Depth to Plant
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Spacing Between Plants |
Spacing Between Rows |
Days to Germinate (Sprout)
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Germination
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Planting Season
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Plant Height |
No. of Plants per sq. ft.
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Soil Requirements
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 Shop Kohlrabi Seeds |
0.25 inches deep |
Space plants about 6" apart |
Make rows about 12" apart |
7 - 21 days | 75F - 85F | Spring | Appx. 2 feet tall | 1 plant requires app. 3 sq. ft. | Prefers loose average soil. |
Starting Your Kohlrabi Seeds Indoors
Kohlrabi seeds grow best when started from seed indoors about 4–6 weeks before your last spring frost. Fill seed trays with quality seed-starting mix and keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Plant kohlrabi seeds about a quarter-inch deep and maintain temperatures between 60–70°F for reliable germination. Once seedlings develop their first true leaves, provide bright light—a grow light positioned a few inches above the trays works well. Thin seedlings to prevent crowding, which can lead to weak, leggy plants.
Transplanting to the Garden
When seedlings are 3–4 weeks old and have several true leaves, harden them off by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over 7–10 days. Choose a garden location with full sun and well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Space plants 6–8 inches apart in rows about 18 inches apart. Kohlrabi prefers soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Work in compost or aged manure before planting to boost nutrients and improve soil structure. Water newly transplanted seedlings gently to settle the soil and reduce transplant shock.
Caring for Growing Kohlrabi Plants
Keep the soil evenly moist throughout the growing season—about 1–2 inches of water per week depending on rainfall and temperature. Water at the base of plants to keep foliage dry and prevent disease. Apply 2–3 inches of organic mulch around each plant to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. Feed plants every 3–4 weeks with a balanced organic fertilizer to support steady growth. Watch for common pests like cabbage worms and flea beetles; row covers in early spring offer protection without chemicals.
Harvesting at Peak Flavor
Kohlrabi bulbs are ready to harvest when they reach 2–3 inches in diameter—smaller bulbs tend to be more tender and flavorful. Larger bulbs can become woody and less palatable. Harvest by gently pulling the plant from the soil or cutting it at the base with a sharp knife. Kohlrabi has a short growing cycle, typically 45–60 days from transplant to harvest. For a continuous supply, sow seeds every 2–3 weeks through midsummer. Fall crops often taste sweeter after a light frost.
Storing Your Harvest
Remove the leaves and store kohlrabi bulbs in a cool, humid place like a root cellar or refrigerator crisper drawer where they'll keep for several weeks. Wrap them loosely in plastic or place them in a perforated bag to maintain moisture without promoting rot. Young, tender bulbs are excellent raw in slaws or roasted whole, while larger bulbs work well in soups and stews. Growing kohlrabi organically rewards you with crisp, delicious vegetables that taste far better than store-bought options.
