Planting Kohlrabi Directly in the Garden
Sow Kohlrabi seeds after danger of frost in spring. In frost free areas, sow in the fall.
Sow in well-worked soil in full sun.
Do not plant cabbage family crops in the same place 2 years in a row.
Prepare the bed by turning the soil under to a depth of 8 inches. Level with a rake to remove clumps of grass and stones.
Sow seed thinly in rows 18 inches apart and cover with ¼ inch of fine soil.
Firm lightly and keep evenly moist.
Seeds emerge in 14-21 days.
This to stand about 4 inches apart when seedlings are 1-2 inches tall.
How to Grow Kohlrabi
Keep weeds under control during the growing season. Weeds compete with plants for water, space and nutrients, so control them by either cultivating often or use a mulch to prevent their seeds from germinating. Avoid disturbing the soil around the plants when weeding.
Keep plants well-watered during dry periods to promote rapid, uninterrupted growth. Plants need about 1 inch of rain per week during the growing season. Use a rain gauge to check to see if you need to add water. It’s best to water with a drip or trickle system that delivers water at low pressure at the soil level. If you water with overhead sprinklers, water early in the day so the foliage has time to dry off before evening, to minimize disease problems. Keep the soil moist but not saturated.
Monitor for pests and diseases. Check with your local Cooperative Extension Service for pest controls recommended for your area.
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Harvest and Preserving Tips
Harvest the foliage when bulbs reach 2-3 inches in diameter and foliage is still young and tender.
Eat the stems fresh or use them as spinach substitute.
Use the bulb fresh or cooked. If using fresh, peel the root prior to using. If baking, it can be peeled or left unsliced, depending on the recipe.
Store kohlrabi with leaves removed. Can be stored in the refrigerator for several weeks. Storage life can be extended if kohlrabi is placed in a sealed plastic bag.
Kohlrabi may be blanched, peeled and sliced, and frozen.
Kohlrabi may also be pickled.
To plant in the desert refer to Planting Your Garden.