What’s in the Box
- Knol Khol Seeds | Kohlrabi | Ganth Gobhi
- Sowing instructions printed on backside of Seed Packet
- Recyclable Pouch
Introduction
Knol khol, also known as Kohlrabi or German Turnip, is a cool-season vegetable that belongs to the Brassicaceae family, the same as cabbage, cauliflower, and broccoli. The edible part of the plant is a swollen, turnip-like stem, which grows just above the soil surface. Knol khol is rich in fiber, vitamin C, and potassium, making it a nutritious addition to any diet. It is a fast-growing crop and can be cultivated in kitchen gardens, commercial farms, and even containers.
Proper knowledge of seed germination, soil quality, fertilization, watering, and pest control is essential for healthy growth and maximum yield. This guide offers an in-depth explanation of each stage of cultivation, from sowing seeds to harvesting.
Guide to the Germination Process, Soil & Fertilizer, Watering & Pest Control Requirements for Knol Khol Seeds
Seeds Germination Process
Seed Preparation
- Seed Selection: Use high-quality, disease-free seeds from a trusted supplier.
- Pre-soaking: Soak seeds in lukewarm water for 6–8 hours to soften the seed coat and promote faster germination.
- Disinfection (Optional): Treat seeds with a mild fungicide or soak in a hydrogen peroxide solution (1%) for 5–10 minutes to prevent fungal infections.
Planting Medium
- Preferred Medium: Use a mix of well-draining soil, compost, and cocopeat (1:1:1 ratio).
- The medium should be loose, aerated, and moist, not soggy.
- pH should range between 6.0 and 7.0, slightly acidic to neutral.
Planting
- Sowing Depth: Sow seeds about 0.5 to 1 cm deep in the soil.
- Spacing: Maintain 10–15 cm between plants and 25–30 cm between rows.
- Lightly cover seeds with soil and gently firm down.
Containers:Knol khol can be grown in containers, grow bags, or seedling trays:
- Seedling Trays: Ideal for transplanting. Use trays with cells at least 1.5–2 inches deep.
- Grow Bags/Pots: Minimum depth of 8–10 inches required for bulb development.
- Ensure containers have proper drainage holes.
Watering
- Water lightly after sowing to keep the medium moist.
- Do not flood the medium; excessive water can rot seeds.
- Mist or use a gentle spray to maintain moisture.
Temperature
- Ideal germination temperature: 18°C to 25°C.
- Below 10°C slows germination; above 30°C inhibits sprouting.
- Use a seedling heat mat in colder regions.
Light
- Seeds do not require light to germinate, but after sprouting, provide 6–8 hours of indirect sunlight or use a grow light for healthy seedling development.
Germination Time: If seeds don’t sprout within 14 days, consider re-sowing.ideal conditions, seeds will sprout in 5–10 days. Under optimal conditions, germination starts in 5 to 10 days.
Soil & Fertilizer Requirement
Soil Type
- Best suited to loamy or sandy-loam soil that is fertile and well-draining.
- Should be rich in organic matter and slightly moist.
- Avoid heavy clay or waterlogged soils for Knol khol.
Soil Preparation
- Before sowing or transplanting, till the soil to a depth of 20–30 cm to loosen it.
- Remove weeds, rocks, and clumps.
- Add well-rotted compost or farmyard manure (10–15 tons/acre or 3–5 kg/m²).
- Apply Neem cake or Trichoderma to enhance soil health and reduce fungal risks.
Fertilization: Use seaweed extract or vermicompost tea to supply trace elements in Knol khol plant.
Basal Dose (Before Planting): Apply NPK (10:10:10) or DAP at the rate of 100–150 g per 10 m².
Mix thoroughly with soil during bed preparation.
Top Dressing: At 3–4 weeks after transplanting, apply urea or any nitrogen-rich fertilizer to promote bulb formation.
Repeat once after 2 weeks, depending on plant health.
Micronutrients: Use seaweed extract or vermicompost tea to supply trace elements.
Watering Requirement
Regular WRegular Watering
- Knol khol needs consistent moisture, especially during bulb development.
- Water every 2–3 days or when the top 1 inch of soil feels dry.
Drought Tolerance
- Knol khol is not drought-tolerant.
- Water stress leads to cracking, poor bulb development, and early bolting.
Deep Watering
- Use deep watering techniques (like drip irrigation) to encourage strong root systems in Knol khol.
- Avoid shallow, frequent watering.
Avoid Overwatering
- Overwatering can lead to root rot, fungal diseases, and poor oxygen availability.
- Ensure good drainage and monitor for standing water.
Climate Dependent: In warmer or dry climates, increase watering frequency but avoid saturation.
In cooler climates, water less frequently.
Pest Control Requirement
List of Common Pests
- Aphids
- Cabbage Loopers
- Cutworms
- Flea Beetles
- Cabbage Root Maggots
- Whiteflies
- Diamondback Moth
- Leaf Miners
Solutions
Cultural Practices
- Practice crop rotation to break pest life cycles.
- Use row covers to protect seedlings from insect attack.
- Remove and destroy infected plants promptly.
- Maintain proper spacing to improve air circulation.
Mechanical Control
- Handpick large pests like loopers and beetles.
- Use yellow sticky traps for whiteflies and aphids.
Biological Control
- Release beneficial insects such as ladybugs, lacewings, or parasitic wasps.
- Apply Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) for caterpillar control.
Organic Sprays
- Neem Oil: Effective against aphids, whiteflies, and flea beetles.
- Garlic-Chili Spray: Deters various leaf-eating insects.
- Soap Spray: A mild solution of liquid soap (not detergent) and water can control soft-bodied insects.
Chemical Control (Use Cautiously)
- Use pesticides like Malathion or Carbaryl only if infestations are severe and all other methods fail.
- Follow manufacturer guidelines and practice pre-harvest intervals.
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