What to know
Mustard plants ( Brassica juncea ) are a versatile and easy - to - develop crop that tender both culinary andmedicinal benefits . Whether you ’re a veteran nurseryman or a tyro , growing leaf mustard plants at domicile is a rewarding experience . This comprehensive guide will cater you with all theessential informationand measure - by - stride instructions to tame thriving mustard plants in your own backyard or indoor quad .
Choosing the Right Variety
There are numerous diversity of mustard plants , each with itsunique flavorandgrowth characteristics . Somepopular varietiesfor home cultivation include :
Site Selection and Soil Preparation
Mustard plants prefer well - drained soil fertile in organic matter . prefer a sunny positioning with at least 6 hours of unmediated sunshine per solar day . Amend the soil with compost or manure to meliorate fecundity and body of water retention . Theideal pH rangeformustard plantsis between 6.0 and 7.0 .
Planting Mustard Seeds
Mustard seed can besown directlyin the garden layer orstarted indoorsfor transplantation . Plant the seeds 1/4inch deepand 1 in apart . water system the soil gently after planting . Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged .
Watering and Fertilizing
Mustard plants require regular lacrimation , particularly during hot and ironical weather . Water deeply and allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings . fertilise the plant once a month with a balanced liquified fertilizer .
Harvesting Mustard Greens
Mustard greens are quick to harvest when they reach a altitude of 6 - 8 inch . reduce the folio at the basis of the plant with asharp knife . Mustard greens can be used impudent in salads , soups , and excite - tyke .
Harvesting Mustard Seeds
Mustard seed are quick to reap when thepods turn brownand ironic . abridge the pods and spread them on a tray in a warm , dry placeto dry completely . Once dry , the seeds can be thrash about and stash away in an airtight container .
Medicinal Uses of Mustard Plants
Mustard plant have been used for C for their medicinal properties . The leaves are racy in vitamin and minerals , while the come contain compound with antioxidant , anti - incendiary , andantimicrobial effects . Mustard can be used to :
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Frequently Asked Questions
Q : How long does it take to grow mustard plants?A : Mustard plantstake approximately 6 - 8 weeks to senesce from seed to harvest . Q : Can Igrow Indian mustard plantsin containers?A : Yes , mustard greens plantscan be grow in containers as long as they haveadequate drainageand sunlight . Q : How do I store mustard seeds?A : memory leaf mustard seedsin anairtight containerin a coolheaded , dry placefor up to 6 month .
