What To Know
- To encourage root growth, you can dip the cut ends of the cuttings in a rooting hormone solution.
- Use a pencil or your finger to make holes in the rooting medium, deep enough to accommodate the cuttings.
- Gently insert the cuttings into the holes, ensuring that the nodes are buried in the medium.
Kohlrabi, that quirky, bulbous vegetable with a taste somewhere between broccoli and cabbage, is a delightful addition to any garden. But did you know you can propagate new kohlrabi plants from cuttings? This method, known as “propagation by cuttings,” is a simple and rewarding way to expand your kohlrabi patch without having to buy new seeds.
Why Grow Kohlrabi from Cuttings?
There are several advantages to growing kohlrabi from cuttings:
- Faster Growth: Cuttings often root and start growing more quickly than seedlings.
- Genetically Identical Plants: You’ll end up with plants that are clones of your original kohlrabi, ensuring consistent flavor and growth habits.
- Preserving Unique Varieties: If you have a special variety of kohlrabi, cuttings are a great way to preserve it.
- Cost-Effective: No need to buy new seeds!
Choosing the Right Cuttings
The success of your kohlrabi cuttings depends heavily on the quality of the cuttings you select. Here’s what to look for:
- Healthy, vigorous plants: Choose cuttings from healthy, thriving kohlrabi plants, free of diseases and pests.
- Young, tender stems: Look for stems that are still green and flexible, not woody or brown.
- Cuttings with nodes: Each cutting should have at least two or three nodes, the points on the stem where leaves grow. Roots will develop from these nodes.
The Cutting Process
1. Prepare your cuttings: Using a sharp knife or pruning shears, cut stems about 4-6 inches long, just below a node.
2. Remove lower leaves: Strip off the leaves from the bottom 1-2 inches of the cutting. These leaves will rot and could introduce disease.
3. Treat the cuttings: To encourage root growth, you can dip the cut ends of the cuttings in a rooting hormone solution. This is optional but can be beneficial.
Preparing for Planting
1. Choose a suitable container: You can use small pots, seed trays, or even a shallow container filled with a rooting medium.
2. Select the right rooting medium: A well-draining mixture of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite is ideal. You can also use a commercial rooting mix.
3. Moisten the medium: Water the rooting medium thoroughly before planting the cuttings.
Planting the Cuttings
1. Make holes: Use a pencil or your finger to make holes in the rooting medium, deep enough to accommodate the cuttings.
2. Insert the cuttings: Gently insert the cuttings into the holes, ensuring that the nodes are buried in the medium.
3. Firm the soil: Gently press the rooting medium around the cuttings to secure them in place.
Providing Optimal Conditions
1. Light and humidity: Place the cuttings in a bright, indirect light location. Cover the container with a plastic dome or wrap to create a humid environment. This helps to retain moisture and promote root development.
2. Watering: Keep the rooting medium consistently moist, but not soggy. Water gently to avoid dislodging the cuttings.
3. Temperature: Maintain a warm temperature around the cuttings, ideally between 70-75°F.
Transplanting to the Garden
1. Wait for root development: It typically takes 2-4 weeks for the cuttings to develop roots. You’ll know they’re ready when new growth appears at the top of the cuttings.
2. Harden off the plants: Before transplanting, gradually acclimate the cuttings to outdoor conditions. Start by placing them in a sheltered spot for a few hours each day, gradually increasing the time spent outdoors.
3. Choose a sunny location: Kohlrabi prefers full sun, so select a spot in your garden that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
4. Prepare the soil: Amend the soil with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
5. Transplant carefully: Gently remove the cuttings from their container, being careful not to disturb the roots. Plant them in the garden, spacing them 12-18 inches apart.
Caring for Your Kohlrabi
1. Watering: Water your kohlrabi regularly, especially during dry periods. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
2. Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer every few weeks to promote healthy growth.
3. Weeding: Keep the area around your kohlrabi plants free of weeds, which can compete for nutrients and water.
4. Pest control: Monitor your kohlrabi for pests like cabbage worms and aphids. Use organic methods of pest control, such as insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Harvesting Your Kohlrabi
1. Timing: Kohlrabi is ready for harvest about 2-3 months after planting. The bulbs will be firm and crisp.
2. Cutting the bulbs: Use a sharp knife to cut the bulbs at the base of the stem.
3. Storing: Kohlrabi can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Enjoying the Fruits of Your Labor
Growing kohlrabi from cuttings is a rewarding experience. You’ll have the satisfaction of knowing that you’ve propagated your own plants and enjoyed the delicious harvest.
Information You Need to Know
Q: What if my cuttings don‘t root?
A: Don’t worry, it’s not uncommon for some cuttings to fail to root. Ensure you’re using healthy cuttings and providing optimal conditions for root development. You can also experiment with different rooting hormones or try different rooting mediums.
Q: Can I use kohlrabi leaves for anything?
A: Absolutely! Kohlrabi leaves are edible and can be used in salads, stir-fries, or as a garnish. They have a slightly peppery flavor.
Q: When is the best time to take cuttings?
A: The best time to take cuttings is in the spring or early summer when the plants are actively growing. You can also take cuttings in the fall, but they may need to be overwintered indoors.
Q: Can I grow kohlrabi from cuttings indoors?
A: Yes, you can grow kohlrabi from cuttings indoors under grow lights. Just ensure you provide adequate light and humidity.
Q: How long does it take for kohlrabi to grow from cuttings?
A: From planting the cutting to harvesting the bulb, it typically takes about 2-3 months. However, this can vary depending on the variety and growing conditions.
