Gourmet Mesclun Salad Asian Baby Leaf
Gourmet Mesclun Salad Asian Baby Leaf
If you enjoy both crispy salads and Asian flavors, you will love this baby salad mix with a full array of colors, shapes and textures. Harvest effortlessly with scissors at just 4 to 6 inches tall for a delicious fresh salad blend that includes Komatsuna, Mizuna, Mustard (mild Green and Red), Rocket, Tatsoi and Chinese Cabbage. This mix of tender baby leaves makes a surprisingly mild and balanced salad bowl. Cut often for tasty fresh salads as pretty as a picture.
START SEEDS OUTDOORS
In cool early spring weather, sow seeds in finely worked soil in full sun. Shake seeds from the palm of your hand, broadcasting them about 1/2 inch apart over the entire seedbed or in wide rows, and cover lightly and evenly with 1/4 inch of fine soil. Firm soil gently and water with a fine spray.Keep seedbed evenly moist. Make small successive sowings until summer weather turns hot for a constant supply. Plant again in late summer for fall harvesting.
GROWING NOTES
This mix will thrive in mild weather with consistent moisture. To extend the sowing season into hot weather, sow in light shade or erect a canopy of loosely woven shade cloth over the bed. Birds are often attracted to tender young seedlings, so protect them if necessary.
HARVEST AND USE
To harvest by the “cut and come again” method, wait until plants are 4 to 6 inches tall. Cut as much as you need, using scissors to shear off a patch of leaves about 1 to 2 inches above the soil level. Water well and fertilize lightly and plants will regrow for several more cuttings. Dress with a simple vinaigrette to enjoy the sweet flavor and juicy texture of these delicate young leaves at their best. For this Asian mix, try using rice vinegar and a touch of soy sauce and garlic in your vinaigrette.
Cold Winters |
Mild Winters |
Sun/Shade |
Sow Seeds |
Days to Germinate |
Days to Harvest |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
April - September
|
February - September
|
Full sun
|
1/2 inch apart
1/4 inch deep |
7 - 14 days
|
Approx. 40
|