Kohlrabi, often overlooked in favor of more popular vegetables, is a fall garden gem with a lot to offer. This unique brassica, known for its bulbous stem and mild, slightly sweet flavor, thrives in cooler temperatures, making it an ideal choice for autumn planting. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or a beginner, kohlrabi is worth adding to your fall vegetable lineup. This guide will walk you through the benefits of kohlrabi, how to plant it, and the best practices for a successful harvest.
Why Grow Kohlrabi?
Kohlrabi is a member of the cabbage family, and its name translates to “cabbage turnip” in German, reflecting its appearance and flavor. Here are some compelling reasons to include kohlrabi in your fall garden:
- Nutritional Benefits: Kohlrabi is packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. It is low in calories and high in antioxidants, making it a healthy addition to any diet.
- Cool-Weather Tolerance: Kohlrabi thrives in cooler temperatures, typically growing best in the range of 55-75°F (13-24°C). This makes it an excellent crop for fall gardening, as it can be planted when summer heat fades.
- Versatile Uses: The crisp, mildly sweet flavor of kohlrabi makes it a versatile ingredient. It can be eaten raw in salads, roasted, or even used in soups and stews.
- Space Efficiency: Kohlrabi’s compact size allows it to fit well in smaller garden spaces or containers, making it a good choice for urban or small-scale gardens.
Planting Kohlrabi: Step-by-Step
Follow these steps to successfully plant and grow kohlrabi in your fall garden:
- Choose the Right Variety
- Varieties: Select a kohlrabi variety suited to your climate and taste preferences. Popular varieties include ‘Kossak,’ known for its large, tender bulbs, and ‘Grand Duke,’ which offers a consistent, flavorful yield.
- Seed Source: Purchase seeds from a reputable supplier or local nursery to ensure high germination rates and good quality.
- Prepare the Soil
- Soil Type: Kohlrabi prefers well-drained, loamy soil that is rich in organic matter. Avoid heavy clay soils that can lead to poor root development.
- Soil pH: Aim for a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0. You can test your soil with a home testing kit and amend it with lime if necessary to achieve the ideal pH level.
- Plant Seeds
- Timing: For fall planting, sow kohlrabi seeds directly into the garden 6-8 weeks before the first expected frost. If starting indoors, plant seeds 8-10 weeks before the last frost.
- Planting Depth: Sow seeds 1/2 inch deep and 1 inch apart in rows. Cover lightly with soil and water gently.
- Spacing: Once seedlings emerge, thin them to 6-8 inches apart to allow adequate space for bulb development.
- Water Regularly
- Watering Schedule: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Kohlrabi requires regular watering to support healthy growth and bulb formation.
- Watering Tips: Water deeply once a week or as needed, particularly during dry spells. Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of fungal diseases.
- Thin Seedlings
- Thinning: When seedlings are 2-3 inches tall, thin them to the recommended spacing of 6-8 inches apart. Proper spacing ensures that each plant has enough room to develop its bulb without competition.
- Monitor and Maintain
- Pest and Disease Control: Keep an eye out for common pests such as aphids, cabbage worms, and flea beetles. Use organic pest control methods or insecticidal soap if necessary.
- Weed Management: Regularly weed around your kohlrabi plants to reduce competition for nutrients and water. Mulching can help suppress weeds and retain soil moisture.
- Harvesting Kohlrabi
- Timing: Harvest kohlrabi when the bulbs are 2-4 inches in diameter for the best flavor and texture. Larger bulbs can become woody and tough.
- Method: Use a garden fork or spade to gently lift the bulbs from the soil. Cut the stems close to the bulb and remove any remaining leaves.
Best Practices for Growing Kohlrabi
To achieve the best results with kohlrabi, follow these additional best practices:
- Succession Planting: For a continuous harvest, consider planting kohlrabi in succession every 2-3 weeks. This staggered planting ensures a steady supply of fresh bulbs throughout the fall.
- Companion Planting: Kohlrabi benefits from being planted alongside other brassicas like broccoli and cauliflower. Avoid planting kohlrabi near members of the nightshade family, such as tomatoes and peppers, as they can compete for similar nutrients.
- Winter Protection: In regions with harsh winters, consider using row covers or mulch to protect kohlrabi from frost. This can extend the harvest period and improve the quality of your bulbs.
- Rotation and Soil Health: Practice crop rotation to prevent soil depletion and reduce the risk of soil-borne diseases. Rotate kohlrabi with other vegetable families each season to maintain soil health.
- Harvesting Tips: For the best taste, harvest kohlrabi before it reaches full maturity. The flavor is sweetest and the texture is crisp when bulbs are still young and tender.
Common Challenges and Solutions
- Bolting: Kohlrabi can bolt (flower prematurely) if temperatures become too warm. Plant kohlrabi in early fall to avoid bolting and provide shade if needed during warmer periods.
- Pest Infestations: Watch for signs of pest infestations and address them promptly. Using row covers can help protect young plants from pests.
- Poor Bulb Development: If bulbs are not forming properly, it may be due to insufficient water or nutrient imbalances. Ensure consistent watering and consider applying a balanced fertilizer if needed.
Conclusion
Kohlrabi is a valuable addition to any fall garden, offering both nutritional benefits and culinary versatility. By following the planting and care steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully grow kohlrabi and enjoy its crisp, mild flavor throughout the fall season.
Embrace the opportunity to grow this unique and nutritious vegetable in your garden. With the right care and attention, kohlrabi can become a favorite fall crop, providing delicious and healthy meals for you and your family. Start planting now to reap the rewards of a thriving kohlrabi harvest this autumn! 🌿