Turnip Growing Guide

 

Turnip (Brassica rapa subsp. rapa)

 

Turnip is a root vegetable commonly grown in temperate climates worldwide for its white, fleshy taproot. Turnips are among the most commonly grown and widely adapted root crops.

Temperature

 

Turnips are more heat-tolerant than radishes and rutabagas. As a cool-season crop, they thrive and produce the best root growth in temperatures ranging from 40–60°F.

Soil

 

Turnips grow best in moderately deep, fertile soils such as muck, sand, or loam with a pH of 6.0–6.5. Soft, friable soils allow the roots to expand uniformly and rapidly while also making harvest easier.

Crop Rotation: Turnips are susceptible to soil-borne diseases, particularly club root. Regular crop rotation is important to reduce problems associated with repeated plantings. Conduct a soil test and apply lime as needed.

Planting

 

Turnip seed is small and requires a fine, firm seedbed with adequate moisture for germination. Prepare the seedbed by plowing and disking or harrowing to create a smooth, firm, and weed-free surface.

Planting can continue throughout the summer until approximately 70 days before the first killing frost. Maintain a consistent supply of water throughout the growing season, as moisture stress can result in irregular maturity and poor-quality roots.

Spacing

 
In-Row Spacing 2–4 inches between plants.
Between Rows 12–24 inches between rows.

Harvest

 
Turnip Greens Generally harvested 30–40 days after sowing.
Turnip Roots Generally ready 60–70 days after sowing.

Turnip roots are typically dug from midsummer through late fall using a root digger and stored in bulk boxes. Tops are removed during harvest, and the roots are washed and trimmed before packaging.

For U.S. No. 1 grade, the minimum root size is 1¾ inches in diameter, although most marketed turnips are less than 3 inches in diameter. Turnips can be stored at 32°F and 95% relative humidity for approximately 4–5 months when good air circulation is maintained.

Commercial Growers Turnip roots for bunching are harvested at approximately 2 inches in diameter, while roots intended for topping are generally harvested at approximately 3 inches. Turnips with tops are washed and tied into bunches of about four to six plants. Topped turnips are commonly marketed by volume or weight and packed in transparent film bags for consumer sales.
Home Gardeners Harvest turnip roots for bunching when they reach approximately 2–3 inches in diameter. Leaves may be harvested individually or through several cuttings while protecting the growing point. Harvest before hot weather causes roots to become pithy or woody. Fall crops can be harvested after the first frost, which may improve root flavor, and heavily mulched plantings can continue producing until the ground freezes.

For More Information

 
→  Hamilton College – Turnips
→  UC ANR – Turnip Production
→  Purdue University – Turnip Profile
→  Printable Version

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Turnip Growing Guide

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