Climate; Sub-tropical, Temperate, Tropical Common Name; Komatsuna Spinach Color; Green USDA Hardiness Zone (F); Zones 3-12 Soil Type; Chalk, Clay, Loam, Peat, Saline, Sand, Silt Soil pH; 5.0 - 6.5 Type; Herb Seeds Watering; Medium Sunlight; Full Sun, Partial Shade Features; Open-Pollinating Country/Region of Manufacture; United States Komatsuna has cancer-fighting abilities. According to the Linus Pauling Institute, komatsuna’s glucosinolate content contributes to a decreased risk of developing cancer by inhibiting the growth of detrimental enzymes. Also, komatsuna’s beta-carotene content protects first-hand smokers from the onset of lung cancer. The vitamin K in komatsuna (350 percent of the recommended daily intake) is important for optimum blood clotting and iron absorption in the body. The vitamin C in komatsuna, which is around 65 percent of the body’s daily recommended allowance, is essential for the synthesis of certain neurotransmitters and collagen, a protein that enhances the abilities of connective tissues and helps heal wounds faster. Iron absorption is also enhanced by vitamin C. Komatsuna has anti-inflammatory properties. The vitamin K in komatsuna decreases the levels of Interleukin-6, a protein which is said induce inflammation in the body and cause serious illnesses such as coronary heart disease and cancer.Body systems supported by komatsuna. GROWING INFORMATION CULTURE: Sow from early spring through midsummer. May be sown into late fall in mild climates or when overwintering in a high tunnel or other protected structure. For full-size bunching: sow 15 seeds/ft. (10–12 seeds/ft. for 'Green 70 D Improved'), 1/4" deep in rows 12-18" apart. Most varieties do not require thinning; see individual product descriptions for varieties that do. For baby-leaf production of 'Tokyo Bekana', see the Baby Leaf Brassica Greens culture. SUCCESSION PLANTING: Sowing every 7-10 days will provide a continuous harvest of both budding/cutting and heading types. INSECT PESTS: Flea beetles are best controlled by covering with floating row covers from day of sowing. HARVEST: Budding/cutting types (choi sum and kailaan): harvest when the buds are just mature, or a few are just blooming. Multiple harvests are possible for these types. Heading types (celtuce, Chinese cabbage, and komatsuna): may be harvested from medium to full-size, depending on local market preferences. These types are suitable for single harvests. NOTE: Images Shown are of Mature Plants