Turnip

How to Grow Turnip:

• Sowing: Grow Turnips in cool weather three weeks before the last frost in the spring. For fall harvest, plant after the hottest part of summer. Sow seeds directly into rich, cultivated soil 1/2 "deep in rows 12-18" apart. Thin the seedlings as they grow 4-6″ apart.
• Plant Spacing: 4-6″.
• Growing of Turnip: Mulch the plants to retain moisture and control weeds. Beware of pests such as red and black harlequin bugs, which are dangerous to crops.
• Turnip Soil Requirements for: Loose, organic, composted, well-drained.
• Turnip Days to Germination: 3-10 days.
• Light Preference of Turnip: Full sun – partial shade.
• How and When to Harvest Turnip: The greens can be plucked as soon as they are suitable for human consumption. When using greenery and root at the same time, it is recommended to collect 2-3 leaves from the bush. The most delicate and aromatic turnips are small in size, up to 1-3″. When storing, trim the top to 1/2″ and store in a cool, dark place without rinsing off any dirt. In regions with warm winters, a layer of mulch will be sufficient for wintering.
• Turnip Seeds Days to Maturity: up to 60 days.
• Turnip's Seed Saving: It is common for turnip to cross-pollinate with other turnip varieties, so isolate it for genetic purity. Turnip must overwinter before giving seeds. In warm regions, a layer of mulch will suffice. In colder climates, scoop up the turnips, cut the tops off to 1 ″, and store in wet sand at 33-40 degrees F until spring. The plant will bloom, and seed pods will appear, which will turn brown. Cut them off, thresh the seeds, dry them—store seeds in a cool, dry place for up to 4 years.

FAST FACTS:

• Latin Name: Brassica rapa
• Type: Open Pollinated, Heirloom, Cool Season
• USDA Zones: 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
• Seeds per Ounce: 10,000
• Planting Method: Direct Sow
• Sunlight: Full Sun, Part Sun
• Height: 18 Inches
• Color: White