In This Article
| Common Name | Turnip, White Turnip |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Brassica rapa subsp. rapa |
| Family | Brassicaceae (Mustard family) |
| Flavor | Mildly sweet with a slight earthy taste |
| Growing Season | Spring and fall (prefers cool temperatures) |
| Maturity Time | 30 to 60 days |
| Soil Preference | Loose, well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0–6.5 |
| Watering Needs | 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week |
| Cold Tolerance | Frost-tolerant; can survive light freezes |
| Edible Parts | Roots and greens |
| Common Uses | Roasted, mashed, soups, stews, and salads |
| Container Growing | Possible, with deep pots for root development |
Turnip Planting: When and Where to Plant
The combination in the gardener's recipe for getting plants that have tender and edible roots involves the right time of the year and region. With just a little concern for preparing the soil and planning when to plant, this plant proves to be a cool-season crop.
Best Time of Year to Plant
Turnips are grown for both spring and fall crops. To grow turnips for a spring harvest, seeds are sown 2 to 3 weeks before the last expected frost date, as they should mature well in advance of the temperature becoming too hot. For a fall crop, seeds should be planted 8 to 10 weeks before the first frost in order for the plants to have time to develop in cool weather. The root is sweet and tender and of finer flavor and texture when the weather is cool.
Soil Preparation and Location
Turnips prefer well-draining, fertile soil with a pH range between 6.0 and 6.5. Soil preparation must be loose to at least a depth of 8 to 10 inches in the root zone for uninhibited root growth. For container gardening, take a light potting mix with good drainage. Avoid soil that has heavy or compacted clay because it will prevent the vegetable from having a good root system, which means deformed crops. Compost and well-aged manure will enhance the fertility of the soil and its water-holding capacity.
Plant Directly for Better Results
Because the roots of turnips do not transplant well, turnips are directly planted into the ground. Thinly sow the seeds into the ground and sprinkle a light layer of soil on top of them. This must be done in a way that the soil is not too wet or waterlogged until the seedlings come out of the ground. When sprouting, thin them out to prevent overcrowding which could stunt growth.
Growing Conditions and Care
Conditions mean everything when reaping healthy, naturally tasting turnips. The following section will reflect three major factors to take into consideration in growing turnips sunlight, watering, and fertilization, with some tips on weed management.
Sunlight Requirements
This is a full-sun crop, requiring at least 6 to 8 hours of direct light each day. However, partial afternoon shade in warmer areas is well worth it, preventing bolting and maintaining tender roots. A good balance between sun and shade has the best root development with good foliage.
Watering Requirements
Consistent moisture is important to prevent bitter or cracked roots. Turnips require about 1 to 1.5 inches of water every week, and this is even better received if it can be attained using deep and slow watering. It is best not to go along with the irregular watering schedule because it may result in woody roots or cracking. Overwatering must also not be done because this will stimulate fungal problems. A mix of a well-draining soil will balance things out to make up for the moisture deficit. Fertilizing and Weed Control.
Fertilizing and Weed Control
For optimal development, it is good to apply a balanced fertilizer; an example would be a 10-10-10 at the time of soil preparation. Additional compost or organic fertilizer applied mid-season supports the development of root growth. Too much nitrogen in overfertilization results in leafy growth rather than root production.
Weeds are in tough competition with young turnips, hence regular weeding is a must. A layer of mulch around the plants prevents them from drying out and eliminates weeds. Heeding the above recommendations will bring your turnips to healthy, tasty, and tender harvests.
Common Varieties of Turnips
Favorite varieties of turnips are sweet and tender, with a bulbous formation at the base of the stem. There are many favorite varieties of turnips, all differing in length, color, shape, size, and even taste. Some of the best turnip varieties for home gardens include:
- 'Purple Top White Globe': Classic turnip with sweet, white flesh and a purple crown.
- 'Tokyo Cross': Fast-growing hybrid noted for its smooth, tender roots and great for salads.
- 'Golden Ball': Has yellow flesh with a mild, buttery flavor, perfect for roasting.
- 'Hakurei': These are also referred to as salad turnips and possess smaller roots, along with mild and edible greens.
These varieties all differ in growth seasons, ranging between 30 to 60 days depending on prevailing climate and planting season during which the growth is taking place.
Pest and Disease Management
Turnips can be affected by a number of pests and diseases, including but not limited to the following: aphids, flea beetles, and cabbage worms. Floating row covers often provide good protection and can be used very effectively in the early stages. Neem oil or insecticidal soap controls the pests where pest pressure becomes important but will not affect any beneficial insects.
These are the reasons why diseases like clubroot and powdery mildew are more liable to occur in poorly managed soils. Most of the soil-borne diseases can be avoided by rotation and good drainage. Mulching adds an extra benefit by controlling moisture and protecting the crop from stress due to environment.
Harvesting and Storage
Turnips are a cool-season crop; most turnips take about 30 to 60 days to mature. Harvest the roots when they are between 2 and 3 inches in diameter. They can be too large in size as they might be tough and woody. Carefully loosen the roots from the soil using a fork, without spearing them.
The greens are edible at any time of the season that the vegetable is in growth, and can be added to salads, and sautéed. Storage To store, keep roots in a cool dark place, such as a root cellar for several weeks after harvest. Refrigerate them in a plastic bag to keep them fresh.
Culinary Uses of Turnip
It is one of the most versatile vegetables, used for various gastronomical purposes. The roots can be served roasted, boiled, or mashed, while the greens add a nutritious element to soups and salads. Quite a number of times, when they are being used for stew and casserole, it is because they bring in the subtle sweetness and earthy flavor that such foods need. This is a staple in many hearty winter dishes of colder regions because it has a long storage life.
These root vegetables are also rich in vitamins C and K, calcium, and fiber; thus, the greens can be highly valuable as part of a healthy diet. The bonus nutrients in the greens-even the folate and iron-make them edible also in a manner much like spinach or collard greens.
Turnips vs Radish
.png)
Turnips and radishes, though belonging to the same family, have a very different flavor, growth cycle, and use. The turnip root is milder, sweet; it can be used in a manner similar to potatoes because it's in a position to either roast or boil/mash. They take between 30 and 60 days to mature and also produce edible greens.
Radishes are sharper and more peppery in taste, with their normal consumption in the raw stage. They are also much quicker to mature, taking anything from 20 to 30 days, thereby allowing their convenience in harvesting. Turnips prefer cooler temperatures and, for growth, need a little more space. Radishes can bear fruit even in tighter garden spots and containers.
Both vegetables tolerate cold, but turnips are better with frost toleration and can be given an extended cool-weather growing season.
FAQs
How long does it take to grow turnips?
This usually takes about 30 to 60 days depending on the variety and conditions. The small-sized baby turnips will be ready in about 30 days, but full-sized roots may take up to two months. Growth is accelerated by cool weather, therefore, fall and spring seasons are going to be just perfect when you can expect quick yields.
Can turnips grow in a container?
Yes, turnips will thrive in containers. For this purpose, take a pot that should be at least 8-10 inches deep to allow for root development. Use lightweight, well-draining potting soil in your container and make sure it has at least one drainage hole. Baby turnips are a great deal for small spaces since these are compact varieties. Water regularly as pots dry out faster compared to garden soil.
What are the common pests and diseases of turnips generally?
They are susceptible to certain pests like aphids, flea beetles, and root maggots. Diseases are clubroot and powdery mildew, which may be experienced if the conditions are not ideal in terms of drainage or crowding of plants. Prevention would involve crop rotation, spacing, and mulching. For infestation control, one can employ organic insecticidal soap and neem oil.
When does one harvest turnips?
Harvest turnips when the roots are from 2 to 3 inches in diameter. One can pick baby turnips a little sooner if they want them sweeter. One should avoid allowing them to grow too big because they will be woody and tough. For greens, cut leaves when young and tender, leaving enough to continue on into the plant for growth.
Do leave your comments