When to Plant Mustard Greens in Canberra — Cold / Highland Guide
Mustard greens are fast-growing, peppery brassica greens available in a stunning range of leaf forms and colours, from the broad, purple-red 'Red Giant' to the lacy, golden 'Golden Frills'. They add spice and colour to salads and stir-fries. Faster than kale and more flavourful than mizuna, they fill the gap between mild Asian greens and spicy rocket.
Planting Calendar
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| S | S/T/D | S/T/D | S/T/D | T | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
S = Seed Tray T = Transplant D = Direct Sow
Current Growing Conditions
Soil temperature: 18.9°C (optimal range: 10–35°C) ✓ Ready to plant
How to Grow Mustard Greens in Cold / Highland Australia
When to Plant
October-March. Frost tolerant but slow growth in cold.
- Soil
- Well-drained, fertile soil with compost. Not fussy about soil type. Performs well in average garden soil.
- pH Range
- 6.0-7.5
- Sunlight
- Full sun in cool weather. Part shade in warm weather to reduce bolting and excessive pungency.
- Spacing
- 25cm apart, 35cm between rows
- Watering
- Consistent moisture for tender, mild leaves. Drought stress increases pungency and toughness. Water deeply 2-3 times per week.
Companion plants: Lettuce, Celery, Onion, Peas, Marigold
Avoid planting near: Other brassicas if disease present
Cold / Highland Growing Tips for Mustard Greens
Recommended Varieties
- Red Giant
- Green Wave
Key Challenges
- Short growing season
- Heavy frost damages leaves (plants recover from light frost)
Pro Tips
- Fast growth means 2-3 crops per season even in highlands
- Frost cloth extends season
- More cold-tolerant than lettuce
Harvesting Mustard Greens
When ready: Baby leaf: 10-15cm (3-4 weeks). Full size: 30-40cm (5-8 weeks). Leaves should be fresh and undamaged. Young leaves are milder.
How to harvest: Cut-and-come-again: cut 3cm above ground for regrowth. Or pick individual outer leaves. Harvest before flower stalk appears.
Common Mustard Greens Pests in Cold / Highland Zones
Organic prevention: Net from sowing. Inspect regularly.
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