Introduction
Kohlrabi is a unique and nutritious vegetable that can be grown successfully in the United Kingdom. With its crunchy texture and mild flavor, growing kohlrabi in your garden can be a rewarding experience. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the process of growing kohlrabi, from selecting the right variety to providing the necessary care for a bountiful harvest. Let's get started!
Choosing the Right Variety
When it comes to kohlrabi, there are several varieties suitable for the UK climate. Here are some popular choices:
- 'White Vienna': A popular variety known for its pale green or white bulbs and delicate flavor.
- 'Purple Vienna': This variety produces vibrant purple bulbs with a slightly spicier taste compared to the white variety.
- 'Early White Vienna': An outstanding variety that offers early maturity and tender bulbs.
- 'Grand Duke': This variety has large, green bulbs and is particularly well-suited for autumn harvests.
Sowing and Planting
Kohlrabi is typically grown from seeds. Follow these steps to sow and plant your kohlrabi:
- Sowing method: Directly sow kohlrabi seeds in the garden in early spring or late summer. Plant them about 1/2 inch deep and space them 6-8 inches apart in rows that are 12-18 inches apart.
- Soil conditions: Kohlrabi prefers well-drained soil that is fertile and rich in organic matter. Prepare the soil by incorporating compost or well-rotted manure.
- Watering: Water the soil thoroughly after sowing to help the seeds germinate. Keep the soil consistently moist throughout the growing season.
Growing
To ensure healthy growth and a bountiful harvest of kohlrabi, consider the following tips:
- Sunlight: Kohlrabi plants thrive in full sun. Aim to provide them with at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day.
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry spells. Kohlrabi requires regular watering to promote growth and prevent stress.
- Soil conditions: Kohlrabi prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Mulching around the plants can help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
- Thinning: Thin out the kohlrabi seedlings, leaving the strongest ones spaced appropriately to allow for proper bulb development.
- Harvesting: Kohlrabi bulbs can be harvested when they reach the size of a tennis ball, typically around 2-3 inches in diameter. Cut the bulbs at the base, just above the soil level.
Conclusion
Growing kohlrabi in the United Kingdom allows you to enjoy the crunchy texture and mild flavor of this unique vegetable. By choosing the right variety, providing proper care, and addressing common challenges, you can cultivate healthy kohlrabi plants that add freshness to your culinary creations. Whether you use them in salads, stir-fries, or as a crunchy snack, homegrown kohlrabi will surely enhance your culinary experiences. Happy kohlrabi growing!