When To Harvest Bok Choy Cabbage

Here’s a guide to help you know when to harvest bok choy so you can enjoy it at its freshest and most flavorful. Bok choy, also known as Chinese cabbage, is a versatile vegetable that can be harvested at different stages depending on how tender you want the leaves and stalks.

I'll explain how to recognize when your bok choy is ready for picking and the signs to look for to avoid harvesting too late. Plus, I’ll cover the best techniques for cutting and storing your bok choy to maintain its crisp texture.

How Long Does Bok Choy Take to Grow?

Before discussing the ideal harvesting time, it’s important to know the general growth period for bok choy. This leafy green typically takes between 45 to 60 days to mature, depending on the variety and growing conditions. Some baby bok choy varieties can be harvested as early as 30 days.

Bok choy grows best in cool weather, so gardeners often plant it in early spring or fall to avoid the heat, which can cause the plant to bolt and go to seed prematurely.

Key Signs Bok Choy Is Ready to Harvest

When growing bok choy, timing the harvest correctly ensures that the leaves remain tender and the stems are crisp. Here’s what to look for:

1. Size of the Plant

The most obvious sign that bok choy is ready for harvest is its size. Mature bok choy plants typically reach 12 to 18 inches in height. For baby bok choy, the plant will be ready when it’s around 6 to 8 inches tall. At this size, the plant is fully formed but still tender and flavorful.

Tip: Harvesting bok choy when it's smaller can yield sweeter, more delicate leaves, perfect for stir-fries or salads.

2. Leaf Condition

The leaves of bok choy should be bright green, smooth, and firm. If the leaves are starting to yellow or wilt, it may be past its prime. Younger, tender leaves are ideal for fresh eating, while older, tougher leaves are best cooked.

3. Stem Firmness

A well-formed bok choy plant will have firm, white stalks that feel crisp to the touch. The stems should be smooth and unblemished. Harvesting at the right time ensures the stems are crunchy and full of moisture.

4. Bolting Signs

One of the biggest concerns for bok choy gardeners is bolting, where the plant produces a flowering stalk. If you see signs of bolting—like a tall, thin stalk emerging from the center of the plant—harvest immediately. Once bok choy bolts, the leaves and stems become bitter and tough.

How to Harvest Bok Choy

When it comes to harvesting bok choy, there are two primary methods, depending on your preference and how much of the plant you want to use.

1. Cut-and-Come-Again Harvest

If you prefer to have a continuous supply of bok choy, use the cut-and-come-again method. In this approach:

Harvest Outer Leaves First: Use sharp garden shears or a knife to cut the outer leaves, leaving the center of the plant intact.
Leave the Base: The plant will continue to grow, and you can harvest more leaves over time.

This method works well for baby bok choy or if you want to extend your harvest throughout the season.

2. Full-Plant Harvest

If you want to harvest the entire plant at once:

Cut at the Base: Use a sharp knife to cut the plant about 1-2 inches above the soil.
Handle with Care: Gently remove the plant from the garden to avoid damaging the leaves or stems.
Remove Damaged Leaves: Discard any yellowed or damaged outer leaves before storing or using the bok choy.

Best Time of Day to Harvest Bok Choy

For optimal freshness, it’s best to harvest bok choy in the early morning. The cooler temperatures keep the leaves hydrated and crisp. If you’re harvesting later in the day, make sure to water your plants beforehand to prevent the leaves from wilting.

What to Do if Bok Choy Bolts?

If your bok choy starts to bolt before you’ve had the chance to harvest it, you can still save some of the plant:

Harvest Immediately: Cut the plant at the base before the flowering stalk fully develops.
Use in Cooking: While the flavor may be slightly more bitter, bolted bok choy is still edible when cooked. Stir-frying or steaming helps reduce the bitterness.

Storing Bok Choy After Harvest

Once you’ve harvested your bok choy, you’ll want to store it properly to preserve its freshness.

1. Refrigeration

After harvesting, bok choy can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. Here’s how to do it:

Rinse Thoroughly: Remove any dirt from the leaves and stems.
Wrap in Paper Towels: Wrap the bok choy in a paper towel to absorb moisture and prevent sogginess.
Place in a Plastic Bag: Store the wrapped bok choy in a plastic bag with some ventilation holes to keep it fresh.

2. Freezing Bok Choy

If you have an abundance of bok choy and want to preserve it longer, freezing is an option:

Blanching: Boil the bok choy for 2 minutes, then immediately transfer it to an ice bath.
Dry and Freeze: After drying the leaves, pack them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Frozen bok choy can last for several months, though it’s best used in soups and stews after freezing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Eat Bok Choy After It Bolts?

Yes, you can eat bok choy after it bolts, but the flavor may be more bitter. The texture of the leaves also becomes tougher. It’s best to harvest the plant as soon as you see signs of bolting to minimize the bitterness.

How Often Can You Harvest Bok Choy?

If you're using the cut-and-come-again method, you can harvest bok choy multiple times throughout the growing season. Be sure to allow the plant to recover between harvests for continued growth.

My Final Thoughts

Knowing when to harvest bok choy is essential for ensuring tender leaves and crisp, delicious stems. By paying attention to the size of the plant, the condition of the leaves and stems, and any signs of bolting, you can pick bok choy at the perfect time.

Whether you’re growing it in early spring or fall, these tips will help you enjoy fresh, flavorful bok choy in your kitchen. Remember, timing is everything when it comes to harvesting, so keep a close eye on your plants for the best results!