Kohlrabi, often referred to as a “turnip cabbage,” is a delicious, versatile vegetable that’s easy to grow and harvest in your home garden. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced gardener, knowing when and how to harvest kohlrabi is essential for enjoying its crisp, mild flavor at its peak. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps of harvesting kohlrabi and provide useful tips to ensure you get the best yield.
What is Kohlrabi?
Before diving into the harvesting process, it’s important to understand what kohlrabi is. This unique vegetable belongs to the Brassica family, which also includes cabbage, broccoli, and kale. Unlike its leafy relatives, the edible part of kohlrabi is its swollen stem, which is usually green or purple and can be eaten raw or cooked.
Kohlrabi is known for its crunchy texture and mild, slightly sweet taste, making it a great addition to salads, stir-fries, and even soups.
When is the Right Time to Harvest Kohlrabi?
1. Size Matters:
Kohlrabi is typically ready to harvest 6 to 8 weeks after sowing seeds, but the perfect harvesting window depends on the size of the bulb. The ideal size for harvesting kohlrabi is around 3 to 4 inches in diameter. At this size, the texture remains tender and the flavor is sweetest. If left too long, kohlrabi can become woody and fibrous, so timing is crucial.
2. Check the Leaves:
Another sign that kohlrabi is ready for harvest is the leaves. The plant’s leaves will start to die back or yellow as the bulb matures. While the leaves are edible, harvesting the bulb before they begin to wilt is usually recommended for the best taste.
3. Harvesting Window:
The best time to harvest is early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the temperatures are cooler. This helps the vegetable retain its flavor and freshness.
How to Harvest Kohlrabi?
Step 1: Inspect the Bulb
Check the size of the bulb to ensure it’s reached 3 to 4 inches in diameter. If it’s still smaller, wait a few more days, but don’t let it get larger than 5 inches. Larger bulbs tend to become tough and less flavorful.
Step 2: Use a Sharp Knife or Garden Shears
To avoid damaging the plant or the bulb, use a sharp knife or garden shears to cut the kohlrabi at the base of the stem. Be careful not to cut into the root, as this can affect the remaining plant’s growth.
Step 3: Remove the Leaves
After cutting the bulb, trim off the leaves about an inch or two above the bulb. You can use the leaves for cooking if you prefer, or compost them if you’re not using them immediately.
Step 4: Store Properly
To store kohlrabi, remove any remaining dirt and place it in the fridge. Kohlrabi can stay fresh for up to two weeks when stored properly. If you want to store it for longer, consider freezing or pickling it.
Tips for Growing and Harvesting Perfect Kohlrabi
- Plant in Well-Drained Soil: Kohlrabi thrives in fertile, well-drained soil. Make sure the soil is loose and rich in organic matter to encourage healthy growth.
- Water Consistently: Keep the soil consistently moist to prevent the bulb from becoming too tough. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to rot.
- Thin the Plants: If you’ve planted multiple kohlrabi seeds, make sure to thin them to ensure each plant has enough space to grow to its full size.
- Keep the Soil Cool: Kohlrabi prefers cooler temperatures, making it ideal for early spring or late summer harvests. If you’re growing kohlrabi in a hot climate, consider providing some shade during the hottest part of the day.
Benefits of Harvesting Kohlrabi at the Right Time
Harvesting kohlrabi at the right time ensures that the bulb remains tender and flavorful. When you wait too long, the vegetable becomes tough and woody, losing much of its appeal. Additionally, harvesting at the peak of maturity allows you to enjoy its full nutritional benefits, including high fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
Conclusion
Knowing when and how to harvest kohlrabi is an essential step in getting the most out of this wonderful vegetable. By keeping an eye on the size of the bulb and the condition of the plant’s leaves, you can enjoy the best possible harvest. With a little care, your kohlrabi will be a fresh, flavorful addition to your meals.