Kohlrabi
cool-season crop
At a glance
| Suitable zone groups | All four zone groups (3-4, 5-6, 7-8, 9-10), as a cool-season annual |
|---|---|
| Planting window | See the guide text below, in general terms relative to your last spring frost |
| Sun | Full sun |
| Soil | Fertile, well-draining soil |
| Watering | Even, regular moisture |
About this plant
Kohlrabi grows a rounded, swollen stem above the soil, with a crisp texture and mild flavor. It suits all four zone groups (3-4, 5-6, 7-8, 9-10) as a cool-season annual and needs full sun.
Plant in fertile, well-draining soil and provide even, regular moisture. Leave the swelling stem above ground and harvest while it is tender, following the variety's harvest guidance.
Common beginner failures and fixes
- Swollen stems turn woody: Harvest while tender instead of leaving plants to become oversized.
- Stems split after uneven watering: Maintain even, regular moisture rather than alternating dry soil with heavy watering.
- Crowded plants fail to swell well: Thin seedlings according to the packet so stems have room to expand.
- Leaves develop chewing damage: Check for caterpillars and protect young plants with insect mesh.
Beginner checklist
- Grow as a cool-season annual in your zone group.
- Select a full-sun location.
- Prepare fertile, well-draining soil.
- Maintain even, regular moisture.
- Harvest swollen stems while they are tender.
Zone groups and planting windows here are general guidance. Confirm your own zone and last frost date locally before planting.