Growing mustard plants offers a rewarding experience for gardeners due to their versatility and relatively simple cultivation. These plants provide nutritious greens and flavorful seeds, making them a dual-purpose addition to many gardens. Mustard can thrive in various settings with appropriate care.
Understanding Mustard Varieties and Uses
Mustard encompasses several species, primarily cultivated for their leaves or seeds. White mustard (Sinapis alba), also known as yellow mustard, is often used for its mild seeds in traditional condiments and is typically not grown for its greens. Brown mustard (Brassica juncea) is a common choice for its pungent seeds, used in Dijon-type mustards and curries, and its leaves are popular as greens. Black mustard (Brassica nigra) yields small, dark, and strongly flavored seeds, though it is less commonly grown commercially.
Beyond culinary applications, mustard varieties also serve as beneficial cover crops. Field mustard (Brassica kaber), for instance, can be tilled back into the soil as green manure, enriching it with nitrogen and improving soil health. Some varieties, like ‘Red Giant’ mustard, offer ornamental appeal with their vibrant foliage. Variety selection depends on the gardener’s intended use: leafy greens, seeds, or soil improvement.
Planting Mustard
Mustard is a cool-season crop, thriving when planted in spring or fall, typically as soon as soil temperatures are consistently above 40°F (4°C). For a fall harvest, planting in late summer or early fall, about 50 to 75 days before the first anticipated frost, usually yields better quality. Mustard prefers a location with full sun, receiving at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily, though it can tolerate partial shade, especially for tender baby greens.
Optimal soil conditions for mustard include well-draining, fertile soil rich in organic matter. A slightly acidic pH, ideally between 5.5 and 7.0, supports healthy growth. Before planting, incorporate several inches of aged compost or other organic material into the top 6 inches of soil to enhance nutrient availability and drainage. Direct sowing is the most common and straightforward method for planting mustard seeds.
Seeds should be sown 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep and approximately 1 inch apart. For continuous harvests, successive plantings every 2 to 3 weeks are beneficial. After sowing, consistent moisture is important for germination, which typically occurs within 4 to 14 days when temperatures range from 45°F to 75°F (7°C to 24°C). Immediately after planting, water thoroughly to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.
Caring for Mustard Plants
Consistent moisture is important for mustard plants, requiring about 1 inch of water per week. Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged, as dry conditions can lead to tough, off-flavored leaves. Watering at the base of the plant in the morning helps reduce fungal issues. Mulching around the plants helps retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
When seedlings are 3 to 4 inches tall, thin them to a spacing of 4 to 6 inches apart for better air circulation and growth. For larger varieties or seed production, plants may require 12 to 18 inches of space. Mustard plants benefit from a nitrogen-rich fertilizer when 3 to 4 inches tall, supporting lush leaf development. Apply a balanced vegetable food or a nitrogen-focused fertilizer, such as 21-0-0, every 4 to 6 weeks.
Crop rotation is a good preventative measure for common pests and diseases; avoid planting mustard in the same location where other Brassica family members have grown in the past two years. Good air circulation, achieved through proper spacing, helps deter fungal problems like downy mildew. To prevent premature bolting, which is the plant going to seed too early, ensure adequate moisture and consider providing some afternoon shade during warmer periods, as temperatures above 75°F (24°C) can induce bolting.
Harvesting and Utilizing Mustard
Mustard greens can be harvested as tender baby leaves in 3 to 4 weeks for a milder flavor, or allowed to mature for a stronger, more pungent taste, typically reaching full size in 6 weeks. For continuous harvests, the “cut-and-come-again” method is effective: snip outer leaves at their base, allowing inner leaves to continue growing. Alternatively, cut the entire plant 1 to 2 inches above the soil level to encourage regrowth.
To harvest mustard seeds, allow the plants to bolt and develop flower stalks, which will then form seed pods. Leave the pods on the plant until they dry and turn brown, indicating the seeds are mature. Once dry, collect the pods and separate the seeds. Mustard greens are commonly used fresh in salads, stir-fries, or cooked as a side dish. The seeds find use in pickling, spice blends, and for making homemade mustard.
Common Challenges
Mustard plants can experience premature bolting, where they flower and go to seed before a substantial leaf harvest. This often occurs due to high temperatures, particularly above 75°F (24°C), or inconsistent watering. Planting during cooler seasons and maintaining consistent soil moisture helps minimize this issue.
Common insect pests include flea beetles and aphids. Flea beetles create small holes in the leaves, while aphids cluster on stems and undersides of leaves, sucking plant sap. Row covers provide a physical barrier against these pests, especially for young plants. A strong spray of water can dislodge aphids from the plant foliage.
Fungal issues, such as downy mildew, can arise, particularly in humid conditions. Good air circulation through proper plant spacing helps prevent the spread of fungal diseases. Choosing a planting time when pest populations are lower, such as fall for flea beetles, can also reduce potential problems.