What To Know
- Autumn is a magical time for gardening, and growing autumn turnips is a delicious way to enjoy the season.
- They tend to have a longer growing season than spring turnips, so you’ll want to choose a variety that matures within the timeframe of your local climate.
- Use a garden fork or tiller to loosen the soil to a depth of 8-10 inches.
Autumn is a magical time for gardening, and growing autumn turnips is a delicious way to enjoy the season. These crisp, sweet roots add a delightful crunch to salads, soups, and roasts. But how do you grow these tasty treats? This guide will walk you through the steps, from seed to harvest, so you can enjoy fresh, homegrown turnips all fall long.
Choosing the Right Turnip Variety
The first step to successful turnip growing is selecting the right variety. Autumn turnips, also known as winter turnips, are bred for their ability to withstand cooler temperatures. They tend to have a longer growing season than spring turnips, so you’ll want to choose a variety that matures within the timeframe of your local climate.
Here are a few popular autumn turnip varieties:
- Tokyo Cross: This fast-growing variety is known for its mild flavor and tender flesh.
- Purple Top White Globe: A classic choice, this variety boasts a purple top and a white, globe-shaped root.
- Just Right: This variety is ideal for smaller gardens, as it produces compact turnips with a sweet, mild flavor.
- Topper: This variety is known for its large, flavorful roots, making it perfect for roasting or braising.
Preparing Your Garden Bed
Turnips thrive in well-drained soil with a slightly acidic pH of 6.0 to 6.5. Before planting, amend your soil with compost or aged manure to improve its fertility and drainage.
Here are the steps to prepare your garden bed:
1. Clear the area: Remove any weeds, debris, or existing plants from the planting area.
2. Till the soil: Use a garden fork or tiller to loosen the soil to a depth of 8-10 inches.
3. Incorporate amendments: Mix in a generous amount of compost or aged manure to improve soil fertility and drainage.
4. Level the bed: Rake the soil to create a smooth, even surface for planting.
Planting Your Turnip Seeds
Turnip seeds are best sown directly in the garden bed. Sow the seeds in rows 12 inches apart, with 2-3 inches between each seed. You can plant seeds in the early fall, as long as the soil temperature is above 40°F.
Here’s how to plant your turnip seeds:
1. Make shallow furrows: Use a hoe or your finger to create shallow furrows, about ½ inch deep, in the prepared garden bed.
2. Sow the seeds: Drop 2-3 seeds into each furrow, spacing them 2-3 inches apart.
3. Cover the seeds: Gently cover the seeds with soil, patting it down lightly.
4. Water thoroughly: Water the seeds gently to settle the soil and encourage germination.
Caring for Your Turnip Plants
Once your turnip seedlings emerge, they’ll need regular care to thrive. Here’s a breakdown of essential care practices:
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Water deeply and infrequently, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
Weeding: Regularly remove weeds from around your turnip plants to prevent them from competing for nutrients and water.
Thinning: Once your seedlings have a few true leaves, thin them out to one plant per 4-6 inches. This ensures adequate space for each plant to grow.
Fertilizing: If your soil is lacking in nutrients, you can apply a balanced fertilizer every few weeks. However, over-fertilizing can lead to leafy growth at the expense of root development, so use fertilizer sparingly.
Pest and Disease Control: Turnips are generally pest-resistant, but they can be susceptible to certain diseases. Regularly inspect your plants for signs of pests or diseases, and treat them promptly if necessary.
Harvesting Your Autumn Turnips
Turnips are ready for harvest when they reach the desired size, typically 2-3 inches in diameter. The best time to harvest is in the early morning or late evening, when the weather is cool.
Here’s how to harvest your autumn turnips:
1. Use a sharp knife or garden trowel: Carefully dig around the base of the turnip, being careful not to damage the root.
2. Lift the turnip: Gently lift the turnip out of the ground, avoiding pulling on the leaves.
3. Clean the turnip: Brush off any excess soil from the turnip.
4. Store the turnip: Store your harvested turnips in a cool, dry place for up to a week.
Enjoy Your Homegrown Autumn Turnips
Congratulations! You’ve successfully grown your own autumn turnips. Now it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Turnips can be enjoyed in a variety of ways:
- Salads: Slice or dice turnips and add them to salads for a crisp, sweet addition.
- Soups: Roast or sauté turnips and add them to soups for a rich, earthy flavor.
- Roasted: Roast turnips with olive oil, salt, and pepper for a simple and delicious side dish.
- Braised: Braise turnips with herbs and spices for a flavorful and tender dish.
- Pickled: Pickle turnips for a tangy and crunchy snack.
Beyond the Harvest: Extending Your Turnip Season
For those looking to extend their turnip season, consider using a cold frame or row cover to protect your plants from frost. These methods can help your turnips continue growing well into the winter months, ensuring a steady supply of fresh produce.
A Delicious Ending: Your Autumn Turnip Feast
Growing autumn turnips is a rewarding experience, offering a fresh, flavorful harvest in the cooler months. By following these simple tips, you can enjoy the sweet crunch of homegrown turnips all season long. So get planting, and prepare for a delicious autumn feast!
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: When is the best time to plant autumn turnips?
A: The best time to plant autumn turnips is in the early fall, after the hottest part of summer has passed. Aim for a time when the soil temperature is consistently above 40°F.
Q: How long does it take for autumn turnips to mature?
A: The time it takes for autumn turnips to mature varies depending on the variety and growing conditions, but it typically takes 45-60 days.
Q: Can I grow autumn turnips in containers?
A: Yes, you can grow autumn turnips in containers. Choose a container that is at least 12 inches wide and deep, and fill it with a well-draining potting mix.
Q: What are some common pests and diseases that affect turnips?
A: Turnips are generally pest-resistant, but they can be susceptible to certain diseases, such as clubroot and white rust. Regularly inspect your plants for signs of pests or diseases, and treat them promptly if necessary.
Q: Can I store harvested turnips for a long time?
A: Harvested turnips can be stored in a cool, dry place for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze turnips by blanching them first.
