As a gardening and landscaping expert, I can provide you with some insights about how long kohlrabi can stay in the ground. Kohlrabi is a versatile and hardy vegetable, and the duration it can remain in the ground depends on various factors such as the type of kohlrabi, weather conditions, and your desired harvest time.
There are two common types of kohlrabi: those sown in spring and those sown in summer or autumn. The spring-sown varieties typically produce green kohlrabi, while the summer/autumn varieties tend to be purple. The purple types are generally hardier and can tolerate colder temperatures better than the green ones.
If you are growing the green spring-sown kohlrabi, they are typically harvested when they reach about 2-3 inches in diameter. These varieties are usually ready for harvest within 55-60 days from sowing. It is recommended to harvest them promptly to ensure optimal taste and texture. Therefore, these kohlrabi plants don’t need to stay in the ground for an extended period.
On the other hand, the purple kohlrabi, often sown in summer or autumn, can remain in the ground for a longer duration. These varieties have a slower growth rate, usually taking around 60-80 days to reach maturity. The purple kohlrabi can tolerate cooler temperatures and even light frosts, making them suitable for late-season harvesting.
If you provide some protection, such as using cloches or growing them in polytunnels or greenhouses, the purple kohlrabi can be left in the ground until December, depending on your location and weather conditions. These protective measures help to extend the growing season and provide a favorable environment for the kohlrabi to thrive.
It’s important to keep in mind that kohlrabi, like any vegetable, should be regularly monitored for signs of pests or diseases. Proper care, including regular watering, fertilizing, and weed control, can help maintain the health and productivity of the plants. Harvesting the kohlrabi promptly when they reach the desired size ensures the best flavor and texture.
In my personal experience, I have grown both green and purple kohlrabi varieties in my garden. I found that the green ones were quick to reach maturity and were best harvested at a young stage. However, the purple ones were hardier and could withstand colder temperatures, allowing me to extend their growing period into the late fall. By providing some protection, I was able to enjoy fresh kohlrabi well into December.
To summarize, the duration kohlrabi can stay in the ground depends on the type of kohlrabi, weather conditions, and your desired harvest time. Green spring-sown kohlrabi is typically harvested within 55-60 days, while purple summer/autumn varieties can remain in the ground until December with some protection. Regular care and monitoring are essential for healthy and productive kohlrabi plants.
