Crop guide · Brassica rapa
Turnips
Dates below are counted from the average last spring frost or the average first fall frost. Enter a ZIP in the calendar for NOAA 1991–2020 station averages, or pick a zone and use the zone table.
When to plant
Direct sow4 weeks before the average last spring frost.
Direct sow10 weeks before the average first fall frost.
Soil and site
Average, well-drained soil. Consistent moisture keeps roots mild and crisp.
Seedlings
Thin to 3–4 in for roots; leave closer if growing mostly for greens.
In the garden
Greens are ready in about 30 days — take a few outer leaves without hurting the root.
Picking
Pull at 2–3 in for the sweetest roots. Light frost improves flavor.
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Dates by zone
These pages turn the same frost offsets into calendar dates for each zone the calendar covers.