KOHLRABI SEEDS, SUPERSCHMELZ OR GIANT WHITE

Kohlrabi, particularly the Superschmelz or Giant White variety, is a robust and hearty vegetable known for its large, round bulbs and mild, crisp flavor. Often referred to as "turnip cabbage," this variety is a member of the brassica family and is prized for its versatility in the kitchen and its impressive size. The Superschmelz variety is renowned for its ability to grow to massive proportions while maintaining excellent flavor and texture, making it a favorite among gardeners and culinary enthusiasts alike.

Key Benefits

• Mild and Crisp Flavor: Offers a refreshing, slightly sweet taste with a mild cabbage-like flavor, perfect for raw or cooked preparations.
• Large Size: Known for producing large, uniform bulbs, with some reaching up to 10–12 inches in diameter.
• Fast-Growing: Reaches maturity quickly, allowing for a bountiful harvest within a short time.
• Cold-Hardy: Thrives in cooler weather, making it a great choice for spring and fall gardens.
• High Yield: Produces a generous crop, making it ideal for gardeners looking to grow a substantial quantity of vegetables.

Variety Features

• Plant Characteristics: This variety grows large, round bulbs with pale green or white skin and crisp, tender flesh.
• Flavor Profile: Mild, sweet, and slightly nutty, with a texture similar to cabbage stems.
• Growth Habit: Forms a single bulb above ground, with leaves that grow from the top of the bulb.
• Size: The bulbs can grow as large as 10–12 inches in diameter, though smaller, tender bulbs are ideal for harvesting.

Planting Instructions

Planting Season

• Planting Time: Sow seeds in early spring or late summer for a fall harvest.
• Temperature: Prefers cooler temperatures between 50°F–70°F (10°C–21°C) for optimal growth.

Planting Details

• Seed Depth: Plant seeds about 1/2 inch deep.
• Spacing: Space seeds or seedlings 12–18 inches apart in rows 18–24 inches apart to allow for ample bulb development.
• Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, fertile, and slightly alkaline soil with a pH of 6.0–7.5.
• Sunlight: Thrives in full sun but can tolerate light shade in warmer climates.

Care Instructions

Watering

• Keep soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods, to encourage good bulb formation.
• Water deeply, but ensure the soil drains well to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.

Fertilization

• Apply a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) at planting time to encourage strong growth.
• Side-dress with additional fertilizer when the plants are about 6 inches tall to support continued development.

Weeding and Mulching

• Regularly weed around the plants to avoid competition for nutrients and space.
• Use mulch to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and keep the soil temperature consistent.

Pest and Disease Control

• Pests: Keep an eye out for aphids, flea beetles, and cabbage worms, which can damage kohlrabi plants. Use row covers or organic insecticides to protect the crops.
• Diseases: Kohlrabi can be susceptible to fungal diseases like downy mildew and black rot. Rotate crops and maintain good garden hygiene to minimize disease risk.

Harvesting

• Maturity: The Superschmelz variety typically reaches maturity in 60–80 days, depending on growing conditions.
• Size: Harvest when bulbs are about 6–8 inches in diameter for tender, crisp flesh. Larger bulbs may become fibrous and tough.
• Method: Gently pull up the kohlrabi by the base or use a garden fork to lift the bulbs from the soil.

Storage

• Short-Term: Kohlrabi can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 weeks. Place it in a plastic bag to maintain freshness.
• Long-Term: For longer storage, kohlrabi can be blanched and frozen, though it’s best eaten fresh for optimal flavor and texture.

Culinary Uses

• Raw in Salads: Sliced thin, kohlrabi adds a crunchy texture to salads, slaws, and vegetable platters.
• Roasted or Grilled: Slice and roast or grill kohlrabi with olive oil and herbs for a delicious side dish.
• Stir-Fries: Add sliced kohlrabi to stir-fries for a mild, crunchy texture that pairs well with other vegetables.
• Soup or Stew: Cooked kohlrabi makes a hearty addition to soups and stews, offering a mild flavor similar to turnips or potatoes.

Conclusion

The Superschmelz or Giant White Kohlrabi is an exceptional variety for gardeners looking to grow a large, flavorful vegetable with multiple culinary uses. With its rapid growth, mild flavor, and cold tolerance, it’s a reliable and productive crop for both beginner and experienced gardeners. Whether enjoyed raw, cooked, or preserved, Giant White Kohlrabi is sure to be a standout in your vegetable garden and on your dinner plate.