Turnips
Brassica rapa subsp. rapa
Turnips are biennials usually grown as annuals. Although turnips are more of a staple in European kitchens, many southern gardeners like to grow them for their greens. Turnips grow best in a temperate climate but can endure light frost. Fall crops are usually sweeter and more tender than spring crops—and pests are less of a problem.
How to Grow Turnips
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Growing from Seed
Scatter turnip seed and cover very lightly with soil.
Planting Considerations
Soil should be well-draining and loosened to a depth of 12 to 15 inches.
Harvesting
Harvest some turnips very early as greens. Harvest early types after about 5 weeks; maincrop types after 6 to 10 weeks. Harvest turnips at any size you wish. The small, young turnips are nice and tender. Pull mature turnips before they become woody and before the first frost.
Storage
Store for up to 3 or 4 months in a cool outdoor place covered with straw.
