When to Plant Chinese Cabbage (Wombok) in Alice Springs — Arid / Semi-Arid Guide
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
Wombok (also called Chinese cabbage, napa cabbage, or wong bok) forms tall, barrel-shaped heads of crinkled, pale green leaves. It is faster to mature than European cabbage (8-10 weeks), milder in flavour, and excellent for kimchi, stir-fries, and salads. A cool-season crop that bolts rapidly in warm or long-day conditions.
Current Growing Conditions
Soil temperature: 27.9°C (optimal range: 7–25°C) ✗ Outside optimal range
How to Grow Chinese Cabbage (Wombok) in Arid / Semi-Arid Australia
When to Plant
March-June (autumn-winter). Avoid summer heat entirely.
- Soil
- Rich, moisture-retentive soil with plenty of compost and aged manure. Needs good drainage but consistent moisture.
- pH Range
- 6.0-7.0
- Sunlight
- Full sun in cool weather. Part shade (afternoon) in warm zones to prevent bolting.
- Spacing
- 35cm apart, 45cm between rows
- Watering
- Consistent moisture critical. Water deeply 2-3 times per week. Mulch to retain moisture. Irregular watering or drought stress triggers bolting. Drip irrigation preferred.
Companion plants: Celery, Onion, Garlic, Dill, Chamomile
Avoid planting near: Other brassicas (disease transfer), Strawberry, Tomato
Arid / Semi-Arid Growing Tips for Chinese Cabbage (Wombok)
Recommended Varieties
- Michihilli
- One Kilo SB
Key Challenges
- High water demand
- Hot winds damage leaves
- Bolts if temperatures spike
Pro Tips
- Shade cloth (30-50%) extends the growing season
- Drip irrigation essential for consistent moisture
- Mulch heavily to moderate soil temperature
Harvesting Chinese Cabbage (Wombok)
When ready: Head is firm and solid when gently squeezed. Typically barrel-shaped, 25-35cm tall. Outer leaves may begin to flare. Head has a dense, compact feel.
How to harvest: Cut at base with sharp knife. Can harvest entire head or remove outer leaves progressively for loose-leaf use. Harvest in cool of morning.
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