How To Grow Kohlrabi

*We no longer grow this item, but feel free to peruse the information.

Kohlrabi

Please see individual varieties for specific product information, but in general the growing information will be the same for all kohlrabi. The majority of the information on this page was provided by the University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service Kohlrabi Home Gardening Series; download the complete pdf file with FAQ’s for more information or click here to visit the website.

Average Days To Maturity: 50-65 days

Distance Between Rows: 1 foot

Spacing Between Plants: 6 inches

When To Plant: Charley recommends planting your kohlrabi 1-2 weeks before the last frost in the spring.

Planting Tip: Plant in intervals for a continuous harvest season from spring to fall in fertile, well-drained soil which is rich in humus. Weeds can rob the soil around the bulbs of nutrients and water which will inhibit growth.  Water more often in dry weather.

Average Yield: 5-7 pounds per 10 foot row

Preparation and Care: When preparing your garden soil prior to planting, incorporate compost (optional) and fertilize with a 10-10-10 fertilizer at .4 pounds per 10 feet of row.

Weeds can rob the soil around the bulbs of nutrients and water which will inhibit growth.  Mulch will help to keep moisture in and weeds at bay and can help keep the roots cool in warmer weather. Water more often in dry weather.

Watering: Water your garden once a week with a 8-12 hour soaking. This will allow the soil to absorb an adequate amount of water and also limit the time you spend each week watering.  If you use a sprinkler to water, do this during the day so that the plants will have some time in the evening to dry out before dark. This will limit the chances of disease. If you use a soaker hose, you can water at night. Watering with a soaker hose at night is best as it limits the amount of water lost to evaporation and keeps the plants dry which limits the chances of disease. During dry periods you may need to water more often (every 4-5 days), and watering at night is important in water conservation during droughts.

Fertilize: Apply a nitrogen based fertilizer 3 weeks after planting or thinning.  Place fertilizer about 6 inches to the side of the plant and water it into the soil.

Harvesting: Kohlrabi has the best flavor when picked young.  The stem or bulb should be harvested when it reaches 2-3 inches in diameter.  If picked when larger, the stem may be woody and it might not have a good flavor.  The young leaves can be removed and prepared like turnip greens.

Store Kohlrabi in a cool, dry place the same way you would turnips or cabbage.

Tip: Plant in intervals to extend harvesting season.

Common Insect Problems

Common Disease Problems

Scroll to Top