Kohlrabi - Vienna, Purple (seeds)

 Let’s explore Purple Vienna Kohlrabi and how to grow it in your garden.
 
About Purple Vienna Kohlrabi
Kohlrabi, with its strange, almost alien appearance, is often overlooked. However, its fast growth and great taste make it a vegetable every gardener should try. 
 
Appearance and Taste
Kohlrabi can be either purple or green. The bulb-shaped stem has an outer tough layer that needs to be removed with a vegetable peeler. The interior white flesh is sweet, tender, and has a crisp texture with a peppery flavor. Think of kohlrabi as a milder turnip, and some even say it tastes somewhat like apple. It can be eaten raw, sprinkled with salt and lime or lemon juice, or sliced thin and added to salads. When cooking, add kohlrabi lightly and last in a stir-fry.
 
Nutritional Value
Kohlrabi offers vitamins C, A, and K, as well as minerals like calcium, potassium, and iron. It contains phytochemicals that protect against certain cancers. Kohlrabi greens are also nutritious, containing carotenes, vitamins, and minerals. Both the stem and greens are rich in dietary fiber, aiding digestive health.
 
Growing Purple Vienna Kohlrabi
 
Planting
Choose a location with ample sunlight (at least 6 hours) and well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil.
 
Soil Preparation
Dress the soil with 1 inch of compost before planting.
 
Spacing:
Space the plants 12 inches apart in rows that are 18 inches apart.
 
Indoor Start
Start seedlings indoors 4 to 6 weeks before the last frost date.
 
Outdoor Sowing
Once soil temperatures reach at least 45°F (7°C), sow seeds directly in the garden for an early to mid-summer harvest.
 
Remember, Purple Vienna Kohlrabi is simple to grow, matures quickly (in as little as 6 weeks), and is generally pest-free. Give it a try in your garden!