GardenBreezy
Turnips (Brassica rapa subsp. rapa)

Vegetable Grow Guides

How to Grow Organic Turnips from Seed

Brassica rapa subsp. rapa

SpringSummerFallWinter

About Turnips

Turnips are grown for swollen roots and for greens. The edible part is a root, not a “bulb-like stalk.” Fast and forgiving in cool weather.

When to Plant

Direct-sow 2–4 weeks before last frost and again in late summer for fall. Fall roots are sweeter.

How to Plant

Sow ¼–½ inch deep, fairly densely, then thin to 3–4 inches (do not try to sow both ½ inch and 4 inches apart at once). Rows 12–18 inches. Even moisture.

When to Harvest

Pull roots at 2–3 inches. Greens can be cut earlier. Large roots get woody. Store like carrots in the cold.