When to Plant Kohlrabi in Escambia County, AL
Kohlrabi is an unusual brassica that forms a swollen stem above ground with a mild, sweet turnip-like flavor. Both the bulb and tender leaves are edible.
Escambia County, Alabama is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 4 and the first fall frost is November 22, giving you a growing season of approximately 263 days.
At an elevation of 229 feet, Escambia County receives approximately 53 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 95°F, so Kohlrabi may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Clay soil retains moisture well for Kohlrabi, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Kohlrabi root diseases.
Escambia County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.5-6.2
Drainage
Well Drained
Plant Planting Risk Windows
Percentages indicate frost risk at transplant. The 70% safe window means there is a 30% chance of frost after transplant — suitable for cold-hardy crops or gardeners with frost protection. The 90% safe window is best for tender plants.
Plant Water Budget
Kohlrabi Planting Timeline — Escambia County, AL
Kohlrabi Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | January 28 | Jan 28 – Feb 11 |
| Transplant Outdoors | March 4 | Mar 4 – Mar 18 |
| Direct Sow | February 18 | Feb 18 – Mar 11 |
| Fall Sowing | September 13 | Sep 13 – Sep 27 |
| Harvest | April 22 | Apr 22 – May 27 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 4" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | Start Indoors |
| February | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| March | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| April | Harvest |
| May | Harvest |
| June | — |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | Fall Sowing |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
45–65 days
Soil pH
6 – 7.5
USDA Zone
Zone 8a
Growing Season
263 days
Growing Tips for Escambia County
Direct sow in spring or fall. Harvest when bulbs are 2-3 inches in diameter for best texture and flavor. Larger bulbs may become woody and fibrous.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Kohlrabi in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Kohlrabi in Escambia County, AL?
Escambia County is in Zone 8a with an average last frost of March 4. Plan your Kohlrabi planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Escambia County, AL?
Escambia County, Alabama is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 4 and first fall frost is November 22.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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