How to grow... Kohl Rabi

Rocket Growing Guides

Delicacy Purple Kohl Rabi

Kohl Rabi are funny looking things that are often described as a cross between a turnip and a cabbage. They are part of the brassica family, and as such can be looked after in much the same way as turnips, cauliflowers, broccolis and cabbages.

  • Planting Tips
  • Growing advice
  • Chef's Corner
Choosing a site for growing veg

The right site

A light fertile loam is best but kohl rabi will grow in most soils.

growing veg in pots and raised beds

Can be grown in....

Raised beds are best for growing kohl rabi.

Autumn Winter Large Vegetable Garden

How far apart?

30-40cm apart

When your plants arrive....

Your baby plants will arrive carefully packed in straw. They may look a little tired from their travels. This is quite normal but, as soon as possible, carefully unpack them all.

Each type of plant will have an identification label to help you spot which they are. Lay them out into their respective plant types (e.g. lettuce, cauliflower, peas). Then, stand them upright, being especially careful with the ones that aren’t in bio pots. The roots may be dry, so give them all a good drink of water by submerging the roots for a few minutes in a container of clean water.

Now you are ready to plant your Rocket Garden. Try to do this within 24 hours of the arrival of your plants.

Looking after your plants....

Follow our tips below when growing kohl rabi for the best results.

Kohl Rabi

Watch they don't get waterlogged

In areas of heavy rainfall plant your seedlings in ridges to help with drainage. Otherwise plant on flat ground which has been well worked and consolidated.

Kohl Rabi

Water when it's dry

Water plants well after planting and during periods of dry weather.

Watch out for....

  • Slugs

They're ready to harvest when....

You can see when kohl rabi are the right size – a little bigger than a tennis ball. Lift them during late autumn and winter.

Storage Tips

You can store them in a cool dark place (in a sand box is best.)

Ways to cook

Peel the kohl rabi and roast it, or steam it to be used in stir fries.

Recipe Ideas

Coming soon

Types to try