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I don't know if it because of the pungent taste or, perhaps, the coarse texture of the leaves, but mustards greens do not have the same status in the garden that their delicate counterparts like Mizuna and Pac Choi enjoy. It's a shame, really, since Mustard Greens are so easy to grow and withstand extreme temperatures. Aesthetically, the deep-purple veins of Giant Red make a wonderful foil for the chartreuse curls of Green Wave. In addition, they are one of the only types of salad greens that will produce virtually all year round.
Mustard Greens are natives of the harsh climates of Central Asia where they were prized for their oily seeds. Although most people think of the Deep South when they hear "mustard greens", these plants are one of the most cold hardy greens, next to kale and winter cabbage. The young leaves make wonderful additions to salads and add a hot, peppery zing when eaten fresh. Older leaves are best steamed or stir-fried. Nutritionally, they are high in Vitamins A, C & beta-carotene, all anti-oxidants. Although the process is still not fully understood by scientists, mustard greens also seem to have cancer-preventing properties. For those who cannot tolerate lactose, mustard greens are also a great source of calcium as well as iron. Growing Instructions Seed mustard greens in warm, fertile soil in full sun and provide ample moisture during establishment. The seeds can direct seeded but I find it difficult to maintain a moist soil in the late summer. Starting seeds indoors gives a much better germination rate. Young seedlings should be protected against cold weather in their early stages since cold soils at the seedling stage will cause them to bolt. Thin or space seedlings to at least 6 inches apart (remember to eat the thinnings!). Well-established plants can withstand temperatures of up to 27 F without protection but a cold-frame or cloche will help ensure production throughout the winter. Instead of harvesting the whole plant, pick off older leaves to extend production. Pests & Diseases As members of the Brassica family, mustard greens are also prone to becoming infected with club root disease so make they're not grown directly after another brassica. Keep soil pH at about 6.5 or higher to discourage the growth of the fungus. Cabbage moth and root fly are also attracted to mustard greens so prevent them from landing on your plants by protecting them with floating row cover like Reemay or Agrofabric.
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