Kohlrabi Companion Plants – What To Plant With Kohlrabi

Many vegetables growing in a fenced-in garden, including kohlrabi, cabbage, rhubarb, and chives
(Image credit: beekeepx)

Kohlrabi is German for “cabbage turnip,” aptly named, as it is a member of the cabbage family and tastes much like a turnip. The least hardy of all the cabbage members, kohlrabi is a cool season vegetable that is relatively easy to grow in fertile, well-draining soil but, like all veggies, it has its share of pest issues. If you’re working towards an organic approach to your gardening and don’t want to use pesticides, try using kohlrabi companion plants. Read on to find out what to plant with kohlrabi.

Kohlrabi Companion Plants

The nature of companion planting is that of symbiosis. That is two or more different plants are situated in close proximity to one or both plants mutual benefit. The benefit might be by adding nutrients into the soil, repelling pests, sheltering beneficial insects, or acting as a natural trellis or support.

The most well-known example of companion planting is that of the Three Sisters. The Three Sisters is a planting method used by Native Americans. It involves planting winter squash, maize, and beans together. The maize acts as a support for the vining squash, the squash’s large leaves shelter the roots of the other plants and keep them cool and moist, and the beans fix nitrogen into the soil.

Many plants benefit from companion planting and utilizing companions for kohlrabi is no exception. When choosing kohlrabi plant companions, consider common growing conditions such as the amount of water; kohlrabi have shallow root systems and need water frequently. Also, think about similar nutrient requirements and sun exposure.

What to Plant with Kohlrabi

So, what kohlrabi plant companions can be of use to engender healthier more abundant plants?

Vegetables, as well as herbs and flowers, can be of benefit to each other in the garden and this is referred to as companion planting. Companions for kohlrabi include:

Just as some plants work well together, some plants do not. Aphids and flea beetles are pests that are attracted to kohlrabi as are cabbage worms and loopers. Thus, it wouldn’t be a good idea to group members of the cabbage family together with kohlrabi. It would just give more fodder to these pests. Also, keep the kohlrabi away from your tomatoes, as it purportedly stunts their growth.

Amy Grant
Writer

Amy Grant has been gardening for 30 years and writing for 15. A professional chef and caterer, Amy's area of expertise is culinary gardening.