Kohlrabi, a lesser-known vegetable in the cabbage family, has been gaining popularity in recent years due to its unique taste and versatility in various culinary dishes. With its crisp, slightly sweet flavor, kohlrabi can provide a refreshing addition to salads, stir-fries, soups, and even slaws. However, like many other crops, kohlrabi benefits from being grown alongside certain plants that can enhance its growth, repel pests, or provide support. In this article, we will explore some excellent companions to consider when deciding what to plant with kohlrabi, allowing you to maximize the productivity and health of your garden. Let us delve into the world of companion planting and unlock the secret to cultivating thriving kohlrabi plants.
key Takeaways
- Kohlrabi benefits from companion planting as it can improve growth and deter pests.
- Good companions for kohlrabi include lettuce, beets, onions, celery, and herbs such as dill and mint.
- Interplanting with aromatic herbs like dill can help repel pests and attract beneficial insects.
- Kohlrabi should be kept away from potatoes, strawberries, and pole beans, as they can inhibit its growth.
- Growing kohlrabi near onions can help deter onion flies, and planting it with aromatic herbs can deter flea beetles.
- It is essential to rotate crops and avoid planting kohlrabi or its relatives in the same spot every year to prevent diseases and pests.
- Companion planting can also enhance the flavors of kohlrabi and its companion vegetables.
- Spacing is crucial when planting kohlrabi and its companions to allow proper growth and airflow.
- Consider the potential height and spread of companion plants to avoid competition for sunlight and space.
What to Plant with Kohlrabi: A Comprehensive Guide
Understanding Kohlrabi
Kohlrabi, scientifically known as Brassica oleracea gongylodes, is a biennial vegetable that belongs to the cabbage family. It is characterized by its round, bulb-like shape and edible stems. This versatile vegetable offers a mild, sweet flavor and a crunchy texture, making it a popular choice for salads, stir-fries, soups, and even as a standalone snack. Kohlrabi is packed with essential nutrients like vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, making it a nutritious addition to any garden or kitchen.
Companion Planting with Kohlrabi
Companion planting involves strategically pairing different plants in the garden to benefit each other. When it comes to kohlrabi, there are several companion plants that can enhance its growth and protect it from pests and diseases.
Nurturing Kohlrabi with Compatible Plants
One excellent companion for kohlrabi is lettuce. Lettuce creates a natural shade to help keep the kohlrabi roots cool during hot summer months. Additionally, lettuce has shallow roots, which do not compete for nutrients with the deeper-rooted kohlrabi plants.
Cucumber is another ideal companion plant for kohlrabi. Cucumbers help deter common pests, such as cabbage worms and aphids, due to their strong scent. The cucumber’s sprawling vines also provide shade for kohlrabi, preventing the soil from drying out too quickly.
Beans and peas are legume plants that enrich the soil with nitrogen, an essential nutrient for plant growth. Kohlrabi and legumes form a beneficial relationship, as kohlrabi utilizes the extra nitrogen provided by the legumes.
Deterring Pests with Companion Plants
Marigolds, with their bright and vibrant flowers, not only add beauty to the garden but also act as natural pest repellents. Planting marigolds alongside kohlrabi can help deter pests like nematodes and whiteflies.
As an alternative to marigolds, planting aromatic herbs like dill, thyme, or rosemary can effectively repel insect pests from attacking kohlrabi. The strong scents emitted by these herbs confuse and deter pests, protecting the kohlrabi crop.
Planting Tips for Kohlrabi
Kohlrabi thrives in cool weather conditions, so it is best to plant it in early spring or late summer. The soil should be well-draining and rich in organic matter. Start by preparing the soil by removing any weeds and loosening it with a garden fork or shovel. Sow the kohlrabi seeds about half an inch deep and allow a spacing of 4-6 inches between each plant.
Kohlrabi requires regular watering. Keeping the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged, promotes healthy growth. Mulching around the plants can help retain soil moisture and suppress weed growth.
Harvesting kohlrabi can occur when the bulbs reach a size of 2-3 inches in diameter. Simply cut the stems at ground level when they are firm and devoid of any hollow or woody portions. The leaves of kohlrabi are also edible and can be used in various culinary preparations.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I plant kohlrabi with other root vegetables?
Yes, kohlrabi can be planted alongside other root vegetables such as carrots, beets, and radishes. These vegetables have similar growth requirements and can coexist harmoniously in the same garden bed. Just make sure to give each plant enough space to grow and avoid overcrowding.
2. What are some good companion plants for kohlrabi?
Some excellent companion plants for kohlrabi include herbs like dill, mint, and thyme. These herbs can deter pests that commonly affect kohlrabi, such as aphids and cabbage worms. Other good companions include lettuce, spinach, and onions. These plants help to provide shade and moisture retention for the kohlrabi, enhancing its growth and flavor.
3. Can I plant kohlrabi near tomatoes?
It is best to avoid planting kohlrabi near tomatoes. While kohlrabi and tomatoes are both members of the Brassica family, they have different growth requirements and can compete for resources. Additionally, tomatoes are susceptible to certain diseases that can also affect kohlrabi. To promote the health and productivity of both plants, it is recommended to separate them and plant them in different areas of the garden.
4. How far apart should I plant kohlrabi?
Kohlrabi plants should be spaced approximately 6-12 inches apart in rows that are 12-18 inches apart. This spacing allows the plants to have enough room to grow and develop their root systems without being overcrowded. Proper spacing also promotes good air circulation, which helps prevent the development of fungal diseases.
5. Can I plant kohlrabi in containers?
Yes, kohlrabi can be successfully grown in containers. Choose a container that is at least 12 inches deep to accommodate the plant’s extensive root system. Use a well-draining potting mix and provide regular watering to keep the soil moist. Place the container in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Remember to fertilize the plant regularly to ensure healthy growth.
Types and Options for Companion Planting
The Benefits of Companion Planting
Companion planting is a strategic gardening practice whereby plants are grown together to maximize their potential benefits. This method can improve crop health, deter pests, and increase yields in the garden. There are various types and options for companion planting, each with its unique advantages and considerations.
1. Flowers as Companion Plants
Planting flowers alongside your vegetables can attract pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, which can enhance overall garden productivity. Marigolds, for example, emit a scent that repels pests like aphids and nematodes, making them excellent companions for a wide range of vegetables. Other popular flower choices include nasturtiums, which act as a natural trap for aphids, and calendula, which attracts beneficial insects that prey on harmful pests.
2. Herbs as Companion Plants
Herbs serve many roles in the garden, including acting as companion plants. For instance, basil can enhance the flavor of tomatoes while also repelling unwanted pests like flies and mosquitoes. Mint can deter ants and aphids, making it an excellent choice to plant near beans. Additionally, rosemary and thyme can deter cabbage worms and improve the growth of brassicas like kohlrabi.
3. Beneficial Relationships
Companion planting also involves creating beneficial relationships between different crops. For example, the “three sisters” method involves planting corn, beans, and squash together. The corn provides support for the beans, which in turn fix nitrogen in the soil, benefiting the corn and squash. These mutually beneficial relationships can help decrease the need for external inputs like fertilizers and pesticides while promoting sustainable and eco-friendly gardening practices.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, when deciding what to plant with kohlrabi, consider companion plants that can enhance its growth, deter pests, and provide mutual benefits. Good choices include root vegetables, such as carrots and beets, as well as herbs like dill and mint. Avoid planting kohlrabi near tomatoes and ensure proper spacing to allow for optimal growth. If planting in containers, choose a suitable size and provide adequate sunlight and water.
Furthermore, companion planting offers a wide range of options and benefits beyond kohlrabi. Flowers can attract pollinators and repel pests, while herbs can enhance flavors and deter unwanted insects. Creating beneficial relationships between different crops can further maximize productivity and sustainability in the garden. By carefully choosing companion plants, gardeners can create thriving, balanced ecosystems that promote the health and vitality of their crops.