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Growing organic kohlrabi is a rewarding experience that allows you to enjoy the unique flavors and textures of this versatile vegetable. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, these tips will help you successfully cultivate organic kohlrabi in your own backyard.
Kohlrabi, with its bulbous stem and thick leaves, is a member of the cabbage family and offers a range of culinary possibilities. From raw vegetable platters to stir-fries, this vegetable adds a delightful crunch and mild flavor to your dishes.
Key Takeaways:
- Direct seed kohlrabi in the garden from mid-April until early May, and again later in July.
- Harvest kohlrabi when the bulb is two to three inches in width to ensure the best quality.
- Soil testing and proper fertilization are essential for healthy kohlrabi growth.
- Controlling pests and diseases through organic methods will help safeguard your kohlrabi plants.
- Store kohlrabi in cold, moist conditions to extend its shelf life.
Recommended Kohlrabi Varieties for Optimal Growth
When it comes to growing kohlrabi, choosing the right varieties can make a significant difference in the success of your harvest. Here are some recommended kohlrabi varieties that have proven to be reliable and produce excellent quality bulbs.
Quickstar
One of the top choices for kohlrabi enthusiasts is the Quickstar variety. It matures in just 40 days and features purple skin, making it visually appealing in the garden. Quickstar produces sweet and tender bulbs that are perfect for enjoying raw or cooked.
Grand Duke
If you’re looking for a kohlrabi variety with a slightly longer maturity time, the Grand Duke is a great option. This variety takes around 50 days to reach full maturity and offers exceptional eating quality. The bulbs of Grand Duke have a mild and sweet flavor that pairs well with various culinary preparations.
White Vienna or Purple Vienna
For a slightly longer growing season, the White Vienna or Purple Vienna varieties are excellent choices. These kohlrabi varieties take approximately 60 days to mature and produce bulbs with either white or purple skin. Both varieties have a crunchy texture and a delicate flavor that adds a refreshing touch to salads and other dishes.
When selecting kohlrabi varieties, it’s essential to consider the number of days to harvest and the specific traits you desire, such as color and flavor. Additionally, different varieties may have varying tolerance to cold weather and field holding ability, so it’s worth exploring multiple options to find the perfect fit for your garden.
Conclusion
Kohlrabi is a unique and versatile vegetable that I highly recommend growing organically. By following these essential growing tips, you can ensure a successful harvest of sweet, crisp, and juicy kohlrabi bulbs.
Proper soil preparation is crucial for optimal growth. Create a fertile foundation by adding well-rotted manure or compost to improve soil fertility. Remember to avoid using fresh manure, as it may contain harmful bacteria and increase weed problems. Conducting soil testing and following fertilizer recommendations will help maintain proper pH and nutrient levels.
Planting kohlrabi seeds directly in the garden during the recommended times or starting seeds indoors for transplanting can give your plants a head start. Water regularly to prevent heat and moisture stress, and cultivate and mulch to control weeds and retain soil moisture. Keep an eye out for common pests and diseases, like flea beetles and cabbage maggots, and manage them organically to maintain plant health and productivity.
When it’s time to harvest, ensure the best quality by harvesting kohlrabi bulbs when they reach two to three inches in width. Storing them in cold, moist conditions or refrigerating them for about two weeks will help maintain their quality and flavor for an extended period. Incorporate organic kohlrabi into your gardening and cooking, and enjoy the unique flavors and health benefits it offers.
FAQ
When should I direct seed kohlrabi in the garden?
Direct seed kohlrabi in the garden from mid-April until early May, and again later in July.
Can I plant kohlrabi where I have grown related crops?
It is best to avoid planting kohlrabi where you have grown related crops—broccoli, cauliflower, collards, kale, turnip, rutabaga, cabbage, mustard, bok choy, Brussels sprouts—during the previous four years.
What are the characteristics of the best quality kohlrabi?
The best quality kohlrabi is sweet, crisp, and juicy.
What conditions result in a good crop of kohlrabi?
Fast growth without heat or moisture stress results in a good crop of kohlrabi.
When should I harvest kohlrabi?
Harvest kohlrabi when the bulb is two to three inches in width to avoid it becoming tough, woody, and bitter.
What does kohlrabi look like?
Kohlrabi has a bulbous stem just above the soil surface, topped with upright thick leaves.
How can I serve kohlrabi?
Kohlrabi can be served raw as part of a raw vegetable platter, sliced into a salad, grated into a slaw, or used in stir-fries or sautés.
What should I do to ensure proper soil pH and nutrient levels for kohlrabi?
Soil testing and fertilizer recommendations should be followed to ensure proper soil pH and nutrient levels for kohlrabi. Adding well-rotted manure or compost can improve soil fertility, but care must be taken to not use fresh manure, as it may contain harmful bacteria and increase weed problems.
How should I plant kohlrabi seeds?
Plant kohlrabi seeds directly in the garden from mid-April until early May, or start seeds indoors in early April for transplanting. Seeds should be planted one-fourth to one-half inch deep, with four inches of space between plants. Gradually expose transplants to more sunlight over time.
When should I plant kohlrabi seeds for a fall harvest?
Plant seeds directly in the garden in July for a fall harvest of kohlrabi.
How should I water and control weeds for kohlrabi?
Kohlrabi should be watered regularly to prevent heat and moisture stress. Cultivation and mulching can help control weeds and retain soil moisture.
What are common pests and diseases of kohlrabi?
Common pests and diseases of kohlrabi include flea beetles, imported cabbageworm, cabbage looper, diamondback moth larvae, and cabbage maggots.
How should I store kohlrabi?
Kohlrabi can be stored for months in cold, moist conditions or refrigerated for about two weeks.
What are some recommended kohlrabi varieties?
Recommended kohlrabi varieties include Quickstar (40 days, purple skin), Grand Duke (50 days), and White Vienna or Purple Vienna (60 days). These varieties have excellent production, eating quality, and flavor.
How can I grow organic kohlrabi successfully?
Kohlrabi is a unique and versatile vegetable that is easy to grow organically. Following the recommended growing tips and practices can result in a successful harvest of sweet, crisp, and juicy kohlrabi bulbs. Proper soil preparation, planting at the right time, and providing adequate water and nutrients are essential for optimal growth. Managing pests and diseases through organic methods can help maintain the health and productivity of kohlrabi plants. Harvesting kohlrabi at the right size and storing it correctly can ensure its quality and flavor for an extended period.
How can I incorporate organic kohlrabi into my gardening and cooking?
By incorporating organic kohlrabi into your gardening and cooking, you can enhance your skills as an organic gardener while enjoying the health benefits of this unique vegetable.
