How to Grow Baby Bok Choy in Containers

The small plant size of baby bok choy makes it an optimum choice for small container gardens. This member of the cabbage family can grow in a pot as small as 20 inches in diameter. The small pot size fits onto most balconies, patios and other tight spots where larger plants and containers won't work well. Bok choy can also tolerate some light shade, especially in the afternoon, so you don't need a full sun location for your containers to enjoy this cool-season vegetable.

Potting soil
Slow-release fertilizer
Soluble fertilizer
Knife

Instructions

- 1
  Mix 1 gallon of potting soil with 1/2 tablespoon of a 14-14-14 slow-release fertilizer. Mix in enough water to moisten the soil without making it soggy.
- 2
  Fill the container to within 1 inch of the rim with the prepared soil mix. Plant the seeds 1/2 inch deep, spacing them four inches apart in the container.
- 3
  Place the container inside in a warm location or outdoors in an area protected from frost. Keep the top 2 to 3 inches of soil moist at all times until the bok choy begins to sprout, usually within one week of planting.
- 4
  Move the pot outside two weeks before the last expected spring frost in your area. For a fall crop, set the container outside six to eight weeks before the first expected fall frost.
- 5
  Water the bok choy once every one to two days so no more than the top inch of soil dries out. The soil in containers dries more quickly in warm weather so the pots may require more frequent watering.
- 6
  Fertilize the baby bok choy with a water-soluble balanced fertilizer every two weeks beginning six to eight weeks after planting. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for the fertilizer amount.
- 7
  Harvest the bok choy when the heads reach 3 to 6 inches tall. Cut off the entire head at soil level with a sharp knife.

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