When to plant
Direct sow in early spring as soon as soil can be worked, or in late summer for fall harvest. Germinates in cool soil and grows quickly. Fall turnips grown after summer heat passes are often sweeter and of better quality. One of the most cold-hardy root vegetables — harvest can continue into early winter in mild climates.
Soil & site
Well-drained, loosely worked soil free of rocks and clumps that would distort root growth. pH 5.5–7.0. Work in compost. Consistent moisture prevents pithy roots. Turnips are fast-growing and do not need extremely fertile soil, but respond to good preparation.
Feeding
Light to moderate feeder. A balanced fertilizer at planting is usually sufficient. Side-dress with compost midseason if plants look pale. Avoid high nitrogen, which produces excessive leaf growth at the expense of root development.
Common problems
Flea beetles make small holes in leaves. Aphids. Cabbage maggots damage roots. Root knot nematodes. Clubroot in acidic, wet soils. Cover with row cover from planting to prevent most insect problems. Bitter flavor develops in heat — strictly a cool-season crop.
When to harvest
Baby turnips (2–3 inches): ready at 35–45 days, mild and sweet. Full size (3–5 inches): ready at 50–60 days, more pungent. Oversize turnips (larger than 3 inches) become pithy and bitter. The shoulders of the root should be visible above the soil. Leaves (turnip greens) can be harvested at any size.
How to harvest
Pull smaller turnips by hand. Use a fork to loosen soil for larger roots. Harvest greens by snipping outer leaves, leaving the center for continued root growth. Twist off the greens when storing roots (greens draw moisture from the root). Both the root and leaves are edible.
Storage & use
Remove greens and refrigerate separately. Roots: refrigerate in a bag for 2–4 weeks. Long-term: store in moist sand in a cool root cellar (32–35 degrees F) for several months. Greens: refrigerate 3–5 days, use like mustard greens. Roots excellent roasted, mashed, braised, or in soups.
Companion planting
Turnips grow quickly and make efficient use of space alongside slow-growing vegetables.
Useful for growing turnip
A few things that make this one easier — chosen for this plant, not a generic list.
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