Glorioso, Johann Dexter M. AGR41

Technoguide for Pechay (Brassica chinensis L.)

Introduction

Pechay, botanically known as Brassica chinensis L. is a popular leafy vegetable grown in many parts of the country. It is rich in Vitamin A and can be eaten as raw. This can be grown with minimal inputs because of short growth period of 30-45 days.

Recommended Varieties

Variety Days to Harvest

Black Behi 30-40

Hari Digma 30-40

Shin Kang 30-40

Site Selection/Soil Type

Pechay can be grown vigorously in all types of soil provided it is well drained. However, the ideal soil texture for the crop is either sandy loam or silty loam with pH range from 5.5-6.5.

Growing Season

Although grows throughout the year, the most profitable growing seasons are from October to December and May to July. Continuous planting of Pechay in the same area causes allelopathic effects. However, this can be remedied by burning 20cm thick of ricehull evenly distributed on the plots. Two weeks after burning, the land can be prepared again with basal application of organic fertilizers.

Land Preparation

Land preparation is crucial during the wet season. Plow the area when the soil is just moist and friable. Set plots at 1.5m wide and 30-40cm high with a length of 10-20m or depending on the choice of the farmer. Incorporate 1:1 organic fertilizer and decaying ricehull on the prepared plots at the rate of 5kg/m2 before broadcasting the seeds.

System of Planting

To allow uniformity in broadcasting, mix the seeds with equal amount of fine sand. A hectare needs 3-4kg of seeds. Cover the seeds with fine soil after broadcasting. If ants are present in the area, dust the perimeter of the bed with Sevin 85 WP. Saturate the beds or plots with water for the first three days. Regulate watering after seed emergence. If the seedlings appeared too thick in each plot, the extra seedlings can be pricked in another extra plots.

Glorioso, Johann Dexter M. AGR41

During the rainy season, cover the plots with 2-3cm thick of ricehull to prevent the accumulation of soil underneath the leaves. Such condition endures the leaves creating a wound and giving away for diseases to develop.

Weeding and Cultivation

Weeding and cultivation is advisable 10-15 days after sowing (DAS) and repeated by handweeding or 20-25 DAS if weeds are still present.

Irrigation

Irrigate the plants weekly or earlier depending on the soil condition at different stages of the crop.

Fertilizer Application

Kind of Fertilizer Rate of Application (per ha.)

When to Apply Method of Application

Organic Fertilizer 40 bags At plot preparation Basal14-14-14 4 bags At plot preparation BasalUrea 2 bags At two weeks after

emergenceSide dressing

Foliar Fertilizer 8 liters At three weeks after emergence

Foliage Spray

Foliar Fertilizer 8 liters At four weeks after emergence

Foliage spray

Glorioso, Johann Dexter M. AGR41

Insect pests and Diseases Control

Other Control Methods

Use tunnel type barrier nets to prevent infestation of diamond backmoth, cabbage webworm and cabbage worm.

Harvesting

Harvest the plants in the afternoon to avoid breakage of the leaves during harvesting and packaging. Remove the roots and yellow leaves. Pack in polyethylene bags to maintain freshness.

Glorioso, Johann Dexter M. AGR41

Cost and Return Analysis

Glorioso, Johann Dexter M. AGR41

Reference:

Undan, R., Poricula, F., Patricio, M., et al. (2004). Technoguides for Agricultural Production and Livelihood Projects. Central Luzon State University, Munoz, Nueva Ecija.