How to Grow Purple Bok Choy Using a Hydroponic System for Beginners
Basic Data
- ☀ Ideal Temperature: Purple Bok Choy does best in cooler temperatures, around 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 Purple Bok Choy seeds into the damp sponge.
- Step 3: Wait until seeds germinate.
- Step 4: Move 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
- Quick Growth: Purple Bok Choy matures rapidly, allowing for frequent harvesting.
- Nutritional Value: High in vitamins A and C, and offers a good source of beta-carotene.
- Aesthetic Appeal: The vibrant purple leaves can add a pop of color to both your garden and your dishes.
Conclusion
Purple Bok Choy is an excellent choice for hydroponic beginners due to its fast growth and minimal care needs. This colorful and nutritious vegetable can be a fantastic addition to your hydroponic garden, bringing both beauty and a quick harvest. Enjoy the fresh, crisp leaves in your salads, stir-fries, and as a healthy steamed side dish.