KOHLRABI SEEDS, BLAUER SPECK

Blauer Speck Kohlrabi is a heirloom variety known for its vibrant purple skin and mild, nutty flavor. This European favorite is prized for its unique appearance, crisp texture, and adaptability to a range of climates. With its sweet, juicy bulb and tender greens, Blauer Speck is both a visual and culinary delight.

Key Benefits

• Striking Appearance: The deep purple bulbs with contrasting green leaves add beauty to gardens and dishes alike.
• Delicious Flavor: Offers a mild, sweet taste with a crisp texture, perfect for salads, slaws, or cooked dishes.
• Fast-Growing: Matures quickly, making it ideal for multiple harvests throughout the growing season.
• Cold Hardy: Thrives in cool weather, making it a great option for early spring or fall planting.
• Nutrient-Dense: Packed with vitamins C, B6, potassium, and dietary fiber, it supports a healthy diet.

Variety Features

• Bulb Type: Medium-sized, round, purple bulbs with smooth skin.
• Leaf Usage: Tender, green leaves are also edible and can be used like kale or spinach.
• Adaptability: Performs well in diverse climates, especially in cooler regions.
• Versatile Use: Suitable for raw, roasted, steamed, or stir-fried recipes.

Planting Instructions

Planting Season

• Best Time: Sow seeds in early spring (as soon as the soil can be worked) or in late summer for a fall harvest. Prefers temperatures between 40-75°F (4-24°C).

Planting Details

• Seed Depth: Plant seeds about 1/4 inch deep.
• Spacing: Space plants 6–8 inches apart in rows that are 12–18 inches apart.
• Soil: Requires well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0–7.5.
• Sunlight: Prefers full sun, but tolerates partial shade in hotter climates.

Care Instructions

Watering

• Provide consistent moisture to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. 1 inch of water per week is ideal.

Fertilizing

• Feed with a balanced fertilizer rich in nitrogen at planting and mid-season for healthy growth.

Weeding and Mulching

• Use mulch to suppress weeds, retain soil moisture, and regulate temperature.

Thinning

• Once seedlings are 2–3 inches tall, thin them to their recommended spacing to ensure proper growth.

Pest and Disease Control

• Pests: Common pests include cabbage worms, flea beetles, and aphids. Protect plants using row covers or organic insecticides.
• Diseases: Blauer Speck Kohlrabi is resistant to most diseases but can be affected by clubroot or black rot. Ensure good soil drainage and rotate crops to reduce risks.

Harvesting

• Time to Harvest: Ready to harvest in 55–65 days from planting.
• How to Harvest: Harvest bulbs when they are 2–3 inches in diameter for the best flavor and texture. Larger bulbs may become woody.
• Leaf Harvesting: Leaves can be harvested while young and tender for use in salads or cooking.

Storage

• Fresh Storage: Store bulbs in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 weeks in a perforated plastic bag or vegetable crisper.
• Freezing: For longer storage, peel, blanch, and freeze kohlrabi bulbs.

Culinary Uses

• Raw: Slice thinly for salads, slaws, or use as a crunchy snack.
• Cooked: Roast, steam, or stir-fry for a mild, nutty flavor.
• Pureed: Blend into soups or mashes for a creamy texture.

Conclusion

Blauer Speck Kohlrabi is a stunning heirloom variety that offers both visual appeal and exceptional flavor. Its cold tolerance, ease of growth, and culinary versatility make it an excellent choice for gardeners of all skill levels. Whether you enjoy it raw or cooked, this vibrant purple kohlrabi is a delicious and nutritious addition to your vegetable garden.