When to Plant Kohlrabi in Melbourne — Cool Temperate Guide
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
Kohlrabi is technically not a root vegetable - the edible part is a swollen stem that forms above ground. Fast-growing (55-70 days), mild-flavoured, and versatile in the kitchen, kohlrabi is an underused gem in Australian gardens. It thrives in cool weather, handles light frost, and is one of the best brassicas for beginners. Both the bulb and leaves are edible.
Planting Calendar
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| S/T/D | S/T/D | S/T/D | T | — | — | S | S/T | S/T/D | S/T/D | S/T/D | S/T/D |
S = Seed Tray T = Transplant D = Direct Sow
Current Growing Conditions
Soil temperature: 21.9°C (optimal range: 10–30°C) ✓ Ready to plant
How to Grow Kohlrabi in Cool Temperate Australia
When to Plant
August to April. Long growing season. Spring, summer, and autumn all work. Avoid mid-winter sowing (too cold for germination).
- Soil
- Rich, well-drained soil with plenty of organic matter. Prefers neutral to slightly alkaline soil. Dig in compost and well-rotted manure before planting. Add lime to acidic soils (critical for preventing clubroot).
- pH Range
- 6.5-7.5
- Sunlight
- Full sun (6+ hours). Tolerates light shade, especially in warmer zones where afternoon shade prevents bolting.
- Spacing
- 20cm apart, 35cm between rows
- Watering
- Consistent, even moisture throughout growth. Water deeply 2-3 times per week. Inconsistent watering causes the stem bulb to become woody and split. Drip irrigation preferred.
Companion plants: Beetroot, Celery, Cucumber, Dill, Lettuce, Onion
Avoid planting near: Strawberry, Tomato, Runner Bean
Cool Temperate Growing Tips for Kohlrabi
Recommended Varieties
- White Vienna
- Purple Vienna
- Kolibri F1
- Superschmelz (giant variety - up to 4kg)
Key Challenges
- Slugs in wet weather
- Caterpillars
- Club root
Pro Tips
- Melbourne's cool climate is ideal for kohlrabi
- Superschmelz is a novelty giant variety that stays tender even at 4kg
- Can be sown almost year-round except June-July
Harvesting Kohlrabi
When ready: Stem bulb is 6-8cm diameter (tennis ball size) for standard varieties. Bulb should feel firm and smooth. Harvest promptly - overgrown bulbs (>10cm for standard varieties) become woody and fibrous. Exception: Superschmelz stays tender up to 20cm.
How to harvest: Cut stem just below the bulb with a sharp knife, or pull the entire plant. Trim off leaves (save for cooking - they are edible). Trim the root.
Common Kohlrabi Pests in Cool Temperate Zones
Organic prevention: Net crops immediately after planting or sowing. Interplant with strong-scented herbs. Inspect leaf undersides for eggs every few days.
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