Black Mustard (Brassica Nigra)

(Brassica Nigra 'Black')

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Black Mustard is a heirloom, hardy, cool weather annual vegetable that is native to Eurasia, but can be commonly found growing throughout the United States. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 24-72” and features upright stems, wrinkly dark green leaves, yellow flowers that have 4 petals, and long seed pods that contain black/dark brown seeds. This plant can be grown in a container, deters flea beetles, is rabbit safe, tolerates light frost, makes green manure, and is both edible and medicinal!

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General Information
Soil Preparation
Start Outdoors
Crop Care
Harvesting
Storage
Seed Saving
Culinary & Medicinal
Companion Planting
Nutrition & Health Benefits

Family: Brassicaceae

Genus: Brassica

Species: nigra

Variety: Black Mustard

Native to: Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, China North-Central, Czechoslovakia, East Aegean Is., East Himalaya, Egypt, Ethiopia, France, Germany, Great Britain, Greece, Gulf States, Hungary, India, Iran, Iraq, Ireland, Italy, Kazakhstan, Kriti, Lebanon-Syria, Libya, Morocco, Netherlands, North Caucasus, Pakistan, Palestine, Poland, Qinghai, Romania, Sardegna, Sicilia, Sinai, Spain, Tibet, Transcaucasus, Tunisia, Turkey, Turkey-in-Europe, Ukraine, West Himalaya, Xinjiang, Yugoslavia.

Introduced into: Alabama, Alaska, Alberta, Argentina Northeast, Argentina Northwest, Argentina South, Arizona, Arkansas, Assam, Azores, Baltic States, Bangladesh, Belarus, Bermuda, Bolivia, British Columbia, California, Canary Is., Cape Verde, Central European Rus, Chile Central, Chile North, China South-Central, China Southeast, Colombia, Colorado, Connecticut, Cuba, Cyprus, Delaware, Denmark, District of Columbia, East European Russia, Ecuador, Florida, Georgia, Guatemala, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Juan Fernández Is., Kansas, Kentucky, Khabarovsk, Louisiana, Madeira, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mexico Central, Mexico Northwest, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nepal, Nevada, New Brunswick, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New South Wales, New York, New Zealand North, New Zealand South, Newfoundland, North Carolina, North Dakota, Northern Provinces, Northern Territory, Northwest European R, Norway, Nova Scotia, Ohio, Oklahoma, Ontario, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Portugal, Primorye, Prince Edward I., Puerto Rico, Queensland, Québec, Saskatchewan, South Carolina, South Dakota, South European Russi, Sudan, Sweden, Switzerland, Tasmania, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Victoria, Vietnam, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Western Australia, Western Sahara, Wisconsin, Wyoming.

Ease of Growing: Easy

Grown as: Annual

Days to Maturity (Bloom): Early to late summer

Hardiness: Hardy. Mustards actually prefer cool weather and are often grown as a winter vegetable. They are quite frost tolerant.

Crops: Spring, Fall

Growing Season: Short, Long

Growing Conditions: Cold, Cool. The ideal spot for mustards depends on the weather. If it's cool they should be planted on a sunny site. If it's warm then some shade is a good idea since mustards do not taste as good in warmer conditions. Mustards are in and out of the ground quickly, so are often used for intercropping between slower growing crops, rather than being given their own area.

Outdoor Growing Temp: 45°F - 75°F

Min Outdoor Soil Temp: 45°F. Mustard germinates and grows quickly (if the soil is at least 45 degrees) so is usually planted outdoors.

Start Indoors: No

Start Outdoors: Yes

Light: Sun: min. 6 hours daily (Cold, Cool). Full sun.

Water: Moderate. If you want tasty, mild flavored mustard greens (and you do) you must keep the soil moist at all times. If the soil is too dry the plants will develop a bitter and pungent flavor.

Feeder: Moderate. High nitrogen. Moderate potassium. Moderate phosphorous. The Mustards need fertile soil to produce well.

Suitability: Tolerates light frost, Needs summer shade

Small Gardens?: Yes

Containers?: Yes. Mustards do very well in containers, just be sure to keep the soil moist.

Attracts beneficial insects?: No

Maintenance: Low

Plant Height: 24-72"

Spacing: 6-12", 4 plants per sq ft.

Sow Depth: 1/4-1/2"

Produces: upright stems, wrinkly dark green leaves, yellow flowers that have 4 petals, and long seed pods that contain black/dark brown seeds.

Hardiness Zone: 2-11

Soil Preference:
Soil pH: 5.5-6.8, Ideal 6.0-6.3. Mustards aren't particularly fussy about soils, but are most productive on rich moisture retentive ones.

Soil Preparation:
Standard Mix, 5 pounds per 100 sq. ft., in top 6" of soil, 1 time: A standard mix will supply additional potassium, phosphorus and trace elements. It should be incorporated into the top 6" of soil along with the compost.

This mix consists of:

4 parts cottonseed meal (this is high in nitrogen and relatively inexpensive)
2 parts colloidal phosphate or bone meal (for phosphorus)
2 parts wood ash or 3 parts greensand or granite dust (for potassium)
1 part dolomitic limestone (to balance pH and add calcium and magnesium)
1 part kelp meal (for trace elements)

Compost (Nitrogen), 2", when 6" tall, 1 time: Incorporate 2" of compost or aged manure into the top 6" of soil.

When Cold, Cool: The ideal spot for mustards depends on the weather. If it's cool they should be planted on a sunny site. If it's warm then some shade is a good idea since mustards do not taste as good in warmer conditions. Mustards are in and out of the ground quickly, so are often used for intercropping between slower growing crops, rather than being given their own area.

When outdoor temp: 45°F to 75°F, optimal temp 55°F to 65°F

When min soil temp: 45°F. Mustard germinates and grows quickly (if the soil is at least 45 degrees) so is usually planted outdoors.

Seed Depth: 0.25"-0.5". Sow the seed 1/4" deep in cool soil and 1/2" deep in warm soil.

Spacing: 6"-12", 4 plants per sq ft. Intensive beds: Plant mustard 6" to 12" apart.

Spring Crop
2-4 weeks before last frost date: Mustard is usually direct sown, starting 4 weeks before the last frost date, so they have time to mature before it gets warm. They are somewhat prone to bolting when planted in spring and definitely do better as a fall and winter crop.

1. Broadcast the seed and cover with 1/4˝ to 1/2˝ of soil (or a mix of half soil and half compost). It doesn’t seem to mind crowding, but should eventually be thinned to the proper spacing (eat the thinnings). It can also be sown in rows (sow seed 1/2˝ deep and 1/2˝ apart).

Fall Crop:
8-10 weeks before first frost date: Mustards generally work best as a fall crop and (like many Brassicas) cold weather actually improves their flavor.

1. Broadcast seed and then cover with 1/4˝ to 1/2˝ of soil (or a mix of half soil and half compost). It doesn’t seem to mind crowding, but should eventually be thinned to the proper spacing (eat the thinnings). It can also be sown in rows (sow seed 1/2˝ deep and 1/2˝ apart).

Support: No

The plants need even watering and cool temperatures. If there is a slow down or interruption in growth they may bolt prematurely. If they do bolt, don't worry. You can eat the flower stalks like Broccoli Raab.

Water Needs: Moderate. If you want tasty, mild flavored mustard greens (and you do) you must keep the soil moist at all times. If the soil is too dry the plants will develop a bitter and pungent flavor.

Fertilizer Needs: Moderate. High nitrogen. Moderate potassium. Moderate phosphorous. The Mustards need fertile soil to produce well.

Watering, regularly: Water, 1 inch regularly, 1 time a week For best flavor it is important to keep the soil moist at all times. Fortunately this isn't usually a problem in cool weather. Watering also depends on your local weather; don't water if it's raining, or water more frequently if it's dry. Just be sure to keep soil moist for the best crop. The best way to know how much moisture is in your soil is to feel 2" below the soil line. If it's dry, water.

Thinning, after planting: 1 inch apart, after planting, 1 time a week If you desire delicious young tender Mustard Greens you can plant Mustard Greens closer together than the variety requirements but you must constantly thin the outer leaves.

Side Dressing, when 3" tall: Compost tea, 3 gallon(s) per 100 sq. ft., when 3" tall, 1 time. After thinning the plants to their final spacing you should feed them with a foliar fertilizer such as compost tea or liquid kelp (use as directed).

Support: No

Ripening:
You can decide when the leaves are ready based on your needs. They can be ready when they are small or you can wait for full growth.

Mustards can be stored in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to 7 days (how long depends upon the variety).

Storage Req: Refrigerator
Storage Temp: °F
Storage Length: 3-7 days

It's easy to save seed from these annuals. Just treat them like kale and gather the seed at the appropriate time. Be aware that it can become a weed if it gets established (though perhaps not an unwelcome one).

Mustard can produce far more seed than you need for propagation. You can use the surplus for growing cut- and come-again salad greens and micro-greens, or for sprouting like alfalfa (they make excellent, slightly spicy sprouts). They can even be used for making the condiment mustard.

Seed Viability in Years: 4 - 5 Years
Germination Percentage: 75%

Culinary

Taste:
Spicy and Flavored.

Culinary Use:
Mustard greens are versatile and can be braised, steamed, sauteed or made into chips. Their spicy favor goes well when cooked simply with garlic or onions. Mustard greens also make an excellent side dish to serve with fish or meat.

Leaves: raw or cooked. A hot flavor, they can be finely chopped and added to salads or cooked as a potherb. The seedlings can also be used as a salading when about one week old, adding a hot pungency to a salad.

Immature flowering stems: cooked and eaten like broccoli. Mustard seed is commonly ground into a powder and used as a food flavoring and relish. This is the black mustard of commerce, it is widely used as a food relish and as an ingredient of curry. Pungency of mustard develops when cold water is added to the ground-up seed - an enzyme (myrosin) acts on a glycoside (sinigrin) to produce a sulphur compound. The reaction takes 10 - 15 minutes. Mixing with hot water or vinegar, or adding salt, inhibits the enzyme and produces a mild bitter mustard. The seed can also be used whole to season pickles, curries, sauerkraut etc. Black mustard has a stronger more pungent flavor than white mustard (Sinapis alba) and brown mustard (B. juncea). An edible oil is obtained from the seed.

Medicinal

Mustard seed is often used in herbal medicine, especially as a rubefacient poultice. The seed is ground and made into a paste then applied to the skin in the treatment of rheumatism, as a means of reducing congestion in internal organs. Applied externally, mustard relieves congestion by drawing the blood to the surface as in head afflictions, neuralgia and spasms. Hot water poured on bruised seeds makes a stimulant foot bath, good for colds and headaches. Old herbals suggested mustard for treating alopecia, epilepsy, snakebite, and toothache. Care must be taken not to overdo it, since poultices can sometimes cause quite severe irritation to the skin. The seed is also used internally, when it is appetizer, digestive, diuretic, emetic and tonic. Swallowed whole when mixed with molasses, it acts as a laxative. A decoction of the seeds is used in the treatment of indurations of the liver and spleen. It is also used to treat carcinoma, throat tumors, and imposthumes. A liquid prepared from the seed, when gargled, is said to help tumors of the "sinax.". The seed is eaten as a tonic and appetite stimulant. Hot water poured onto bruised mustard seeds makes a stimulating foot bath and can also be used as an inhaler where it acts to throw off a cold or dispel a headache. Mustard Oil is said to stimulate hair growth. Mustard is also recommended as an aperient ingredient of tea, useful in hiccup. Mustard flour is considered antiseptic.

Source

Project Purity Seeds can not take any responsibility for any adverse effects from the use of plants. Always seek advice from a professional before using a plant medicinally.

Other Uses

A semi-drying oil is obtained from the seed, as well as being edible it is also used as a lubricant, illuminant and in making soap. The plant is often grown as a green manure, it is very fast, producing a bulk suitable for digging into the soil in about 8 weeks. Not very winter hardy, it is generally used in spring and summer. It does harbour the pests and diseases of the cabbage family so is probably best avoided where these plants are grown in a short rotation and especially if club root is a problem. Mustard oil (allyl isothiocyanate) is used in commercial cat and dog repellent mixtures.

Companion Planting

Allies: According to some studies, mustard deters flea beetles and aphids from collards and Brussels sprouts. Brussels sprouts and collards intercropped with wild mustard had fewer cabbage aphids; collards had fewer flea beetles. Cultivated and weedy mustard species are reputed to improve the vigor of beans, grapevines, and fruit trees.

Companions: Grow mustard as a border or strip planting in gardens, orchards, or vineyards.

Enemies: Gardening lore recommends keeping mustard plants away from turnips. Wild mustard may bring in more troubles to the garden than it prevents. It hosts insect pests, such as pea aphids, and may attract cutworms and other pests that will then move on to cabbage and other garden crops. Some studies indicated an allelopathic reaction from wild mustard that can stunt the growth of lettuce and other neighboring plants. It's probably best to confine your mustard plantings to cultivated types, and pull and destroy wild ones that crop up.

Problems

No serious insect or disease problems. Flea beetles, caterpillars, aphids, snails and slugs are the most frequent pests.

Flea Beetles

Beneficial insects such as Braconid wasps, Tachinid flies, Lacewings larvae, Damsel bugs, and Big Eyed Bug all prey on Flea Beetles.

Braconid Wasps: Prey on Tobacco Hornworm, Tomato Hornworm, Caterpillars, Aphids, Flea Beetles, and Mexican Bean Beetles.

To attract Braconid Wasps to your garden you will need to grow: Fern-leaf Yarrow, Common Yarrow, Dill, Lemon Balm, and Parsley.

Tachinid Flies: Preys on Gypsy Moths, Flea Beetles, Japanese Beetles, Mexican Bean Beetles, Cutworms, and Squash Bugs.

To attract Tachinid Flies to your garden you will need to grow: Carrots, Dill, Coriander, and Buckwheat.

Green Lacewings: Preys on Aphids, Flea beetles, Whitefly, Leafhopper, Mealybugs, and Caterpillars of pest moths.

To attract Green Lacewings to your garden you will need to grow: Dill, Angelica, Golden Marguerite, Coriander, and Dandelion.

Damsel Bugs: Preys on Caterpillars, Mites, Aphids, Flea beetles, Potato beetles, and Cabbage worms.

To attract Damsel Bugs to your garden you will need to grow: Caraway (Carum carvi), Cosmos “white sensation” (Cosmos bipinnatus), Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), Alfalfa (Medicago sativa), Spearmint (Mentha spicata), Peter Pan Goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea), and Marigold “lemon gem” (Tagetes tenuifolia).

Big-eyed Bugs: Preys on Aphids, small Caterpillars and Caterpillar eggs, Flea beetles, Fleahoppers, Lygus bugs, Mites, Thrips, Whiteflies.

To attract Big-Eyed Bugs to your garden you will need to grow: Caraway (Carum carvi), Cosmos “white sensation” (Cosmos bipinnatus), Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), Alfalfa (Medicago sativa), Spearmint (Mentha spicata), Peter Pan Goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea), and Marigold “lemon gem” (Tagetes tenuifolia).

Caterpillars

Beneficial insects such as Assassin Bugs, Big Eyed Bugs, Braconid Wasps, Damsel Bugs, Ground Beetles, Hoverflies, Lacewings, Minute Pirate Bugs, and Preying Mantis all prey on Caterpillars.

Assassin Bugs: Preys on Aphids, leafhoppers, asparagus beetle eggs and larvae, small flying insects, and up to medium-sized caterpillars.

To attract Assassin Bugs to your garden you will need to grow: Most garden plants, field crops, ornamental trees and shrubs. Spined assassin bugs are often found on goldenrod and other wildflowers.

Big-eyed Bugs: Big-eyed bugs are small (~3/16 inch long), fast moving true bugs. They are generalist predators and are most commonly seen on the ground or in shorter growing plants. They prey on aphids, small caterpillars and caterpillar eggs, fleahoppers, lygus bugs, mites, thrips, whiteflies. They are distinguished by their very large eyes which are as broad as the width of their body. Big-eyed bugs are not available commercially.

To attract Big-eyed bugs to your garden you will need to grow: Caraway (Carum carvi), Cosmos “white sensation” (Cosmos bipinnatus), Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), Alfalfa (Medicago sativa), Spearmint (Mentha spicata), Peter Pan Goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea), and Marigold “lemon gem” (Tagetes tenuifolia).

Braconid Wasps: prey on Tobacco Hornworm, Tomato Hornworm, Caterpillars, Aphids, Flea Beetles, and Mexican Bean Beetles.

To attract Braconid Wasps to your garden you will need to grow: Fern-leaf Yarrow, Common Yarrow, Dill, Lemon Balm, and Parsley.

Damsel Bugs: These true bugs are very common and abundant in farms, gardens and landscapes. They are generalist predators and both the adults and nymphs eat aphids, caterpillar eggs, small larvae, fleahoppers, lygus bugs, leafhoppers, treehoppers, spider mites, and other soft-bodied insects, especially on shorter growing plants. They are common in agricultural habitats, such as soybean, corn, and alfalfa. Damsel bugs are greyish brown in color and have grasping front legs. They are not commercially available.

To attract Damsel Bugs to your garden you will need to grow: Caraway (Carum carvi), Cosmos “white sensation” (Cosmos bipinnatus), Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), Alfalfa (Medicago sativa), Spearmint (Mentha spicata), Peter Pan Goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea), and Marigold “lemon gem” (Tagetes tenuifolia).

Ground Beetles: Prey on Snails, Slugs, Ants, Maggots, Earthworms, Caterpillars, Armyworms, Grubs, Colorado potato beetles, and Cutworms.

To attract Ground Beetles to your garden you will need to grow: evening primrose, amaranthus, and clover.

Hoverflies: Prey on aphids, scale insects, caterpillars, and Thrips.

To attract Hoverflies to your garden you will need to grow: Fern-leaf yarrow (Achillea ﬁlipendulina), Common yarrow (Achillea millefolium), Carpet bugleweed (Ajuga reptans), Lavender globe lily (Allium tanguticum), Basket of Gold (Alyssum saxatilis), Dill (Anethum graveolens), Golden Marguerite (Anthemis tinctoria), Dwarf alpine aster (Aster alpinus), Masterwort (Astrantia major), Four-wing saltbush (Atriplex canescens), Purple poppy mallow (Callirhoe involucrata), Caraway (Carum carvi), Feverfew (Chrysanthemum parthenium), Coriander (Coriandrum sativum), Cosmos white sensation (Cosmos bipinnatus), Queen Anne’s lace (Daucus carota), Buckwheat (Eriogonum fasciculatum CA), Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), Poached egg plant (Limnanthes douglasii), Statice (Limonium latifolium), Butter and eggs (Linaria vulgaris), Edging lobelia (Lobelia erinus), Sweet alyssum white (Lobularia maritima), Lemon Balm (Melissa ofﬁcinalis), Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium), Spearmint (Mentha spicata), Wild Bergamot (Monarda ﬁstulosa), Rocky Mountain penstemon (Penstemon strictus), Parsley (Petroselinum crispum), Sulfur cinquefoil (Potentilla recta ‘warrenii’), Alpine cinquefoil (Potentilla villosa), Gloriosa daisy (Rudbeckia fulgida), Orange stonecrop (Sedum kamtschaticum), Stonecrops (Sedum spurium), Peter Pan goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea), Wood betony (Stachys ofﬁcinalis), Marigold “lemon gem” (Tagetes tenuifolia), Crimson thyme (Thymus serpylum coccineus), Spike speedwell (Veronica spicata), Zinnia "liliput" (Zinnia elegans).

Lacewings: Green lacewings are common generalist predators that feed on aphids. Brown lacewings are slightly smaller. Some species of adult lacewings are predaceous while the larvae are very active predators that feed on soft-bodied prey such as mites, aphids, leafhoppers, thrips, whiteflies, and pest eggs. Lacewings in nearly all life stages are commercially available.

To attract Lacewings to your garden you will need to grow: Fern-leaf yarrow (Achillea ﬁlipendulina), Dill (Anethum graveolens), Angelica (Angelica gigas), Golden marguerite (Anthemis tinctoria), Four-wing saltbush (Atriplex canescens), Purple poppy mallow (Callirhoe involucrata), Caraway (Carum carvi), Coriander (Coriandrum sativum),
Cosmos white sensation (Cosmos bipinnatus), Queen Anne’s lace (Daucus carota), Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), Prairie sunﬂower (Helianthus maximilianii), Tansy (Tanacetum vulgare), Dandelion (Taraxacum ofﬁcinale).

Minute Pirate Bugs: Minute pirate bugs are very small (~1/12 inch long) predators that are difficult to see without a hand lens or jeweler’s loupe. They are generalist predators that feed on small insect prey. Both the nymphs and adults are predaceous. The adults are identified by the black and white color and an X pattern across the back. The nymphs are tiny and red to orange in color. Minute pirate bugs are commercially available.

To attract Minute Pirate Bugs to your garden you will need to grow: Caraway (Carum carvi), Cosmos “white sensation” (Cosmos bipinnatus), Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), Alfalfa (Medicago sativa), Spearmint (Mentha spicata), Peter Pan Goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea), and Marigold “lemon gem” (Tagetes tenuifolia).

Praying Mantis: Preys on a wide range including caterpillars, moths, beetles, and crickets.

To attract Praying Mantis to your garden you will need to grow: tall grasses and shrubs, cosmos, marigolds, and dills.

Aphids

Beneficial insects such as Ladybugs, Collops Beetle, Soldier Beetles, Long-legged Flies, Hover Flies, Predaceous Midges, Damsel Bugs, Big-eyed Bugs, Minute Pirate Bugs, Lacewings, Parasitic Wasps, Hornets, Paper Wasps, and Yellow Jackets all prey on aphids.

Ladybeetles, Ladybugs, or Ladybird Beetles: Ladybeetles are probably the most well-known of beetles that eat aphids. There are many species, and both the adults and larvae eat aphids. Convergent lady beetles and the seven-spotted ladybeetles are abundant species in the environment. Eggs are found in clutches, yellow and football shaped. Larvae have an alligator-like appearance, and are black with orange markings. Pupae are sedentary. Ladybeetles are commercially available but purchasing is not generally recommended since the adult stage tends to fly away once released. Introductions may be more effective in greenhouses and high tunnels. Diverse plantings can help recruit resident ladybeetles to an area.

To attract Ladybugs to your garden you will need to grow: Angelica, Calendula, Caraway, Chives, Cilantro, Cosmos, Dill, Fennel, Feverfew, Marigold, Statice, Sweet Alyssum, and Yarrow. You may also want to grow decoy crops to keep your ladybugs supplied with aphids to eat such as Early cabbage, Marigold, Nasturtium, and Radish. Without a food source, your ladybugs will be forced to leave which will leave your crops vulnerable.

Soft-winged Flower Beetle or Collops Beetle: Collops beetles are commonly found on Alfalfa and Cotton plants in agricultural fields, landscapes and gardens. The adult eats aphids and the larvae are active predators in the soil. Two
abundant species in Utah are the two-spotted melyrid and the soft-winged flower beetle. Collops beetles are not commercially available.

Soldier Beetles: The adult stage of the soldier beetle eats aphids. The larvae live in the soil and help to control soil-borne pests. There are beetles that look similar to soldier beetles such as blister beetles and click beetles, so use care when identifying them. Soldier beetles are not commercially available.

Since Soldiers Beetles lay their eggs in the soil, all you have to do to is grow good nectar or pollen producing plants like Asclepias (milkweed), Solidago (goldenrod), and, while it’s not well understood, they seem particularly attracted to hydrangeas. Soldier Beetles can be found on flowers where they lie and wait for prey. They also feed on nectar and pollen but do not damage the plants.

Long-legged Flies: There are many species of long-legged flies (Dolichopodidae), the adults of which are predators of soft-bodied pests such as thrips, aphids, spider mites, flea hoppers, booklice, flies, silverfish, small caterpillars, and a variety of other small insects. They also eat nectar from flowers. The adult is recognized by the long legs and tapered abdomen but also by the metalic green or blue color. Larvae of long-legged flies are maggot-like in appearance and develop in wet or dry soil, rotting vegetation, or under bark. They are not commercially available.

Syrphid, Flower, or Hover Flies: Syrphid flies are about the size of house flies and hover in flight. The adults, which sometimes resemble bees, are not predaceous, but the larvae are aphid predators. The larvae vary in color from green to brown, some with a stripe or two down the back. The body tapers to the mouthparts. Syrphid flies are not commercially available.

To attract Hover Flies to your garden try growing: Fern-leaf yarrow (Achillea ﬁlipendulina), Common yarrow
(Achillea millefolium), Carpet bugleweed (Ajuga reptans), Lavender globe lily (Allium tanguticum), Basket of Gold (Alyssum saxatilis), Dill (Anethum graveolens), Golden Marguerite (Anthemis tinctoria), Dwarf alpine aster (Aster alpinus), Masterwort (Astrantia major), \Four-wing saltbush (Atriplex canescens), Purple poppy mallow (Callirhoe involucrata), Caraway (Carum carvi), Feverfew (Chrysanthemum parthenium), Coriander (Coriandrum sativum),
Cosmos white sensation (Cosmos bipinnatus), Queen Anne’s lace (Daucus carota), Buckwheat (Eriogonum fasciculatum CA), Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), Poached egg plant (Limnanthes douglasii), Statice (Limonium latifolium), Butter and eggs (Linaria vulgaris), Edging lobelia (Lobelia erinus), Sweet alyssum white (Lobularia maritima), Lemon Balm (Melissa ofﬁcinalis), Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium), Spearmint (Mentha spicata), Wild Bergamot (Monarda ﬁstulosa), Rocky Mountain penstemon (Penstemon strictus), Parsley (Petroselinum crispum), Sulfur cinquefoil (Potentilla recta ‘warrenii’), Alpine cinquefoil (Potentilla villosa), Gloriosa daisy (Rudbeckia fulgida), Orange stonecrop (Sedum kamtschaticum), Stonecrops (Sedum spurium), Peter Pan goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea), Wood betony (Stachys ofﬁcinalis), Marigold “lemon gem” (Tagetes tenuifolia),
Crimson thyme (Thymus serpylum coccineus), Spike speedwell (Veronica spicata), Zinnia "liliput" (Zinnia elegans).

Predaceous Midges: The larvae of these flies are very small (~1/10 inch long), but are generalist predators of mites, aphids and other soft-bodied insects. The larvae are yellow to orange in color. The adults are not predatory. Predaceous midges are commercially available.

Damsel Bugs: These true bugs are very common and abundant in farms, gardens and landscapes. They are generalist predators and both the adults and nymphs eat aphids, caterpillar eggs, small larvae, fleahoppers, lygus bugs, leafhoppers, treehoppers, spider mites, and other soft-bodied insects, especially on shorter growing plants. They are common in agricultural habitats, such as soybean, corn, and alfalfa. Damsel bugs are greyish brown in color and have grasping front legs. They are not commercially available.

To attract Damsel Bugs to your garden you will need to grow: Caraway (Carum carvi), Cosmos “white sensation” (Cosmos bipinnatus), Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), Alfalfa (Medicago sativa), Spearmint (Mentha spicata), Peter Pan Goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea), and Marigold “lemon gem” (Tagetes tenuifolia).

Big-eyed Bugs: Big-eyed bugs are small (~3/16 inch long), fast moving true bugs. They are generalist predators and are most commonly seen on the ground or in shorter growing plants. They prey on aphids, small caterpillars and caterpillar eggs, fleahoppers, lygus bugs, mites, thrips, whiteflies. They are distinguished by their very large eyes which are as broad as the width of their body. Big-eyed bugs are not available commercially.

To attract Big-eyed bugs to your garden you will need to grow: Caraway (Carum carvi), Cosmos “white sensation” (Cosmos bipinnatus), Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), Alfalfa (Medicago sativa), Spearmint (Mentha spicata), Peter Pan Goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea), and Marigold “lemon gem” (Tagetes tenuifolia).

Minute Pirate Bugs: Minute pirate bugs are very small (~1/12 inch long) predators that are difficult to see without a hand lens or jeweler’s loupe. They are generalist predators that feed on small insect prey. Both the nymphs and adults are predaceous. The adults are identified by the black and white color and an X pattern across the back. The nymphs are tiny and red to orange in color. Minute pirate bugs are commercially available.

To attract Minute Pirate Bugs to your garden you will need to grow: Caraway (Carum carvi), Cosmos “white sensation” (Cosmos bipinnatus), Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), Alfalfa (Medicago sativa), Spearmint (Mentha spicata), Peter Pan Goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea), and Marigold “lemon gem” (Tagetes tenuifolia).

Lacewings: Green lacewings are common generalist predators that feed on aphids. Brown lacewings are slightly smaller. Some species of adult lacewings are predaceous while the larvae are very active predators that feed on soft-bodied prey such as mites, aphids, leafhoppers, thrips, whiteflies, and pest eggs. Lacewings in nearly all life stages are commercially available.

To attract Lacewings to your garden you will need to grow: Fern-leaf yarrow (Achillea ﬁlipendulina), Dill (Anethum graveolens), Angelica (Angelica gigas), Golden marguerite (Anthemis tinctoria), Four-wing saltbush (Atriplex canescens), Purple poppy mallow (Callirhoe involucrata), Caraway (Carum carvi), Coriander (Coriandrum sativum),
Cosmos white sensation (Cosmos bipinnatus), Queen Anne’s lace (Daucus carota), Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), Prairie sunﬂower (Helianthus maximilianii), Tansy (Tanacetum vulgare), Dandelion (Taraxacum ofﬁcinale).

Parasitic Wasps: There are several species of parasitoid wasps that parasitize aphids specifically. Parasitic wasps that specialize on aphids are very small (~1/8 inch long) and female wasps have a modified stinger for depositing eggs. The egg is injected into an aphid where the larva develops inside. Parasitized aphids are a light tan to gold color and have a bulbous look. A circular cut out on the rearend of the aphid indicates adult wasp emergence. Parasitic wasps are commercially available but there are abundant populations in the environment.

Hornets, Paper Wasps, Yellow Jackets: Although hornets, paper wasps and yellow jackets are often considered a nuisance, they are predators of soft-bodied insects. They do not typically sting humans unless they are disturbed. If their nests are not in an area likely to be disturbed by people then it is not a bad idea to leave them alone.

Slugs and Snails

Beneficial insects such as earwigs and ground beetles prey on Slugs and Snails.

Earwig: prey on Slugs and Snails.

To attract Earwigs to your garden you will need to grow: Celery (Apium graveolens), Beets (Beta vulgaris, Cabbages, Cauliflower (Brassica oleracea/Brassica rapa), Cucumber (Cucumis sativus), Dahlia, Carrot (Daucus carota), Carnation (Dianthus), Carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus), Strawberry (Fragaria ananassa), Hop (Humulus lupulus), Lettuce (Lactuca sativa), Lupin (Lupinus angustifolius), Apple (Malus domestica), Apricot (Prunus armeniaca), Sweet Cherry (Prunus avium), Plum (Prunus domestica), Peach (Prunus persica), European Pear (Pyrus communis), Rhubarb (Rheum hybridum), Roses (Rosa), Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), Potato (Solanum tuberosum), Grapevine (Vitis vinifera), Corn (Zea mays), Zinnia.

Ground Beetles: Prey on Snails, Slugs, Ants, Maggots, Earthworms, Caterpillars, Armyworms, Grubs, Colorado Potato Beetles, and Cutworms.

To attract Ground Beetles to your garden you will need to grow: Evening Primrose, Amaranthus, and Clover.

Nutrition

Mustard Greens are among the most nutritious of greens, rich in vitamins A and C, as well as calcium, iron and potassium. Like other Brassicas they also contain a variety of cancer preventing phytochemicals.

Health Benefits

Phenolic components and other valuable nutrients present in different parts of the mustard plant such as seeds, leaves, and oil collectively offer a magnitude of healthy benefits with a unique flavor. Efficacy of mustard plant for therapeutic usage has been discussed as below:

Cancer: Being a member of Brassica family, seeds of mustard plant contains generous amounts of healthy phytonutrients called glucosinolates which can prove valuable against various cancers such as bladder cancer, colon cancer and cervical cancer. Glucosinates break down to form isothiocyanates with the help of myrosinase enzymes present in mustard. Various studies have suggested regarding the anti-cancer effects of these components present in its seeds which inhibit the growth of cancer cells and even guards against the formation of such malignant cells. The chemopreventive properties of its seeds help in restoring the levels of glutathione and stimulate the induction of apoptosis without affecting the normal healthy cells.

Psoriasis: The tiny mustard seeds are effective against Psoriasis which is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disorder. Research studies have validated its effectiveness in curing the inflammation and lesions associated with Psoriasis. According to the study, treatment with its seeds also stimulates the activities of good enzymes such as superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase and catalase which encourage protective and healing action in such diseases.

Contact dermatitis: Mustard seeds offer therapeutic relief in contact dermatitis. Investigative research have suggested that consumption of its seeds helps in healing the symptoms associated with contact dermatitis such as healing of tissues and reduction in the ear swelling.

Cardiovascular health: Mustard oil is a hearty choice when it comes to choosing cooking oil. Studies conducted to assess the its effects on the patients suspected with acute myocardial infraction or heart attack in simpler terms have demonstrated positive results with respect to reduction in the rate of cardiac arrhythmia, reduction in the ventricular enlargement and the chest pain associated with the disorder. The cardio-protective properties of mustard oil possibly attributes to the presence of omegs-3 fatty acids among other healthful components.

Relief from respiratory disorders: Mustard seeds have been valued for their therapeutic effects in curing cold and sinus problems. It is a wonderful decongestant and expectorant which helps in clearing the mucus in the air passages. In Ayurveda, its seeds are considered as the food with warmer tendency and are prized for its healing effects in calming vata and kapha. From many years, different home remedies have involved the usage of mustard seeds or oil for treating a range of sinus related ailments such as addition of ground mustard seeds in a foot soak assists in releasing the congestion caused in the respiratory organs, gargling with tea made of mustard seeds aids in soothing sore throat to name a few. The heating qualities of this plant penetrate deeply inside the tissues and cleanse the excess mucus buildup. These heating qualities of mustard also call for a cautionary advice with regard to the burning sensations which may happen to the exposed tissues which are not concealed in the enough mucus.

The seeds have also been found effective in curing chronic bronchitis. During an asthmatic attack, massaging a mix of mustard oil and small amount of camphor promotes easy breathing by breaking down phlegm. Plaster or poultice made of its seeds have been used since olden times for treating bronchitis and stimulate healthy circulation in the body.

Aches and pains: Poultice or plaster made from mustard seeds helps in curing pains and spasms as well. Mustard has rubefacient properties and hence when applied as plaster, exercises analgesic effects and provides relief in the paralysis of limbs, rheumatism and other muscular aches. Another important advice to note here is that mustard plaster has warmer effects and may cause sore blistering if applied directly on the naked skin. To avoid that, linen sheet should be used amidst the skin and the plaster.

Poison repulsion: Mustard seeds possess protective emetic qualities which resists the effects of poison on the body. A decoction made with its seeds helps in cleansing the body especially in the poisoning caused by narcotics and excess intake of alcohol.

Ringworm: Anti-bacterial properties of mustard seeds have been proven effective in curing the lesions caused by ringworm. Topical application of paste made of mustard seeds on a clean skin washed with warm water helps in soothing the symptoms associated with ringworms.

Skin and hair care: It serves as a wonderful beauty aid as well. Henna leaves boiled with mustard oil helps stimulate healthy hair growth. Its seeds roasted in sesame oil or coconut oil enriches the resultant and sieved oil and makes it an effective cure for acne and promotes clearer complexion.

Healing effect on nerves: As mentioned above, mustard plant has heat inspiring nature which may benefit some individuals suffering from nerve damage. It helps in stimulating the healing process by arousing the impulses and has an invigorating effect on the nerves.

Diabetes: Mustard leaf is excellent for diabetics. Studies have demonstrated the anti-oxidation activities of mustard plant which helps in neutralizing the effects of oxygen free molecules and protects against the damages caused by oxidative stress in diabetics. The study shows that administration of mustard oil helps in reducing the levels of glycosylated proteins and serum glucose. It aids in reducing lipid peroxidation and stimulates glucose metabolism.

Cholesterol lowering ability: Leaves of mustard plant has the tremendous cholesterol lowering power. Studies have shown that cruciferous vegetables such as mustard greens have amazing ability to bind bile acids in the digestive tract which facilitate easy excretion of these acids from the body. The bile acids usually comprises of cholesterol, so ultimately the binding process helps in reducing the cholesterol levels of the body. Another noteworthy fact here is that steamed version of mustard green has better bile acid binding as compared to raw version. So steam them lightly, may be add a little roasted cumin, salt and pepper and enjoy.

These greens are a nutritional powerhouse who is instrumental in reducing the development of blockages in the arteries and prevent disorder like atherosclerosis. Vitamin B6 content present in these greens prevents the platelets from clumping and moderates the risk of thrombosis.

Menopause: Mustard greens may prove valuable for women during menopausal phase. Magnesium along with calcium present in it encourages bone heath and prevents bone loss associated with menopause. It helps in recompensing the low magnesium content in bones and other magnesium deficiencies and may helps reduce the risk of osteoporosis in menopausal women.

Aids in detoxification: Mustard greens may help support the detox system of the body attributing to the presence of powerful antioxidants and fiber content. Glucosinolates present in it helps in regulating the action of detoxification enzymes and help eliminate harmful toxins from the body.

Word of Caution:
As mentioned above, mustard plant has a tendency to generate heating effects so, caution while usage on the skin esp. sensitive skin is seriously recommended. Generally, it is always advisable to be naturally cautious while trying it for anything for the first time, especially when you are not aware of the allergic reactions such as hypersensitivity to mustard seeds. Some of the known side effects are:

Goitrogens: Uncooked mustard seeds and leaves contain a substance called goitrogens which might mess up with the functioning of the thyroid gland. People already suffering from thyroid disease should always cook the mustard prior consumption to neutralize these components.

Oxalates: Mustard contains oxalate which is known to interfere with the absorption of calcium. Individuals already suffering from oxalate related disorders such as kidney stones should be watchful regarding overconsumption of mustard.

Source

Suggested Varieties

(Amaranthus caudatus 'Love, Lies, Bleeding')

Love, Lies, Bleeding Amaranth is a heirloom annual leaf vegetable that is native to South America, but can be commonly found growing in gardens throughout the United States. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 2-4' and features erect, deep red stems, 6” oval, light green leaves and 12” bright red, drooping tassels. This plant can be grown in containers or hanging baskets, attracts bees and butterflies, tolerates drought, is used to make dye, self sows, is both edible and medicinal, and is great as a cut flower!

(Brassica Nigra 'Black')

Culinary

Medicinal

Other Uses

Companion Planting

Problems

Flea Beetles

Caterpillars

Aphids

Slugs and Snails

Nutrition

Health Benefits

Suggested Varieties

(Amaranthus caudatus 'Love, Lies, Bleeding')

(Amaranthus tricolor 'Perfecta')

(Amaranthus cruentus 'Red Garnet')

(Angelica atropurpurea ‘American')

(Melissa officinalis ‘Lemon Balm’)

(Phaseolus vulgaris 'Black Turtle')

(Phaseolus vulgaris 'Blue Lake #274')

(Phaseolus vulgaris 'Contender')

(Phaseolus vulgaris 'Gold Rush Yellow Wax')

(Phaseolus vulgaris 'Kentucky Wonder')

(Phaseolus vulgaris 'Lazy Housewife')

(Phaseolus vulgaris 'Pinto')

(Vigna unguiculata ssp. sesquipedalis)

(Phaseolus vulgaris 'Royalty Purple Pod')

(Beta vulgaris 'Cylindra')

(Beta vulgaris 'Detroit Dark Red')

(Beta vulgaris 'Golden Detroit')

(Monarda fistulosa ‘Wild’)

(Brassica oleracea 'Long Island Improved')

(Brassica oleracea 'Early Jersey Wakefield')

(Carum carvi ‘Caraway')

(Daucus carota 'Chantenay Red Cored')

(Daucus carota 'Cosmic Purple')

(Daucus carota 'Danvers')

(Daucus carota 'Rainbow Blend')

(Daucus carota 'Scarlet Nantes')

(Daucus carota 'Tendersweet')

(Brassica oleracea 'Snowball Y Improved')

(Apium graveolens 'Tendercrisp')

(Apium graveolens 'Utah Tall 52/70')

(Allium tuberosum ‘Garlic')

(Allium schoenoprasum ‘Onion')

(Trifolium incarnatum ‘Crimson’)

(Trifolium fragiferum ‘Strawberry Palestine’)

(Brassica oleracea 'Vates')

(Coriandrum sativum ‘Leisure')

(Zea mays 'Country Gentleman')

(Zea mays 'Golden Bantam')

(Zea mays 'Shaman's Blue')

(Zea mays 'South American Yellow')

(Zea Mays 'Strawberry Red')

(Cosmos sulphureus ‘Bright Lights’)

(Cosmos bipinnatus ‘Candy Stripe’)

(Cosmos bipinnatus ‘Radiance’)

(Cucumis sativus 'Lemon')

(Cucumis sativus 'Marketmore 76')

(Melothria scabra 'Mexican Sour Gherkin')

(Cucumis sativus 'National Pickling')

(Cucumis sativus 'Straight Eight')

(Cucumis sativus 'Sumter')

(Cucumis sativus 'White Wonder')

(Cucumis sativus 'Wisconsin SMR 58')

(Anethum graveolens ‘Dukat')

(Calendula officinalis ‘English Marigold’)

(Foeniculum vulgare ‘Florence')

(Tagetes erecta ‘Naughty Marietta’)

(Tagetes erecta ‘Sparky Mix’)

(Tagetes Erecta ‘Kilimanjaro White’)

(Asclepias curassavica ‘Blood Flower’)

(Asclepias tuberosa ‘Butterfly Weed’)

(Asclepias syriaca ‘Common’)

(Asclepias speciosa ‘Showy’)

(Asclepias incarnata ‘Swamp’)

(Mentha Pulegium ‘European’)

(Mentha spicata ‘Spear’)

(Tropaeolum minus ‘Empress of India’)

(Tropaeolum minus ‘Jewel Mix’)