Kohlrabi, a member of the brassica family, is a unique and versatile vegetable that often flies under the radar in home gardens. With its crisp texture and mild flavor, it can be enjoyed raw in salads or cooked in various dishes. For gardeners in Ohio, understanding how to successfully grow kohlrabi can lead to a rewarding gardening experience. This guide will take you through everything you need to know about growing kohlrabi in Ohio, including ideal growing conditions, planting techniques, care requirements, and pest management.
Before diving into the specifics of growing kohlrabi, it’s essential to understand what this vegetable is. Kohlrabi is characterized by its swollen stem that forms a bulbous shape above the ground. The edible parts include both the bulb and the leaves, which can be harvested at different times depending on your cooking needs.
There are two primary varieties of kohlrabi: green and purple. The green variety has a slightly sweeter taste, while the purple variety is known for its vibrant color, making it visually appealing.
Kohlrabi thrives in a temperate climate with well-draining soil. Understanding Ohio’s climate zones will help you determine the best conditions for successful growth.
Ohio falls within USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 5a to 6a. This means that kohlrabi can be grown as a cool-season crop, making spring and fall the best times for planting.
For optimal growth, kohlrabi prefers:
Kohlrabi loves sunlight! Ensure your plants receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth. However, they can tolerate partial shade.
The timing of planting is crucial to ensure that your kohlrabi thrives in Ohio’s climate:
For a late-season harvest:
Planting kohlrabi involves several key steps that ensure strong growth:
If starting from seeds, consider soaking them in water for a few hours before planting. This helps with germination.
Water the newly planted seeds or transplants generously but ensure not to overwater, as soggy soil can lead to root rot.
Proper care will significantly affect your kohlrabi’s yield and quality. Here are several essential aspects of kohlrabi maintenance:
Kohlrabi needs consistent moisture—especially during dry spells. Aim for about 1 inch of water per week and adjust based on rainfall and temperature.
To promote healthy growth:
Regular weeding is crucial; competition from weeds can hinder your kohlrabi’s growth.
Removing lower leaves as they become yellow or wilted encourages better air circulation around the plant and directs energy towards bulb development.
Like many vegetables, kohlrabi can be susceptible to various pests and diseases. Recognizing these challenges early on can make all the difference in your yields.
Cabbage Worms: These green caterpillars feed on leaves; hand-picking or using organic insecticides such as Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) can control them.
Aphids: These small insects suck sap from plants; use insecticidal soap or introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs.
Flea Beetles: Tiny black beetles that create holes in leaves; row covers during early growing stages can offer protection.
Be vigilant against diseases such as downy mildew or black rot:
Crop Rotation: Avoid planting kohlrabi in the same spot year after year.
Good Hygiene: Clean garden tools and remove infected plants promptly.
Knowing when to harvest kohlrabi is key to enjoying its delicious flavor:
Timing: Harvest when bulbs reach about 2-4 inches in diameter—usually about 6-8 weeks after planting.
Methods: Use a sharp knife to cut the bulbing stem just below the base of the bulb without damaging surrounding plants.
Proper storage ensures you enjoy your harvest longer:
Refrigeration: Store unwashed bulbs in perforated plastic bags in your refrigerator’s crisper drawer for up to two weeks.
Leaves: If you plan to use leaves, wash them gently and store them separately from bulbs.
Growing kohlrabi in Ohio is an enriching gardening endeavor that provides delicious yields with relatively low maintenance. By understanding ideal planting times, care needs, pest management strategies, and harvesting techniques specific to Ohio’s climate, you can enjoy this unique vegetable right from your garden table. With patience and attention, you’ll not only cultivate healthy kohlrabi but also discover new culinary delights along the way! Happy gardening!