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Kohlrabi Harvest

Kohlrabi bulb1

Lift kohlrabi from your garden when the mid-stem bulbs swell to 2 to 3 inches in diameter. (Turnips that form bulbs below the soil are best harvested at about the same size.) Don’t let kohlrabi bulbs grow much larger or they will rapidly become woody.

Lift kohlrabi bulbs gently or cut them off just above the soil to avoid pulling up neighboring bulbs.

Kohlrabi is moderately frost hardy, but if the weather turns freezing cold immediately protect stems and plants with cloches or fleece. Where freezing temperatures are common, do not leave kohlrabi in the garden.

Kohlrabi has a sweet turnip flavor. Don’t store bulbs long, your kohlrabi will lose some flavor. Cook the bulbs unpeeled for best flavor. Steaming is a great way to quickly cook and serve kohlrabi.

Use kohlrabi picked or grated raw in salads or coleslaw. You can also cut the bulb into sticks or slices as hors d’oeuvres or add slice or cubes to soups and stews.

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Written by Stephen Albert

Stephen Albert is a horticulturist, master gardener, and certified nurseryman who has taught at the University of California for more than 25 years. He holds graduate degrees from the University of California and the University of Iowa. His books include Vegetable Garden Grower’s Guide, Vegetable Garden Almanac & Planner, Tomato Grower’s Answer Book, and Kitchen Garden Grower’s Guide. His Vegetable Garden Grower’s Masterclass is available online. Harvesttotable.com has more than 10 million visitors each year.