How to Grow and Use Buckler Mustard in Your Garden


    How to Grow and Use Buckler Mustard in Your Garden

    Buckler mustard, also known as leaf mustard or mizuna, is a leafy green vegetable that belongs to the brassica family. It has a mild, peppery flavor and a crunchy texture that makes it ideal for salads, stir-fries, soups and sandwiches. Buckler mustard is easy to grow in containers or raised beds, and it can be harvested throughout the year. Here are some tips on how to grow and use buckler mustard in your garden.

    How to Grow Buckler Mustard

    Buckler mustard seeds can be sown directly into the soil or started indoors and transplanted later. The seeds germinate quickly and the plants grow fast, so you can enjoy fresh greens in as little as four weeks. Buckler mustard prefers cool weather and moist, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. It can tolerate partial shade, but it will produce more leaves in full sun. You can sow buckler mustard seeds every two to three weeks for a continuous harvest.

    To sow buckler mustard seeds, prepare the soil by loosening it and adding some organic matter such as compost or manure. Make shallow furrows about 1/4 inch deep and 12 inches apart. Sprinkle the seeds thinly along the furrows and cover them lightly with soil. Water the seeds well and keep the soil moist until they sprout. Thin out the seedlings to about 6 inches apart when they have two or three true leaves.

    To transplant buckler mustard seedlings, start them indoors about four to six weeks before the last frost date in your area. Use small pots or cell trays filled with potting mix and sow two or three seeds per pot. Keep the pots in a warm, sunny spot and water them regularly. When the seedlings have four or five true leaves, harden them off by exposing them to outdoor conditions gradually for a week or two. Then transplant them into your garden bed or container, spacing them about 6 inches apart.

    How to Harvest and Store Buckler Mustard


    How to Grow Buckler Mustard

    You can harvest buckler mustard leaves at any stage of growth, depending on your preference. Young leaves are tender and mild, while mature leaves are larger and more pungent. You can cut individual leaves or whole plants at the base with a sharp knife or scissors. Harvest buckler mustard in the morning when the leaves are crisp and fresh.

    Buckler mustard leaves can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Wash them well and pat them dry with a paper towel. Place them in a plastic bag or container with some air holes and store them in the crisper drawer. You can also freeze buckler mustard leaves for longer storage. Blanch them briefly in boiling water, drain them well and pack them in freezer bags or containers.

    How to Use Buckler Mustard


    How to Harvest and Store Buckler Mustard

    Buckler mustard leaves can be eaten raw or cooked in various ways. They add a spicy kick to salads, sandwiches, wraps and burgers. They can also be sautéed, stir-fried, braised, steamed or boiled with other vegetables, meats, tofu or noodles. Buckler mustard leaves pair well with garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, vinegar, lemon juice, honey, mustard, cheese and nuts.

    Here are some simple recipes that use buckler mustard:

    • Buckler Mustard Salad: Toss buckler mustard leaves with sliced apples, walnuts, feta cheese and a honey-mustard dressing.
    • Buckler Mustard Stir-Fry: Stir-fry buckler mustard leaves with sliced chicken, garlic, ginger, soy sauce and sesame oil.
    • Buckler Mustard Soup: Simmer buckler mustard leaves with potatoes, onion, chicken broth, cream and salt and pepper.

    Buckler mustard is a versatile and nutritious vegetable that you can grow and enjoy in your garden. Try it today and discover its delicious flavor and health benefits.

    Hi, I’m Adam Smith

    Leave a Reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *