How to Grow Kohlrabi: A Beginner’s Guide
How to Grow Kohlrabi?
To grow kohlrabi, you need to start by planting pathogen-free seeds.
It’s important to choose a suitable location that gets full sun or partial shade.
Prepare the soil by removing any weeds and adding organic matter to improve its fertility.
Sow the seeds directly into the ground or in seedling trays, ensuring they are spaced about 4-6 inches apart.
Keep the soil consistently moist and provide regular watering to prevent drought stress.
As kohlrabi grows, be sure to thin out the seedlings if needed.
To prevent pests and diseases, practice crop rotation and keep an eye out for common problems such as cabbage aphid, alternaria leaf spot, and damping-off.
Regularly checking your plants will help you identify any issues early on and take appropriate action.
By following these tips, you can successfully grow kohlrabi and enjoy its delicious crunchiness in your meals.
Key Points:
- Start by planting pathogen-free seeds
- Choose a suitable location with full sun or partial shade
- Prepare the soil by removing weeds and adding organic matter
- Sow seeds directly into the ground or seedling trays, spaced 4-6 inches apart
- Keep the soil consistently moist and provide regular watering
- Thin out seedlings as needed and practice crop rotation to prevent pests and diseases
Did You Know?
1. The name “kohlrabi” is derived from the German words “kohl” which means cabbage and “rübe” which means turnip, as the vegetable is a cross between these two.
2. As a member of the brassica family, kohlrabi shares its lineage with other popular vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts.
3. Kohlrabi was first cultivated around 400 years ago in Europe, and it quickly gained popularity due to its adaptability to various climates and its ability to thrive in cooler conditions.
4. Unlike most vegetables, kohlrabi is composed of both an edible bulbous stem and leaves. While the bulb is commonly eaten, the leaves can also be cooked and enjoyed similarly to spinach or kale.
5. Kohlrabi is an excellent source of vitamin C, providing more than double the daily recommended intake in just one cup. Additionally, it is rich in fiber, potassium, and antioxidants, making it a nutritious addition to any diet.
How To Grow Kohlrabi
Kohlrabi, a unique and versatile vegetable, is gaining popularity among avid gardeners and beginners alike. With its crisp texture and mild, nutty flavor, this member of the cabbage family is a great addition to any kitchen. If you’re interested in growing your own kohlrabi, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started.
- Choose a sunny location in your garden that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day.
- Kohlrabi plants prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Prepare the soil by removing any weeds and loosening it with a garden fork or tiller. Adding compost or well-rotted manure will provide the necessary nutrients for healthy plant growth.
Next, sow kohlrabi seeds directly into the prepared soil:
- The best time to plant kohlrabi depends on your location and climate. In cooler regions, sow seeds in early spring as soon as the soil can be worked. In warmer areas, wait until late summer or early fall to avoid extreme heat.
- Plant the seeds about half an inch deep, spacing them 4-6 inches apart.
- Gently water the soil after planting.
As the kohlrabi plants grow, it’s important to:
- Keep the soil consistently moist by watering them regularly, especially during dry spells.
- Apply a layer of organic mulch around the plants to retain moisture and prevent weed growth.
- Feed the plants with a balanced fertilizer every few weeks, following the manufacturer’s instructions, to encourage healthy growth.
Harvesting kohlrabi should typically take place 2-3 months after planting:
- The ideal size for a kohlrabi bulb is about 3-4 inches in diameter, although some varieties can grow significantly larger.
- To harvest, gently push the soil away from the base of the plant, exposing the bulb. Use a sharp knife or pruning shears to cut the stem just above the bulb.
- Remove any leaves and roots and store the kohlrabi in a cool, dark place until ready to use.
Additional tips and tricks:
- Kohlrabi leaves are edible and can be used in salads or cooked like spinach.
- You can also enjoy kohlrabi raw by slicing it into thin matchsticks and adding it to salads or slaws.
- Experiment with different kohlrabi varieties to discover your favorite flavors and sizes.
- Refer to a gardening journal or online resources for specific information on kohlrabi varieties that thrive in your region.
Monthly Emails And Exclusive Promotions
To support and inspire gardeners in their kohlrabi-growing journey, the Yates Garden Club offers monthly emails filled with valuable information and exclusive promotions. Subscribers can expect to receive a wealth of tips, tricks, and advice from experienced horticulturalists.
These monthly emails provide seasonal inspiration, guiding gardeners on how to make the most of each growing period. From sowing seeds and nurturing young plants to harvesting and preserving the bountiful crops, the Yates Garden Club covers it all. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, these emails will keep you up-to-date and motivated throughout the year.
In addition to informative content, the Yates Garden Club also offers exclusive promotions to its members. These special deals and offers allow subscribers to access high-quality gardening products at discounted prices. From premium seeds to fertilizers and gardening tools, members can take advantage of these promotions to enhance their gardening experience.
Tips For Success And Seasonal Inspiration
Growing kohlrabi successfully requires adequate knowledge and attention to detail. The Yates Garden Club is dedicated to providing valuable tips and advice to ensure your kohlrabi plants thrive. Here are a few key tips for success:
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Adequate spacing: Kohlrabi plants need enough room to develop their bulbs properly. Ensure proper spacing between plants to allow for optimal growth.
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Consistent watering: Kohlrabi plants require regular watering to prevent stress and encourage rapid growth. Be mindful not to overwater, as it can cause root rot.
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Soil fertility: Kohlrabi plants thrive in well-drained, nutrient-rich soil. Regularly test your soil and supplement with organic matter or fertilizer as needed.
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Seasonal adjustments: Kohlrabi can be grown in both cool and warm seasons, but they may prefer different planting times depending on your climate. Adjust your planting schedule accordingly.
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Pest control: Regularly monitor your kohlrabi plants for pests and take appropriate measures to control them. Introducing beneficial insects or using organic pest control methods can help protect your crops.
The Yates Garden Club provides seasonal inspiration through its informative content. Whether you’re looking for new recipes, creative garden designs, or innovative ways to use kohlrabi in the kitchen, the club’s resources will keep you inspired and motivated throughout the year.
Yates Growing Community Blog And Sharing Successes
The Yates Growing Community blog is a platform for passionate gardeners to share their successes, learn from each other’s experiences, and expand their gardening knowledge. This online community provides a supportive environment where members can connect, ask questions, and get advice from fellow enthusiasts.
By sharing your kohlrabi-growing journey, you can inspire others and receive valuable feedback. The Yates Growing Community blog encourages gardeners to post photos, write about their gardening triumphs, and share tips and tricks they’ve learned along the way. It’s a space where the joy of gardening is celebrated, and everyone is encouraged to participate.
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting, the Yates Growing Community blog offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration. From tried-and-true cultivation techniques to innovative gardening methods, this platform can help you take your kohlrabi-growing skills to new heights.
Getting Advice And Winning Prizes
The Yates Garden Club is more than just a source of information; it’s a community that offers valuable advice and exciting opportunities to its members. By joining the club, you gain access to a network of experienced gardeners who are eager to share their knowledge and help you overcome any challenges you may encounter.
Members of the Yates Garden Club also have the chance to win exciting prizes through various contests and giveaways. These prizes range from gardening tools and equipment to exclusive plants and personalized gardening consultations. By actively participating in the club’s activities, you increase your chances of winning these fantastic rewards.
Whether you need advice on pest control, pruning techniques, or selecting the best kohlrabi variety for your climate, the Yates Garden Club is a valuable resource. Don’t hesitate to reach out and connect with fellow gardeners who are passionate about growing kohlrabi and helping others succeed.
- Gain access to a network of experienced gardeners
- Exciting contests and giveaways with prizes like gardening tools and equipment
- Personalized gardening consultations
- Get advice on pest control, pruning techniques, and selecting the best kohlrabi variety
Kohlrabi Pests And Diseases
Despite its resilience, kohlrabi is not immune to pests and diseases. Being aware of common threats and understanding effective control methods is crucial to ensure successful cultivation. Here are some pests and diseases that commonly affect kohlrabi:
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Beet armyworm: These pests chew on the leaves of kohlrabi plants, causing substantial damage. Handpicking and using organic insecticides can help control their population.
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Cabbage aphid: Aphids suck the sap from kohlrabi plants, stunting growth and spreading diseases. Regularly inspecting the undersides of leaves and using insecticidal soap or predatory insects can help control their numbers.
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Cabbage looper: These caterpillars feed on kohlrabi leaves, leaving numerous holes. Handpicking, using floating row covers, or applying Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) can help manage their population.
To combat these pests, as well as other potential threats such as Alternaria leaf spot, black rot, damping-off, clubroot, and downy mildew, preventative measures are essential. Planting pathogen-free seeds, practicing crop rotation, and using fungicides when necessary can help mitigate the risks associated with these diseases and pests.
By taking proactive measures and staying informed about potential threats, you can minimize the impact of pests and diseases on your kohlrabi crop. The Yates Garden Club offers valuable resources and advice on pest control and disease management to safeguard your plants and ensure a successful harvest.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to grow kohlrabi?
Kohlrabi can be grown relatively quickly, taking approximately 55 days to mature from the time of sowing the seeds. It is recommended to sow the seeds outdoors as soon as the soil can be worked, typically in the early spring or late summer. Plant the seeds 1/4 inch deep in double rows, setting them 1.5 feet apart. If you prefer a fall crop, it is advisable to plan your harvest for about a week or two after the first fall frost.
Is kohlrabi easy to grow?
Kohlrabi is a relatively easy vegetable to grow, especially when sown outdoors during the spring and summer seasons. It has a quick germination time of under two weeks, making it a rewarding choice for gardeners. However, to ensure successful growth, early sowings are recommended to be done indoors to protect the plant from the potential detrimental effects of cold temperatures. Additionally, being a brassica, it is advisable to include kohlrabi in crop rotations alongside its cabbage relatives.
Can I grow kohlrabi in pots?
Yes, you can certainly grow kohlrabi in pots. To ensure successful growth, select a pot that is at least 300mm wide and deep and place it in a sunny location. It is important to use high-quality potting mix, like Yates Premium Potting Mix, to fill the pot. When sowing the kohlrabi seeds, plant them in clusters of 2-3 seeds directly into the potting mix. With these proper planting techniques, you can enjoy harvesting nutritious and flavorful kohlrabi from your potted plants.
Is kohlrabi a root or stem?
Kohlrabi is a stem vegetable, even though its appearance may suggest otherwise. The round bulb of kohlrabi is an enlarged stem, while the long leafy stems are the plants’ true stems. It is part of the Brassica family, closely related to cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower. As a stem vegetable, kohlrabi offers a unique texture and flavor that sets it apart from traditional root vegetables.