Skip to content
Kohlrabi plant growing in a garden

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

Growing Kohlrabi

Kohlrabi looks alien but tastes like a mild, crisp broccoli stem. One of the fastest cool-season crops — ready in 6-8 weeks and handles light frosts like a champion.

Quick Answer: Kohlrabi grows in Zones 3a–9b, taking 45–60 days to harvest. It's one of the easiest crops to grow.
🌡️ Zones 3a–9b ☀️ Full Sun 💧 Moderate Water 🌱 Beginner Friendly 🪴 Container OK (5+ gal) 💦 Hydroponic ❄️ Frost Tolerant 🐾 Pet Safe

Can You Grow Kohlrabi in Your Area?

Growing Tips

Start indoors 4-6 weeks before last frost or direct sow. Thin to 6-8 inches. Harvest when bulbs are 2-3 inches diameter — bigger gets woody. Great for fall crops too.

Where Does Kohlrabi Grow?

Kohlrabi is suited to Zones 3a–9b. Here are some areas where it thrives:

✅ Zone 3a ✅ Zone 3b ✅ Zone 4a ✅ Zone 4b ✅ Zone 5a ✅ Zone 5b ✅ Zone 6a ✅ Zone 6b ✅ Zone 7a ✅ Zone 7b ✅ Zone 8a ✅ Zone 8b
Won't grow outdoors in:
❌ Zone 1a ❌ Zone 1b ❌ Zone 10a ❌ Zone 10b ❌ Zone 11a ❌ Zone 11b ❌ Zone 12a ❌ Zone 12b ❌ Zone 13a ❌ Zone 13b ❌ Canadian Zone 0 ❌ Canadian Zone 1

Frequently Asked Questions

Kohlrabi grows in USDA Zones 3a–9b.
Yes — Kohlrabi is beginner-friendly.
Yes — use a 5+ gallon pot.
Kohlrabi is safe for dogs and safe for cats.