Wild mustard
Sinapis arvensis · Brassicaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant wild mustard: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- April to June
- Adult size
- 30 to 80 cm in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Very hardy, down to -15 °C
- Origin
- Mediterranean and Western Asia
- Soil type
- Well-drained, fertile, tolerant
Care
Watering
Wild mustard enjoys moderately moist soil during growth, especially in dry periods. Regular but light watering is sufficient; excess moisture promotes diseases. Once established, it tolerates dry spells.
Light Exposure
Plant it in full sun for optimal growth and generous flowering. It tolerates partial shade but develops fewer flowers and becomes more etiolated. 6 to 8 hours of direct light daily are ideal.
Soil and Preparation
Prefer well-drained, fertile soil rich in organic matter. Wild mustard adapts to less rich soils and even tolerates calcareous soils. Adding compost at sowing promotes good establishment.
Pruning and Maintenance
No pruning is necessary to maintain shape. Simply remove spent flowers to extend flowering and prevent excessive self-seeding. After flowering, you can pull up the plant or let it reseed naturally.
Nutrient Supply
Diluted balanced fertilizer applied every 15 days stimulates flowering, but is not essential in rich soil. Avoid excess nitrogen, which would promote foliage at the expense of flowers.
Pests and Diseases
Wild mustard can be affected by aphids, flea beetles, and whiteflies. Fungal diseases like powdery mildew appear in humid, poorly ventilated conditions. Promote good air circulation and monitor foliage regularly.
Did you know?
Wild mustard was long cultivated as a cover crop and green manure to improve depleted soils between main crops. Its oil-rich seeds were also used to produce traditional rapeseed oil in Europe, hence its historical importance in medieval agriculture and food.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.