How to Sow Giant Kohl Rabi Superschmelz Seeds in the UKÂ
Giant kohl rabi superschmelz is a biennial vegetable originating from Germany. Known for its impressive size, each plant can grow into a succulent, light green and white ball weighing up to 8 kg over a full season. With seedlings maturing in as little as 55 days, this fast-growing vegetable is ideal for UK gardeners looking for a unique addition to their vegetable patch. Its uniform growth and mild flavour make it a standout choice for fresh eating or cooking.Â
When to Sow Giant Kohl Rabi Superschmelz SeedsÂ
- Indoor Sowing: Start seeds indoors at any time of the year to get an early harvest. Spring sowing from February to April is ideal for summer crops.Â
- Outdoor Sowing: Sow seeds directly outdoors from April to June, once the risk of frost has passed, or between July and August for an autumn harvest.Â
Step-by-Step Guide to Sowing Giant Kohl Rabi Superschmelz SeedsÂ
Indoor SowingÂ
- Prepare Containers: Fill pots or seed trays with well-draining, fine-textured compost.Â
- Sowing the Seeds: Sow seeds at a depth of 1/2 inch (1.2 cm). Cover lightly with compost and water gently to settle the soil.Â
- Germination Conditions: Place containers in a bright, warm location with temperatures maintained between 15-25°C (59-77°F). Germination typically occurs within 6 to 10 days.Â
- Watering: Keep the compost consistently moist but not waterlogged during germination.Â
- Transplanting: Once seedlings are about 4-6 weeks old and have developed their first true leaves, harden them off over 7-10 days before transplanting outdoors.Â
Outdoor SowingÂ
- Soil Preparation: Choose a sunny or partially shaded location with fertile, well-drained soil. Loosen the soil and remove any weeds. Enrich with compost or well-rotted manure for better growth.Â
- Sowing the Seeds: Sow seeds directly into the soil at a depth of 1/2 inch (1.2 cm), spacing them 8-10 inches apart. Rows should be spaced about 18 inches apart.Â
- Watering: Water lightly after sowing and maintain soil moisture throughout the germination period.Â
- Thinning: Thin seedlings to the strongest plants once they emerge, ensuring adequate spacing for the large vegetable to develop.Â
Caring for Giant Kohl Rabi Superschmelz PlantsÂ
- Watering: Water consistently, particularly during warmer weather, to prevent the flesh from becoming woody or tough.Â
- Mulching: Apply grass clippings or straw around the base of the plants to retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.Â
- Feeding: Fertilise with a balanced vegetable fertiliser every 2-3 weeks to support healthy growth and uniform development.Â
- Pest Management: Protect young plants from slugs and snails, especially during the early stages. Use organic deterrents or barriers as needed.Â
Harvesting Giant Kohl Rabi SuperschmelzÂ
- When to Harvest: Kohl rabi matures in 55-65 days. Harvest when the vegetable reaches a size of 15-20 cm in diameter, or allow it to grow larger for maximum size while maintaining tenderness.Â
- How to Harvest: Use a sharp knife to cut the vegetable at the base of the stem. Remove any tough outer leaves before preparing it for eating.Â
Common Questions About Growing Giant Kohl Rabi Superschmelz in the UKÂ
- Can kohl rabi grow in containers? Yes, kohl rabi can grow in deep pots or containers. Ensure the container has good drainage and use high-quality compost.Â
- Does kohl rabi need full sun? Kohl rabi prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade, especially in hotter weather.Â
- How can I prevent the flesh from becoming woody? Maintain consistent soil moisture and avoid letting the soil dry out. Mulching can also help regulate soil conditions.Â
- Is kohl rabi frost-tolerant? While kohl rabi prefers cooler weather, it is not frost-tolerant. Ensure it is planted after the last frost or grown under cover in colder months.Â
Giant kohl rabi superschmelz is a standout vegetable for UK gardens, offering impressive size, uniform growth, and excellent taste. Whether grown indoors or outdoors, this fast-growing crop is rewarding for beginners and experienced gardeners alike. Follow these steps to enjoy fresh, succulent kohl rabi in your home garden!Â