Introduction to Growing Kohlrabi

Kohlrabi, often called German turnip, is a unique and nutritious vegetable that offers a delicious, crisp texture reminiscent of cabbage and broccoli. Unlike these relatives, kohlrabi is valued for its swollen, edible stem. Growing kohlrabi in your garden can be a rewarding endeavor, with the right knowledge on soil, climate, planting times, and care.

Understanding Kohlrabi: Benefits and Uses

Kohlrabi is not only tasty but also packed with health benefits. It is rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, making it a great addition to a balanced diet. Its versatility allows it to be eaten raw, roasted, steamed, or added to salads.

Best Soil and Location for Kohlrabi Growth

For optimum growth, kohlrabi requires well-drained, fertile soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. Here are key considerations for soil preparation:

• Soil Testing: Before planting, test your soil’s pH and nutrient content.
• Amendments: Add compost or aged manure to enrich soil organically.
• Lime and Sulfur: Use lime to raise pH if soil is acidic; use sulfur to lower pH if needed.
• Drainage: Ensure soil drains well to prevent root diseases.

Choose a site receiving full sun to partial shade, especially in hotter climates where afternoon shade helps prevent wilting.

When to Plant Kohlrabi: Seasonal Timing

Kohlrabi is a cool-season crop that thrives in spring and fall. The best planting times depend on your climate:

• Spring Planting: Sow seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost. Transplant seedlings when the soil is workable and temperatures reach around 40-65°F. This is ideal for colder regions.
• Fall Planting: Direct sow in late summer for a fall harvest in warmer areas. Avoid planting during the heat of summer as kohlrabi prefers cooler temperatures.

Maintaining temperatures between 60-65°F encourages steady growth, while extremes may cause bolting or poor development.

How to Grow Kohlrabi in Your Garden: Step-by-Step Care

Watering Practices

Consistent moisture is vital. Water deeply once or twice a week, adjusting for rainfall and soil moisture levels. Avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot and fungal issues.

Fertilizer Tips for Kohlrabi

Kohlrabi is a heavy feeder. Use a balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-10 or a nitrogen-rich fertilizer like 21-0-0 to encourage stem and leaf growth.

• Apply fertilizer at planting and again when the stems begin to swell.
• Water after fertilizing to avoid root burn.
• Consider side-dressing with compost mid-season.

Thinning and Spacing

Thin seedlings to 6-8 inches apart for enough room to grow large stems. Overcrowding can lead to smaller crops and increased pest issues.

Light Requirements

Full sun is best, but in hot regions, partial shade during peak afternoon sun helps maintain plant health and prevents bolting.

Pest and Disease Management for Kohlrabi

Common Pests to Watch

• Cabbage Worms: Green caterpillars that chew holes in leaves.
• Flea Beetles: Small jumping beetles causing tiny holes in leaves.
• Aphids: Small sap-sucking insects that cause leaf curling.

Management strategies include:

• Use floating row covers to protect young plants.
• Apply neem oil or insecticidal soap for organic control.
• Hand pick pests or spray with a strong water stream.

Diseases Affecting Kohlrabi

• Clubroot: Causes enlarged, distorted roots.
• Black Rot: Yellowing and dark veins on leaves.
• Downy Mildew: Powdery growth on leaf undersurfaces.

Prevent disease by rotating crops annually, avoiding overly wet soil, and removing infected plants promptly.

Harvesting Kohlrabi: When and How to Pick

Kohlrabi is ready to harvest when stems reach 2-3 inches in diameter and have a firm texture. Smaller bulbs tend to be more tender and flavorful.

• Use a sharp knife to cut the stem at soil level.
• Harvest regularly to prevent plants from bolting or becoming woody.

Additional Tips and Long-Term Care

• Rotate crops to reduce pest pressure and soil depletion.
• Mulch around plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
• Plant companion crops like onions or herbs to deter pests.
• Experiment with different kohlrabi varieties, including slow-bolting types for extended harvest.

Conclusion

Knowing how to grow kohlrabi properly allows you to enjoy this nutrient-rich vegetable fresh from your garden. By selecting the right soil, planting during the best season, watering consistently, managing pests and diseases, and harvesting at the right time, you will cultivate healthy plants that yield well. Whether you are a novice or experienced gardener, these comprehensive tips ensure a satisfying and productive kohlrabi growing experience.