How to grow Kohlrabi in the UK
Brassica oleracea (Gongylodes)
Kohlrabi (Brassica oleracea (Gongylodes)) is a vegetable that grows well in UK gardens. Underrated UK veg. Eat raw or cooked. Bulb-like stem above ground — looks alien but delicious. This guide covers when and how to sow Kohlrabi, the soil and position it likes, watering and feeding, companion planting, and when to harvest.
When to sow & grow Kohlrabi
Sowing and harvest window through the year (UK):
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr Sow | May | Jun Sow | Jul Harvest | Aug Harvest | Sep Harvest | Oct Harvest | Nov | Dec |
Soil, position & care
- Soil
- Fertile soil — lime if acid
- Soil pH
- 6.5–7.5
- Position
- Open, sunny site
- Sowing depth
- 1.5 cm
- Spacing
- Thin to 25 cm
- Sowing
- Sow Apr–Aug; fast brassica, ready in ~8 weeks
- Growing
- Keep weed-free and evenly watered; mulch to hold moisture
- Harvest & upkeep
- Harvest the swollen stem at tennis-ball size before it gets woody
- Watch for
- Club root, flea beetle, caterpillars
Companion planting for Kohlrabi
Grows well with:
Keep apart from:
Add Kohlrabi to your free 12-month plan and get watering & sowing reminders — no sign-up needed.
Kohlrabi FAQs
When should I sow Kohlrabi in the UK?
In the UK, sow Kohlrabi in April, June. Sowing across these months gives the plant the right soil temperature and day length to establish well.
What grows well with Kohlrabi?
Kohlrabi grows well alongside Beetroot, Celery, Dill, French Marigold, Pot Marigold, Mint. Good companions can deter pests, attract pollinators or make better use of space.
What should you not plant near Kohlrabi?
Keep Kohlrabi away from Strawberry, Beef Tomato, Cherry Tomato, which can compete with it or share pests and diseases.
How much sun does Kohlrabi need?
Kohlrabi prefers full sun (6+ hrs direct).
When is Kohlrabi ready to harvest?
Kohlrabi is typically ready to harvest in July, August, September, October in the UK.
Is Kohlrabi easy to grow?
Easy — good for beginners. Underrated UK veg. Eat raw or cooked. Bulb-like stem above ground — looks alien but delicious.