Baby food, also known as mini cabbage or baby bok choy, is a fast-growing vegetable with an average growth cycle of about 50 days. It typically reaches a height of 20 cm, with a diameter of 8–9 cm and a net weight of around 200 grams. The ideal temperature for its growth is between 5°C and 25°C. Below 5°C, it is prone to frost damage, while temperatures above 25°C may lead to viral infections. The plant has thin, tender leaves that are highly valued in the market due to their small edible portion. Its shallow root system means it requires well-drained, fertile soil—preferably sandy loam to clay loam. Proper base fertilization is essential, including organic compost and 10–15 kg of compound fertilizer per acre. In calcium-deficient or alkaline soils, adding 15–20 kg of superphosphate can help improve nutrient uptake.
The growing environment plays a crucial role in the development of baby food. It thrives in cooler conditions, with germination best at around 25°C. Seedlings can tolerate some heat, but optimal growth occurs between 15–20°C. Temperatures below 10°C or above 25°C can slow growth. Sowing should be done when temperatures are above 13°C to avoid shock. Baby food is a long-day crop, meaning it requires ample sunlight to complete its vernalization stage and flower. It prefers a humid environment during the vegetative phase, but too much moisture can hinder root development. Well-structured, deep, and fertile soil with a pH of 6.5–7.5 is ideal. Nitrogen is most needed in the early growth stages, followed by phosphorus and potassium as the plant forms its compact ball.
For planting, select high-quality seeds from reputable suppliers such as Beijing Jiya Liye Seed Co., Ltd., which offers varieties like Asian Mini Yellow, Orange Mini, Winter King Mini, and Winter Mini. Imported seeds tend to have higher precision, with approximately 3,500 seeds per package. For an acre, the recommended density is 8,000–10,000 plants, requiring only 3–4 bags per mu. Planting seasons vary by region: spring, autumn, and protected cultivation are suitable in North China. Greenhouse sowing starts mid-January, with planting in mid-to-late February and harvests in mid-to-late April. Outdoor planting in spring begins in early March, with harvests from late April to early May. Summer and autumn direct sowing occurs in August and October, while winter greenhouse planting takes place from late September to early November.
Sowing methods include broadcasting or transplanting seedlings. In favorable weather, precise sowing with 1–2 seeds per hole is recommended. Transplanting is done at the third leaf stage with a spacing of 20×30 cm. Proper watering and fertilization are key to healthy growth. Weeding and thinning should occur within two weeks of sowing, with top dressing of 10 kg of urea per acre during the ball formation stage.
Harvesting occurs when the plant reaches 30–35 cm in height and the ball is firm. The entire plant is uprooted, excess leaves removed, and the base trimmed before packaging. Baby food is usually packaged in plastic wrap and transported under refrigeration to maintain freshness. Pest and disease control is minimal due to its short growth period and strong resistance, though common cabbage pests can be managed with standard practices.
In greenhouse cultivation, seedbed preparation involves using 65–80 square meters per mu, with 30–40 grams of seed. Organic fertilizer is applied at 2,500 kg per hectare, and ridges are made with a spacing of 50–55 cm. Seedlings are transplanted once they have 5–7 true leaves, with proper temperature and light management. Field management includes maintaining night temperatures above 13°C, controlling humidity, and applying fertilizer in two stages. Harvesting occurs when the ball reaches 100–150 grams, ensuring quality and marketability. Packaging and transport must be done under refrigerated conditions to preserve freshness and extend shelf life.
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