Kohlrabi (Brassica oleracea v. gongylodes)

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Kohlrabi is a valuable companion plant that enhances garden health by deterring pests, retaining soil moisture, and efficiently utilizing space. Its natural ability to repel certain insects helps protect neighboring crops, creating a more resilient growing environment. With its shallow roots and above-ground bulb, kohlrabi minimizes competition for nutrients, making it easy to integrate into diverse planting arrangements.

When paired with compatible plants, kohlrabi supports balanced growth by reducing pest pressure and improving overall soil conditions. It thrives alongside plants that do not compete for the same resources, while aromatic herbs can enhance its resistance to common brassica pests. Leafy greens and root vegetables often make ideal companions, as they help create a mutually beneficial microclimate.

However, kohlrabi should be kept away from plants that share similar pest vulnerabilities or require the same nutrients in high amounts. When planted too closely to heavy feeders or members of its own family, it may struggle to develop fully. Thoughtful companion planting ensures kohlrabi contributes to a thriving, pest-resistant garden while maintaining soil health and productivity.

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5 Companion Plants for Kohlrabi

• Beans Beans improve soil health by fixing nitrogen. Additionally, beans have a different root structure, reducing competition for nutrients. However, some gardeners avoid pairing beans with kohlrabi, as they can create shade or compete for space.
• Onion Onions help repel pests like aphids and cabbage worms, which commonly target kohlrabi and other brassicas. Since onions have a shallow root system and do not compete heavily for nutrients.
• Dill Dill helps attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and parasitic wasps, which prey on pests, such as aphids and cabbage worms. It doesn’t compete with kohlrabi for nutrients and can grow well alongside it without crowding.
• Chives Chives deter pests like aphids and cabbage worms. Their strong aroma acts as repellent, keeping these pests at bay. Additionally, chives don’t compete for nutrients with kohlrabi and can be grown nearby without hindering its growth.
• Nasturtium Nasturtium is an excellent companion for kohlrabi. It acts as a natural pest repellent, particularly against aphids, whiteflies, and cabbage worms, which are common pests for brassicas like kohlrabi. Nasturtiums can also serve as a trap plant, drawing pests away from more valuable crops. Additionally, their vibrant flowers attract beneficial insects like pollinators.

3 Neighbor Plants to Avoid near Kohlrabi

• Brassicas

  Brassicas, such as cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts, are not ideal companions for kohlrabi because they compete for the same nutrients, particularly nitrogen, which is essential for leafy growth. Since all brassicas have similar nutrient demands, planting them together can lead to soil depletion, resulting in weaker plants and reduced yields.

• Watermelon

  Watermelon and kohlrabi aren’t ideal neighbors because watermelons are heavy feeders, competing for nutrients, and their sprawling vines can shade out kohlrabi. Additionally, watermelons require more water, which can lead to inconsistent moisture levels in the soil, affecting kohlrabi’s growth and development.

• Strawberries

  Strawberries aren’t ideal companions for kohlrabi because they compete for nutrients like nitrogen and have shallow roots that can interfere with kohlrabi’s growth. They also attract pests like aphids, which can affect kohlrabi, and their growth habit may crowd the space, reducing airflow and increasing the risk of diseases.