How to Grow Turnips in Minnesota

Growing turnips can be a rewarding endeavor for Minnesota gardeners. These versatile root vegetables thrive in cooler climates, making them an excellent choice for the state’s unique growing conditions. This article will guide you through every aspect of growing turnips, from choosing the right variety to harvesting them at their peak.

Understanding Turnips

Turnips (Brassica rapa) are member of the cruciferous family, which includes kale, broccoli, and cabbage. They are typically grown for their edible roots, which can be white, yellow, or purple in color. Beyond their delicious taste, turnips offer numerous health benefits, such as being low in calories and high in nutrients like vitamin C, potassium, and fiber.

Choosing the Right Variety

When selecting turnip varieties to grow in Minnesota, consider both your climate and your intended use. Some popular varieties include:

1. Purple Top White Globe: This is one of the most common varieties. It has a white flesh with a purple crown and is well-suited for both fall and spring harvesting.

2. Hakurei: A Japanese variety that is known for its sweet flavor and crisp texture. It is best harvested young and has a smooth, white skin.

3. Golden Globe: This variety features a golden yellow skin and is often sweeter than other types. It’s great for roasting or mashing.

4. Scarlet Turnip: With its red skin and white flesh, this variety adds color to dishes and has a mild flavor.

Each variety has its specific growth requirements and flavors; therefore, choose based on your personal preference and culinary needs.

Preparing the Soil

Soil Requirements

Turnips prefer well-drained, fertile soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0. Good drainage is vital to prevent root rot and other diseases. Before planting, it’s beneficial to test your soil’s pH levels using a home testing kit or by sending a sample to a local extension office.

Amending the Soil

To improve soil fertility:

• Add Organic Matter: Incorporate compost or well-rotted manure into the soil to increase nutrient content.
• Fertilization: A balanced fertilizer can help prepare the soil before planting. A ratio like 10-10-10 (N-P-K) can provide essential nutrients.
• Tilling: Loosen the soil by tilling it to a depth of about 12 inches to promote root growth.

When to Plant Turnips

In Minnesota, turnips can be planted in two main growing seasons: spring and late summer/early fall.

Spring Planting

• Timing: Aim to plant seeds from mid-April to early June when soil temperatures reach around 50°F (10°C).
• Frost Tolerance: Turnips are frost-tolerant; therefore, they can withstand light frosts once established.

Fall Planting

• Timing: For a fall harvest, plant seeds from late July to early August.
• Considerations: Fall-planted turnips benefit from cooler temperatures, which enhance their sweetness.

Planting Turnips

Seed Selection

Obtaining high-quality seeds is crucial for successful germination. Purchase seeds from reputable sources to ensure viability.

Sowing Seeds

1. Row Spacing: Space rows approximately 12 inches apart.
2. Seed Depth: Sow seeds about ½ inch deep.
3. Seed Spacing: Thinly distribute seeds every few inches within the row for optimal growth.

Watering

Water turnip seeds immediately after planting and maintain consistent moisture throughout the growing season without overwatering. Use mulch to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Caring for Your Turnip Crop

Weeding

Weeds compete with turnips for nutrients and water; therefore, regular weeding is essential during their growth period. Hand-pulling weeds or using shallow hoeing techniques can effectively manage weed growth without disturbing young turnip roots.

Pest Control

Common pests that may affect turnips include:

• Flea Beetles: These small insects create tiny holes in leaves. Use row covers or natural insecticides as preventive measures.

• Cabbage Worms: The larvae of moths that feed on foliage. Handpicking or using neem oil can help mitigate damage.

Monitoring your plants regularly will help catch pest infestations before they become serious issues.

Fertilization Schedule

After seedlings are established (about 3 weeks after germination), consider applying additional fertilizer based on soil tests or following product instructions for crop-specific fertilizers.

Harvesting Turnips

Timing is critical when it comes to harvesting turnips; this affects both taste and texture.

Signs of Maturity

Turnips are typically ready for harvest within 30 to 60 days after planting, depending on the variety:

1. Size Check: Roots should be about 2-3 inches in diameter.
2. Texture Test: The skin should feel firm; soft roots indicate overripeness.
3. Leaves Condition: Once leaves begin wilting or turning yellow, it’s time to harvest.

Harvesting Techniques

To harvest:

1. Use a garden fork or spade to loosen the soil around the base of each turnip gently.
2. Pull up by hand or use tools to avoid damaging the roots.
3. Shake off excess soil but do not wash them until you’re ready to cook; excess moisture can lead to rot during storage.

Storing Turnips

Proper storage ensures that harvested turnips maintain their freshness:

1. Cool & Dark Place: Store in a cool (32°F-40°F), dark place such as a root cellar or refrigerator crisper drawer.
2. Humidity Levels: Aim for high humidity to prevent wilting.
3. Use Plastic Bags: Place unwashed turnips in perforated plastic bags to help retain humidity while allowing airflow.

Turnips can last several weeks up to several months under optimal storage conditions.

Using Turnips in Your Kitchen

Turnips are incredibly versatile vegetables:

• Raw Snack: Slice them thinly for salads or serve with dips.
• Soups & Stews: Add root vegetables to enhance flavors in soups or braises.
• Mashed or Roasted: Combine them with potatoes or roast them alone with herbs for a delightful side dish.

Experimenting with recipes will not only help you appreciate your hard work but also inspire creativity in the kitchen!

Conclusion

Growing turnips in Minnesota offers both challenges and rewards due to the state’s unique climate conditions. By understanding how to select varieties suitable for your needs, preparing your soil adequately, practicing proper care throughout the growing season, and knowing when and how to harvest them, you can successfully cultivate this nutritious vegetable.

With their versatility in cooking methods and impressive shelf-life when stored appropriately, home-grown turnips are an excellent addition to any gardener’s repertoire!