Mulching can help conserve water and reduce weeds. Use very shallow cultivation to help keep these crops free of weeds. This is a problem of spring-planted and overwintered crops. The larger the plants are at the time of exposure to the cold period, the higher the incidence of bolting. Lack of nitrogen or other nutrient stresses as well as competition from weeds, insects or diseases that slow vegetative growth can also promote flowering.
Some varieties are more susceptible to bolting than are other varieties.
Setting out young, healthy transplants that have not been stressed. Watering well when transplanting to start root growth and remove air pockets from the soil. Planting at the correct time for your area. Growing slow-bolting varieties. The Chinese cole crops are affected by the same pests and diseases that affect other cabbage relatives.