Leek Seeds

Mastering the Art of Growing Turnips: From Seed to Harves

Turnips are an often-overlooked root vegetable, but they’re incredibly versatile, nutritious, and easy to grow. Whether you’re a gardening novice or a seasoned green thumb, turnips can be a delightful addition to your vegetable patch. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about growing turnips, from selecting the right variety to enjoying the fruits (and greens) of your labour.

Why Grow Turnips?

Turnips are a cool-season crop that can be grown both for their roots and their leafy greens. They’re a fantastic source of Vitamin C, potassium, and fibre, and their peppery flavour adds a unique twist to a variety of dishes. Turnips are also relatively low-maintenance, making them ideal for gardeners of all skill levels.

Choosing the Right Turnip Variety

There are several varieties of turnips to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics:

Purple Top White Globe.

 This is the most common variety, known for its purple-tinted top and white flesh. It has a mild flavour and is suitable for a wide range of culinary uses.

Golden Ball:

A heritage variety with a sweeter flavour and a distinctive yellow flesh. It’s perfect for those who prefer a milder taste.

Tokyo Cross.

 A fast-growing, small, white turnip that’s known for its tenderness and suitability for eating raw.

Shogoin:

 This variety is grown primarily for its large, tender greens rather than the root, making it a great dual-purpose plant.

When selecting a variety, consider what you plan to use the turnips for—whether it's for the roots, the greens, or both—and choose accordingly.

When and Where to Plant Turnips

Turnips thrive in cool weather, making them ideal for spring and autumn planting. They can even tolerate light frosts, which can enhance the sweetness of the roots. For spring crops, sow the seeds directly into the garden as soon as the soil can be worked, typically 2-4 weeks before the last expected frost. For a fall harvest, plant turnip seeds in late summer, about 8-10 weeks before the first frost.

Soil Preparation:

Turnips prefer well-drained, loose soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. To prepare the soil, remove any large stones and clumps, and work in organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and drainage.

Planting Turnips

Sowing Seeds:

- Sow turnip seeds directly into the garden, planting them about 1 cm deep and 5-10 cm apart. 

- Rows should be spaced about 30 cm apart.

- Lightly cover the seeds with soil and water thoroughly.

Thinning:

Once the seedlings are about 5 cm tall, thin them out, leaving the strongest plants about 10-15 cm apart. Thinning is crucial as overcrowded turnips will not develop properly.

Caring for Turnip Plants

Watering:

Turnips need consistent moisture to develop tender roots. Water the plants regularly, keeping the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Mulching around the plants can help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.

Fertilising:

While turnips don’t require heavy feeding, they will benefit from a balanced fertiliser applied at the time of planting. Avoid over-fertilising, as too much nitrogen can result in lush greens at the expense of root development.

Weeding:

Keep the area around the turnips free from weeds, which can compete for nutrients and water. Be careful when weeding, as turnip roots are shallow and can be easily disturbed.

Common Problems and Solutions

Pests:

Turnips can be affected by common garden pests such as flea beetles, aphids, and root maggots. To prevent infestations, practice crop rotation, use row covers, and introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs into your garden.

  

Diseases:

Turnips can suffer from fungal diseases like downy mildew and clubroot. Ensuring good air circulation, avoiding overhead watering, and using disease-resistant varieties can help prevent these issues.

Bolting:

 In warmer weather, turnips may bolt, or prematurely flower, which affects root development. To avoid this, plant turnips in cooler seasons and provide shade if temperatures rise unexpectedly.

Harvesting Turnips

Turnips are typically ready to harvest 30-60 days after planting, depending on the variety. The roots should be about 5-10 cm in diameter for the best flavour and texture. To harvest, simply pull the roots from the soil, taking care not to damage them.

The greens can be harvested as needed, even before the roots are fully mature. Younger greens are more tender and less bitter, making them ideal for salads or as a cooked green.

Storing Turnips

Turnips can be stored for several weeks in the refrigerator. Remove the greens before storing, as they can draw moisture from the roots, causing them to wilt. The roots can also be stored in a cool, dry place like a root cellar, where they can last for several months.

Using Turnips in the Kitchen

Turnips are incredibly versatile in the kitchen. The roots can be roasted, mashed, or added to soups and stews, while the greens can be sautéed, steamed, or used fresh in salads. Their mild flavour pairs well with a variety of herbs and spices, making them a great addition to many dishes.

Here are a few ideas:

Roasted Turnips with Herbs:

Toss cubed turnips with olive oil, garlic, and your favourite herbs, then roast until golden and tender.

Turnip Greens Sauté:

 Quickly sauté turnip greens with garlic, chilli flakes, and a splash of lemon juice for a nutritious side dish.

Turnip and Potato Mash:

Blend boiled turnips with potatoes, butter, and cream for a twist on traditional mashed potatoes.

Conclusion

Growing turnips from seed is a straightforward process that rewards you with both delicious roots and nutritious greens. Whether you’re growing them for the first time or adding them to your regular garden rotation, turnips are a valuable crop that’s worth the effort. With proper care and attention, you’ll enjoy a bountiful harvest that can be used in a variety of culinary creations.