If you've ever planted kohlrabi (Kohlrabi in English), you might be curious about the best time to harvest this unique and nutritious vegetable. Kohlrabi, also known as German turnip or cabbage turnip, is a member of the Brassica family and is prized for its tender, edible stem and leaves. Touchhealthy Seeds, which has been around since 2014, offers some great tips on how to determine kohlrabi is ready for the harvest. Let's dive in and find out!
Before we get into the harvest part, it's essential to understand kohlrabi's growth cycle. Kohlrabi is a fast-growing vegetable that goes through distinct stages:
Kohlrabi thrives in cool weather and prefers temperatures between 15-20°C during the bulb formation stage.
Now, let's talk about the main event – how to know when your kohlrabi is ready for harvesting. Here are a few key indicators:
The most obvious sign is the size of the stem. Kohlrabi bulbs should be harvested when they are about 2-4 inches in diameter. This is typically around 6-8 weeks after planting, depending on the variety and climate conditions.
Feel the stem. A ripe kohlrabi stem should be firm and not too soft. If it feels spongy or hollow, it might be over
The color of the leaves can also give you a hint. Healthy, ripe kohlrabi will have vibrant green leaves. If the leaves start to yellow or wilt, it's a sign that the plant is using its energy to store nutrients in the stem, and it's time to harvest.
Although less common, some gardeners also check the root development. Kohlrabi not be allowed to grow too large, as they can become woody and less palatable.
Harvesting kohlrabi is straightforward. Use a sharp knife to cut the stem just above the soil line. Be careful not to damage the plant's base, as it can promote rot and disease.
After harvesting, kohlrabi can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze or can it for later use.
