How to Grow Turnips

Turnips are quick growing & easy to grow.

• germination time is 6 – 10 days
• time between sowing & lifting is 6 – 12 weeks

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Ideal soil for turnips is:

• firm
• non-acidic
• well drained
• dug in autumn before planting
• in sun

Sow turnip seeds:

• from March to July depending on variety
• very thinly
• 1cm (1/2in) deep
• in rows 20cm (8in) apart (for early varieties)  30 cm (12in)  apart (for late varieties)

Thin seedlings as soon as they are large enough to handle to:

• 25cm (10in) apart for maincrop
• 15 cm (6in) apart for earlies

To look after the growing turnips:

• remove weeds as they appear by hoeing
• water during dry periods, so bed always moist
• watch out for flea beetle

Harvest:

• 6 to 12 weeks after sowing – before too big
• May to September

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Turnips are best when they grow quickly, so it pays to look after them and keep them growing.