Growing and Harvesting Kohlrabi Microgreens: A Guide for Beginners

Welcome to this beginner's guide on growing and harvesting Kohlrabi microgreens. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about these mini seedlings and their benefits.

What are Kohlrabi Microgreens?

Kohlrabi microgreens are a type of tiny vegetable that grows from kohlrabi seeds. These miniature plants have an intense flavor profile much like the mature kohlrabi, only with more concentrate flavors since they are harvested quite early. They’re incredibly nutritious and are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Why Grow Kohlrabi Microgreens?

Growing Kohlrabi microgreens is easy, making them an excellent choice for beginners wanting to try their hands on planting something and seeing it grow. Microgreens mature within 1-3 weeks depending on the type of plant, unlike other plants that take months.

Benefits of Eating Kohlrabi Microgreens

Apart from being incredibly delicious, Kohlrabi microgreens are highly nutritious and pack a range of health benefits. These tasty leaves contain high levels of vitamins C, K, and E, as well as potassium, calcium, iron, magnesium, and fiber. The presence of antioxidants makes them excellent immune boosters, which helps fight off diseases and inflammation. So why not grow some today and enjoy the amazing benefits?

Are you ready to start growing your own delicious and nutritious Kohlrabi microgreens? Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it right.

Supplies Needed

Before you begin, you will need the following supplies:

• Kohlrabi seeds
• Growing tray or container with drainage holes
• Potting soil
• Water spray bottle
• Light source (artificial or natural light)

Preparing the Seeds

1. For optimal germination, soak the kohlrabi seeds in water for several hours or overnight.

2. Drain and rinse the seeds thoroughly using fresh water until clean.

3. Place the seeds in a damp paper towel or cheese cloth to sprout for 1-2 days. Alternatively, you could also use a seed sprouter.

Planting Your Microgreens

1. Fill up your growing tray or container with potting soil.

2. Moisten the soil using a spray bottle of water.

3. Sprinkle the sprouted seeds evenly over the surface of the soil, aiming for a density of roughly 10-12 seeds per inch.

4. Cover the seeds with another layer of moistened soil, keeping them in the dark or under a humidity dome if possible.

5. Once the seeds have germinated, remove the cover and move the tray or container to a bright location.

Caring for Your Kohlrabi Microgreens

1. Ensure that your microgreens are getting adequate light exposure, ideally around 12-16 hours a day.

2. Keep the soil moist but never water-saturated. Use a spray bottle to mist the soil lightly every day.

3. Do not overfeed your microgreens but consider using a diluted nutrient solution once a week during the growing process.

Harvesting Your Microgreens

1. Once your microgreens reach a height of 1-2 inches, they are ready to be harvested.

2. Using a pair of scissors, cut the stems at the soil line.

3. Rinse your harvested microgreens under running water and pat them dry with a paper towel.

Congratulations! You now have a fresh batch of Kohlrabi microgreens that you can enjoy in salads, sandwiches, soups, or as a garnish.

Growing Kohlrabi microgreens is a great way to enjoy fresh and nutritious greens all year round. With just a few supplies and simple steps, you can harvest your own microgreens in just a few days. Remember to keep your microgreens well-lit and watered, but not overfed, for optimal growth. Enjoy your delicious and healthy Kohlrabi microgreens in a variety of dishes!

Here are some frequently asked questions about growing Kohlrabi microgreens:

How long does it take to grow kohlrabi microgreens?

It typically takes 7-14 days for Kohlrabi microgreens to reach harvestable size, depending on growing conditions.

What kind of soil is best for growing kohlrabi microgreens?

A light and loamy potting mix with good drainage is ideal. Avoid heavy clay soils or ones with added fertilizers.

Do kohlrabi microgreens have any special nutritional value compared to mature kohlrabi?

Yes! Microgreens are more nutrient-dense than their mature counterparts. Kohlrabi microgreens are rich in vitamins C and K, as well as minerals such as potassium.

Can I reuse the soil after harvesting my microgreens?

Yes, you can reuse the soil for growing another batch of microgreens. However, make sure to amend the soil with fresh organic matter and nutrients beforehand.

Are kohlrabi microgreens easy to grow for beginners?

Yes, Kohlrabi microgreens are relatively easy to grow and are a great introduction to indoor gardening.

Can I harvest kohlrabi microgreens more than once?

No, unlike some other microgreens, Kohlrabi typically only produce one harvest.

What can I use kohlrabi microgreens in?

Kohlrabi microgreens have a slightly spicy flavor and can be used in a variety of dishes such as salads, sandwiches, soups, smoothies, and as garnishes.

How do I store harvested kohlrabi microgreens?

Store your harvested microgreens in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Do kohlrabi microgreens require a lot of light?

Yes, Kohlrabi microgreens require around 12-16 hours of bright light per day to thrive. Consider using artificial lights if natural sunlight is not sufficient.

Can I grow kohlrabi microgreens without soil?

Yes, you can use other growing mediums such as hydroponics, perlite or coconut coir instead of soil to grow Kohlrabi microgreens.