For the fall crop, sow seed 60 to 80 days before frost date for Chinese cabbages and 50 to 60 days before frost for Chinese mustard. Well drained, fertile, moist soil promotes the desirable rapid tender growth. Availability - Both are grown commercially in the Rio Grande Valley, and in the Houston and San Antonio areas for fall and winter harvest. Major supplies come into supermarkets from California, Florida and New Jersey. Highest quality is in fall and winter.
Chinese mustard is less commonly available than Chinese cabbage in stores.
Selection - Clean, crisp leaves and firm heads with no browning or spots on leaves. Look into the center of the rosette to be sure it is free of decay. Storage - Wash, place head in plastic bag and refrigerate. Optimum storage conditions are 32 o F. and 95 percent relative humidity.