Organic 'Merlot Chinese' Cabbage
Organic 'Merlot Chinese' cabbage (Brassica rapa subsp. pekinensis) from the seed company Gaia, a remarkable dark red variety with dense heads
The 'Merlot Chinese' cabbage forms long, full, and tightly packed heads , reaching an average length of 28 to 30 cm , with an intense dark red color that makes it easily distinguishable in the garden and at the market. The smooth, enveloping leaves protect the tender, crisp flesh , offering a pleasant texture and mild flavor when grown under normal conditions.
Visually striking, this Chinese cabbage requires careful cultivation , as it is more susceptible to internal tip burn in hot weather than green varieties. It can also bolt (go to seed) under stress , particularly after cold nights below 10°C following transplanting. It reaches its full potential in moderate and stable conditions , where it develops high-quality heads.
Companion plants: Brassicaceae, Basil, Celery, Dill, Garlic, Mint, Rosemary, Thyme, Onion, Bean
Negative plants: Potato, Tomato, Okra, Pepper
Spread/Carry: Upright, compact
Plant height: 28 to 30 cm
Quantity per packet: 15 seeds
Certification: Environmentally friendly product
Characteristics: Dark red foliage, dense flower heads, very decorative, sensitive to heat stress, open pollination
Leaf color: Dark red
Texture/flavor: Tender, crisp, sweet flesh
Cold tolerance: Down to -4°C
Farming method
Soak the seeds in lukewarm water for up to 12 hours to improve germination. Start seeds indoors 4 to 6 weeks before planting out , or sow directly outdoors when the soil temperature exceeds 23°C (73°F) . For a summer harvest, sow or transplant preferably in mid-May , in rich, cool, and well-drained soil . Sow at a depth of 1.2 cm (½ inch) , spacing plants 25 to 45 cm (10 to 18 inches) apart and rows 60 to 90 cm (24 to 36 inches).
Chinese cabbage prefers full sun (level 3) and moderate watering (level 2) . Steady growth, without water or heat stress, is essential to prevent internal problems.
Harvesting and preservation
Harvest when the outer leaves begin to droop and the head is firm. Store at 0°C , with approximately 95% humidity and good air circulation, to preserve texture and color.
Usage ideas
• Crunchy and colorful salads
• Stir-fried and Asian dishes
• Gentle fermentation
• Decorative trim at the market
• Fresh, mid-season cuisine
The 'Merlot Chinese' cabbage is prized for its deep, elegant color , offering a strong visual presence and a delicate texture . When cultivated with care, it becomes a distinctive and refined variety, ideal for gardeners who pay attention to detail and the aesthetics of their vegetable garden.
