Mustard

[Georgie]

I took a few Mustard seeds from one of the pass the parcels - there were no details - and I've now got a lovely plant getting on for 60cm high with very pretty yellow flowers which look a bit like Sweet Rocket/Honesty.  I gather the leaves are edible and you can use the seeds.  Has anyone else grown this plant and do you have any tips?

G x

[Georgie]

[saddad]

I've grown the Red leaved stuff... now you have the flowrs you will probably get loads of self sets..  :)

[Georgie]

Thanks Saddad, I sort of expected that although as it's in a pot this is less likely.  I'm still struggling to find anything about the plant though.  I'm assuming it's an annual or biennial?  Should I sow the seeds I don't use as soon as they are ripe or wait until next spring? 

G x

[Garjan]

Hi Georgie

The leaves are best to eat (more tender) when the plant is not flowering. But older leaves are still OK in a stir fry.

To save the seeds I cut the stem when the pods are swollen and put it upside down in a paperbag. This I hang in a dry and warm space until all the pods are paper dry.
Then roll your hand over the pods while they are inside the bag, take out the stems and collect the seeds in a shallow container. By blowing the surface, you can get rid of all the leftovers of the pods. You should do this outside   ::)or you kitchen will be scattered with dried shells!
You can use the seeds the next summer.

[Georgie]

Thanks Garjan, that's helpful.   :)

G x