How to Grow Red Tatsoi Using a Hydroponic System for Beginners
Basic Data
- ☀ Ideal Temperature: Red Tatsoi prefers cooler temperatures, between 50°F to 65°F.
- 🌱 Germination Time: Typically takes 4 to 7 days to germinate.
- 📅 Time to Maturity: Reaches maturity in about 30 to 40 days.
Germination Steps
- Step 1: Soak the planting sponge and gently squeeze out excess moisture.
- Step 2: Place Red Tatsoi seeds into the damp sponge.
- Step 3: Keep in a cool, shaded place 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 | 10-12 hours/day | Blue (450 nm), some Red (660 nm) | 100-150 µmol/m²/s |
| Vegetative | 10-12 hours/day | Full spectrum | 150-200 µmol/m²/s |
| Mature | 10-12 hours/day | Full spectrum | 150-200 µmol/m²/s |
- 💧 Water Pump Volume and Duration: Set to cycle every 20 minutes.
- 🔧 pH Value: 6.0 to 6.8.
- 🍼 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
- Nutrient-Dense: Red Tatsoi is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium and iron.
- Fast Growing: Quick maturity makes it ideal for continuous harvesting cycles.
- Versatile in Cooking: Can be used in salads, soups, and stir-fries.
Conclusion
Red Tatsoi is an excellent choice for hydroponic beginners due to its robust nature and quick growth cycle. This leafy green is not only easy to grow but also brings vibrant color and rich nutritional value to your meals. Embrace this cool-season crop to enjoy fresh greens even in cooler climates.