Turnip
Brassica rapa · Brassicaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant turnip: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Type
- Annual or biennial herbaceous plant
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Blooming
- Spring (April-May), yellow flowers
- Adult size
- 30 to 60 cm in height
- Growth
- Fast (60 to 90 days of cultivation)
- Hardiness
- Good, tolerates light frosts
- Origin
- Southeast Asia
- Soil type
- Fertile, well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral
Care
Watering
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not saturated, ideally 1 to 2 times per week depending on climate conditions. During dry periods, increase frequency to prevent the tuber from becoming fibrous. Avoid water stress which promotes bitterness and bolting (going to seed).
Exposure
Place your turnip in direct sun, at least 6 to 8 hours per day for optimal growth. Sunny exposure also promotes rapid tuber formation. In very hot climates, light afternoon shade can be beneficial.
Soil and preparation
Prepare soil rich in organic matter, well loosened to at least 30 cm deep to facilitate tuber development. Avoid compacted or overly clay soils. Adding mature compost before planting improves soil structure and fertility.
Fertilizer
Apply balanced fertilizer or one high in potassium 4 to 6 weeks after germination to support tuber formation. Avoid excess nitrogen which promotes foliage at the expense of roots. Organic fertilizer such as compost or composted manure works best.
Thinning and maintenance
Thin seedlings to 10-15 cm spacing between plants as soon as cotyledons are well developed to reduce competition. Remove diseased or damaged leaves. No pruning is necessary during the growth period.
Diseases and pests
Watch for flea beetles (small jumping beetles) and cabbage flies, especially on young plants. Apply row covers at the start of cultivation if needed. Practice crop rotation and remove debris to reduce fungal disease risk.
Harvest
Harvest the turnip when the tuber reaches 5 to 10 cm in diameter, depending on your preference (more tender if smaller). Usually 60 to 90 days after sowing. Young leaves are also edible and can be harvested gradually.
Did you know?
The turnip was long a major food crop in Europe before being supplanted by the potato in the 18th century. In Tsarist Russia, it was called the "queen of the poor man's vegetables" because its cultivation was profitable and undemanding. Today, in Asia, Brassica rapa varieties remain a cornerstone of home gardens, and the leaves (turnip greens) are valued as much as the tubers.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.