Propagating Kohlrabi Seeds: Learn How To Plant Kohlrabi Seeds

kohlrabi seedling
kohlrabi seedling
(Image credit: Gajus)

Kohlrabi is a member of the Brassica family that is grown for its edible white, green, or purple “bulbs” which are actually part of the enlarged stem. With a flavor like a sweeter, milder cross between a turnip and cabbage, this cool weather veggie is easy to grow. Read on to find out how to plant kohlrabi seeds.

Kohlrabi Seed Starting

Kohlrabi is a nutritious vegetable to add to the garden. It is a terrific source of potassium and vitamin C, containing 140% of the RDA for vitamin C. It is also low in calories with one cup of diced kohlrabi weighing in at only 4 calories, a great reason for propagating kohlrabi seeds! Starting kohlrabi from seeds is a simple process. Because it is a cool season vegetable, kohlrabi seed starting should take place in early spring or in early fall. Wait to begin starting kohlrabi from seeds until soil temperatures are at least 45 degrees F. (7 C.), although seeds will generally germinate if the soil temperatures are as low as 40 degrees F. (4 C.). Saved seeds are generally viable for up to 4 years.

How to Plant Kohlrabi Seeds

Kohlrabi seed propagation starts with fertile soil. When starting kohlrabi from seeds, plant the seeds about ¼ inch (0.5 cm.) deep in rows that are 2 feet (61 cm.) apart. Seedlings will emerge within 4-7 days and should be thinned to 4-6 inches (10 to 15 cm.) apart in the row. Depending upon the variety, kohlrabi will be ready to harvest 40-60 days from planting. The tender young leaves of the plants can be used much like spinach or mustard greens. The “bulb” is at its peak when it has grown to 2-3 inches (5 to 7.5 cm.) across; larger kohlrabi tends to be woody and tough.

Amy Grant
Writer

Amy Grant has been gardening for 30 years and writing for 15. A professional chef and caterer, Amy's area of expertise is culinary gardening.