Companion Planting with Kohlrabi: The Ultimate Guide

Companion planting is the practice of planting different crops together in a way that maximizes their growth and health. Kohlrabi is a cool-season, cruciferous vegetable that is a member of the Brassica family. It is easy to grow and has a mild, sweet flavor that is similar to a turnip or cabbage. In this article, we will explore the benefits of companion planting with kohlrabi and the best companion plants to grow alongside it.

Benefits of Companion Planting with Kohlrabi

Companion planting with kohlrabi has several benefits:

• Pest control: Kohlrabi is susceptible to pests like flea beetles and cabbage worms. Companion planting with plants that repel these pests can help keep your kohlrabi plants healthy and pest-free.
• Soil improvement: Some companion plants can improve the soil quality by adding nutrients, increasing soil aeration, and suppressing weeds.
• Increased yield: Companion planting can also increase the yield of your kohlrabi plants by providing shade, attracting pollinators, and reducing competition for resources.

Best Companion Plants for Kohlrabi

Now that we know the benefits of companion planting with kohlrabi, let’s take a look at some of the best companion plants to grow alongside it:

1. Carrots

Source: bing.comCarrots are an excellent companion plant for kohlrabi. They have a shallow root system that does not compete with kohlrabi for nutrients, and they attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and ground beetles that can help control pests.

2. Beets

Source: bing.comBeets are another great companion plant for kohlrabi. They are also members of the Brassica family and have similar growing requirements. Beets can help improve soil quality and attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.

3. Dill

Source: bing.comDill is an herb that can help repel pests like aphids and spider mites. It also attracts beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings.

4. Nasturtiums

Source: bing.comNasturtiums are a great companion plant for kohlrabi because they attract beneficial insects like bees and butterflies. They also have a peppery flavor that can help deter pests like aphids and cabbage worms.

5. Borage

Source: bing.comBorage is an herb that can help improve soil quality and attract beneficial insects like bees and butterflies. It also has a cucumber-like flavor that can be used in salads or as a garnish.

Companion Plants to Avoid

While there are many plants that can be grown alongside kohlrabi, there are also some plants that should be avoided:

1. Other Brassicas

Source: bing.comOther members of the Brassica family, such as broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage, should not be grown alongside kohlrabi. They have similar pests and diseases, and their presence can attract more pests to your garden.

2. Nightshades

Source: bing.comNightshades like tomatoes and peppers should also be avoided because they have different growing requirements than kohlrabi and can compete for resources.

Tips for Companion Planting with Kohlrabi

Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your companion planting with kohlrabi:

1. Plan your garden layout

Before planting, make a plan of where each crop will be located in your garden. Consider the growth habits and spacing requirements of each plant to ensure that they have enough room to grow and thrive.

2. Rotate your crops

Rotate your crops each year to prevent the buildup of pests and diseases in your soil. Avoid planting members of the Brassica family in the same spot for at least three years.

3. Choose companion plants that have different growing requirements

Choose companion plants that have different soil and nutrient requirements than kohlrabi to reduce competition for resources.

Conclusion

Companion planting with kohlrabi can help improve soil quality, control pests, and increase yield. Some of the best companion plants to grow alongside kohlrabi include carrots, beets, dill, nasturtiums, and borage. Avoid planting other members of the Brassica family and nightshades. By following these tips, you can have a healthy and thriving garden.

FAQs

1. How do I plant kohlrabi?

Kohlrabi can be planted directly in the ground or started indoors and transplanted outside. Plant seeds ¼ inch deep and 2-3 inches apart. When the seedlings are 4-6 inches tall, thin them to 6-8 inches apart.

2. How often should I water my kohlrabi plants?

Kohlrabi plants need consistent moisture to grow well. Water them deeply once a week, or more often if the weather is hot and dry.

3. How do I know when my kohlrabi is ready to harvest?

Kohlrabi is ready to harvest when the bulb is 2-3 inches in diameter. The leaves can also be harvested and used like kale or collard greens.

4. Can I grow kohlrabi in containers?

Yes, kohlrabi can be grown in containers as long as the container is at least 12 inches deep and wide. Use a high-quality potting mix and water regularly.

5. What pests should I watch out for when growing kohlrabi?

Kohlrabi is susceptible to pests like flea beetles, cabbage worms, and root maggots. Companion planting with plants that repel these pests can help keep your kohlrabi plants healthy and pest-free.