When to Plant Kohlrabi in Virginia (2026 Guide)
Kohlrabi is a unique yet rewarding vegetable to grow, ideal for the Virginia climate. This unusual brassica, with its bulbous stem above the soil level, is ready for harvest within 45 to 60 days from transplant and can be grown in both spring and fall seasons. For Virginia gardeners, understanding the right planting and harvest times is crucial, especially given the median last spring frost date of April 10 for Zone 6b and March 26 for Zone 7a.
To thrive, kohlrabi prefers the cool conditions similar to broccoli and cabbage, making it an excellent choice for Virginia's varied climate. As it tolerates light frosts, you can successfully plant it early in the season. With the fall frost creeping in around October 26 in Zone 6b, timely planting ensures a bountiful harvest before winter sets in.
When planning your garden, remember to utilize the frost-free seasons: ~199 days in Zone 6b, and ~239 days in Zone 7a. Prioritizing kohlrabi in your spring or fall garden layout not only makes efficient use of space but also complements other crops like tomatoes and peppers that need more room later. You're set for a great gardening experience in Virginia!
Planting Schedule by USDA Zone in Virginia
| Zone | Indoor start | Transplant out | Direct sow | Harvest |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zone 6b | Start February 15 – March 1, ~6–8 weeks before April 10 | Transplant outdoors from March 15 – April 10, after the last frost | Direct sow from April 1 – May 1 for spring crops; sow again August 15 – September 1 for a fall crop | Harvest June 1 – June 30 for spring; harvest late September – early October for fall |
| Zone 7a | Start February 15 – March 1, ~6–8 weeks before March 26 | Transplant outdoors from March 15 – March 26, before the last frost | Direct sow from March 1 – April 10 for spring; sow again August 15 – September 1 for a fall crop | Harvest May 15 – June 15 for spring; harvest late September – early October for fall |
| Zone 6a | Start February 15 – March 1, ~6–8 weeks before April 20 | Transplant outdoors from March 30 – April 20, after the last frost | Direct sow from April 1 – May 1 for spring; sow again August 15 – September 1 for a fall crop | Harvest early June – late June for spring; harvest late September – early October for fall |
Kohlrabi Planting Windows in Virginia
- Indoor start: For optimal growth, start kohlrabi indoors between February 15 and March 1 in Virginia.
- Transplant outdoors: Transplant your kohlrabi outdoors in Virginia from March 15 to April 10 after the last frost.
- Harvest: Generally, kohlrabi can be harvested in Virginia from early June to late June for spring crops, and late September to early October for fall crops.
Common Mistakes Growing Kohlrabi in Virginia
- One common mistake in Virginia is not considering the late spring frosts. For gardeners in Zones 6a and 6b, planting too early can result in frost damage to young kohlrabi plants.
- Virginia's climate can be humid, making it vital to ensure good air circulation among kohlrabi plants. Failure to do so can lead to increased diseases such as downy mildew.
- Many Virginia gardeners plant kohlrabi too late in the summer, ignoring the need for cooler temperatures for optimal growth. Check your first fall frost dates to adjust your planting schedule accordingly.
- A typical mistake is not utilizing companion planting effectively. For kohlrabi, ensuring space for subsequent larger crops may not be planned fully, leading to overcrowded beds.
- Ignoring the nutritional value of kohlrabi greens is common. Virginia gardeners often discard the leaves, which can be used similarly to kale, missing out on a nutritious component of the plant.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I'm in a cold pocket of Virginia?
If you're in a cooler part of Virginia, consider waiting to transplant kohlrabi until after late April to avoid frost damage. Use row covers to protect seedlings and provide a warmer microclimate.
Can I still plant kohlrabi in May?
Planting kohlrabi in May is not ideal, as it may not mature before the summer heat sets in. If you miss the spring window, consider planting in late summer for a targeted fall harvest.
What's the ideal size for harvesting kohlrabi?
Kohlrabi should ideally be harvested when the bulbs reach about 3 inches in diameter for the best flavor and texture. If they exceed 4 inches, they may become woody and less pleasant.
Are kohlrabi greens edible?
Absolutely! The leaves of kohlrabi are not only edible but also nutritious. Treat them like kale, using them in stir-fries, salads, or soups for an added flavor boost.
How much space does kohlrabi need in the garden?
Kohlrabi requires about 12 inches of spacing between each plant to grow well without competition. This spacing allows for better airflow and helps prevent disease, especially in humid Virginia.
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Other crops in Virginia
Typical fall sowing window for Kohlrabi in Virginia: August 19 – September 9.