Growing Organic Turnips

Turnips are a popular easy to grow cool weather crop. They grow in full sun to partial shade and like a rich well-drained soil with the pH of 6.5

Sow turnip seed directly in the ground as early as the soil can be worked. Sow turnip thinly ¼-½” deep. Space young turnip plants to 4-6” apart. Grow a second crop of turnips in the fall by planting seeds in late summer. If growing turnips mainly for the tasty tops, sow thickly and don’t thin to much

Turnips grow best in temperatures from 40°F to 75°F. Turnips are best harvested before temperatures exceed 75°F.

Keep turnips moist but not soggy.

Keep planting beds weed free. Overcrowding may cause small roots. Mulch turnips with straw to protect the tuber tops from sunburn.

Turnips benefit from regular feedings with a compost tea or organic fertilizer with higher amounts of phosphorous and potassium for good root development.

Never use any pesticide – Cabbage worms can be a problem. Look for tell-tale holes chewed into the foliage, and scour the foliage regularly for the small green worms. Remove them when you see them by hand-picking and dropping them into a cup of soapy water. If you’re seeing a large infestation, you can treat your plants with Bt to take care of the worms.

Turnips are ready to harvest 30 to 60 days after sowing. Lift roots when they are 2 to 3 inches in diameter.

Turnips will store in the refrigerator for up to two months. The turnip greens will keep in refrigerator for up to seven days.