How to Grow Kohlrabi
Get Your Exact Kohlrabi Planting Dates
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Your Kohlrabi dates ·
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Supplies You'll Need
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Plant Overview
Growing Requirements
Sun
Full Sun to Partial Shade
Water
Regular (consistent moisture prevents cracking)
Spacing
6" apart
Depth
0.5" deep
Height
12-18"
Germination
4-7 days
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Avoid Planting Near
Full Companion Planting Guide for Kohlrabi
See which plants help Kohlrabi thrive, which to keep away, and raised bed layout tips →
Seed Saving Guide
DifficultWhen to Harvest Seed
Allow plants to bolt in year 2. Harvest seed pods just before they shatter.
Processing
Thresh dried seed stalks in a bag, separate seeds from chaff by winnowing.
Seed Viability
Up to 4 years when stored cool, dark, and dry.
Pro Tip
Brassica oleracea — crosses with broccoli, cabbage, kale, and Brussels sprouts. Isolate by 1000 feet for purity.
Seed Storage Supplies
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Raised Bed Planting Guides
A 4×8 bed fits 4 per sq ft of Kohlrabi. See plant counts, spacing grids, and companion pairings for every bed size →
Kohlrabi Planting Calendar by Zone
Kohlrabi Planting Calendar by State
Other Plants
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Kohlrabi? +
Start Kohlrabi seeds indoors 4 weeks before your last frost date, then transplant outdoors -2 weeks after the last frost. Use the search on this page to find exact dates for your ZIP code or city.
How long does Kohlrabi take to grow? +
Kohlrabi typically matures in about 55 days from planting. Exact timing varies by variety, soil conditions, and local climate.
Should I start Kohlrabi indoors or direct sow? +
Kohlrabi should be started indoors 4 weeks before the last frost date. This gives seedlings time to establish before being transplanted outside after frost danger has passed.
How much sun does Kohlrabi need? +
Kohlrabi requires full sun to partial shade to thrive.
How far apart should I plant Kohlrabi? +
Space Kohlrabi plants 6 inches apart to allow adequate airflow and root development.
How much water does Kohlrabi need? +
Kohlrabi has regular (consistent moisture prevents cracking) water needs. Consistent moisture is important especially during germination and early growth.
Can you save seeds from Kohlrabi? +
Yes — seed saving difficulty for Kohlrabi is rated difficult. Allow plants to bolt in year 2. Harvest seed pods just before they shatter. Thresh dried seed stalks in a bag, separate seeds from chaff by winnowing.
How long do Kohlrabi seeds last in storage? +
Properly dried and stored Kohlrabi seeds remain viable for up to 4 years. Store in a cool, dark, dry location in an airtight container with a silica gel packet for best results.
Are Kohlrabi seeds open-pollinated? +
Yes — Kohlrabi is open-pollinated, meaning seeds saved from your harvest will grow plants true to the parent variety. This makes it an excellent candidate for building a self-sustaining garden.
About Kohlrabi
Crisp, mild-flavored brassica with swollen stem that tastes like a cross between broccoli and turnip. Harvest when bulb is 2-3 inches for best texture.
Expect your Kohlrabi to be ready for harvest in approximately 55 days from planting.
Use the search above or browse by zone or state to find the perfect planting dates for your location.