How to Grow Bok Choy Using a Hydroponic System for Beginners
Basic Data
- ☀ Ideal Temperature: Bok Choy should be grown in temperatures ranging from 55°F to 70°F.
- 🌱 Germination Time: Typically takes 3 to 7 days to germinate.
- 📅 Time to Maturity: Reaches maturity in about 30 to 45 days.
Germination Steps
- Step 1: Soak the planting sponge and squeeze out excess moisture.
- Step 2: Place Bok Choy seeds into the damp sponge.
- Step 3: Wait until seeds germinate.
- Step 4: Transfer the sponge with the sprouted seeds to the Growneer hydroponic system.
Growing Process
Light Requirements Table
| Stage | Light Duration | Light Spectrum | Light Intensity |
| Germination | Not required | Not applicable | Not applicable |
| Seedling | 12-14 hours/day | Blue (450 nm), some Red (660 nm) | 100-150 µmol/m²/s |
| Vegetative | 14-16 hours/day | Full spectrum | 150-200 µmol/m²/s |
| Mature | 14-16 hours/day | Full spectrum | 150-200 µmol/m²/s |
- 💧 Water Pump Volume and Duration: Set to cycle every 30 minutes.
- 🔧 pH Value: 6.0 to 7.0.
- 🍼 Nutrient Ratio:
- Nitrogen: 150 parts per million
- Phosphorus: 50 parts per million
- Potassium: 200 parts per million
- Calcium: 150 parts per million
- Magnesium: 50 parts per million
- Trace Elements: Include Iron, Manganese, Zinc at 1 part per million each as needed.
Plant Benefits
- Rapid Growth: Bok Choy matures quickly, making it ideal for continuous harvesting.
- Nutritional Value: High in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants and minerals.
- Versatile in Cooking: Can be used in a variety of dishes, from stir-fries to salads.
Conclusion
Growing Bok Choy in a hydroponic system using the Growneer method is an excellent choice for beginners. With its efficient and quick growth, Bok Choy is a rewarding plant to cultivate. This leafy green not only adds nutrition to your diet but is also ideal for urban gardeners with limited space. Enjoy the fresh and crisp leaves of Bok Choy in your favorite dishes throughout the year.