Kohlrabi, a member of the brassica family, is a versatile and nutritious vegetable that can thrive in Colorado’s unique climate. Known for its crisp, bulbous stem and distinct flavor, kohlrabi is a great addition to salads, stir-fries, and slaw. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to cultivate kohlrabi successfully in Colorado.
Kohlrabi (Brassica oleracea var. gongylodes) is often described as a cross between broccoli and cabbage. Its edible parts are the swollen stem, which grows above the ground, and its leaves. It comes in two primary varieties: green and purple. Both types offer similar flavors and nutritional benefits, including high vitamin C content, fiber, and antioxidants.
Colorado presents distinct challenges and opportunities for growing kohlrabi due to its varied climate zones, altitude, and temperature fluctuations. These factors are crucial in planning your planting schedule and care regimen.
In general, kohlrabi is best suited for cool weather. Colorado’s growing season can be short and is often divided into two parts: spring and fall. Timing your planting right is essential to avoid the hot summer months when kohlrabi may bolt (go to seed quickly) due to heat stress.
Spring Planting: Start seeds indoors 4–6 weeks before your last expected frost date or sow seeds directly outdoors as soon as the soil can be worked (typically late March to early April in most areas of Colorado).
Fall Planting: For a late harvest, consider sowing seeds again in late July to early August. This will allow the plants to mature during the cooler fall months.
Kohlrabi prefers well-drained, loamy soil enriched with organic matter. The pH should ideally be between 6.0 and 7.0. Conduct a soil test to determine nutrient levels and pH balance, adjusting as necessary.
When choosing kohlrabi varieties, consider both your taste preferences and local climate conditions:
Green Kohlrabi: This variety is typically sweeter and has a milder flavor.
Purple Kohlrabi: Offers a slightly more robust taste with vibrant color that adds visual appeal to dishes.
Opt for seeds from reputable garden centers or suppliers who understand the local growing conditions in Colorado.
Once your kohlrabi plants are established, ongoing care will help ensure healthy growth:
Kohlrabi requires consistent moisture to develop properly without becoming woody or bitter. A general guideline is:
Enhance growth by applying a balanced fertilizer every few weeks starting when plants are about 4 inches tall. This could be a granular or liquid fertilizer—just follow package instructions for dosage based on plant size.
Kohlrabi can attract pests like aphids, cabbage worms, and flea beetles:
Timing is crucial when it comes to harvesting kohlrabi:
After harvesting, remove any remaining leaves from the bulb but leave some foliage intact if you plan to store them; this helps retain moisture.
Kohlrabi can last quite some time if stored correctly:
If you have excess kohlrabi beyond immediate use, consider pickling or freezing them for later enjoyment.
Kohlrabi can be consumed raw or cooked:
Its taste resembles that of broccoli stems or cabbage hearts but with a crunch that makes it unique.
Growing kohlrabi in Colorado is not only rewarding but also adds diversity to your home garden. By understanding your local climate conditions and following proper cultivation techniques—from choosing seeds to harvesting—any gardener can enjoy this nutritious vegetable fresh from their own backyard. With its versatility in cooking and ease of growth, kohlrabi deserves a spot on every Colorado gardener’s list!