Quickstar kohlrabi is a dependable variety known for its resistance to bolting and exceptional adaptability to both spring and fall planting. Its slightly flattened, smooth bulbs mature uniformly and feature a beautiful greenish-white appearance that is highly attractive in any garden or market stand. With its mild, sweet flavor and crisp texture, Quickstar is perfect for enjoying raw in salads, sliced for snacks, or lightly cooked in a variety of dishes.
Kohlrabi Growing Guide
Outdoor Sowing (Directly in the Garden)
- Timing: Sow kohlrabi seeds outdoors in early spring, 2–4 weeks before the last frost date, or in late summer for a fall harvest. Kohlrabi thrives in cool temperatures and performs best in spring and fall.
- Location: Choose a sunny spot or an area with partial shade. Kohlrabi prefers well-draining, fertile soil.
- Soil Preparation: Loosen the soil to a depth of 8–10 inches and incorporate compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and drainage. Kohlrabi grows best in slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH of 6.0–7.5.
- Planting Seeds:
- Sow seeds 1/4–1/2 inch deep and 2 inches apart in rows.
- Space rows 12–18 inches apart for proper airflow and ease of harvesting.
- Thinning: Thin seedlings to 6–8 inches apart once they are about 2 inches tall to allow room for bulb formation.
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply and regularly, especially during dry periods.
Indoor Sowing (Starting Seeds Indoors)
- Timing: Start kohlrabi seeds indoors 4–6 weeks before the last expected frost date for an earlier harvest.
- Containers: Use seed trays or small pots with good drainage, filled with a light, well-draining seed-starting mix.
- Planting:
- Sow seeds 1/4–1/2 inch deep, placing 1–2 seeds per cell or pot.
- Cover lightly with soil and water gently.
- Germination:
- Maintain a temperature of 65–75°F for optimal germination.
- Expect seedlings to emerge within 5–10 days.
- Transplanting: Transplant seedlings outdoors when soil temperatures are consistently above 50°F and plants have 4–5 true leaves. Space plants 6–8 inches apart in rows.
General Care Tips for Kohlrabi
- Sunlight: Provide full sun for best growth, but kohlrabi can tolerate partial shade, especially in warmer climates.
- Watering: Water consistently to keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Fertilizing: Kohlrabi is a moderate feeder. Enrich the soil with compost before planting and side-dress with a balanced fertilizer every 4–6 weeks to encourage steady growth.
- Weeding: Keep the area weed-free to reduce competition for nutrients and moisture. Be careful not to disturb kohlrabi's shallow roots when weeding.
- Pest and Disease Control: Monitor for pests like cabbage worms and flea beetles. Use row covers to protect young plants, and hand-pick pests or use organic pest control methods as needed.
- Harvesting: Harvest kohlrabi when the bulbs are 2–3 inches in diameter and still tender, typically 45–60 days after sowing. Cut the bulb from the base, leaving the roots in the ground to decompose.
- Storage: Store kohlrabi bulbs in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 weeks. Remove the leaves before storage to prevent moisture loss.
