When Is Kohlrabi in Season?
Kohlrabi is a cool-weather crop that thrives in temperatures between 40 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. This means that it can be grown in both the spring and fall, but it’s important to plant it at the right time to ensure a successful harvest.
It’s important to note that kohlrabi can withstand frosts and chilly temperatures. However, if temperatures dip below 25°F (-4°C), the plant may not survive.
Seasonality Overview
Kohlrabi is harvested twice a year. The first harvest takes place in the spring, while the second harvest is in the fall. Depending on the location, the exact months can vary.
In Texas, kohlrabi is in season from January to April, and then again from November to December. In other areas, such as the Northeastern United States, kohlrabi is typically harvested from May through October.
When shopping for kohlrabi, keep in mind that the bulb should be firm with no spongy bits and no visible brown spots. The leaves should be washed, dried, and stored in a clean plastic bag with a dry paper towel. If you plan to store your kohlrabi leaves for a while, you may need to switch out the paper towel as it becomes damp. Keep both the leaves and the bulbs in a crisper drawer with high humidity (sometimes labeled as vegetables).
Varieties and Availability
Kohlrabi is grown in many parts of the world, including Europe, Asia, and North America. Kohlrabi is a member of the cabbage family and is closely related to broccoli, cauliflower, and kale.
There are many varieties of kohlrabi available in the market, with different colors, shapes, and sizes. Some of the popular varieties include:
- White Vienna Kohlrabi: This is the most common variety of kohlrabi available in the market. It has a pale green skin and white flesh and is sweet and tender.
- Purple Vienna Kohlrabi: This variety has a purple skin and white flesh. It has a slightly sweeter taste than the white variety.
- Gigante Kohlrabi: This variety is larger than other kohlrabi varieties and has a milder flavor. It is ideal for roasting or grilling.
- Kossak Kohlrabi: This variety has a green skin and white flesh and is slightly sweeter than the white variety. It is ideal for salads and slaws.
Kohlrabi is available in most grocery stores and farmers’ markets during its growing season. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Seasonality in North America
Kohlrabi Seasonality for Each One of The US States
Here is a table that shows the seasonality of kohlrabi in each of the US states:
| State | Season |
|---|---|
| Alabama | March – May, September – November |
| Alaska | May – August |
| Arizona | February – April, October – December |
| Arkansas | March – May, September – November |
| California | March – May, September – November |
| Colorado | April – June, September – November |
| Connecticut | April – June, September – November |
| Delaware | April – June, September – November |
| Florida | December – February, May – July |
| Georgia | March – May, September – November |
| Hawaii | Year-round |
| Idaho | May – July, September – November |
| Illinois | April – June, September – November |
| Indiana | April – June, September – November |
| Iowa | April – June, September – November |
| Kansas | April – June, September – November |
| Kentucky | April – June, September – November |
| Louisiana | March – May, September – November |
| Maine | June – August |
| Maryland | April – June, September – November |
| Massachusetts | April – June, September – November |
| Michigan | May – July, September – November |
| Minnesota | May – July, September – November |
| Mississippi | March – May, September – November |
| Missouri | April – June, September – November |
| Montana | May – June, August – September |
| Nebraska | April – June, September – November |
| Nevada | March – May, September – November |
| New Hampshire | April – June, September – November |
| New Jersey | April – June, September – November |
| New Mexico | February – April, October – December |
| New York | April – June, September – November |
| North Carolina | March – May, September – November |
| North Dakota | May – July, September – November |
| Ohio | April – June, September – November |
| Oklahoma | March – May, September – November |
| Oregon | March – May, September – November |
| Pennsylvania | April – June, September – November |
| Rhode Island | April – June, September – November |
| South Carolina | March – May, September – November |
| South Dakota | May – July, September – November |
| Tennessee | March – May, September – November |
| Texas | February – April, October – December |
| Utah | May – July, September – November |
| Vermont | June – August |
| Virginia | March – May, September – November |
| Washington | March – May, September – November |
| West Virginia | April – June, September – November |
| Wisconsin | May – July, September – November |
| Wyoming | May – June, August – September |
Seasonality in South America
In South America, you can find kohlrabi in season from May to August. During this time, kohlrabi is at its peak freshness and flavor, making it the perfect time to enjoy this unique vegetable.
In countries like Chile, Argentina, and Uruguay, kohlrabi is commonly grown and consumed. It’s often used in salads, stews, and stir-fries, and can be found in local markets and supermarkets.
Seasonality in Europe
In Europe, kohlrabi is in season from mid-June to late October, with peak season in August and September.
The availability of kohlrabi can also vary depending on the country. For example, German kohlrabi is typically available from April to November, while kohlrabi in the Netherlands is harvested from June to October.
Seasonality in Asia
Kohlrabi is commonly grown in Asia, particularly in China, Japan, and Korea. In these countries, kohlrabi is typically in season during the fall and winter months, from October to February. However, the exact timing of the harvest can vary depending on the region and the specific variety of kohlrabi being grown.
In Japan, for example, kohlrabi is typically harvested from October to December, with peak season occurring in November. The vegetable is grown primarily in the northern regions of Japan, where the climate is cooler and more conducive to its growth.
In China, kohlrabi is also grown during the fall and winter months, with peak season occurring from November to January. The vegetable is commonly used in Chinese cuisine, particularly in stir-fries and soups.
Kohlrabi is also grown in Korea, where it is known as “dol-namul.” In Korea, kohlrabi is typically harvested from October to December, with peak season occurring in November. The vegetable is commonly used in Korean cuisine, particularly in side dishes and stews.
Seasonality in Australia
Kohlrabi is widely available in Australia from late winter through to early summer. According to the Adelaide Farmer’s Market, kohlrabi is in season in South Australia from late spring (October/November) to early summer (December/January). During this time, you can find kohlrabi at local farmers’ markets, grocery stores, and specialty food shops.
When growing kohlrabi in Australia, it’s important to keep in mind that it thrives in temperate climates. According to Gardenate, kohlrabi is best planted when soil temperatures are between 8°C and 30°C. It’s also important to choose a position that receives at least 6 full hours of sun a day and is well-drained, moist, and rich in organic matter. The pH of the soil should be between 6-6.8.
If you’re looking to enjoy kohlrabi during its peak season in Australia, there are many delicious recipes to try. Kohlrabi can be eaten raw or cooked and is often used in salads, stir-fries, and soups. According to Bon Appétit, kohlrabi has a mild, sweet flavor that pairs well with other vegetables like carrots, beets, and radishes. When selecting kohlrabi, look for bulbs that are firm and free of blemishes.
Health Benefits
Kohlrabi is a nutritious and low-calorie vegetable that can offer various health benefits. Here are some of the benefits you can get from consuming kohlrabi:
1. Rich in nutrients
Kohlrabi is a good source of nutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin B6, potassium, and fiber. One cup of raw kohlrabi contains around 5 grams of fiber, which can help improve your digestion and keep you feeling full for longer.
2. Boosts immunity
Kohlrabi is rich in vitamin C, which is an antioxidant that can help boost your immune system and protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals.
3. Supports bone health
Kohlrabi is a good source of calcium, magnesium, and potassium, which are important minerals that can help keep your bones healthy and strong.
4. May help with weight loss
Kohlrabi is low in calories and high in fiber, which can help you feel full and satisfied while consuming fewer calories. This can make it easier to maintain a healthy weight.
5. May help lower cholesterol
Kohlrabi is rich in fiber, which can help lower your cholesterol levels by reducing the absorption of cholesterol in your gut.
Overall, kohlrabi is a nutritious vegetable that can offer various health benefits. Try incorporating it into your diet to reap its benefits.