Also known as Chinese broccoli, Clhinese kale, or Gai-Lan. It belong to Brassica oleracea species, within the cultivar “Alboglabra Group“. In Thailand, it is known as Khana “คะน้า” or Thai broccoli and it is the most commonly used leafy green in Thai cuisine.
Variety Characteristics
This is a Kailan variety with large hand sized leaves. Both stems and leaves are green. Good flavor and yield.
Soil and Climate
Prefers sandy loam soil with good drainage, likes sun, best grown in winter (Thailand)
Planting Suggestions
Prepared seedlings first in an open field or in planting trays. Transplant at 20- 25 days with a separation of 15 x 20 cm. Appropriate plot or pot- Plant in and open sunny field. Can plant in pots if sufficient sunlight.
Care
Fertilizer a first time with compost or aged manure when 25 days, then again at 40- 45 days. Use aged manure or compost. Observe the crop to see if enough fertility if not may fertilize again. When watering, should water evenly in the right amount, not leaving them dry or over watering (observe the planting soil)
Pests and Diseases
No pest or diseases observed
Harvesting
From 30- 35 days can start harvesting. It will start flowering at 55- 60 days.
Seed Saving
At 125- 130 days may start to collect seed. Cut off the mature fruit pods (they will be dark yellow). Tie into bunches and using a bamboo strip or string to tie. Use a sack when drying to prevent loss of seeds. Sun dry 3-4 days. Once dry shake and rub in a sack to remove the seeds from the stalks. Then use a paper to fan away foreign matter and dust. Then use a fine meshed screen to sort out the seeds. Keep in a paper bag marked with the name of the variety, day, month, and year of harvest. Fold this paper bag and put into a plastic bag. Keep in the refrigerator for better longterm germination and minimal seed respiration. If so stored, can keep for over 2 years.
