Kohlrabi is a unique and tasty vegetable that can thrive in small spaces, making it ideal for terrace gardening. With its vibrant purple color and crisp, mild flavor, purple kohlrabi can be a beautiful addition to your terrace garden. Here are some tips to help you grow big, beautiful purple kohlrabi right on your terrace!
1. Choose the Right Container
- Size: Choose a container that is at least 12-18 inches deep to allow enough space for the kohlrabi’s root to grow.
- Drainage: Ensure the container has good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
2. Select a Sunny Spot
- Light Requirements: Kohlrabi thrives in full sunlight, so place your container in a sunny spot where it gets at least 6 hours of sunlight a day.
- Temperature: Kohlrabi prefers cooler temperatures, ideally between 55-75°F (13-24°C). Avoid placing it in a spot with intense, prolonged heat.
3. Use the Right Soil
- Well-Draining Soil: Use loose, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A good mix of potting soil, compost, and a little perlite works well.
- pH Level: Kohlrabi prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0.
4. Planting the Seeds or Seedlings
- Spacing: If planting seeds, space them 2-4 inches apart. If using seedlings, plant them around 6 inches apart to give them enough room to grow.
- Planting Depth: Sow seeds about 1/2 inch deep. If transplanting seedlings, gently place them in the soil at the same depth as they were in their original pot.
5. Watering
- Consistent Moisture: Keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. Kohlrabi needs consistent watering, especially in warmer weather.
- Avoid Overwatering: Ensure that the container has good drainage to prevent waterlogging.
6. Fertilizing for Growth
- Balanced Fertilizer: Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once a month to promote strong growth. Alternatively, you can mix in organic compost or aged manure.
- Nitrogen: For larger bulbs, give the plants a little extra nitrogen to encourage leafy growth.
7. Thin the Plants
- Ensure Proper Spacing: If you’ve planted seeds, thin the seedlings to about 6 inches apart once they start growing. This allows the kohlrabi to develop large bulbs without competition.
8. Prune for Healthier Growth
- Remove Yellowing Leaves: Regularly remove any yellowing or damaged leaves to keep the plant healthy and encourage better airflow.
- Keep Bulbs Clear: As the kohlrabi bulb begins to form, make sure it’s not buried in soil or mulch. The top of the bulb should remain above the soil surface to prevent rot.
9. Watch for Pests
- Common Pests: Keep an eye out for pests like aphids, caterpillars, and flea beetles, which are attracted to kohlrabi. Use natural remedies like neem oil or introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs.
10. Harvesting
- When to Harvest: Kohlrabi is ready to harvest when the bulb is about 3-4 inches in diameter. If you wait too long, the bulb may become tough and woody.
- How to Harvest: Use a sharp knife to cut the bulb off at the base. Be careful not to damage the plant, as the leaves are also edible.
Conclusion
With these tips, you can grow big and beautiful purple kohlrabi right on your terrace. With the right container, care, and a sunny spot, you’ll soon enjoy the crisp, mild flavor of homegrown kohlrabi. It’s a low-maintenance, high-reward crop that’s perfect for small spaces like terraces or balconies.