What To Know
- This guide will walk you through the process of growing turnip greens from turnip, from seed to harvest, ensuring you have a bountiful supply of these tasty greens.
- Store freshly harvested turnip greens in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Can I grow turnip greens from a turnip bought at the store.
Turnip greens, with their peppery bite and vibrant green color, are a delicious and nutritious addition to any meal. But did you know you can grow these leafy delights from the humble turnip itself? This guide will walk you through the process of growing turnip greens from turnip, from seed to harvest, ensuring you have a bountiful supply of these tasty greens.
Choosing the Right Turnip for Greens
While all turnip varieties will produce greens, some are specifically bred for their foliage. Look for varieties like “Tokyo Cross” or “Golden Ball” which are known for their abundant leaf production. When choosing your turnip, opt for firm, smooth bulbs with no signs of damage or rot.
Preparing the Soil for Your Turnip Greens
Turnip greens thrive in well-drained, fertile soil with a slightly acidic pH (6.0-6.5). Before planting, amend your soil with compost or aged manure to improve its texture and nutrient content. You can also add a balanced fertilizer to provide essential nutrients for growth.
Planting Your Turnip for Greens
Direct Sowing:
- Sow turnip seeds directly into the soil after the last frost has passed.
- Space seeds 1-2 inches apart and 12-18 inches between rows.
- Cover the seeds with about 1/4 inch of soil.
- Keep the soil consistently moist until germination, which typically takes 5-7 days.
Transplanting:
- Start turnip seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost.
- Transplant seedlings into the garden when they have 2-3 true leaves.
- Space seedlings 12-18 inches apart.
Providing Optimal Care for Your Turnip Greens
Watering:
- Water your turnip greens regularly, especially during dry periods.
- Aim for consistent moisture, avoiding both waterlogging and dryness.
Fertilizing:
- Side-dress your turnip greens with a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks, especially during periods of rapid growth.
- You can also use organic fertilizers like compost tea or fish emulsion.
Weeding:
- Keep the area around your turnip greens free of weeds.
- Weeds compete for nutrients and water, hindering the growth of your greens.
Pest and Disease Control:
- Monitor your turnip greens for signs of pests and diseases.
- Common pests include aphids, flea beetles, and cabbage worms.
- Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Rotate crops annually to prevent disease buildup.
Harvesting Your Delicious Turnip Greens
- You can start harvesting turnip greens when they are 4-6 inches tall.
- Harvest the outer leaves first, leaving the inner leaves to continue growing.
- Cut the leaves with a sharp knife or scissors, leaving about 1 inch of stem attached to the bulb.
- Harvest greens every 2-3 weeks for a continuous supply.
Extending Your Harvest: A Guide to Successive Planting
To ensure a continuous supply of turnip greens, practice successive planting. This involves planting new seeds or seedlings every 2-3 weeks, creating a staggered harvest schedule. By planting in succession, you can enjoy fresh turnip greens throughout the growing season.
From Turnip Greens to Delicious Dishes: Culinary Inspiration
Turnip greens are a versatile ingredient that can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Sautéed Turnip Greens: Sauté turnip greens with garlic, onion, and a touch of salt and pepper for a simple and flavorful side dish.
- Turnip Green Soup: Blend turnip greens with potatoes, onions, and broth for a hearty and nutritious soup.
- Turnip Green Salad: Add chopped turnip greens to your favorite salad for a peppery kick.
- Turnip Green Quiche: Incorporate chopped turnip greens into a savory quiche for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Time to Reap the Rewards: The Final Harvest
Final Harvest: Once your turnip greens have reached their peak size, you can harvest the entire plant. Simply cut the leaves at the base, leaving the root in the ground.
Storing Your Turnip Greens:
- Store freshly harvested turnip greens in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- You can also blanch and freeze turnip greens for longer storage.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: Can I grow turnip greens from a turnip bought at the store?
A: While it’s possible, the success rate is lower. Store-bought turnips are often treated with growth regulators that can interfere with seed production.
Q: What are the best conditions for growing turnip greens?
A: Turnip greens thrive in cool weather and full sun. They need well-drained, fertile soil with a slightly acidic pH.
Q: What are some common pests and diseases that affect turnip greens?
A: Common pests include aphids, flea beetles, and cabbage worms. Diseases include black rot and downy mildew.
Q: How long does it take for turnip greens to grow?
A: Turnip greens can be harvested in about 4-6 weeks after planting.
Q: What are the nutritional benefits of turnip greens?
A: Turnip greens are a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber, calcium, and iron.
