Heat-Tolerant and Bolt-Resistant Bok Choy Varieties

Bok choy (Pak Choi) can be sensitive to heat and long daylight, often bolting and producing bitter leaves. Selecting heat-tolerant and slow-bolting varieties is key for a consistent, tender harvest. Drawing on decades of experience growing leafy greens in Sonoma Valley, here’s a guide to the best varieties for warm-weather success.

Table of Contents

Top Heat-Tolerant, Bolt-Resistant Bok Choy Varieties

1. Michihili

Slow-bolting, heat-tolerant variety
Large, dark green leaves with crisp texture
Ideal for summer planting in garden beds and containers

2. Shanghai Bok Choy

Resists bolting even in warmer temperatures
Mild, sweet flavor, tender stalks
Performs well in succession planting

3. Joi Choi

Early-maturing variety with moderate heat tolerance
Smooth, light green leaves
Great for cut-and-come-again harvests

4. White Stem Bok Choy

Classic variety with thick, crunchy stalks
Retains tenderness under heat stress
Suitable for both home gardens and small-scale production

Growing Tips for Heat-Tolerant Bok Choy

Provide partial shade during hottest part of day
Maintain consistent soil moisture
Use mulch to keep roots cool and retain water
Sow in succession to avoid gaps in harvest

My Experience

Over 30 years of growing bok choy, Michihili and Shanghai Bok Choy consistently perform well through warm springs and summers. By combining bolt-resistant varieties with careful watering and light shading, I harvest tender leaves even in heat-prone months.

Choosing heat-tolerant, bolt-resistant bok choy ensures flavorful, crisp leaves for summer and fall harvests.

Bok Choy Learning Hub

Start here: The Ultimate Guide to Growing Bok Choy

Bok Choy Planting & Timing

Starting, Transplanting & Direct Sowing

Bok Choy Care

Pests & Diseases

Common Bok Choy Pests and Diseases and How to Prevent and Control Them

Harvest & Storage

Containers & Small Spaces

How to Grow Bok Choy in Containers, Troughs, and Small Beds

Varieties

Companion Planting

Companion Plants for Bok Choy: Boost Growth and Reduce Pests

Stephen Albert

Stephen Albert is a horticulturist, master gardener, and certified nurseryman who has taught at the University of California for more than 25 years. He holds graduate degrees from the University of California and the University of Iowa. His books include Vegetable Garden Grower’s Guide, Vegetable Garden Almanac & Planner, Tomato Grower’s Answer Book, and Kitchen Garden Grower’s Guide. His Vegetable Garden Grower’s Masterclass is available online. Harvesttotable.com has more than 10 million visitors each year.

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