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The Kohlrabi Plant: A Complete Guide and Care Tips
If you’re wondering what kind of vegetable to add to your garden that’s both distinctive and adaptable, look no further than the kohlrabi plant.
It belongs to the same family as broccoli, cabbage, and kale – brassica.
Kohlrabi is a unique option that will add some diversity to your garden’s produce! In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about growing and maintaining kohlrabi.Kohlrabi is an excellent choice for those looking for something out of the ordinary in their gardens.
The plant is versatile with its ability to be eaten raw or cooked (the leaves are particularly delicious sautéed!), making it an exciting addition for anyone who loves experimenting in the kitchen.
Our definitive guide on how-to-grow kohlrabi will equip you with all the information necessary for success!
What is Kohlrabi?
Kohlrabi is a vegetable that is grown during the cool season and produces an edible stem that has a bulbous shape.
The great thing about kohlrabi is that it can be eaten cooked or raw, making it a versatile ingredient in many dishes.
Interestingly enough, the name “kohlrabi” comes from the German language where “kohl” means cabbage and “rübe” translates to turnip.
This description of its appearance accurately captures its unique look, as it resembles both cabbage and turnips.
Kohlrabi’s bulbous stem makes it an attractive addition to any vegetable garden.
It grows well in cooler temperatures, making it perfect for spring or fall planting.
With its mild flavor profile, kohlrabi can be used in many different recipes ranging from salads to soups and even stir-fries.
Whether you prefer your vegetables cooked or raw, kohlrabi’s versatility means that you can easily incorporate this delicious vegetable into your meals all year round!
Planting Kohlrabi
- Kohlrabi seeds are typically sown directly in the garden bed in early spring or late summer.
- The soil should be moist but well-draining with a pH between 6.0-7.5.
- Sow seeds about ¼ inch deep and space them about six inches apart in rows spaced twelve inches apart.
- Kohlrabi prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Caring for Kohlrabi Plants
- Kohlrabi plants require consistent moisture throughout their growing season so make sure they receive one inch of water per week either through rainfall or irrigation.
- To promote healthy growth apply fertilizer at planting time then again four weeks later with nitrogen rich fertilizer such as manure or blood meal because it promotes leafy growth while also increasing root development which helps support heavier bulbs down the line.
- Keep the soil moist and free of weeds by mulching around your plants with straw or other organic materials to conserve moisture, hinder weed growth, and help keep temperatures even.
- Kohlrabi plants are susceptible to pests such as aphids, flea beetles, and cabbage worms.
Row covers can be used to protect your plants from these pests while also keeping in moisture.
Harvesting Kohlrabi
Kohlrabi is a delicious and nutritious vegetable that is ready for picking when the stem reaches two to three inches in diameter.
Waiting too long to harvest can result in a woodier and less flavorful bulb, so it’s best to pick them promptly.
To determine if your kohlrabi is ready for harvesting, check its size – it should be roughly the size of a tennis ball.
Additionally, pay attention to its texture – if it feels firm, then it’s definitely time for picking.If you’re planning on storing your freshly picked kohlrabi, keep in mind that you should avoid washing them beforehand as they’ll last longer if kept dry.
This versatile vegetable can be eaten raw or cooked and is high in vitamin C and fiber making it an excellent addition to any diet.
Whether you’re growing kohlrabi yourself or enjoying them from your local farmer’s market or grocery store, make sure to look out for these signs of readiness before harvesting!
Conclusion
If you’re looking for an unconventional addition to your garden, the kohlrabi plant might be just what you need.
This underrated vegetable may look odd, but with a little attention and care during the growing process, it can produce some truly delicious results.
By following our complete guide on how to plant and care for kohlrabi, you’ll be able to harvest a plentiful supply of crispy bulbs all season long.Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, kohlrabi is an easy-to-grow crop that requires minimal maintenance.
With proper watering and soil preparation techniques in place, this versatile veggie can thrive in a variety of climates and conditions.
Plus, once harvested, kohlrabi can be used in everything from stir-fries to salads – providing both flavor and nutrition for your family’s meals.
So why not give this quirky yet rewarding plant a try?
