Introduction
Turnips are a versatile root vegetable, ideal for both their roots and leafy greens. They are relatively easy to grow and thrive in the cooler seasons of the year, making them a great addition to your vegetable garden in the southeast UK.
Why grow turnips?
Turnips are a rich source of vitamins C and K, as well as fibre and antioxidants. Growing your own turnips ensures a fresh, chemical-free supply of this nutritious vegetable. Both the roots and the greens can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes.
Suitability for different growing environments
Turnips are well-suited to cooler climates and can be grown in the ground or raised beds. They prefer fertile, well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Turnips are a fast-growing crop that can be harvested in as little as six to ten weeks.
Lifecycle
Turnips are a biennial plant typically grown as an annual. They can be sown directly into the ground from early spring to late summer. Turnips mature quickly, with most varieties ready to harvest within two to three months of sowing.
Sowing and harvesting periods
- Sowing: March to August
- Harvesting: May to October
Recommended varieties
Popular turnip varieties for the UK include:
- ‘Purple Top Milan’
- ‘Golden Ball’
- ‘Snowball’
- ‘Tokyo Cross’
How to sow
Sow turnip seeds directly into the soil, ½ inch (1.25 cm) deep, from March to August. Space the seeds about 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) apart in rows 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) apart. Thin seedlings to the recommended spacing once they are large enough to handle.
How to prick out/pot on
Turnips are best sown directly into their final growing position. If starting indoors, transplant seedlings when they have two to three true leaves, ensuring minimal disturbance to the roots.
Where to plant
Choose a sunny or partially shaded location with well-drained, fertile soil. Enrich the soil with compost or well-rotted manure before planting. Turnips can tolerate light frost, making them suitable for early spring and late autumn plantings.
How many to plant (spacing)
Plant turnip seeds about 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) apart in rows 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) apart. This spacing allows the roots to develop fully without competition and ensures good air circulation.
How to plant
Sow seeds directly into the soil, or transplant seedlings when they are large enough to handle. Water well after planting and mulch around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Regular watering is important, especially during dry spells.
Protecting your plants
Turnips can be susceptible to pests such as flea beetles, aphids, and root maggots. Use floating row covers to protect young plants and encourage beneficial insects to help control pest populations. Regular weeding and good garden hygiene can also help prevent pest issues.
How to feed and water
Turnips require consistent moisture for good root development. Water regularly, especially during dry periods, to keep the soil evenly moist. Feed plants with a balanced fertiliser every few weeks to promote healthy growth.
How to propagate, prune/manage while growing
Turnips are typically grown from seed and do not require pruning. Ensure that the soil is kept weed-free to reduce competition for nutrients and water. Thin seedlings to the recommended spacing to allow the roots to develop properly.
How and when to harvest
Harvest turnips when the roots are 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm) in diameter, usually about 6-10 weeks after sowing. Use a garden fork to gently lift the roots from the soil. Turnip greens can be harvested when they are young and tender, but be sure to leave some foliage to continue feeding the roots.
How to store
Store harvested turnips in a cool, dark place for several weeks. Alternatively, store them in the refrigerator in a perforated plastic bag for up to two weeks. Turnip greens can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days.
How to eat/cook
Turnips can be enjoyed raw, roasted, boiled, or mashed. They are a great addition to soups, stews, and salads. The greens can be sautéed, steamed, or used in soups and stir-fries.
How to deal with pests and disease
Common pests include flea beetles, aphids, and root maggots. Use row covers to protect young plants and practice crop rotation to reduce the risk of soil-borne diseases such as clubroot. Maintain good garden hygiene by removing plant debris and controlling weeds.
When and how to remove the plants
Remove turnip plants after harvesting by pulling them out of the ground. Compost the plant material or dispose of it if there are signs of disease. Prepare the soil for the next crop by adding compost or well-rotted manure.
What to plant before and after
Good preceding crops for turnips include legumes like peas and beans, which help fix nitrogen in the soil. Leafy greens such as spinach and lettuce are also suitable. After harvesting turnips, plant nitrogen-fixing crops like peas or beans to replenish the soil. Alternatively, grow leafy greens like spinach or lettuce, which will benefit from the enriched soil.
What to interplant with
Turnips can be interplanted with fast-growing crops like radishes or lettuce, which can be harvested before the turnips need the space. Companion plants like mint and rosemary can help deter pests and improve growth. Avoid planting turnips near other brassicas to reduce the risk of disease.