Gailon
UC Links
How to grow
Similar to Broccoli culture
Pest management
Similar to Broccoli pests
The Basics
Gailon is also called gai lan, jie lan, or Chinese broccoli. It produces a smaller head than broccoli. The young flowering buds, shoots, and succulent stems can be used in many dishes. Culture is similar to growing broccoli.
When to plant
- February–April or August–September
- Spring grown plants are more likely to bolt (go to flower) due to warm weather and longer days. Fall grown plants will generally produce for a longer period.
- Flavor is improved by cooler weather.
Harvest window
- Harvest the flowering stalks at around 18 inches tall, just before the buds start to open.
- Technique: You can harvest this vegetable multiple times; it will produce new shoots from lower leaf nodes. Cut the stalks about 6–8 inches from the top, leaving at least one or two leaf nodes to encourage sideshoots to develop.
Care overview
- As with any of the Brassica family crops (bok choy, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, kale, or mustard greens), it is best not to plant these in the same spot each year since diseases and insect pests may build up.
- Warm weather, especially in the spring, may encourage bolting (going to flower).
More Links
- Harvesting and Cooking Tips for Asian Vegetables
- Asian Greens, Sonoma Master Gardeners