When to Plant Kohlrabi in Louisiana (2026 Guide)
Kohlrabi is a unique and delicious brassica that thrives in the climate of Louisiana. With various cities representing different USDA hardiness zones, you can enjoy planting this versatile vegetable in both spring and fall. It's particularly rewarding in areas like Baton Rouge, where frost dates are generous with a median last spring frost on February 26.
Not only does kohlrabi have a fascinating appearance, but it also offers a crisp texture that makes it a favorite in salads and slaws. The warm season of Louisiana ensures that you'll have ample time to harvest this nutritious crop, as its approximately 276-day frost-free season allows for earlier planting compared to other regions. In Zone 8b–9a, for instance, the first fall frost usually occurs around December 11, providing a long stretch of growing time.
When planning your kohlrabi planting schedule, it's essential to remember that it can be started indoors and later transplanted outdoors. This flexibility allows you to adjust your gardening strategy according to local weather patterns. For Louisianans, understanding the growing conditions and timing is key to successfully cultivating kohlrabi and ensuring a bountiful harvest.
Planting Schedule by USDA Zone in Louisiana
| Zone | Indoor start | Transplant out | Direct sow | Harvest |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zone 7b–8a | Start February 1 – February 15, ~6–8 weeks before April 10 | Transplant outdoors from March 1 – March 15, after the last frost | Direct sow from March 15 – April 10 | Harvest from May 15 – June 15 |
| Zone 8b–9a | Start January 29 – February 12, ~6–8 weeks before April 10 | Transplant outdoors from February 15 – March 1, after the last frost | Direct sow from March 1 – March 20 | Harvest from May 15 – June 15 |
| Zone 7a | Start February 15 – March 1, ~6–8 weeks before April 10 | Transplant outdoors from March 19 – March 25, after the last frost | Direct sow from April 1 – April 15 | Harvest from June 1 – June 20 |
Kohlrabi Planting Windows in Louisiana
- Indoor start: In Louisiana, start your kohlrabi seeds indoors from late January through early March for optimal growth.
- Transplant outdoors: Transplant your kohlrabi outdoors between mid-February and late March, depending on your specific region and frost dates.
- Harvest: You can expect to harvest kohlrabi from late May into June, ensuring the bulbs reach their ideal size.
Common Mistakes Growing Kohlrabi in Louisiana
- One common mistake is planting kohlrabi too late in Louisiana's warm climate. The season can shift quickly, so gardeners should be mindful of local frost dates to prevent crops from being stunted by unexpected heat.
- Many gardeners overlook the importance of soil drainage in Louisiana's sometimes clay-heavy soils. Failing to create well-drained beds can lead to root rot and negatively impact kohlrabi's crisp texture.
- Kohlrabi thrives in cool conditions, but some Louisiana gardeners mistakenly expose their plants to too much heat. This can lead to woody bulbs, especially if not planted at the right time.
- Some new gardeners do not realize they can use kohlrabi leaves like cooking greens. Discarding the nutritious greens from their harvest is a missed opportunity that can enhance your meals.
- A prevalent misunderstanding is that kohlrabi doesn't grow well in Louisiana's humidity. In reality, with proper timing and care, this crop can flourish in the state's warm, humid climate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I'm in a colder area of Louisiana?
If you're in a colder region, like Shreveport, ensure to adhere to frost dates for starting and transplanting kohlrabi. It's crucial to wait until after the last frost to avoid damage.
Can I still plant kohlrabi in May?
While it's possible to direct sow kohlrabi in early May in some areas, you risk heat stress on the plants. This timing is generally not ideal for achieving the best texture and flavor.
How can I tell when kohlrabi is ready to harvest?
Kohlrabi should be harvested when the bulbs are about 3 inches in diameter for the best flavor and texture. Going larger than 4 inches may lead to a woody and less pleasant bulb.
What kind of soil does kohlrabi prefer?
Kohlrabi thrives in well-drained, fertile soil enriched with organic matter. Given Louisiana's clay soils, consider building raised beds or adding compost to improve drainage.
Can the leaves of kohlrabi be eaten?
Yes! Kohlrabi leaves are nutritious and can be cooked like other greens, such as kale and collard greens, enhancing your meals with additional flavor and nutrients.
Keep Learning
City guides in Louisiana
Other crops in Louisiana
Typical fall sowing window for Kohlrabi in Louisiana: September 25 – October 16.