How to grow kohlrabi in a raised bed

Kohlrabi is the quirky, quick brassica — you eat the swollen stem, crisp and mild like a sweet turnip, and it's ready in half the time of most of its cousins.

Quick facts

• Position: full sun
• Spacing: 20–25 cm apart
• Tub depth: our 35 cm depth
• Time to harvest: 8–10 weeks

When should I plant kohlrabi?

Kohlrabi grows best in the cool — sow from late summer through winter, and spring in cooler areas. Our free garden calendar shows the right months for your postcode.

• Subtropical (Brisbane & SEQ): February to June
• Temperate (Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth): January to April and August to October
• Cool & mountain (Tasmania, Canberra, highlands): November to February
• Tropical (Cairns, Darwin): April to July
• Arid inland: February to April and July to August

How do I grow kohlrabi in a raised bed?

Plant into rich mix and keep growth steady — a check makes the bulb woody. It's a brassica, so netting keeps the cabbage-white caterpillars off.

How often should I water and feed kohlrabi?

Keep the mix evenly moist for a crisp, tender bulb; feed for steady growth.

What pests attack kohlrabi?

Keep an eye out for caterpillars and aphids. Most are easily managed — see our safe pest guide.

What diseases affect kohlrabi?

The main ones are downy mildew. Good airflow, morning watering and steady moisture prevent most.

What grows well with kohlrabi?

Beetroot and aromatic herbs are good neighbours; keep it away from strawberries. See our companion planting guide.

When do I harvest kohlrabi?

Harvest when the bulb is tennis-ball sized — bigger and it turns woody. Eat it raw and crisp, or cooked like turnip.

More growing guides: cabbage, brussels sprouts and turnips.

Plan your patch: our free garden calendar shows what to plant now where you live. Ready to grow? Browse our raised garden beds or build your own with the garden bed builder.

Image: GT1976, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.