Quick, mild roots and tender, edible tops from an easy cool-season crop. Sow direct and pull young for the sweetest, most delicate flavour.
At a glance
- Plant type: Edible plant
- Mature size: 30 cm tall
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Turnip
Brassica rapa is a fast-growing edible plant in the Brassicaceae family. It reaches around 30 cm tall at maturity.
Where to grow Turnip
Turnip suits cool-temperate and warm-temperate climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Turnip does best in free-draining soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Turnip does best with regular, moderate watering. Feed regularly through the growing season for the best crop. For the first year, favour occasional deep watering over frequent shallow drinks so roots move into the surrounding soil.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Turnip in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Its ongoing care level is low maintenance.
Using Turnip in the garden
Turnip earns its place for edible harvests.
Companion planting & design
Build the planting around neighbours suited to the same regular, moderate watering and cool-temperate climate as Turnip. Repeating the foliage or flower colour nearby will make the composition feel deliberate.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Turnip
Plant Sale lists Turnip as seed and seedlings. Use the interest form above to check current sizes, pricing and availability before ordering.
Prefer to grow it yourself? See the Turnip seed sowing guide for depth, timing and germination.
