Purple Vienna Kohlrabi (Brassica oleracea var. gongylodes)

Purple Vienna Kohlrabi (Brassica oleracea var. gongylodes) is a unique and visually stunning vegetable known for its bulbous, sputnik-like appearance. This cool-season crop belongs to the Brassicaceae family, which includes cabbage, broccoli, and kale. The plant features a round, swollen stem that is the edible part of the vegetable. As the name suggests, it is distinguished by its vibrant purple skin, contrasting with the crisp, white flesh inside.

The Purple Vienna Kohlrabi has a rich history, originating in Europe during the 16th century. Kohlrabi itself is derived from the German words “kohl” (cabbage) and “rübe” (turnip), highlighting its cabbage-turnip characteristics. It gained popularity for its adaptability, fast growth, and versatility in various culinary applications.

In historical contexts, Purple Vienna Kohlrabi was valued not only for its taste but also for its medicinal properties. It was believed to have digestive and diuretic benefits, contributing to its widespread use in traditional medicine.

Nutrient-Rich: Purple Vienna Kohlrabi is a nutritional powerhouse, packed with vitamins C and B6, potassium, and dietary fiber.
Dual Delicacy: Both the bulb and leaves of Kohlrabi are edible, providing a dual culinary delight. The leaves can be used in salads or cooked dishes.

Easy to Grow: This vegetable is relatively easy to grow, making it an excellent choice for beginner gardeners.

Materials Needed:

Purple Vienna Kohlrabi seeds
High-quality potting soil
Seed trays or small pots
Watering can
Garden bed or containers
Fertilizer (preferably organic)
Mulch

Steps to Grow and Harvest:
Start indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost.
Plant seeds in trays or pots filled with potting soil.
Keep the soil consistently moist.

Transplant seedlings outdoors once they have 2-3 true leaves.
Space plants about 8-12 inches apart in rows.

Provide well-draining soil and ample sunlight.
Water consistently to keep the soil evenly moist.
Fertilize every 3-4 weeks.
Mulch around the plants to retain moisture.

Kohlrabi is ready for harvest 6-8 weeks after transplanting.
Harvest when bulbs are 2-3 inches in diameter.
Use a sharp knife to cut the stem just above the soil.

Uses and Medicinal Benefits:

Culinary Delights: Purple Vienna Kohlrabi can be enjoyed raw in salads, slaws, or pickled. It can also be cooked by roasting, steaming, or sautéing.
Medicinal Uses: Traditionally, Kohlrabi has been used to aid digestion and promote a healthy urinary system.
Rich in Antioxidants: The vegetable’s vibrant purple color indicates the presence of anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants that may offer various health benefits.

***This information is not intended to be used as a diagnosis. Caution should be exercised when considering any medicinal use, and it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional.

Below are some of the items we feel will help when growing your seeds.

Below are products we believe will be beneficial to you as you grow your seeds. We have tried to locate items that are priced well as well as quality for the dollar value. Please note many of these are affiliate links and I will receive compensation for some of the items below. By using affiliate links, we can keep the cost of our products down and share the savings with you.

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