Unknown / CC0
garden
Kohlrabi
Brassica oleracea var. gongylodes
Edible
Edible Partsstem, leaves
Overview
An unusual brassica that forms a swollen, above-ground stem that looks like a vegetable from another planet — earning it the nickname 'Sputnik vegetable.' Despite its alien appearance, kohlrabi is mild, sweet, and crunchy when eaten raw, with a flavor between broccoli stem and apple. Purple and green varieties are equally delicious, and it matures quickly — often ready in just 45-60 days.
Growing Conditions
LightFull Sun
MoistureModerate
Hardiness Zones3 — 10
Height0.4m
Spread0.3m
Growth HabitForb/herb
LifespanBiennial
Pollinator Valuemoderate
Companion Planting & Soil
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Soil pH6 — 7.5
Soil TypeRich, well-drained, moist soil with consistent watering
Planting Calendar
When to sow, transplant, and harvest by growing zone.
| Zone | Action | Months | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cold (1-2) | Start Indoors | Mar — Apr | Start indoors 6 weeks before last frost |
| Cold (1-2) | Transplant | May — Jun | Transplant after last frost; handles light frost |
| Cold (1-2) | Harvest | Jun — Aug | Harvest at 2-3" diameter; gets woody if left too long |
| Cool (3-4) | Direct Sow | Mar — May | Direct sow in early spring; succession sow every 2-3 weeks |
| Cool (3-4) | Direct Sow | Jul — Aug | Fall crop; frost improves flavor |
| Cool (3-4) | Harvest | May — Jun | Harvest spring crop at 2-3" diameter |
| Cool (3-4) | Harvest | Sep — Oct | Harvest fall crop |
| Moderate (5-7) | Direct Sow | Feb — Apr | Sow in early spring |
| Moderate (5-7) | Direct Sow | Aug — Sep | Fall crop; matures in 55-65 days |
| Moderate (5-7) | Harvest | Apr — May | Spring harvest |
| Moderate (5-7) | Harvest | Oct — Nov | Fall harvest |
| Warm (8-9) | Direct Sow | Sep — Oct | Fall sowing; cool-season crop |
| Warm (8-9) | Harvest | Nov — Dec | Fall/early winter harvest |
| Hot (10+) | Direct Sow | Oct — Dec | Cool-season crop only |
| Hot (10+) | Harvest | Dec — Feb (wraps) | Cool-season harvest |
Uses
Culinary
- Sliced raw with dip or in salads for crisp sweetness
- Roasted or sautéed as a side dish
- Spiralized as a low-carb noodle alternative
Medicinal
- Rich in glucosinolates with cancer-protective properties
- High in vitamin C and potassium
- Good source of fiber and B vitamins
Other Uses
- Quick-maturing space-efficient vegetable
