How to Grow Turnip Seven Top
Turnip Seven Top
Brassica rapa subsp. rapa
vegetableTurnip Seven Top is a cold-hardy brassica grown primarily for its nutritious leafy greens rather than its small, fibrous roots. The plant produces abundant, tender foliage with a mild, slightly peppery flavor ideal for cooking. It's an excellent cool-season crop that thrives in fall and winter gardens.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-9; best as a fall/winter crop in warmer zones
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Growth Stages
Germination
3-7 daysSeeds sprout and first cotyledons emerge from soil
Keep soil moist. Maintain temperature between 50-75°F. Thin seedlings to proper spacing once first true leaves appear.
Seedling to Young Plant
2-3 weeksTrue leaves develop and plants establish root systems; foliage remains tender and small
Thin to 6-inch spacing. Water consistently. Protect from heavy frost if needed. Begin light harvesting of outer leaves if desired.
Vegetative Growth
3-5 weeksPlants produce abundant, deeply lobed green leaves on long petioles; roots remain small and undeveloped
Maintain consistent moisture and moderate temperatures (40-70°F ideal). Fertilize every 3-4 weeks with balanced fertilizer. Mulch to retain moisture and keep soil cool.
Peak Harvest
4-8 weeksPlants reach full size with lush, abundant foliage; leaves are tender and flavorful
Harvest outer leaves regularly to encourage continued production. Remove any yellowing or damaged leaves. Continue watering and feeding. Avoid harvesting in extreme heat.
Maturity & Decline
Varies by seasonPlants bolt or become tough and bitter in warm weather; foliage may yellow
Remove and compost spent plants. In cool climates, plants may overwinter and regrow in spring. Prevent bolting by maintaining cool temperatures and consistent moisture.
Common Pests
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Use row covers, hand-pick, apply Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), or use neem oil
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Use row covers on young plants, dust with diatomaceous earth, or spray with neem oil
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Spray with strong water stream, use insecticidal soap, or apply neem oil
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Hand-pick larvae, use row covers, or apply spinosad
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Use yellow sticky traps, spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil
Uses
Nutritious Leafy Green
CulinarySeven Top greens are cooked similar to collards or kale and offer a mild, slightly peppery flavor. They're rich in vitamins A, C, K, and calcium, making them an excellent addition to soups, stews, sautés, and salads. [source]
Southern & Global Cuisine
CulinaryParticularly valued in Southern U.S., African, and Asian cuisines where turnip greens are a traditional comfort food. Often cooked with onions, garlic, and spices or combined with other greens in mixed dishes. [source]
Year-Round Greens Production
HouseholdSeven Top's cold-hardiness makes it one of the most reliable cool-season greens for fall, winter, and early spring harvests. It can produce through light freezes and continues growing when other crops have stopped. [source]
Nutrient-Dense Superfood
MedicinalTurnip greens contain glucosinolates and other phytochemicals with potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. They're exceptionally high in vitamins and minerals that support bone health, immune function, and overall wellness. [source]
Wildlife Support
WildlifeSeven Top greens provide forage for deer, rabbits, and other herbivores. A fall planting can serve as a wildlife food source during lean months, supporting local ecosystems. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Begin harvesting outer leaves when plants are 4-6 inches tall, leaving inner leaves to continue growing. For continuous harvest, pick the outermost leaves regularly. Harvest in the morning for best flavor and texture. Entire plants can be cut at soil level when mature. Tender young leaves are best harvested during cool weather (fall/winter/early spring). Avoid harvesting during extreme heat, which may cause bitterness.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Turnip Seven Top earned its name from the belief that one plant produces seven leafy 'tops' or main branches, though modern cultivars often produce more abundant foliage.
- 🌱 Unlike most turnip varieties bred for roots, Seven Top was specifically selected for prolific leaf production and is sometimes called 'Southern Giant Curled' or 'Greens' type turnips.
- 🌱 The small, tough roots of Seven Top are typically considered inedible, making it one of the few root crops grown almost exclusively for its above-ground foliage rather than underground produce.
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