Kohlrabi (Brassica oleracea (Gongylodes Group))
This strangely alien vegetable is rarely seen in supermarkets but common in vegetable boxes and on allotmentors' tables. This is probably because it is so quick and easy to grow. However, while it is delicious mashed with butter, not everyone is convinced by its mixture of cabbage and turnip flavours.
| Soil | |
|---|---|
| Stony |  |
| Light |  |
| Loamy | |
| Heavy |  |
| pH | 6.0 - 7.0 |
| Manure | |
| Previous crop | |
| Previous autumn | |
| Before planting | |
| Position | |
| Full sun | |
| Partial shade | |
| Shade | |
| Exposure | |
| Open | |
| Sheltered | |
Sow indoors
sow indoors
Sow seed under cover, 2cm deep, three or four seeds to a module or pot, thinning to the strongest. Harden off before planting out in April.
plant
Between plants: 20cm Between rows: 30cm
Plant out before seedlings are 5cm high to reduce the risk of bolting under cloches if there is still a risk of frost. Keep well-watered to avoid bolting, pull off yellowing leaves and side foliage to maintain a smooth, rounded shape.
harvest
Harvest when globes are between 4 and 7cm in diameter, before they become woody.
Sow outdoors
sow outdoors
Between plants: 20cm Between rows: 30cm
Sow three seeds per station, 2cm deep every 3 weeks. Thin to the strongest plant when large enough to handle. Keep well-watered to avoid bolting, pull off yellowing leaves and side foliage to maintain a smooth, rounded shape.
harvest
Harvest when globes are between 4 and 7cm in diameter, before they become woody.
