When to Plant Mizuna Seeds
Unlike lettuce, which is a cool-season crop, Mizuna can be grown year-round. When temperatures exceed 95°F, it's best to avoid direct sunlight and use a shade cloth for protection.
Where to Plant Mizuna Seeds
Mizuna thrives in full sun, but in hot climates, partial shade is beneficial. Ensure you plant it in an area with well-draining soil for optimal growth.
How to Plant Mizuna Seeds
Start Mizuna seeds indoors or outdoors by sprinkling them in rows or containers and covering them with a thin layer of soil. If starting indoors, cover the containers with a plastic bag to create a greenhouse effect and keep them warm. Sprouts should appear within a week to 10 days. Once sprouted, remove the plastic and provide plenty of light. When seedlings have a few sets of true leaves, transplant them into individual containers. Harden off seedlings about a week before transplanting them outdoors. In outdoor beds, either thin the seedlings or place transplants at the desired spacing. We recommend spacing leaf Mizuna varieties approximately 4 inches apart, loose-head types 8 inches apart, and firm-head types 16 inches apart.
How to Harvest Mizuna
Harvest your Mizuna when it reaches full size but is not yet fully mature. You can either remove the outer leaves and leave the inner leaves to continue growing or harvest the entire plant. For Butterhead and Romaine varieties, you can pull up the entire plant or cut it off at the base. For Crisphead varieties, pick them when the center is firm. Note that the crisper the Mizuna head, the less heat tolerant it will be.
Mizuna can tolerate cold, but it's important to protect it from wind. This leafy green has a high water transpiration rate, so keep the soil consistently moist and well-drained. If the leaves begin to wilt, the plant needs more water. Hand weed as necessary, but be careful of the shallow roots.