Basics

Ease of Growing
Moderate
Grown as
Biennial
Days to Maturity
45-65 (Spring/Summer), 55-75 (Fall/Winter)
Growing Habit
-
Hardiness
Hardy

Turnips are a cool-weather crop and can survive temperatures as low as 25 degrees F.

Crops
Spring, Fall
Growing Season
Short, Long
Cultivar Type
-
Growing Conditions
Cold, Cool

Turnip is a cool weather plant and needs cold to encourage it to store sugars in the root, rather than make foliage.

In warm weather the roots often become pungent, bitter and woody. This is why spring planted turnips are rarely as good as those planted as a fall crop.

Outdoor Growing Temp
40°F - 85°F
Min Outdoor Soil Temp
45°F

Turnip seed germinates quickly even at low temperatures

Start Indoors
No
Start Outdoors
Yes
Light
Water
Moderate

Turnips don't need a lot of water, but it should be available constantly and not fluctuate too much. If the soil gets too dry, they can get woody and may even bolt.

Feeder
Light

Low nitrogen. Low phosphorous. Low potassium.

Turnips don't require a lot of nitrogen, unless you are growing them for greens, as this encourages foliage growth rather than root growth.

Suitability
Tolerates light frost
Small Gardens?
Yes
Containers?
Yes

A container for growing turnips should be at least 12" deep to allow for their roots. The seed should be planted 1/4" deep (never transplanted). Use a fairly rich soil mix that drains freely.

Attracts beneficial insects?
No
Color
Yellow
Fruit Size
3.0 - 4.0"
Plant Height
14.0 - 22.0"
Plant Diameter
3.0 - 4.0"
Hardiness Zone
3-11
Disease Resistance
-
Taste Profile

Sweeter and milder.

Rotation Group
Roots: Alliums + Umbeliferae