How to Grow Kohlrabi in California

Kohlrabi, a member of the Brassica family and closely related to cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower, is an increasingly popular vegetable among gardeners in California. Known for its mild flavor and unique texture, kohlrabi can be eaten raw or cooked and adds a crunchy twist to salads, stir-fries, and more. Growing kohlrabi is not only satisfying but also provides a nutritious addition to your diet. This article will guide you through the process of growing kohlrabi in California, from selecting the right varieties to harvesting your crop.

Understanding Kohlrabi

Before diving into the cultivation process, it’s essential to understand kohlrabi’s characteristics. This cool-season vegetable is known for its swollen stem that grows above ground, resembling a bulb or a turnip. It comes in two main varieties: green and purple. Both types have similar flavor profiles but differ in appearance and slight variations in taste.

Kohlrabi thrives in cooler temperatures, making it ideal for California’s climate. However, it can be grown year-round in many regions due to its adaptability.

Choosing the Right Variety

Kohlrabi varieties vary in size, color, and taste. When selecting which variety to grow, consider the following:

• Green Kohlrabi: This type has a slightly milder taste and is typically larger than its purple counterpart.
• Purple Kohlrabi: Known for its vibrant skin, this variant is sweet and tender when harvested young.

For home gardeners in California, both varieties perform well, so choose based on your aesthetic preference or desired culinary application.

Ideal Growing Conditions

Soil Requirements

Kohlrabi prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0. To achieve optimal conditions:

1. Soil Preparation: Before planting, amend your garden soil with organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure. This improves soil structure and fertility.
2. Drainage: Ensure that your garden bed allows for good drainage to prevent root rot.

Sunlight

Kohlrabi requires full sun for optimal growth – aim for at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. In regions with very high temperatures, some afternoon shade may benefit the plants by reducing stress.

Temperature

Kohlrabi thrives in cooler weather. Ideal temperatures range between 50°F to 75°F (10°C to 24°C). Therefore, timing your planting correctly is crucial for success in California’s diverse climate zones.

Planting Kohlrabi

Timing

In California, you can plant kohlrabi either in early spring (March to April) or late summer (August to September) for fall harvests. The choice of planting time may depend on your specific region within California:

• Northern California: Spring planting is best as summers can be quite warm.
• Southern California: Fall planting works well due to milder winters.

Seed Sowing

1. Direct Sowing: Sow seeds directly into the soil about ½ inch deep and 4 inches apart.
2. Transplanting: If starting seeds indoors (about 4-6 weeks before the last frost), transplant seedlings outdoors when they are about 3-4 inches tall.

Row Spacing

When planting multiple rows of kohlrabi, space them at least 18-24 inches apart to allow ample room for growing plants.

Care and Maintenance

Watering

Kohlrabi requires consistent moisture but should not be waterlogged. Water your plants deeply once per week or more frequently during dry spells. Mulching around the base can help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.

Fertilizing

Kohlrabi benefits from regular feeding:

• Initial Fertilization: Use an all-purpose fertilizer at planting time.
• Mid-Growth Feeding: Apply a nitrogen-rich fertilizer when the plants are about halfway to maturity (around 4 weeks after sowing).

Follow package instructions carefully to avoid over-fertilizing.

Pest Management

Common pests that may affect kohlrabi include aphids, caterpillars, and flea beetles. To manage these pests:

• Physical Barriers: Use row covers during early growth stages.
• Natural Predators: Encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings by planting companion flowers nearby.
• Organic Pesticides: As a last resort, you can use organic insecticides if infestations become severe.

Harvesting Kohlrabi

Timing is critical when it comes to harvesting kohlrabi for the best flavor and texture:

1. Maturity Indicators: Typically ready for harvest about 60-70 days after planting when they reach 3 to 5 inches in diameter.
2. Harvesting Method: Use a sharp knife to cut the kohlrabi just below the bulb’s base without damaging adjacent plants.

It’s important not to let kohlrabi grow too large as older bulbs become woody and tough.

Storage Tips

Once harvested, store kohlrabi in a cool place or refrigerate them:

• Remove any leaves; this helps prolong freshness.
• Store bulbs in perforated plastic bags or wrapped in damp paper towels inside a plastic bag.

Under ideal conditions, fresh kohlrabi can last for several weeks in the refrigerator.

Culinary Uses

Kohlrabi can be enjoyed in various ways:

• Raw: Peel and slice it into sticks for dipping or shred it into salads.
• Cooked: Steam or sauté kohlrabi slices as a side dish or add them into soups and stir-fries.
• Pickled: Try pickling for a tangy crunch that adds great flavor complexity.

Conclusion

Growing kohlrabi in California is a rewarding endeavor that offers both culinary delights and nutritional benefits. By understanding the plant’s needs—from choosing the right variety and preparing the soil to proper care during growth—you can cultivate healthy and delicious kohlrabi right at home. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just starting out, embracing this unique vegetable will undoubtedly enhance your gardening experience while diversifying your kitchen fare!