Grow Kohlrabi at Home? Absolutely! You might be thinking, “Kohlrabi? What is that, and why would I want to grow it myself?” Well, let me tell you, this quirky vegetable, sometimes called a “German turnip” (though it’s not a turnip at all!), is a culinary delight just waiting to be discovered. For centuries, kohlrabi has been a staple in European and Asian cuisine, prized for its mild, slightly sweet flavor and satisfying crunch. Think of it as a cross between a cabbage and an apple – seriously!
But beyond its unique taste, growing your own kohlrabi offers so much more. In today’s world, where we’re all looking for ways to eat healthier, save money, and connect with nature, grow kohlrabi at home is the perfect solution. Imagine harvesting fresh, organic kohlrabi right from your backyard, knowing exactly where it came from and what went into it. No more mystery ingredients or questionable farming practices! Plus, it’s incredibly rewarding to nurture a plant from seed to table.
This DIY guide is packed with simple, easy-to-follow tricks and hacks that will empower even the most novice gardener to successfully grow kohlrabi at home. We’ll cover everything from choosing the right variety and preparing your soil to pest control and harvesting tips. Get ready to unlock the secrets to a bountiful kohlrabi harvest and impress your friends and family with your newfound gardening skills!
Growing Kohlrabi: A Beginner’s Guide to This Underrated Veggie
Hey there, fellow gardening enthusiasts! Ever heard of kohlrabi? It’s that quirky-looking vegetable that resembles a spaceship or a turnip from another planet. But trust me, don’t let its appearance fool you. Kohlrabi is incredibly delicious and surprisingly easy to grow at home. I’m going to walk you through everything you need to know to cultivate your own kohlrabi crop, from seed to table. Get ready to add this unique and nutritious veggie to your garden repertoire!
What is Kohlrabi Anyway?
Before we dive into the how-to, let’s quickly cover what kohlrabi actually *is*. It’s a member of the Brassica family, related to cabbage, broccoli, and kale. The edible part is the swollen stem, which grows above ground. It has a mild, slightly sweet flavor, often compared to a cross between a turnip and a water chestnut. You can eat it raw, cooked, or even pickled!
Choosing Your Kohlrabi Variety
There are several kohlrabi varieties to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics. Here are a few popular options:
* **Early White Vienna:** A classic variety known for its early maturity and mild flavor. It’s a great choice for beginners.
* **Early Purple Vienna:** Similar to the white variety, but with a beautiful purple skin. The flesh is still white.
* **Grand Duke:** A hybrid variety that’s resistant to bolting (going to seed prematurely). It’s a good option for warmer climates.
* **Superschmelz:** This variety can grow to an enormous size (up to 10 pounds!), but it still retains its tender texture and mild flavor.
I personally love the Early White Vienna for its reliability and quick growth. But feel free to experiment and find the variety that works best for you!
Getting Started: Planting Kohlrabi
Kohlrabi is a cool-season crop, which means it thrives in cooler temperatures. Here’s how to get your kohlrabi journey started:
* **Timing is Key:** You can plant kohlrabi in early spring or late summer for a fall harvest. For a spring crop, start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost. For a fall crop, sow seeds directly into the garden in late summer.
* **Starting Seeds Indoors (Optional):** If you’re starting seeds indoors, use a seed-starting mix and sow seeds about 1/4 inch deep. Keep the soil moist and provide plenty of light. Once the seedlings have a few true leaves, you can transplant them into the garden.
* **Direct Sowing:** If you’re sowing seeds directly into the garden, choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil. Sow seeds about 1/2 inch deep and 1-2 inches apart. Thin the seedlings to 6-8 inches apart once they’re a few inches tall.
Preparing the Soil
Kohlrabi prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. Before planting, amend the soil with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
* **Soil Testing:** If you’re unsure about your soil’s pH, it’s a good idea to get a soil test. You can purchase a soil testing kit at most garden centers or send a sample to your local agricultural extension office.
* **Adding Compost:** Compost is a fantastic soil amendment that improves drainage, adds nutrients, and helps retain moisture. I always add a generous amount of compost to my garden beds before planting any vegetables.
* **Fertilizing:** Kohlrabi benefits from a balanced fertilizer. You can use a slow-release granular fertilizer or a liquid fertilizer applied every few weeks.
Step-by-Step Planting Guide
Alright, let’s get our hands dirty! Here’s a step-by-step guide to planting kohlrabi:
1. **Choose Your Location:** Select a sunny spot in your garden that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
2. **Prepare the Soil:** Amend the soil with compost and fertilizer, as described above.
3. **Sow the Seeds or Transplant Seedlings:** If you’re direct sowing, sow seeds 1/2 inch deep and 1-2 inches apart. If you’re transplanting seedlings, dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball and gently place the seedling in the hole. Space the plants 6-8 inches apart.
4. **Water Thoroughly:** Water the newly planted seeds or seedlings thoroughly.
5. **Mulch (Optional):** Apply a layer of mulch around the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Straw, wood chips, or shredded leaves are all good options.
Caring for Your Kohlrabi Plants
Once your kohlrabi plants are in the ground, it’s important to provide them with proper care to ensure a healthy and abundant harvest.
* **Watering:** Kohlrabi needs consistent moisture to thrive. Water regularly, especially during dry periods. Aim to keep the soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged.
* **Weeding:** Keep the area around your kohlrabi plants free of weeds. Weeds compete with the kohlrabi for nutrients and water.
* **Fertilizing:** Fertilize your kohlrabi plants every few weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
* **Pest Control:** Kohlrabi can be susceptible to certain pests, such as cabbage worms and aphids. Inspect your plants regularly and take action if you notice any signs of infestation.
Dealing with Common Pests and Diseases
Even with the best care, your kohlrabi plants might encounter some pests or diseases. Here’s how to deal with some common problems:
* **Cabbage Worms:** These green caterpillars can devour the leaves of your kohlrabi plants. Handpicking them off the plants is an effective way to control them. You can also use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), a natural insecticide that’s safe for humans and pets.
* **Aphids:** These tiny insects suck the sap from plants, causing them to weaken and become distorted. You can control aphids by spraying them with a strong stream of water or by using insecticidal soap.
* **Clubroot:** This fungal disease causes the roots of plants to become swollen and distorted. To prevent clubroot, make sure to plant kohlrabi in well-drained soil and avoid planting it in the same spot year after year.
Harvesting Your Kohlrabi
The moment you’ve been waiting for! Kohlrabi is typically ready to harvest 50-60 days after planting.
* **Timing is Crucial:** The key to harvesting kohlrabi is to pick it when it’s young and tender. Overgrown kohlrabi can become tough and woody.
* **Size Matters:** Aim to harvest kohlrabi when the bulb is about 2-3 inches in diameter.
* **How to Harvest:** Use a sharp knife to cut the kohlrabi bulb from the stem, just above the soil line.
* **Storage:** Kohlrabi can be stored in the refrigerator for several weeks. Remove the leaves before storing.
Enjoying Your Kohlrabi Harvest
Now that you’ve harvested your kohlrabi, it’s time to enjoy the fruits (or rather, vegetables) of your labor!
* **Raw:** Kohlrabi can be eaten raw, sliced or grated into salads. It adds a refreshing crunch and a mild, slightly sweet flavor.
* **Cooked:** Kohlrabi can be steamed, boiled, roasted, or stir-fried. It’s a versatile vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes.
* **Pickled:** Pickled kohlrabi is a delicious and tangy treat.
Delicious Kohlrabi Recipes
Need some inspiration? Here are a few of my favorite kohlrabi recipes:
* **Kohlrabi Slaw:** Grate kohlrabi and carrots, then toss with a creamy dressing.
* **Roasted Kohlrabi:** Toss kohlrabi with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until tender.
* **Kohlrabi and Potato Soup:** Add diced kohlrabi to your favorite potato soup recipe.
* **Kohlrabi Fritters:** Grate kohlrabi and mix with flour, eggs, and seasonings, then fry until golden brown.
Tips for Success
Here are a few extra tips to help you grow the best kohlrabi possible:
* **Succession Planting:** Plant kohlrabi every few weeks to ensure a continuous harvest.
* **Choose the Right Variety:** Select a variety that’s well-suited to your climate.
* **Provide Consistent Moisture:** Kohlrabi needs consistent moisture to thrive.
* **Harvest at the Right Time:** Harvest kohlrabi when it’s young and tender.
* Don’t be afraid to experiment! Gardening is all about learning and trying new things.
Troubleshooting
Even the most experienced gardeners
Conclusion
So, there you have it! Growing kohlrabi at home is not only achievable but also incredibly rewarding. From the crisp, refreshing taste of the bulb to the nutritious greens, this often-overlooked vegetable offers a bounty of flavor and health benefits. We’ve walked you through the entire process, from selecting the right seeds and preparing your soil to nurturing your plants and harvesting your delicious kohlrabi.
But why is this DIY trick a must-try? Simply put, it’s about control, freshness, and flavor. Store-bought kohlrabi often lacks the vibrant taste and tender texture of homegrown varieties. By cultivating your own, you can ensure that you’re enjoying the freshest possible produce, free from harmful pesticides and grown with love and care. Plus, you get the satisfaction of knowing exactly where your food comes from.
Beyond the basic method, there’s plenty of room for experimentation. Consider trying different kohlrabi varieties, such as ‘Purple Vienna’ for its striking color or ‘White Vienna’ for its classic flavor. You can also explore companion planting to enhance growth and deter pests. Marigolds, for example, are known to repel nematodes and attract beneficial insects. Dill is also a great companion plant.
And don’t forget about the greens! Kohlrabi leaves are just as nutritious and delicious as the bulb. Sauté them with garlic and olive oil for a simple side dish, add them to soups and stews, or even blend them into smoothies for a nutrient boost. The possibilities are endless.
We understand that gardening can sometimes seem daunting, but we encourage you to take the plunge and give growing kohlrabi at home a try. The rewards are well worth the effort. Imagine the satisfaction of harvesting your own crisp, juicy kohlrabi and sharing it with family and friends.
More than that, growing your own food connects you to the natural world in a profound way. It teaches you patience, resilience, and an appreciation for the cycles of life. It’s a truly enriching experience that can bring joy and fulfillment to your life.
So, grab your seeds, prepare your soil, and get ready to embark on a kohlrabi-growing adventure. We’re confident that you’ll be amazed by the results. And once you’ve harvested your first crop, we’d love to hear about your experience. Share your tips, tricks, and photos with us in the comments below. Let’s create a community of kohlrabi enthusiasts and inspire others to discover the joys of homegrown produce. Let us know how your **grow kohlrabi at home** project went!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the best time of year to plant kohlrabi?
Kohlrabi is a cool-season crop, meaning it thrives in temperatures between 60°F and 75°F (15°C and 24°C). The best time to plant kohlrabi depends on your climate. In areas with mild winters, you can plant it in the fall for a winter harvest. In colder climates, plant it in the spring, about 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost. You can also start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost and transplant them outdoors once the weather warms up. For a continuous harvest, consider succession planting, sowing seeds every 2-3 weeks.
How much sunlight does kohlrabi need?
Kohlrabi needs at least 6 hours of sunlight per day to thrive. Choose a location in your garden that receives full sun for optimal growth. If you live in a particularly hot climate, some afternoon shade can be beneficial to prevent the bulbs from bolting (going to seed prematurely).
What kind of soil is best for growing kohlrabi?
Kohlrabi prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Amend your soil with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility. Avoid heavy clay soils, as they can become waterlogged and hinder growth. A soil test can help you determine the pH and nutrient levels of your soil.
How often should I water kohlrabi?
Kohlrabi needs consistent moisture to grow properly. Water deeply and regularly, especially during dry periods. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Mulching around the plants can help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Check the soil moisture regularly by sticking your finger about an inch into the soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water.
How do I fertilize kohlrabi?
Kohlrabi benefits from regular fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) at planting time and again every 3-4 weeks during the growing season. You can also use organic fertilizers, such as compost tea or fish emulsion. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of bulb development.
When is kohlrabi ready to harvest?
Kohlrabi is typically ready to harvest 50-60 days after planting. The bulbs should be about 2-3 inches in diameter. Don’t let them get too large, as they can become tough and woody. To harvest, simply cut the bulb from the stem just above the soil line. The leaves can also be harvested and eaten.
What are some common pests and diseases that affect kohlrabi?
Kohlrabi can be susceptible to several pests and diseases, including aphids, cabbage worms, flea beetles, and clubroot. To prevent pest problems, practice crop rotation, use row covers, and inspect your plants regularly. For disease prevention, ensure good drainage and avoid overhead watering. If you encounter pests or diseases, treat them promptly with appropriate organic or chemical controls.
Can I grow kohlrabi in containers?
Yes, kohlrabi can be grown in containers. Choose a container that is at least 12 inches deep and wide. Use a well-draining potting mix and provide regular watering and fertilization. Container-grown kohlrabi may need more frequent watering than plants grown in the ground.
What can I do if my kohlrabi bulbs are cracking?
Cracking in kohlrabi bulbs is often caused by inconsistent watering. Ensure that your plants receive consistent moisture, especially during dry periods. Mulching can help retain moisture and prevent cracking.
How do I store kohlrabi?
Kohlrabi can be stored in the refrigerator for several weeks. Remove the leaves and store them separately. Wrap the bulbs in a damp paper towel and place them in a plastic bag. You can also freeze kohlrabi, but it’s best to blanch it first to preserve its flavor and texture.
Leave a Comment