Learn Gardening

Kolibri kohlrabi: How to Grow, Harvest, Fertilize, and Use Kolibri kohlrabi

Written By: Rob Gardener
Last Updated:

My Journey of Growing Kolibri Kohlrabi

===============

As a self-proclaimed gardening enthusiast, I'm always on the lookout for new and exciting vegetables to grow in my backyard. Recently, I came across Kolibri kohlrabi, a unique and flavorful variety that has left me eager to share my experience of growing it.

What is Kolibri Kohlrabi?

Kolibri kohlrabi is a type of kohlrabi that originated in Germany. It's a cool-season crop, which means it thrives in the cooler temperatures of spring or fall. This variety is characterized by its unique, elongated shape and vibrant purple color. What sets Kolibri apart from other kohlrabi varieties is its sweet and slightly spicy flavor profile.

Why I Chose to Grow Kolibri Kohlrabi

When I stumbled upon Kolibri kohlrabi, I was immediately drawn to its unique appearance and flavor profile. As a fan of trying new foods, I was excited to add this variety to my garden. However, I knew that growing kohlrabi could be a bit challenging, especially for beginners. I decided to take on the challenge and share my experience with you.

Preparing the Soil

Before planting Kolibri kohlrabi, it's essential to prepare the soil. Kohlrabi prefers well-draining, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. To achieve this, I added compost and manure to my soil, ensuring it was rich in nutrients. I also made sure to remove any debris and rocks that could interfere with the roots of the plant.

Sowing the Seeds

Sowing Kolibri kohlrabi seeds is relatively straightforward. I sowed the seeds directly into the prepared soil, about ¼ inch deep and 1-2 inches apart. I covered the seeds with a thin layer of soil and kept the soil consistently moist during the germination period.

Germination and Growth

After about 7-10 days, I noticed the first signs of germination. The seeds began to sprout, and the tiny plants started to grow. I provided the plants with plenty of sunlight and water, making sure the soil was consistently moist. As the plants grew, I started to see the characteristic elongated shape of Kolibri kohlrabi.

Challenges and Lessons Learned

Growing Kolibri kohlrabi was not without its challenges. One of the biggest issues I faced was pest control. Aphids and other pests were attracted to the plant, causing damage to the leaves and stems. To combat this, I used neem oil and insecticidal soap to keep the pests at bay.

Another challenge I encountered was temperature fluctuations. Kohlrabi is sensitive to extreme temperatures, and I had to make sure to provide protection during frosty nights. I covered the plants with a frost blanket, ensuring they received enough protection.

Harvesting and Enjoying

After about 60-70 days, I was finally ready to harvest my Kolibri kohlrabi. I carefully dug up the roots, taking care not to damage the plant. The result was a beautiful, vibrant purple root that was both sweet and slightly spicy.

I enjoyed my Kolibri kohlrabi in a variety of dishes, from salads to stir-fries. The unique flavor profile added a new dimension to my cooking, and I was eager to experiment with different recipes.

Conclusion

Growing Kolibri kohlrabi was a rewarding experience that taught me valuable lessons about gardening and food production. From preparing the soil to harvesting the crop, every step was crucial to achieving success. If you're looking to try something new and exciting, I highly recommend giving Kolibri kohlrabi a shot. With the right preparation and care, you'll be enjoying this unique and flavorful variety in no time.

Tips and Variations

Here are a few tips and variations for growing Kolibri kohlrabi: