Planting and Growing Guide for Turnip (Brassica rapa)
Description
Turnips have mustard-like leaves, or tops and their bulbs are generally either white or yellow. When exposed to sunlight the bulbs change color to purple or green. Turnips are cool-weather vegetables that can be grown in both spring and autumn (fall), avoiding the hot summer months. The bulbs form best in cool weather, rather than hot summers. They mature rapidly in about 2 months and you can enjoy both the greens and small bulbs and roots as they grow. Plant in batches with extra numbers so that you can harvest continually. For a late spring harvest, sow turnip seeds directly in the garden bed as soon as the ground is workable, usually 2 to 3 weeks before the average last frost date. They can be planted in seed trays, but their deep roots do not help successful transplants. For an Autumn (fall) harvest, sow turnips in late summer. Plant in an area that gets full sun or a small amount of shade. Soil should be well-draining, loose and rich. Dig to loosen the soil down to a depth to a depth of 30-40 cm (12 to 15 inches). Incorporate aged compost and well-rotted manure into the soil while loosening it.
Sow the seed at a depth of 1 cm (1/2 inch), lightly covering with soil. Once seedlings are about 10 cm (4 inches high), thin them to 10-15 cm (4 to 6 inches) apart. Space wide rows 30 cm (12 inches) apart. Turnips grown for their green tops can be spaced 5-8 cm (2 to 3 inches) apart. Apply a thick layer around the seedling to help retain moisture and to control weeds. Consistent soil moisture is important for Turnips. Keep soil lightly moist by watering regularly.
Turnip tops can be harvested after they reach 10 cm (4 inches) tall. Turnip bulbs are best when they are small as they are more tender then. Older turnips get tough or pithy. Harvest the bulbs when they are about 10-15 cm (2-3 inches in diameter. Turnips planted in Autumn (Fall) can be left in the ground and harvested as required during winter. Add a layer of mulch to help prevent the Turnips in the ground from freezing. The cold weather will sweeten the Turnips flavor.
Small tender, new turnips can be eaten raw, adding them to salads and other dishes. Larger turnips can be baked or chopped and added to stews, soups and stir fry dishes. Turnips can also be roasted or barbecued. Older, woodier turnips can still be used for mashing or for soups and stews.
Planting Guide
Seed Depth: Sow seed directly into the garden at a depth of 1 cm (1/2 inch). Like other root vegetables they do not transplant well. Seeds will germinate in 4-7 days.
Space between plants: Allow about 10-15 cm (4-6 inches) between plants, with a 30 cm (12 inch) space between rows
Harvest Time: Harvest in 6-9 weeks. However, you can harvest tops and roots when the plants are small. Sow in batches with extra numbers to allow continuous harvest
Hints:
- Grows best in full sun, but can be grown in partial shade in warmer areas
- Turnips will grow in a range of soil types, except for heavy clay soils
- Feed regularly and add compost around the plants as they grow as a mulch and source of nutrients.
- Water frequently, especially in hot weather
- Ensure maximum flavor by growing the plants quickly and avoiding growth checks.
- Cold weather improves the flavour and texture of Turnips when harvested
- The young leaves can be cooked like cabbage and used as a leafy green in various dishes
- Turnips tolerates frost and drought, but grows best in cool conditions. Hot weather may cause excessively fast growth, and bolting to flower
- Plant extra seed so that you can continuously harvest the thinnings and small roots throughout the growing season
Disclaimer: The PlantWhatWhen vegetable planting guide is only designed for use as a very general reference for home gardening purposes. It is not to be used for farming, markets or commercial activities of any kind whatsoever. We take absolutely no responsibility for the accuracy and adequacy of the information provided on this site. We recommend that you consider your local climate, weather patterns and conditions when deciding what and when to plant in your home garden. It's entirely your own decision. Happy Gardening and Best Wishes!