How to Grow Big Turnips: The Ultimate Guide for Stunning Results

Are you ready to harvest monstrous turnips that would make even a giant envious? This comprehensive guide will teach you how to grow big turnips, from selecting the right variety to maximizing your yield. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a newbie, these tips will help you cultivate impressive, delicious turnips that will be the envy of your neighborhood.

Choosing the Right Turnip Variety

The first step to growing big turnips is selecting the right variety. Not all turnips are created equal, and some are naturally predisposed to grow larger than others. Here are some popular varieties known for their size:

• “Purple Top White Globe”: This classic variety produces large, white turnips with a purple top.
• “Golden Ball”: As its name suggests, this variety produces golden-yellow turnips with a sweet flavor.
• “Topper”: This variety is known for its large size and fast growth time.

Preparing the Soil for Success

Turnips thrive in loose, well-drained soil. Here’s how to prepare your garden bed for optimal growth:

1. Choose a sunny spot: Turnips need at least six hours of sunlight per day.
2. Test the soil pH: Turnips prefer a slightly acidic soil pH between 6.0 and 6.5. If your soil is too alkaline, you can amend it with sulfur.
3. Till the soil: Loosen the soil to a depth of 8-10 inches. This allows roots to grow deeper and absorb nutrients more easily.
4. Incorporate organic matter: Mix in compost or aged manure to improve soil structure and fertility.

Sowing Your Seeds: Timing is Key

The best time to sow turnip seeds is in the early spring or late summer/early fall. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Direct sow seeds: Turnips are best sown directly into the garden bed.
2. Spacing: Space seeds about 1 inch apart in rows that are 12-18 inches apart.
3. Depth: Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep.
4. Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.
5. Thinning: When seedlings are about 2 inches tall, thin them out to 4-6 inches apart.

Providing Nourishment: A Balanced Diet

Turnips are moderate feeders, so they benefit from regular fertilization. Here’s how to keep your turnips healthy and growing strong:

1. Start with a balanced fertilizer: At planting time, apply a balanced fertilizer (such as 10-10-10) according to package instructions.
2. Side dress with compost: A couple of weeks after germination, side dress your plants with compost or manure.
3. Monitor plant growth: If your plants show signs of nutrient deficiency (such as stunted growth or yellowing leaves), you can apply a liquid fertilizer diluted in water.

Keeping Pests at Bay: Protecting Your Crop

Turnips are susceptible to a few common pests, including flea beetles, cabbage worms, and root maggots. Here are some strategies to protect your plants:

1. Row covers: Use floating row covers to protect young seedlings from flea beetles.
2. Handpicking: Regularly inspect your plants and handpick any cabbage worms you find.
3. Diatomaceous earth: Sprinkle diatomaceous earth around the base of your plants to deter root maggots.

Watering Wisely: A Balancing Act

Turnips need consistent moisture, especially during the early stages of growth. Here’s how to water effectively:

1. Deep watering: Water deeply but infrequently. This encourages deeper root growth.
2. Morning watering: Water in the morning to allow the soil to dry slightly before nightfall.
3. Mulch: Apply a layer of mulch around your plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Harvesting Your Giant Turnips: A Moment of Triumph

Turnips are ready to harvest when they reach your desired size. Here’s how to know when they’re ripe:

1. Size: Turnips are typically ready to harvest when they are 2-3 inches in diameter.
2. Texture: The flesh should be firm and crisp to the touch.
3. Flavor: Turnips are best harvested when they are young and tender, as they become more pungent with age.

Turnip Storage: Keeping Your Harvest Fresh

Turnips can be stored in a cool, dry place for several weeks. Here are some tips for storing your harvest:

1. Trim the greens: Cut off the leaves, leaving about an inch of stem.
2. Wrap in paper towels: Wrap each turnip individually in a paper towel to absorb excess moisture.
3. Store in a plastic bag: Place the wrapped turnips in a plastic bag and store in the refrigerator.

Beyond the Basics: Growing Turnips in Containers

You can also grow turnips in containers. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

1. Choose a large container: Turnips need plenty of space for their roots to grow, so select a container that is at least 12 inches deep and wide.
2. Use well-draining potting mix: Make sure your potting mix is well-draining to prevent root rot.
3. Provide adequate sunlight: Place your container in a sunny location that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day.

The Final Chapter: Enjoying Your Turnip Bounty

Congratulations! You’ve successfully grown giant turnips. Now it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Here are some delicious ways to use your turnips:

• Roasted: Toss turnips with olive oil, salt, and pepper and roast in a preheated oven until tender.
• Mashed: Mash cooked turnips with butter, salt, and pepper for a creamy side dish.
• Pickled: Pickle turnips for a tangy and crunchy snack.
• Soup: Add turnips to your favorite soup recipes for a touch of sweetness and earthiness.

Frequently Discussed Topics

Q: How long does it take for turnips to mature?

A: Turnips typically mature in 40-60 days, depending on the variety.

Q: Can I grow turnips in the shade?

A: Turnips need at least six hours of sunlight per day to grow well.

Q: What are the signs of a nutrient deficiency in turnips?

A: Signs of nutrient deficiency include stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and poor root development.

Q: How do I prevent root maggots from damaging my turnips?

A: You can deter root maggots by using diatomaceous earth, covering the soil with row covers, and rotating crops.

Q: How can I tell if a turnip is ripe?

A: A ripe turnip will be firm and crisp to the touch, and the flesh will be white and tender.