Kohlrabi, often known as turnip cabbage, is a unique vegetable that can be a delicious addition to your garden and table. Knowing when kohlrabi is ready to pick is the key to a perfect harvest. If you wait too long, the texture and taste can deteriorate, making it woody and tough.

Whether you are growing kohlrabi for the first time or are a seasoned gardener, understanding the signs of readiness will ensure a bountiful harvest.

The timing of your Kohlrabi harvest is crucial for maintaining the vegetable’s delicate balance between taste, texture, and size.

Knowing how to tell when kohlrabi is ready to pick involves understanding its growth cycle, the ideal size, and the perfect condition of its outer skin. In this article, we’ll guide you through 10 best ways to tell when kohlrabi is ready for harvest, ensuring you get the best flavor and texture from this nutritious vegetable.

Related: Best Fertilizer For Kohlrabi

How Can You Tell When Kohlrabi Is Ready To Pick? 10 Best Ways

1. Ideal Size

The first indicator that kohlrabi is ready to pick is its size. Typically, kohlrabi should be harvested when the bulb reaches 2 to 3 inches in diameter. Larger bulbs can become woody and tough, so it’s important to monitor their growth carefully. However, size alone isn’t the only factor to consider when determining harvest time.

2. Tender Skin

Another crucial sign is the texture of the skin. When kohlrabi is ready to harvest, its outer skin should still be tender. Older bulbs develop tough, fibrous skins, which make them less pleasant to eat. The skin should have a smooth texture, without signs of cracking or roughness. A gentle press with your thumb should leave an indentation if the kohlrabi is still tender.

3. Firmness of the Bulb

A firm bulb is a good sign that the kohlrabi is ready to pick. If you press the bulb gently with your fingers, it should feel solid and not soft or squishy. This firm texture indicates that the kohlrabi is still fresh and hasn’t started to deteriorate. Softness may indicate that the vegetable has become overripe.

4. Color and Appearance

Kohlrabi comes in different varieties, including green and purple, and their color can help you determine when they are ripe. A healthy kohlrabi should have vibrant, consistent coloring. Green varieties should have a bright green color, while purple varieties should have a deep, rich purple hue. Any signs of fading or dullness may indicate that the bulb is past its prime.

5. Leaf Condition

The condition of the leaves can also help you determine the best time to harvest kohlrabi. Healthy, vibrant leaves are an indication that the plant is growing well and that the bulb will likely be ready to harvest soon. If the leaves start to yellow or wilt, it may be time to pick the kohlrabi, as overripe bulbs can lead to poor-tasting vegetables.

6. Time to Maturity

Kohlrabi typically takes 6 to 8 weeks to mature from planting, depending on the variety and growing conditions. Check your seed packet or plant label for the average number of days to maturity. Generally, once kohlrabi reaches the maturity range for its type, it’s an indicator that it’s time to harvest. Timely picking ensures you avoid overripe conditions that compromise flavor.

7. Tasting Test

One of the most effective ways to determine if your kohlrabi is ready to pick is simply by tasting it. Harvest a small bulb and slice it open. The flavor should be mildly sweet and crisp. If the kohlrabi tastes bitter or woody, it’s likely past its prime. Regular tasting during the growing season helps you determine the best time to pick for optimal flavor.

8. Consistent Growing Conditions

Pay attention to your growing conditions, as these can impact when kohlrabi is ready to harvest. Kohlrabi prefers cool weather and will mature faster during moderate temperatures. Extreme heat can cause the bulbs to bolt and go to seed before reaching their optimal size. Monitoring the weather and maintaining consistent watering and soil conditions can help you predict when kohlrabi is ready to harvest.

9. Harvesting Technique

Knowing how to harvest kohlrabi correctly is just as important as knowing when to pick it. Use a sharp knife or gardening shears to cut the bulb from the base, ensuring not to damage the roots or the remaining plant. This will help the plant continue to grow new shoots, which may produce smaller, secondary bulbs that can also be harvested.

10. Post-Harvest Care

Once you’ve harvested your kohlrabi, it’s important to store it correctly to maintain its freshness. For short-term storage, place kohlrabi in the fridge in a perforated plastic bag or container. If you want to store it for a longer period, you can also freeze it by blanching the bulbs before freezing. Proper post-harvest care ensures your kohlrabi maintains its flavor and texture for weeks.

How Can You Tell When Kohlrabi Is Ready To Pick FAQs

1. Can kohlrabi be harvested early?

Yes, kohlrabi can be harvested early if you prefer a more tender, smaller bulb. Early harvesting results in a milder flavor and a crisp texture.

2. Can I let my kohlrabi grow too large?

Kohlrabi that grows too large tends to become tough and woody. It’s best to harvest when the bulb is 2-3 inches in diameter.

3. What happens if I harvest kohlrabi too late?

If kohlrabi is left too long, the bulb becomes fibrous and inedible. It may also start to bolt, making it unsuitable for consumption.

4. How can I prevent kohlrabi from becoming woody?

Harvesting kohlrabi at the right time, around 2-3 inches in diameter, helps prevent it from becoming woody.

5. Should I pull up the kohlrabi plant after harvesting?

You can either pull up the plant entirely or leave it in the ground to produce smaller secondary bulbs for later harvesting.

6. Can I harvest kohlrabi in the winter?

Yes, if you live in a region with mild winters, kohlrabi can be harvested in the winter months. Be sure to monitor for frost damage.

7. How can I tell if kohlrabi is still fresh after harvest?

Kohlrabi should be firm, smooth, and without cracks. If it feels soft or the skin is wrinkled, it’s likely past its prime.

Conclusion

In conclusion, knowing when kohlrabi is ready for harvest is essential to ensure you enjoy this crunchy, mildly sweet vegetable at its best. By observing factors such as size, skin texture, and firmness, as well as paying attention to the timing and growing conditions, you can harvest kohlrabi at the perfect moment. Early harvesting can provide a more delicate and tender bulb, while waiting too long can lead to tough, woody vegetables that are less enjoyable to eat.

Remember to follow the tips and techniques in this guide to get the most out of your kohlrabi crop. Whether you’re a first-time gardener or an experienced one, these 10 best ways to tell when kohlrabi is ready to pick will help you grow and enjoy kohlrabi like a pro