KOHLRABI - WHITE VIENNA

 Organic Kohlrabi WHITE VIENNA 

        50 Seeds Pack   

The Heirloom Kohlrabi, introduced in the 1840s, distinguishes itself with its light green skin, differing in color but sharing all other characteristics with the Early Purple Vienna variety.

Kohlrabi, a leafy, long-stemmed plant, is structured around a swollen stem at the base that forms an ovate, round, to elongated bulb. These bulbs develop just above the soil surface, not below, and are typically harvested when they reach 5 to 8 centimetres in diameter. The bulb's skin showcases shades of white, sometimes tinged with pale green, and possesses a semi-thick, firm, and smooth texture with a rubbery feel. Beneath the skin, the white flesh is crisp, aqueous, and dense, offering a snap-like, crunchy consistency. It's crucial to harvest the bulbs when they are young and small, as older bulbs may develop a stringy, toothsome, and woody mouthfeel. In addition to the bulbs, White Kohlrabi exhibits several slender stems emerging from all sides of the bulb. These stems are crisp and fibrous, also appearing in shades of white, and are connected to dark green, elongated leaves. The leaves, broad and flat, feature an elliptical shape with toothed margins, a waxy feel, and prominent veining, providing a textured surface.

The flavour of White Kohlrabi bulbs is neutral, sweet, and subtly peppery, reminiscent of broccoli, turnips, or cabbage, but milder, lacking strong vegetal undertones. Both the leaves and stems are edible, offering a taste similar to collard greens or kale.

PLANTING & GROWING

If you reside in an area with consistently higher temperatures, it's advisable to provide turnips with some shade to prevent bolting. Alternatively, consider timing your planting to avoid the peak of summer heat. With proper mulching, turnips can endure overwintering in various climate zones.

For a continuous harvest, sow turnips successively between the end of February and the conclusion of August. To yield a late autumn or winter crop, opt for a purple variety and sow from July to the end of August. Germination typically occurs within approximately 10 days, and a 10-foot row can produce around 20 globes.

When sowing, plant turnip seeds very thinly, about 1cm (½in) deep, with a spacing of 7.5cm (3in) apart in rows 30cm (12in) apart. Ensure the seeds are covered with soil.

While turnips do not demand excessive nutrients, incorporating a balanced, organic compost into the soil at the initial planting stage and adding it every few weeks can be beneficial.

To maintain soil health, adopt a 2- to 3-year rotation away from other members of the brassica family.

Turnips thrive in the company of beets, herbs, potatoes, and members of the onion family. However, it's recommended to avoid planting them near tomatoes, strawberries, and beans.