Planting and Growing Guide for Kohlrabi (Brassica oleracea gongylodes)
Description
Kohlrabi is easy to grow. Kohlrabi, despite its appearance in the markets, is not a root vegetable; the bulb is the swollen stem of the plant when it matures. The bulb-like stem tastes similar to a mild, sweet turnip. You can also eat the young shoots and leaves. The bulb should sit just above the level of the soil and the layer of compost. The stem at the base swells as it grows. It is sweet, tender vegetable that you can eat raw in salads or cook by boiling, steaming, and lightly frying. The bulbs can also be baked or grilled. Kohlrabi is frost tender and sow seeds in trays kept indoors. Plant out after 4-6 weeks. You an also sow the seed directly in the ground after the last frosts. There are many varieties with white, red and purple bulb. Some varieties mature early and others mature late so choose a variety that suits your climate. Start harvesting when stems are about 2.5 cm (1 inch) in diameter. Best to harvest Kohlrabi before they get too large, when the stems are less than 8 cm (3 inches) in size.
Harvest the Kohlrabi when young and tender. Remove the leaf stalks, roots and woody parts and scrub the bulbs thoroughly. The small ones usually do not need peeling and can be used whole. The larger ones can be sliced or grated. They can be steamed, boiled sauteed and added to stir fry dishes. They make a great addition to casseroles and soups.
Planting Guide
Seed Depth: Sow seeds about 1 cm (1/2 inches) deep.
Space between plants: Space plants about 10-25 cm (4-10 inches) apart. Harvest early to thin. Space rows 30-40 cm (12-15 inches) apart
Harvest Time: Harvest in about 7-10 weeks. Juvenile stems and leaves can be harvested sooner as part of the thinning process
Hints:
- Does best in full sun or partial shade with more than 6 hours of sun each day
- Protect from cabbage white butterflies and aphids
- Does best in rich well-drained open soils with a covering of mulch to inhibit weeds and to keep the soil moist
- Mulch liberally around the plants to control weeds and retain moisture
- Water regularly and evenly, especially in summer
- Plant in batches after the last frost, every 2-3 weeks for a continuous supply.
- Feed regularly and keep the plants growing strongly to produce a good harvest of tubers
- They prefer neutral to slightly acid soils (pH 6.5 to 7)
Disclaimer: The PlantWhatWhen vegetable planting guide is only designed for use as a very general reference for home gardening purposes. It is not to be used for farming, markets or commercial activities of any kind whatsoever. We take absolutely no responsibility for the accuracy and adequacy of the information provided on this site. We recommend that you consider your local climate, weather patterns and conditions when deciding what and when to plant in your home garden. It's entirely your own decision. Happy Gardening and Best Wishes!