Kohlrabi – Delicacy Purple

Description

Kohlrabi – Delicacy Purple

Kohlrabi Delicacy Purple. A modern very productive variety producing good sized semi globe roots which are slightly more tender and stronger flavoured than the white variety. Ready in around 60-100 days.

Cultivation advice 

• Choose well-draining, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Prepare the soil by adding organic matter like compost. Directly sow kohlrabi seeds or transplant seedlings about 6-8 inches apart.
• Kohlrabi thrives in full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade. Aim for at least 6 hours of sunlight daily for optimal growth.
• Keep the soil consistently moist throughout the growing season. Kohlrabi prefers even moisture to prevent woody or bitter-tasting bulbs.
• Apply a layer of organic mulch around the plants to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds.
• Use a balanced organic fertilizer or compost at planting. Avoid over-fertilizing, as excessive nitrogen can lead to excessive leaf growth at the expense of bulb development.
• If you start from seeds, thin out the seedlings once they have a few true leaves, leaving the healthiest plants spaced appropriately.
• Kohlrabi can benefit from companion planting with herbs like mint or chamomile. Avoid planting near tomatoes and peppers.
• Keep an eye out for common pests like cabbage worms or aphids. Use organic pest control methods, such as neem oil or insecticidal soap.
• Harvest kohlrabi when the bulbs are about 2-3 inches in diameter. Use a sharp knife to cut the bulbs just above the soil level. Younger bulbs tend to be more tender.
• For a continuous harvest, consider successive plantings every few weeks. This can extend the availability of fresh kohlrabi throughout the growing season.
• Kohlrabi is versatile and can be enjoyed raw in salads, slaws, or as a crunchy snack. It can also be cooked by roasting, steaming, or sautéing. The leaves are edible and can be used in salads or cooked like other greens.
• Kohlrabi can be stored in the refrigerator for several weeks. Remove the leaves before storing, and keep the bulbs in a cool, humid environment.
• Prior to planting, enrich the soil with well-rotted compost or aged manure. Kohlrabi benefits from nutrient-rich soil.
• Provide consistent moisture to the soil, especially during dry spells. Adequate and even watering helps prevent the development of tough or woody bulbs.
• If you want a milder taste and a more tender texture, consider blanching kohlrabi by covering the bulbs with soil or using commercial blanching collars.
• Harvest kohlrabi when the bulbs are still small to medium-sized for the best flavor and tenderness. Larger bulbs may become fibrous.
• Kohlrabi can be grown in containers, making it suitable for small spaces. Use a well-draining potting mix and ensure the container has drainage holes.
• Practice crop rotation to minimize the risk of diseases. Avoid planting kohlrabi in the same spot where members of the cabbage family were grown in the previous year.
• If you have a surplus harvest, kohlrabi can be blanched and frozen for longer storage. This allows you to enjoy its freshness even after the growing season.
• Keep a gardening journal to note planting dates, weather conditions, and any observations. This information can be valuable for future seasons.
• Be aware that kohlrabi can bolt (produce a flowering stem) in response to high temperatures or extended daylight. Bolting negatively affects the quality of the edible bulb.
• Kohlrabi has a mild, slightly sweet flavor. Experiment with different culinary pairings, such as adding it to stir-fries, pickling, or incorporating it into your favorite vegetable dishes.