Delaware: Vegetables

How to Grow Turnips in Delaware

· 4 min read

Turnips are a nutritious, versatile root vegetable that thrives in the temperate climate of Delaware. Their ability to adapt to various soil conditions and their relatively short growing season make them an excellent choice for home gardeners. In this article, we will explore the steps to successfully grow turnips in Delaware, from selecting the right variety to harvesting and storage.

Understanding Turnip Varieties

Before planting turnips, it’s essential to understand the different varieties available. Turnips come in two main categories: white globe and purple top.

  • White Globe Turnips: These are round, smooth, and predominantly white. They have a mild flavor and are excellent for boiling, steaming, or making soups.

  • Purple Top Turnips: These have a purple crown and white flesh. They have a slightly stronger flavor, making them ideal for roasting and mashing.

Choosing the right variety depends on your taste preferences and how you plan to use them in cooking.

Ideal Growing Conditions

Soil Requirements

Turnips thrive in well-drained, loamy soil enriched with organic matter. The ideal soil pH for growing turnips is between 6.0 and 7.5. Here’s how to prepare your soil:

  1. Test Your Soil: Use a home soil testing kit or send a sample to your local extension office to determine pH levels and nutrient content.

  2. Amend the Soil: Based on the test results, amend your soil with organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and drainage.

  3. Tilling: Till the soil to a depth of 12 inches to ensure it is loose enough for root development.

Sunlight Requirements

Turnips require full sun to grow optimally, which means they need at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Choose a planting site that receives ample sunlight while also considering shade from nearby trees or structures.

Temperature Considerations

Turnips are cool-season crops that prefer temperatures between 50°F and 75°F. They can tolerate light frost but will bolt (flower prematurely) in extreme heat. In Delaware, the best time to plant turnips is either in early spring (late March to early April) or late summer (late July to early August) for a fall harvest.

Planting Turnips

Seed Selection

Choose high-quality seeds from a reputable supplier. Look for disease-resistant varieties for better yields.

Sowing Seeds

  1. Direct Sowing: Plant turnip seeds directly into the ground rather than starting them indoors. This helps avoid transplant shock.

  2. Seed Depth: Sow seeds about ½ inch deep in rows spaced 12-18 inches apart.

  3. Thinning: Once seedlings are about 2 inches tall, thin them out so that they are spaced about 4-6 inches apart. This will allow enough room for proper bulb development.

Watering

Turnips require consistent moisture throughout their growth cycle. Water your plants deeply once a week, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. During dry spells, you may need to increase watering frequency.

Fertilizing Turnips

To maximize growth, it’s important to fertilize turnips appropriately:

  1. Initial Fertilization: Incorporate a balanced fertilizer such as a 10-10-10 mix into the soil before planting.

  2. Side Dressing: About four weeks after planting, apply a nitrogen-rich fertilizer (like ammonium sulfate) as a side dressing to encourage leafy growth without compromising root development.

Pest and Disease Management

While turnips are generally resilient, they can be susceptible to pests and diseases:

Common Pests

  1. Cabbage Worms: These green caterpillars can damage turnip leaves.

  2. Management: Handpick worms off plants or use row covers to protect seedlings.

  3. Aphids: These tiny insects can cause stunted growth.

  4. Management: Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs or spray plants with insecticidal soap if infestations occur.

Diseases

  1. Downy Mildew: A fungal disease that affects foliage.

  2. Management: Ensure proper spacing for airflow and avoid overhead watering.

  3. Black Rot: A bacterial infection that causes yellowing leaves.

  4. Management: Rotate crops each year and remove infected plants promptly.

Harvesting Turnips

Timing is crucial when it comes to harvesting turnips:

  • Early varieties can be harvested as soon as they reach about 2-3 inches in diameter, typically around 30-60 days after sowing.

  • For larger varieties, wait until they reach about 4-6 inches in diameter for optimal sweetness and flavor.

To harvest:

  1. Gently pull turnips from the ground by grasping their tops; be careful not to damage them.

  2. Remove any excess dirt without washing them until you’re ready to use them.

Storing Turnips

Proper storage ensures that your harvested turnips maintain their quality:

  1. Storage Conditions: Store unwashed turnips in a cool (32°F), humid environment like a root cellar or refrigerator crisper drawer.

  2. Longevity: When stored correctly, turnips can last several months in optimal conditions.

  3. Freezing Option: If you have more turnips than you can consume fresh, consider blanching them briefly before freezing for longer storage options.

Conclusion

Growing turnips in Delaware offers not only a rewarding gardening experience but also plenty of delicious culinary options throughout the seasons. By understanding the right growing conditions, choosing suitable varieties, and practicing effective care techniques—from soil preparation through pest management—you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of fresh turnips right from your backyard garden. Whether boiled, mashed, roasted, or used in salads, these nutritious roots will add flavor and sustenance to your meals!