Turnip

Turnips prefer loose, well-drained soil around pH 6.0-7.5 and cool weather. Work in compost but avoid excess nitrogen when growing roots; rapid growth and steady moisture help prevent tough, strongly flavored roots.

Sun

Full sun to part shade

Water

Even moisture; about 1 in/week including rain

Spacing

4 in

First harvest

35–60 days

Tips

• Sow 1/4-1/2 inch deep and thin root varieties to 3-4 inches apart.
• Provide about 1 inch of water weekly without letting the soil cycle between drought and saturation.
• Keep weeds down with shallow cultivation so developing roots are not disturbed.
• Cover seedlings with insect mesh to limit flea beetles and root maggot flies.
• Harvest most roots at 2-3 inches across and take only a few leaves per plant if roots are the main crop.

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