About Mizuna Greens

Mizuna is a decorative and easy-to-grow leafy green from the cabbage family, valued for its mildly spicy mustard flavour and beautiful, feathery foliage. The purple-green leaves provide an eye-catching addition to salad mixes, and their distinctive bite pairs well with creamy dressings or vinegars. Fast-growing and cold hardy, Mizuna is a reliable choice for cool-season gardens or as a cut-and-come-again leafy green. If left to flower, Mizuna produces bright yellow edible blossoms that are sweet and popular with pollinators.

Where Can You Grow Mizuna Greens?

Mizuna grows best in Zones 3-9 and thrives in cool weather. It performs well in garden beds, containers, raised beds, and cold frames. Partial shade helps prevent bolting during hot weather.

History and Historical Uses

A traditional Japanese heirloom, Mizuna has been cultivated for centuries for both culinary and ornamental use. Its resilience and fast growth made it a staple in Asian gardens and kitchens. In recent years, it has gained popularity in Western cuisine for its spicy, mustard-like taste and ornamental foliage.

Canadian Zone Information

Zones 8-9: Sow directly in early spring or autumn for best flavour.
Zones 5-7: Sow from early spring through early fall; protect from extreme summer heat.
Zones 3-4: Start indoors in spring or use cold frames for early or extended harvests.

How to Grow and Harvest Mizuna Greens

Planting: Direct sow seeds 5mm (¼in) deep, 2.5cm (1in) apart. Thin to 10-15cm (4-6in).
Watering: Keep soil moist, especially in dry conditions, to encourage steady growth.
Harvesting: Pick outer leaves as needed, or cut entire plants 2.5cm (1in) above soil for regrowth.
Maintenance: Mulch to retain moisture and reduce weed competition. Shade during hot months to delay bolting.

Seed Saving Tips for Future Supply

Select Mature Plants: Allow a few plants to bolt and flower fully.
Harvest Seeds: When seed pods turn brown and dry, clip stems and hang upside down in paper bags.
Dry and Clean: Let seeds fully dry before separating from pods.
Store: Store in a cool, dry place in labelled envelopes or jars. Viable for 3–4 years.

Certified Organic By
Islands Organics Producers Association (Cert#1962)