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

My Journey with Growing Purple Kohlrabi

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As a garden enthusiast, I'm always on the lookout for unique and flavorful vegetables to add to my culinary repertoire. Among the many varieties I've tried, purple kohlrabi has become a favorite of mine. In this article, I'll share my experience growing purple kohlrabi from seed to harvest, and offer some valuable tips and advice for fellow gardeners.

Getting Started

I first discovered purple kohlrabi at a local farmers' market. The vibrant purple hue caught my eye, and I was drawn to the plant's unusual appearance. I decided to try growing it in my garden, and I was excited to see how it would turn out.

Before planting, I made sure to choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil. Purple kohlrabi prefers full sun to partial shade, and a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH (around 6.0-7.0). I also made sure to water the soil regularly, but not too much, as kohlrabi is prone to root rot if the soil is too wet.

Planting and Care

I planted my purple kohlrabi seeds indoors about 4-6 weeks before the last frost date in my area. This gave the seedlings a head start on the growing season, and allowed them to develop strong roots before being transplanted outside.

When transplanting, I made sure to handle the seedlings gently, and avoid disturbing their roots. I also spaced the plants about 12-18 inches apart, to allow for good air circulation and easy access for harvesting.

During the growing season, I kept the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. I also fertilized the plants with a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10 NPK) once a month, to promote healthy growth.

Challenges and Solutions

One of the biggest challenges I faced while growing purple kohlrabi was managing the pests. Aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites can be a problem for this plant, but I was able to control them using organic methods.

To keep pests at bay, I used neem oil and insecticidal soap, which are both safe for humans and pets. I also made sure to remove any weeds or debris from around the plants, as these can provide hiding places for pests.

Another challenge I faced was dealing with the plant's tendency to bolt. Kohlrabi can bolt (go to seed) if it's exposed to too much heat or stress. To prevent this, I made sure to provide the plants with some shade during the hottest part of the day, and kept the soil consistently moist.

Harvesting and Enjoying

After about 60-70 days of growth, my purple kohlrabi plants were ready for harvest. I carefully dug around the plants, taking care not to damage the roots or disturb the soil.

The first time I bit into a freshly harvested purple kohlrabi, I was blown away by its crunchy texture and sweet, slightly peppery flavor. I immediately knew that I had to share it with my friends and family, as it was quickly becoming my new favorite snack.

Tips and Variations

If you're interested in growing purple kohlrabi, here are a few tips and variations to keep in mind:

• Soil temperature: Kohlrabi prefers a cooler soil temperature (around 60-70°F) for optimal growth.
• Variety selection: There are several varieties of purple kohlrabi, including 'Rubin' and 'Jade'. 'Rubin' is a more compact variety, while 'Jade' is more elongated.
• Growing in containers: Purple kohlrabi can be grown in containers, but make sure to provide it with a deep enough pot (at least 6-8 inches deep) to accommodate its taproot.

Conclusion

Growing purple kohlrabi has been a rewarding experience for me, and I hope that my story will inspire others to try this unique and delicious vegetable. With the right care and attention, purple kohlrabi can thrive in even the most challenging garden conditions.

Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, I encourage you to give purple kohlrabi a try. Its vibrant purple color and sweet, peppery flavor make it a standout in any salad or dish. Happy gardening!