Start indoors or direct sow?

Direct sow bok choy for the simplest crop, or start indoors for a head start in early spring or fall. Transplant seedlings while young, because older, stressed plants can bolt after moving outdoors.

When to start Bok Choy seeds

Direct sow 2 to 4 weeks before the last spring frost, or sow in late summer for fall harvest. Start indoors 3 to 4 weeks before the last frost for spring planting, then transplant about 1 to 2 weeks before the frost date.

How to sow the seeds

Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in moist seed-starting mix or finely prepared garden soil. For transplants, use individual cells about 1 to 2 inches wide and sow one or two seeds per cell, then thin to one plant.

Germination

Seeds typically germinate in 4 to 8 days. Maintain evenly moist soil at roughly 60 to 75 F for dependable emergence.

Seedling care

Give indoor seedlings bright light and water at the base when the mix begins to dry. Use clean containers and airflow to prevent damping off, and thin direct-sown plants to about 6 to 10 inches apart depending on the variety.

Transplanting & hardening off

Harden seedlings off for 7 to 10 days before placing them in the garden. Transplant on a mild day at the same depth as their cells, firm the soil gently, and water thoroughly.

Tips

Use row cover to protect young plants from flea beetles and cabbage pests. Avoid letting plants dry out, since uneven moisture and warm spells can encourage bolting.

General seed-starting guidance for US home gardens; timing depends on your local frost dates and variety. Page updated Aug 4, 2026.