Harvest the whole rosette or outer stalks. Sudden heat or stress can trigger bolting.
EdibleCool-season crop
Growing spaceVegetable bedClimate fitUrban core · USDA 9b–10a · Valley suburbs · USDA 9a–9b · Desert outskirts · USDA 8b–9bCrop familyBrassicaceae (mustard)Life cycleAnnual cropPhoenix planting windowSeptember–February.How to plantDirect sow seed; transplants are also practical after summer heat.Plant spacing6–12 in, depending on baby or full-size harvestFrostTolerates light frost once established; cover during a hard freeze.Time to harvestAbout 45 days for full plants; baby leaves soonerSuccessionSow every 2–3 weeks.Special categoriesEDIBLETypical harvestFast fall, winter, and early spring stalks and leaves.
Before you plant
These conditions determine whether it will thrive.
Cold hardinessCover in a hard freeze
Handles light frost well. Cover it in a hard freeze.
Heat toleranceNeeds afternoon shade
Bolts quickly once it warms up and days get long. It likes days of about 55 to 75°F, so finish it by March or early April in Phoenix.
