How to Grow Turnips

Lets 'turnip' the beat on this good old fashion vegie and give it the revival it deserves! Once considered to be bland and boring (that's because it was often boiled beyond belief), turnips are incredibly flavoursome and are delicious raw, stir-fried, stewed or souped.

Full sun

Regular watering

Well drained

Suitable for all climatic zones.

6-12 weeks after planting depending on variety (check label)

Spring/summer depending on location (check label)

How to grow turnips in a garden

Step 1

Choose a sunny spot with well drained soil. Loosen the soil and enrich with Yates Dynamic Lifter Soil Improver & Plant Fertiliser.

Step 2

Sow seeds direct into growing position, cover lightly with Yates Seed Raising Mix and water well.

Step 3

As seedlings grow, thin out weak plants and feed weekly with Yates Thrive Vegie & Herb Liquid Plant Food.

Step 4

Water regularly, particularly in hot or windy weather. Mulch with organic mulch like sugar cane or pea straw to help retain soil moisture.

Step 5

Harvest when roots are about 10cm wide, when they're still young and tender.

How to grow turnips in a pot

Step 1

Choose a pot at least 400mm wide and deep. Position in full sun and fill with quality potting mix, such as Yates Potting Mix with Dynamic Lifter.

Step 2

Sow seeds and lightly cover with Yates Seed Raising Mix. Water in well.

Step 3

As seedlings grow, thin out weak plants and feed weekly with Yates Thrive Vegie & Herb Liquid Plant Food.

Step 4

Water regularly. Harvest roots when they're young and tender, although 'Purple Top White Globe' can be left in the ground over the cooler months and eaten when they're 10cm wide.

Yates varieties

Growing tips

Avoid planting turnips in the same spot as cabbage or broccoli – they're from the same family and this will help reduce soil borne diseases.
Ensure you harvest before the plant starts flowering, otherwise the roots become fibrous and unpalatable.