Planting Turnips:
- Choose an area in your yard that gets full sun.
- Loosen the soil to a depth of 12-15 inches and make sure that it is well draining.
- Mix in a 2-4 inch layer of compost and stir well.
- As soon as the ground is workable, you can start sowing the seeds.
- Scatter your turnip seeds and do not cover with more than 1/2 inch of soil.
What are the best tips for turnip planting?
- Grow turnips in rich, well-drained soil high in organic matter.
- Keep soil evenly moist throughout the growing season to keep turnips from becoming woody.
- Mulch soil to preserve moisture and prevent weeds.
- Although turnips prefer cool weather, they do best with at least 6 hours of sun. Turnips will tolerate partial shade.
What is the best soil type for turnips?
You should focus on the following when choosing soil for turnip:
- pH level – Look for garden soil that has a pH level between 5.5 – 7.5. In addition, adjusted pH level soil is also beneficial to growing turnip plants.
- Soil/Fertilizer Combination – Soil is good. ...
- Organic – Look for soil that is organic, non-toxic, and contains nutrients to help boost healthy plants and more turnip.
How to grow a turnip from a sprouting top?
When to plant your turnip?
- Soil. Turnips prefer slightly acidic soil. ...
- Sow Turnip seeds. Turnips would grow well in spring. ...
- Water. Turnips are a relatively trouble-free crop, and It requires much care and protection to grow healthier plants.
- Fertilizer for Turnips. Turnips grow well in natural fertilizer, so feed your plants with a compost tea for good root development.
What fertilizer is best for turnips?
Ludicrous Nutrients Big Ass Carrots Premium Carrot and Root Vegetable Fertilizer
- 1-9-3 NPK
- Organic
- Suitable for all root vegetables (turnips, carrots, beets, radishes, etc.)
- Very low ratio of nitrogen to prioritize bigger turnip roots
See more
What month do you plant turnips?
Set out turnip green plants 2 to 4 weeks before the last frost in spring and from late August to October for a fall crop in most areas.
How deep do turnips need to be planted?
Growing turnips should be done with seeds in the soil about 1/2 inch (1 cm.) deep at a rate of 3 to 20 seeds per foot (31 cm.). Water immediately after planting to speed germination. Once you find your turnips growing, thin the plants to about 4 inches (10 cm.)
How long do turnips take to grow?
Turnips are quick and easy to grow from seed, ready to harvest in as little as six to ten weeks. They like cool, moisture-retentive soil, in an open, sunny location.
Should I direct sow turnips?
As root vegetables, turnips do not take well to being transplanted. Direct sow seeds in the garden three weeks before the last frost date for your area for a spring harvest.
What is the best fertilizer for turnips?
Turnip gives a good response to organic fertilizers such as compost tea, blood and bone meal, and fish emulsion. If growing for greens, high nitrogen fertilizer will help produce deep, healthy green. A fertilizer that has high potassium will be better for the roots of the Turnip.
How many turnips can you plant per square foot?
For square foot gardening, plant 9 turnips per square foot. To grow turnips in containers, plant turnips in containers that are at least 8 inches deep.
Should turnip seeds be soaked before planting?
Still, I like to mix in standard application of a balanced organic fertilizer, watered in well, before planting turnip seeds. Additionally, deeply soaking the prepared bed helps encourage strong germination.
How long can you leave turnips in the ground?
They do rot after one week, so if you lose track of them after putting them in the ground, those Bells will be wasted and your storage efforts will be for nothing. Like we suggested to do inside the house, you may as well design parts of your island around turnips if you plan on keeping a lot of them.
Are turnips hard to grow?
Growing and maintaining turnips is pretty easy. They are fast growing, reliable, and relatively low maintenance. It is not necessary to fertilize plants once they are in the ground since they grow so quickly. As long as the soil is rich in organic material when you sow the seeds, they should be happy.
Do turnips like manure?
Feed turnip plants with natural fertilizer containing potassium and phosphorous, such as compost tea, for good root development. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers like manure, which can give turnips an unpleasant flavor.
What is the best way to spread turnip seed?
0:453:37How to Grow Lots of Turnips from Seed to Harvest - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAfter six weeks turnips are completely visible growing under the soil. Turnips are a cool weatherMoreAfter six weeks turnips are completely visible growing under the soil. Turnips are a cool weather crop plant turnips in fall or autumn or in spring to week before the last frost.
What type of soil do turnips like?
slightly acidic soilTurnips prefer a slightly acidic soil pH in the range of 6.0 to 6.5. Good soil fertility will help them grow quickly. Make sure the soil is well-draining so the roots don't rot.
Do deer like turnips?
The cool thing about planting turnips in your food plot is the deer love to eat both the leafy tops and the taproots (or the turnip). And if, for some reason, the deer don't want the underground turnips, you can always harvest them and serve them for dinner yourself.
How do you grow turnips in pots?
3:2010:19How To Grow Turnips In Containers/Pots - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipWith 12 inch diameter. Cover the turnip seeds with half inch of the potting. Mixture. Place theMoreWith 12 inch diameter. Cover the turnip seeds with half inch of the potting. Mixture. Place the container in a sunny location. And check the container daily as vegetables shown in containers.
How long does it take for purple top turnips to mature?
about 55 daysTurnips are a cool-weather crop and well adapted for the northern climate. The most vigorous root growth takes place during periods of low temperatures and they will reach maturity in about 55 days. Soil temperatures should be at least 50° for germination.
Will turnips grow after frost?
Root crops like carrots, turnips, beets, rutabagas and parsnips can remain in the garden after a frost and still be removed in good condition later, but get them dug and stored before the ground freezes.
How to grow turnips in a garden?
Soil samples are key. Turnips do best with a soil pH over 6.0. Lime and fertilize as needed. Spray. Wait. Then, work the soil with a disk. No “throw and grow” here. If broadcasting, plant at a 10- to 12-pound-per-acre seeding rate. If drilling, plant approximately 7 to 9 pounds per acre instead.
How long does it take for turnips to grow?
As mentioned, turnips grow much quicker than other plants. But it still takes 70 to 90 days to reach full maturity. Because of that, in the North, I prefer to plant as early as July. I know. I know. Never plant something unless the month has an R in it. With all due respect, that’s a bunch of hogwash.
Why do I like turnips?
I really like turnips because they offer food sources in two stages: first the leafy plant and then the turnip (root) itself afterward. This plant ranges from 15 to 22 percent protein. It’s easily digestible (very palatable), too. The yields are generally very high.
When should I plant food plots?
I’ve planted numerous fall and winter food source food plots in May, June, July and August that flourished and grew well. The key is moisture. If you’re getting plenty of rain during the summer, and temperatures aren’t consistent record highs, you can plant. As for southern reaches, planting later into September will still leave enough time for adequate growth before the first frost.
Do turnips grow fast?
All jokes aside, turnips rank high on that list. As part of the brassicas family, a good turnip plot grows fast, feeds the herd, and looks pretty doing it. It’s easy to maintain as well. As a large broadleaf plant, if planted thick enough and given a good start, it quickly smothers out competing plants.
How to keep turnips from turning woody?
Keep soil evenly moist throughout the growing season to keep turnips from becoming woody. Mulch soil to preserve moisture and prevent weeds. Although turnips prefer cool weather, they do best with at least 6 hours of sun. Turnips will tolerate partial shade.
How long does it take to harvest turnip?
Harvest bulbs 45-50 days after planting when small and flavorful, and before the weather gets hot. Begin harvesting when bulbs are about 2 inches wide or about the size of a radish. Harvest turnip greens anytime they’ve grown to 10-12 inches. Harvest outer leaves as needed until turnip roots are harvested. 5.
Can you substitute turnips for potatoes?
Use the roots fresh, roasted, sautéed, or added to soup. Turnips can be substituted for potatoes with delicious results.
How to prepare a turnip garden?
Prepare planting beds in advance by applying garden compost and well-aged manure. Add sand or gypsum to heavy, clay soil or prepare beds by planting green manure and working it into the beds the season before seeding. Turnip Planting Time. Turnips are a cool-weather crop that requires 30 to 60 days to come to harvest.
How to keep turnips growing?
Water and feeding. Keep the soil moist to keep turnips growing as fast as possible. Do not let the soil dry out. When turnips grow slowly their roots become woody and strong flavored. Side dress turnips with aged compost at midseason.
How long does it take for turnips to grow?
Turnip Planting Time. Turnips are a cool-weather crop that requires 30 to 60 days to come to harvest. Turnips grow best in temperatures from 40°F to 75°F (7-24°C). They are best harvested before temperatures exceed 75°F (24°C) . Sow turnip seeds directly in the garden 2 to 3 weeks before the average last frost date in spring for a late spring or early summer harvest. Sow turnips in late summer for autumn harvest; in early autumn for late autumn harvest, and in late autumn for winter harvest in reverse-season regions.
How long do turnips last in the fridge?
Turnip greens will keep in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Roots will keep for 2 months in the refrigerator or store roots in a cold, moist place for 4 to 5 months, do not refrigerate. Cooked turnips can be frozen for up to 6 months. ‘Gold Ball’ turnip.
How long do turnip greens last in the refrigerator?
Thinned seedlings can be harvested for greens. Storing and Preserving Turnips. Turnip greens will keep in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
What causes white blisters on the underside of turnips?
Turnip Diseases. Turnips can be affected by white rust fungus which will cause small white cottony blisters on the upper surface of leaves and a yellow discoloration on the undersides. Control is not necessary.
When do turnips taste best?
Turnips grow and taste best when they come to harvest in cool weather.
What are the best turnips to grow?
Two excellent varieties to grow are White Globe Turnip Seeds and Purple Top Turnip Seeds.
How long does it take to harvest turnips?
Harvesting. Turnip greens can be harvested at any point. The roots can usually be harvest from 5 to 7 weeks for early varieties, and starting at 8 to 10 weeks for later maturing types. Turnips can be harvested at any size once the roots have formed their bulbs. They can be pulled from the ground at nearly any size.
What are turnip bulbs?
And two, as tender greens that can be prepared much like spinach or broccoli. Both turnip bulbs and greens are loaded with vitamins. In addition, they are excellent sources of iron and calcium as well.
How long do turnips last in the ground?
They will store well in a cool dark place for 3 to 4 months after harvest.
How to keep bulbs and greens growing?
Keep rows weed-free to allow for the bulbs and greens to reach their maximum growth.
Do turnips like loose soil?
Amend soil with generous amounts of compost before planting. As a root crop, turnips prefer loose, well-drained, fertile soil.
Can you grow turnips from seed?
When it comes to delicious easy-grow crops for the garden – it is hard to beat growing turnips from seed!
Do turnips need sun?
Turnips generally require a full sun location but will tolerate partial shade, especially if you plan on harvesting the plant for its greens. Preparing the bed to grow turnip plants in is easy. Just rake and hoe it as usual for planting.
Can you harvest turnips in the winter?
Having a vegetable crop you can actually use throughout the winter is a nice thing when you have a garden. Harvesting turnips can make a great root cellar vegetable for storing along with carrots, rutabagas, and beets. Printer Friendly Version. This article was last updated on 06/11/21. Read more about Turnips.
How to encourage germination of turnip seeds?
To encourage germination and prevent root rot, ensure that the soil is rich in organic matter and well-drained. Before sowing turnip seeds, work in well-rotted manure or compost to increase soil fertil ity. Consider adding complete organic fertilizer as well.
What zone do turnips grow in?
Turnips are hardy to USDA zones 2 to 9. Check local weather averages or contact your local Cooperative Extension Service to confirm when to plant turnip seeds in your area.
How long can you keep turnip greens in the fridge?
Refrigerate turnip greens for up to seven days. Keep small turnip roots in perforated plastic bags in the fridge for up to two weeks. There are less carbs in turnips vs potatoes so use them as a substitute for mashed potatoes or other potato dishes.
What color turnips are best for pollinators?
Yellow turnips have the best flavor after a couple of light frosts. Purple-topped turnips, meanwhile, produce greens over a long period and boast pollinator-friendly flowers in the spring.
What family are turnips in?
Turnips belong to the mustard family and are similar to other root vegetables like rutabagas. Root crops may not be the star of the show, but they’re reliable and bring a welcome heartiness to meals. Educate yourself about when to plant turnips to enjoy this tasty root vegetable in home cooking.
How long does it take for turnip seeds to sprout?
Gently rake them into the top quarter- to half-inch of soil. Water lightly to speed up germination. Turnip seeds should sprout in 7 to 14 days.
When do turnips start to harvest?
Turnips’ harvest date depends on the variety and planting date. Turnip greens are ready to start harvesting about one month after planting and taste better when they’re young and tender.
What is the best temperature to plant turnips?
Zone 13. 60 to 70°F (15.6°C to 21°C) It’s important to realize that the different states don’t fall into just one planting zone. The same applies to other countries, including Canada, that have gardening zones for hardiness and heat. When it comes to turnips, you can plant the seeds in early spring or in the fall, ...
What zone do turnips grow in?
Amazingly, turnips and turnip greens grow successfully in USDA zones 2 to 11. That’s just about anywhere!
How long does it take for turnips to grow?
They are quick growing and you can harvest the young and tender greens throughout the growing season. Turnip roots take 40-60 days to mature.
How tall do you need to thin seedlings?
Whether you scatter the seeds or push them into the ground, you will need to thin the seedlings when they are about 4 inches tall (10 cm). The bonus is that if you don’t want to plant the seedlings somewhere else, you can use them as microgreens in a salad.
Is a turnip a seed?
You might think that a turnip is just a turnip, but the seed you choose will produce a very specific type or cultivar of turnip.
Can turnips grow anywhere?
Turnips are an easy vegetable to grow and they grow very quickly. They also grow just about anywhere, as long as you plant well before the last frost date.
Can turnips be planted all year round?
A very old, but interesting, garden planning paper offered by the University of Hawaii shows that turnips can be planted all year round. But other sources reckon February is the best month!
How to pick a turnip?
To pick the perfect turnip, keep in mind that bigger is bitter, not better. Look for smaller bulbs that are about the size of a tennis ball and have a vibrant purple bottom.
What to do with roasted turnips?
For roasted turnips: Toss cubed turnips with olive oil and the seasonings of your choice, like fresh rosemary or garlic for a simple roasted turnips dish. Mix with cubed red potatoes and carrots on a sheet pan, then bake it all in the oven for a roasted root veggie dish.
How to cook turnip greens?
How to Cook Turnips. For sauteed turnips: Chop up your turnips into 1″ cubes and cook them in a pan with olive oil, salt and pepper. Don’t forget about the tops, too. Add the turnip greens at the end to wilt them in the pan, along with pieces of bacon or ham for extra flavor .
What is a turnip?
The turnip is a humble and hearty root vegetable. Learn how to cook turnips the right way so you can make an earthy and flavorful dinner or side dish. I love to look for turnips at my farmers market in late autumn. ( Find the best farmers market near you.) It seems that turnips are often overlooked in favor of other root vegetables like potatoes ...
What does turnip taste like?
The white-and-purple vegetable looks like a rutabaga, but tastes like a cross between cabbage and a radish. (It is a member of the cabbage family, after all!) Texture-wise, it’s similar to a potato, making the turnip a suitable substitute for starches in most recipes.
Can you use turnips in place of potatoes?
By using turnips in place of potatoes, I made a low-carb side. Now we rarely serve plain mashed potatoes! —Courtney Stultz, Weir, Kansas
Can turnips be used as root vegetables?
It seems that turnips are often overlooked in favor of other root vegetables like potatoes or parsnips —but it’s time to turn the spotlight back on this versatile vegetable. To help you “turnip” the heat in your kitchen, we’ve created a quick and easy guide on how to cook turnips.
