Florida Broadleaf Mustard Seeds

• HOW TO GROW
• FAST FACTS
• REVIEWS

Sowing: Since mustard garden seeds thrive in cool weather, Florida Broadleaf mustard green seeds taste best when grown as an early spring or fall crop. For a spring crop, direct sow the seed in full sun and rich soil about four weeks before the last expected spring frost, and lightly rake them into the soil. Keep the rows 10-12" apart. When the seedlings emerge, thin them to 5-6" apart. For a continual harvest, plant more mustard every 10-14 days. For fall planting, plant the seeds in late summer or early fall about 10 weeks before the first hard frost. Climates with warmer winters may be able to grow Florida Broadleaf mustard seeds from fall to spring.

Growing: Keep the mustard leaf plants moist and free from weeds. A thick layer of mulch will help conserve moisture, control weeds, and keep the greens free from dirt.

Harvesting: For baby greens, pick the leaves when they reach a height of 4-5 inches; baby greens are tender and flavorful, perfect for salads. The entire Florida Broadleaf Mustard plant can be harvested at any point, or individual leaves taken for a continuous harvest. Mature leaves, which tend to be stronger in flavor, often taste best when cooked. Avoid using leaves that have begun to turn yellow, as these have passed their prime. Once cut, greens keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. They also freeze well when blanched.

Seed Saving: When planning to save seed from mustard, keep in mind that mustard will cross with varieties of wild mustard; if this is a concern, cage the mustard to protect it. Mustard needs to overwinter before producing seed. In warmer locations, simply apply a thick layer of mulch and remove it in the early spring. In areas with very cold winters, dig up the plants and cut off half the stem; store them at 32-40 degrees F in 80-90 percent humidity until spring, when they can be replanted. Allow the Florida Broadleaf Mustard greens to flower and go to seed. Remove the seed heads but cutting them off when most of the seed pods have turned brown. Spread the heads out in a dry place with good ventilation, and let them dry for several weeks. Thresh out Florida Broadleaf mustard seeds and store them in a cool, dry place for up to 4 years.

Latin Name: Brassica juncea

Type: Open Pollinated, Cool Season

USDA Zones: 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

Seeds per Ounce: 15,000

Planting Method: Direct Sow

Sunlight: Full Sun

Height: 18 Inches

Color: Green