Kolibri

Description

The Kolibri variety of kohlrabi is known for its striking appearance and delicious flavor. It features vibrant purple skin with greenish-white flesh inside. The bulbous stem has a tender, crisp texture and a subtly sweet flavor, reminiscent of a mix between cabbage and broccoli stems. Kolibri kohlrabi is prized for its versatility in the kitchen, as it can be enjoyed raw in salads, slaws, or crudité platters, or cooked in stir-fries, soups, or roasted dishes. It’s also valued for its high nutritional content, providing vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. Overall, Kolibri kohlrabi is a favorite among gardeners and chefs for its unique appearance, delightful taste, and culinary versatility.

To plant the Kolibri variety of kohlrabi, follow these planting instructions:

1. **Site Selection:** Choose a location with full sun to partial shade. Kohlrabi prefers well- drained soil rich in organic matter.

2. **Timing:** Plant kohlrabi seeds in early spring for a spring harvest or in late summer for a fall harvest. Kohlrabi prefers cooler temperatures and can tolerate light frosts.

3. **Soil Preparation:** Work the soil to a depth of about 6-8 inches, removing any rocks, weeds, or debris. Incorporate organic matter like compost to improve soil fertility and structure.

4. **Sowing Seeds:** Plant kohlrabi seeds directly into the garden bed, spacing them about 4-6 inches apart. Sow seeds thinly, covering them with a light layer of soil. Alternatively, start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date and transplant seedlings into the garden once they have developed a few true leaves.

5. **Watering:** Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the germination and early growth stages. Once established, water kohlrabi plants regularly, providing about 1 inch of water per week. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

6. **Fertilizing:** Apply a balanced fertilizer or compost when planting, and side-dress with compost or a diluted liquid fertilizer every 3-4 weeks during the growing season to provide additional nutrients.

7. **Thinning:** Once the kohlrabi seedlings have emerged and developed a few true leaves, thin them to ensure proper spacing. Thin the plants to about 6-8 inches apart to allow room for the bulbs to develop.

8. **Mulching:** Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as straw or shredded leaves, around the base of the plants to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

9. **Harvesting:** Kohlrabi bulbs are ready to harvest when they reach about 2-3 inches in diameter, typically 6-8 weeks after planting. Use a sharp knife to cut the bulbs off at ground level. Leaves can also be harvested and enjoyed as greens.

10. **Succession Planting:** To enjoy a continuous harvest, sow kohlrabi seeds every 2-3 weeks throughout the growing season. This ensures a steady supply of fresh kohlrabi throughout the spring and fall months.