Best Giant Kohlrabi Varieties

Selecting the right variety is the foundation for growing huge kohlrabi bulbs. Not all types of kohlrabi are suited for giant growth, so it's important to start with seeds bred for size and flavor. One standout variety is Superschmelz, a favorite among gardeners aiming for giant kohlrabi. Superschmelz can produce bulbs weighing up to 10 pounds while maintaining a tender texture and mild flavor.

Other notable varieties for those who want to grow giant kohlrabi include Kossak and Gigante, both known for their ability to thrive under the right growing conditions and reach impressive sizes without becoming woody. When sourcing seeds, opt for organic and non-GMO varieties whenever possible to ensure robust plant health and sustainability.

Fertilization Techniques for Huge Kohlrabi Bulbs

Proper fertilization is crucial for growing large kohlrabi plants. These heavy feeders require balanced nutrition throughout their growing cycle to develop massive bulbs. Begin by testing your soil to identify nutrient deficiencies. Giant kohlrabi thrives in soil with adequate nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels.

1. Nitrogen is essential during the early stages to promote leafy growth. Apply a nitrogen-rich fertilizer like fish emulsion or alfalfa meal after transplanting to encourage strong foliage, which supports bulb development.
   
   
2. Phosphorus and Potassium become critical as the plants start forming bulbs. Bone meal or rock phosphate can provide phosphorus, while potassium-rich sources like greensand or kelp meal enhance bulb size and overall plant vigor.
   
   
3. Consider using organic fertilizers, as they provide slow-release nutrients and improve soil health over time. Fertilize every three weeks for consistent nutrient availability, reducing the risk of nutrient imbalances.
   
   

Spacing for Large Plants

Spacing is another key factor when aiming for big kohlrabi plants. Crowded conditions lead to stunted growth and small bulbs, so it's important to give your plants room to expand. For giant varieties like Superschmelz, spacing recommendations include:

• Between Plants: Space seedlings 18–24 inches apart to allow ample room for bulb and leaf growth.
• Between Rows: Maintain 24–36 inches between rows to ensure sufficient airflow, which reduces disease risk and promotes healthy plants.

Proper spacing not only supports bulb development but also facilitates easier maintenance, such as weeding, fertilizing, and watering.

Ideal Soil Amendments for Giant Kohlrabi

Soil preparation is fundamental for cultivating huge kohlrabi bulbs. These plants prefer loose, well-drained soil with high organic matter content. Heavy or compacted soil can inhibit bulb expansion, so start with the following amendments:

1. Compost: Incorporate plenty of well-aged compost into the planting area to improve soil structure, boost microbial activity, and provide a steady supply of nutrients.
   
   
2. Manure: Use aged animal manure to enrich the soil with organic matter and nitrogen. Be sure to let manure decompose fully before application to avoid burning the plants.
   
   
3. pH Adjustment: Giant kohlrabi prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH, ranging from 6.0 to 7.5. Add lime to raise pH or sulfur to lower it, based on soil test results.
   
   
4. Aeration: Work in coarse sand or perlite if your soil tends to compact easily. This ensures proper drainage and allows bulbs to grow freely.
   
   
5. Mycorrhizal Fungi: Consider inoculating the soil with beneficial fungi to enhance nutrient uptake and improve overall plant health.
   
   

Watering Methods for Maximum Growth

Consistent watering is essential for growing large kohlrabi bulbs. Irregular watering can lead to stress, causing the bulbs to crack or develop woody textures. Follow these tips to keep your plants hydrated and thriving:

1. Deep Watering: Water deeply and thoroughly, ensuring the moisture reaches the roots. Aim for 1–1.5 inches of water per week, either from rainfall or supplemental irrigation.
   
   
2. Mulching: Apply a thick layer of organic mulch, such as straw or shredded leaves, around the base of your plants. Mulch helps retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds.
   
   
3. Drip Irrigation: Use drip irrigation systems for precise watering, especially in hot or dry climates. This method delivers water directly to the root zone, reducing evaporation and preventing waterborne diseases.
   
   
4. Avoid Overwatering: While kohlrabi needs consistent moisture, overly wet conditions can lead to root rot and fungal problems. Ensure your soil has good drainage and avoid waterlogging.
   
   

Timing and Maintenance for Giant Kohlrabi Success

In addition to proper planting techniques, timing and ongoing care play a significant role in growing supersized kohlrabi.

Planting

For optimal growth, sow seeds or transplant seedlings in early spring or late summer, depending on your climate. Kohlrabi prefers cooler temperatures and thrives when daytime temperatures range from 60°F to 75°F.

Thinning

Thin seedlings early to avoid competition for nutrients and space. For direct-seeded crops, thin plants to their final spacing once they have two sets of true leaves.

Pest and Disease Control

Kohlrabi is susceptible to pests like cabbage loopers, aphids, and flea beetles. Use floating row covers to protect young plants and encourage beneficial insects, such as ladybugs, to keep pest populations in check. Disease issues, like clubroot or downy mildew, can be minimized by practicing crop rotation and maintaining good garden hygiene.

Harvesting

Harvest giant kohlrabi bulbs once they reach full size but before they become overripe. Bulbs should feel firm and solid when gently squeezed. Superschmelz and other large varieties often remain tender even when harvested at their maximum size.

Organic and Sustainable Practices for Huge Kohlrabi Bulbs

Growing giant kohlrabi doesn’t mean sacrificing sustainability. Focus on practices that are gentle on the environment while promoting plant health. These include:

1. Cover Crops: Use cover crops like clover or rye in the off-season to improve soil fertility and structure.
2. Compost Tea: Apply compost tea as a foliar spray to boost microbial activity and provide additional nutrients.
3. Natural Pest Control: Incorporate companion plants like marigolds or nasturtiums to deter pests naturally.
4. Crop Rotation: Rotate kohlrabi with non-brassica crops to prevent soilborne diseases and nutrient depletion.

In Summary

Growing giant kohlrabi requires careful planning, attention to detail, and a commitment to nurturing your plants throughout their lifecycle. By choosing the best varieties like Superschmelz, optimizing fertilization, ensuring proper spacing, preparing nutrient-rich soil, and maintaining consistent watering, you can achieve supersized kohlrabi bulbs that are as delicious as they are impressive. With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to growing giant kohlrabi that will be the envy of your garden or local competition. Embrace sustainable practices, and enjoy the satisfaction of cultivating one of the garden’s most unique and rewarding crops.