How to Start Seeds for Asian Greens in Zone 9
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Indoor and Direct-Sowing Options for Suburban Zone 9 Gardens
Asian greens are a fantastic addition to any garden, especially for gardeners in USDA Zone 9, where the warm climate supports rapid growth and diverse flavors. Whether you’re cultivating arugula, mizuna, tatsoi, bok choy, or komatsuna, starting your seeds properly can lead to a bountiful harvest. Here’s how to successfully grow these nutritious greens, both indoors and outdoors.

Choosing Your Asian Greens Varieties
Asian greens come in a variety of shapes, flavors, and textures.

Want to know more about growing bok choy or mizuna in your garden? Check out our full How to Grow Asian Greens in Zone 9 guide for more detailed tips.
Indoor Seed Starting for Asian Greens
Starting your seeds indoors can give you a head start on the growing season, particularly in cooler months. Follow these steps to successfully start Asian greens indoors:
1. Choose the Right Containers
Select seed trays, peat pots, or any container with good drainage. Each container should allow enough space for the seedlings to grow without crowding. Consider using a high-quality seed starting kit to make your seed starting process easier.
2. Prepare the Soil
Fill your containers with a lightweight, well-draining potting mix. Asian greens prefer soil that is slightly acidic to neutral, with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. If you need a good soil mix, I recommend this organic potting mix, perfect for starting your seeds indoors.
3. Planting the Seeds
Asian greens seeds are small, so plant them at a shallow depth (around ¼ inch deep). Gently cover them with soil and lightly tamp it down.
4. Temperature and Light
Place your seed trays in a bright area that receives 12-16 hours of light per day. If you don’t have sufficient natural light, consider using grow lights. A full-spectrum grow light like this one is ideal for seedlings and will help them thrive indoors.
5. Watering
Water your seeds gently, keeping the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Mist them regularly to maintain humidity, or cover the trays with a clear plastic dome to keep moisture in.
6. Transplanting to the Garden
Once the seedlings have at least two sets of leaves and are 4-6 weeks old, they’re ready to be transplanted. Gradually harden off the seedlings by placing them outside for a few hours each day, increasing the time spent outdoors to acclimate them to the elements.
Looking for more indoor seed-starting tips? Check out our How to Start Seeds Indoors guide for expert advice on setting up your seed-starting station.
Direct Sowing in the Garden
If you’re ready to get your hands dirty in the garden, direct sowing is a great option. Asian greens thrive in cooler temperatures and can be directly sowed in the garden as soon as the soil can be worked in early spring or late summer.
1. Prepare the Soil
Choose a well-draining, fertile area in your garden that receives at least 4-6 hours of sunlight each day. Amend the soil with compost to ensure it’s rich in nutrients. For soil that’s perfect for leafy greens, try adding this organic compost.
2. Sow the Seeds
Plant your seeds directly into the soil about ¼ inch deep, spacing them 1-2 inches apart. If you’re planting in rows, space each row about 12-18 inches apart. You can thin them later as the plants grow.
3. Watering
After sowing, water the seeds gently to avoid disturbing them. Keep the soil consistently moist until the seeds germinate. Once the plants are established, water them regularly but allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
4. Thinning and Care
Once the seedlings have 2-3 sets of true leaves, thin them to about 4-6 inches apart to give each plant enough space to grow. Keep the area weed-free to reduce competition for nutrients.
Need tips on soil preparation and maintaining your garden? Our Soil Health for Zone 9 Guide guide has everything you need to get your garden growing.
Timing Your Planting
Asian greens grow quickly, with some varieties maturing in as little as 30-40 days. You can plant them in early spring or late summer, as they prefer cooler temperatures. If planting in spring, be mindful of the hotter summer months and the risk of bolting (flowering and going to seed) when temperatures exceed 85°F (29°C).
For a steady harvest, consider planting a new batch every 2-3 weeks. This method, called succession planting, allows you to harvest fresh greens throughout the growing season.
Caring for Your Asian Greens
These greens thrive in fertile, moist soil. Here are some tips for keeping your plants healthy:
- Mulch: Apply a layer of mulch around the plants to retain moisture and keep the soil cool.
- Fertilize: Use a balanced, organic fertilizer to encourage strong growth, especially if your soil is lacking in nutrients. I recommend using this organic fertilizer for best results.
- Pest Control: Keep an eye out for pests like aphids and flea beetles, which are common on leafy greens. Use organic methods like neem oil or insecticidal soap if necessary.
Check out our full guide on Organic Pest Control Methods to keep your Asian greens healthy and pest-free.
Harvesting Asian Greens
Asian greens are best harvested young, when the leaves are tender and flavorful. You can either harvest whole plants or pick individual leaves, allowing the plants to continue growing. Harvesting in the morning, after the dew has dried, results in the best flavor and texture.