Field guide
How to grow kohlrabi: planting, care, and harvest guide
Kohlrabi typically reaches first harvest in 45–60 days. This guide covers when to plant by USDA zone, common pests, harvest cues, and companion plants where relevant.
Open plannerWhen to plant kohlrabi by USDA zone group
- USDA Zones 1–4 — May to June
- USDA Zones 5–6 — April to May
- USDA Zones 7–8 — March to April
- USDA Zones 9–10 — February to March
- USDA Zones 11–13 — October to January
Companion plants
Good companions: Beets, Onions, Cucumbers
Avoid planting with: Tomato (Slicing), Strawberries
Harvest
When to pick
- Bulb is 2-3 inches in diameter (tennis ball size)
- Skin is smooth and tender
- Larger bulbs become woody and fibrous — don't wait too long
How: Cut at the base below the bulb, or pull the whole plant. Remove leaves (they're also edible and nutritious).
Storage: Remove leaves, refrigerate bulb for 2-3 weeks. Leaves wilt quickly — use within a few days.
Common pests and problems
Cabbage Worms
Signs: Holes in leaves
Control: Bt, row covers. Kohlrabi is fairly pest-resistant compared to other brassicas.
Flea Beetles
Signs: Tiny holes in leaves
Control: Row covers, neem oil. Damage is usually cosmetic and doesn't affect the bulb.
About this field guide
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