is Pak Choi ready to harvest?
Pak Choi is typically ready to harvest in June, July, August, September, October, November in the UK.
Is Pak Choi easy to grow?
Easy — good for beginners. Quick crop — 4-6 weeks. Bolts in heat — best in spring/autumn. Stir-fry favourite.