🌱 Turnip

Grow in deep, stone-free, well-drained but moisture-retentive soil for straight, smooth roots. Work in well-rotted compost before sowing; avoid fresh manure (forking/rough roots). Target slightly acidic to neutral pH (about 6.0–7.5). Keep weeds down to reduce competition and pest pressure.

Direct sow is preferred. Sow 1–2 cm deep in finely raked, firm soil; keep evenly moist for germination. Sow thinly in rows, then thin seedlings to about 10 cm spacing (wider for larger-rooted types) to avoid crowding and misshapen roots. Make succession sowings every 2–3 weeks in spring and again in late summer for autumn harvest. Avoid very fresh manure or overly rich nitrogen, which encourages leafy growth at the expense of roots, and avoid drought followed by heavy watering (can cause splitting).

Incorporate compost (or a moderate, balanced fertilizer) at bed preparation. Avoid excessive nitrogen, which promotes leafy tops at the expense of root swelling and can increase susceptibility to some pests. If growth is slow in mid-season, use a light side-dress of a balanced fertilizer; ensure adequate boron in deficient soils to prevent internal browning.

Mulch after seedlings are established and soil has warmed to conserve even moisture and prevent crusting. Keep mulch a few centimeters away from crowns to reduce rot and slug sheltering; use a light, airy layer (e.g., clean straw or shredded leaves).

No support is required; turnip forms a low rosette and swollen root. Keep weed competition low so foliage does not sprawl and shade neighboring rows.

No pruning; thin seedlings and harvest roots when they reach usable size. Young leaves can be cut as greens; remove flower stalks if bolting is unwanted.