Companion Planting For Kohlrabi: Everything You Need To Know

Oleh Anonymous March 23, 2024 Post a Comment

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Kohlrabi: An

If you're a fan of cruciferous vegetables, you might have come across kohlrabi. Kohlrabi is a unique vegetable that's packed with nutrients and has a distinct flavor. It's part of the Brassica family, which includes other vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and kale.

Kohlrabi is a cool-season crop that can be grown in both spring and fall. It's easy to grow and care for, making it a great addition to any garden. However, to get the most out of your kohlrabi plants, you need to use companion planting techniques.

The Importance Of Companion Planting

Companion planting is the practice of growing different plants together for mutual benefits. In the case of kohlrabi, companion planting helps to improve soil health, reduce pest infestations, and increase yields.

When you grow kohlrabi with compatible plants, they work together to create a more balanced ecosystem. For example, some plants repel pests while others attract beneficial insects. Some plants also have deep roots that help to break up compacted soil, improving drainage and nutrient uptake.

Companion Plants For Kohlrabi

Now that you know why companion planting is important let's take a look at some of the best companion plants for kohlrabi.

1. Beets

Beets are an ideal companion plant for kohlrabi. They help to improve soil health by increasing organic matter and adding nitrogen to the soil. Beets also have shallow roots, making them less likely to interfere with the kohlrabi's root system.

How to plant:

Plant beets 6 inches apart in rows spaced 12 inches apart. Plant kohlrabi seeds Â¼ inch deep and 2 to 3 inches apart in rows spaced 18 to 24 inches apart.

2. Carrots

Carrots are another great companion plant for kohlrabi. They help to loosen the soil, improving drainage and creating more space for the kohlrabi's roots to grow. Carrots also attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings, which feed on pests like aphids and mites.

How to plant:

Plant carrots 3 inches apart in rows spaced 12 inches apart. Plant kohlrabi seeds Â¼ inch deep and 2 to 3 inches apart in rows spaced 18 to 24 inches apart.

3. Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are a colorful companion plant that helps to repel pests like aphids and whiteflies. They also attract pollinators, which can increase yields. Nasturtiums are easy to grow and come in a variety of colors.

How to plant:

Plant nasturtiums 8 to 10 inches apart in rows spaced 12 inches apart. Plant kohlrabi seeds Â¼ inch deep and 2 to 3 inches apart in rows spaced 18 to 24 inches apart.

4. Onions

Onions are a pungent companion plant that helps to deter pests like cabbage worms and slugs. They also improve soil health by adding sulfur and other nutrients to the soil. Onions are easy to grow and can be harvested in the fall.

How to plant:

Plant onions 4 inches apart in rows spaced 12 inches apart. Plant kohlrabi seeds Â¼ inch deep and 2 to 3 inches apart in rows spaced 18 to 24 inches apart.

5. Spinach

Spinach is a leafy green that's high in nutrients and easy to grow. It's a great companion plant for kohlrabi because it helps to shade the soil, keeping it moist and cool. Spinach also attracts beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings.

How to plant:

Plant spinach 6 inches apart in rows spaced 12 inches apart. Plant kohlrabi seeds Â¼ inch deep and 2 to 3 inches apart in rows spaced 18 to 24 inches apart.

Companion Plants To Avoid

While there are many plants that work well with kohlrabi, there are also some that should be avoided. Here are a few plants that don't make good companions for kohlrabi:

1. Pole Beans

Pole beans and kohlrabi don't get along. Pole beans release a chemical called allelopathic acid, which inhibits the growth of kohlrabi. If you want to grow beans, consider bush beans instead.

2. Tomatoes

Tomatoes are another plant that doesn't make a good companion for kohlrabi. Both plants are heavy feeders, and they compete for the same nutrients in the soil. If you want to grow tomatoes, consider planting them in a different part of your garden.

3. Strawberries

Strawberries are also not a good companion for kohlrabi. They attract slugs and snails, which can damage the kohlrabi's leaves and roots.

In companion planting is an effective way to improve the health and yield of your kohlrabi plants. By growing compatible plants together, you can create a more balanced ecosystem that supports healthy growth and reduces pest infestations. Some of the best companion plants for kohlrabi include beets, carrots, nasturtiums, onions, and spinach. On the other hand, you should avoid planting kohlrabi with pole beans, tomatoes, and strawberries.

FAQs

1. How do I know which plants are compatible with kohlrabi?

You can find out which plants are compatible with kohlrabi by doing some research online or talking to a gardening expert. Generally, plants that have similar growing requirements and don't compete for resources in the soil make good companions for kohlrabi.

2. Can I grow kohlrabi with other Brassica vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower?

Yes, you can grow kohlrabi with other Brassica vegetables. However, you should avoid planting them too close together as they can attract the same pests and diseases.

3. What should I do if my kohlrabi plants aren't growing well?

If your kohlrabi plants aren't growing well, you should check the soil for nutrient deficiencies and pests. You may need to add fertilizer or insecticide to improve their growth.

4. Can I plant kohlrabi in containers?

Yes, you can plant kohlrabi in containers as long as they are at least 12 inches deep and have good drainage. Be sure to water them regularly and fertilize every few weeks.

5. When is the best time to harvest kohlrabi?

Kohlrabi can be harvested when the bulbs reach 2 to 3 inches in diameter. They should be firm and not spongy to the touch. It's best to harvest them in the morning when the leaves are still moist.