How to Grow Turnip
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Turnip
Brassica rapa subsp. rapa
vegetableTurnips are cool-season root vegetables with white or purple-skinned bulbous roots and edible leafy greens. They are fast-growing, nutritious crops that thrive in cooler climates and provide both roots and greens for harvest. Known for their slightly sweet, crisp flesh when young and tender tops that rival spinach in nutrition.
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Example Turnip timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Turnip
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Turnip
Around Jun 1≈ 45 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Turnip dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 2-9; prefers cool-season conditions in spring and fall
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Get my Turnip timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
2-3 weeksTiny cotyledons emerge with first true leaves appearing within 7-10 days; seedlings are delicate and thin-legged.
Keep soil consistently moist; thin seedlings to proper spacing when 2-3 inches tall; provide bright light; protect from cold drafts
Vegetative Growth
2-3 weeksRapid leaf development with characteristic lobed, slightly hairy turnip foliage; roots begin swelling beneath soil surface; plants establish robust root systems.
Maintain consistent moisture and fertility; thin to final spacing; monitor for pest damage; apply mulch to retain moisture and cool roots
Root Development
2-3 weeksRoot bulbs expand noticeably and become visible at soil surface; greens continue growing; roots transition from white to purple/pink shoulders in some varieties.
Avoid excessive nitrogen to prevent root splitting; continue consistent watering; avoid soil crusting; remove any soil covering the top of roots
Maturity
1-2 weeksRoots reach 2-3 inches diameter with smooth, firm texture; greens are full and vibrant; roots develop characteristic flavor
Monitor for root rot; harvest on time to prevent woodiness; continue harvesting greens from the outside
Harvest
Harvest windowRoots are fully developed and tender; greens are abundant and ideal for harvest; plant is ready for pulling or storing
Harvest greens by pinching outer leaves; pull roots carefully when soil is moist; store roots in cool conditions; use greens fresh or dried
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Use row covers, diatomaceous earth, spinosad spray; plant resistant varieties; encourage beneficial insects
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Use row covers; destroy infested roots; practice crop rotation; apply beneficial nematodes to soil
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Hand-pick; use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt); row covers; encourage parasitic wasps
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Spray with water; insecticidal soap; neem oil; introduce ladybugs and lacewings
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Improve air circulation; remove infected leaves; sulfur dust or neem oil spray; avoid overhead watering
Uses
Root vegetable cooking
CulinaryYoung turnips are roasted, steamed, mashed, or served raw in slaws. The tender roots have a mild, slightly sweet flavor that works in curries, stews, and as a potato substitute. [source]
Turnip greens
CulinaryLeafy tops are eaten like spinach or kale—sautéed, wilted into soups, or used raw in salads. Greens are highly nutritious with more calcium and vitamins than the roots. [source]
Nutritional supplement
MedicinalTurnips are rich in vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. Both roots and greens contain glucosinolates, compounds studied for potential anti-cancer properties. [source]
Root storage crop
HouseholdTurnips are traditional winter storage vegetables that keep for months in cool conditions, providing nutrition through colder seasons when fresh produce is scarce. [source]
Beneficial crop
WildlifeTurnip flowers attract pollinators and beneficial insects; the crop helps break pest cycles when rotated into brassica-heavy gardens. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Harvest greens anytime after plants are 4 inches tall by pinching outer leaves; harvest roots when 2-3 inches in diameter (30-50 days) for tender, mild flavor; larger roots become woody and bitter; pull roots from moist soil by grasping at the crown and pulling gently; store roots in a cool, humid location (32-40°F) for 4-5 months; both roots and greens are best used fresh but can be preserved by freezing, pickling, or drying
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Turnips have been cultivated for over 2,000 years and were a staple crop in ancient Rome and China before potatoes arrived in Europe.
- 🌱 In Scotland and Ireland, 'neeps' (turnips) are traditionally served with haggis on Burns Night and are carved into lanterns much like pumpkins.
- 🌱 Turnip greens contain more nutrients per calorie than the roots themselves, making them a nutritional powerhouse often overlooked by home gardeners.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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