Growing Kohlrabi: Tips and Tricks for a Healthy Harvest

Kohlrabi is a member of the cabbage family that is becoming increasingly popular among gardeners. This cool-weather crop is easy to grow, and its unusual appearance makes it an interesting addition to any garden. In this article, we will provide you with some tips and tricks on how to grow kohlrabi successfully, from planting to harvest.

Choosing Your Kohlrabi Variety

The first step in growing kohlrabi is choosing the right variety for your climate and soil type. There are two main types of kohlrabi: early maturing and late maturing. Early maturing varieties take less time to mature and are better suited for areas with shorter growing seasons, while late maturing varieties require more time to mature but can be harvested over a longer period.

When choosing your kohlrabi variety, consider factors such as taste, texture, and color. Some popular varieties include 'Gigante', 'Early White Vienna', and 'Purple Vienna'.

Planting Kohlrabi

Kohlrabi grows best in cool weather, so it's best to plant it in the spring or fall. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Before planting, prepare the soil by adding compost or aged manure, and work it into the top 6 inches of soil.

Sow seeds directly into the ground about half an inch deep and one inch apart, then cover them with soil. Water the soil immediately after planting, and keep it moist until the plants germinate.

Caring for Kohlrabi Plants

Once your kohlrabi plants have germinated, it's important to care for them properly to ensure a healthy harvest. Here are some tips:

• Thin the seedlings once they reach a height of around two inches, leaving the strongest plants at least six inches apart.
• Water the plants regularly, aiming for around one inch of water per week.
• Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks.
• Mulch around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Harvesting Kohlrabi

Kohlrabi is typically ready to harvest around 55 to 60 days after planting. The bulbs should be around 3 inches in diameter for ideal harvesting. To harvest, gently pull the entire plant out of the ground, taking care not to damage the bulb.

Kohlrabi bulbs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. The leaves can also be eaten and should be harvested before the bulb matures.

Harvesting ripe kohlrabi bulb

Growing kohlrabi is a rewarding and simple process that yields delicious and unique results. By following these tips and tricks, you can produce healthy crops of kohlrabi that will add interest and flavor to your garden and kitchen. Happy planting!

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