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How to Grow Turnip

Reviewed by MyLocalPlanting Editorial Team Updated Sources
Turnip (Brassica rapa)

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🛠️ Supplies You'll Need

🪵 Raised Garden Bed 🌍 Vegetable Garden Soil 🛠️ Hand Trowel Set 🚿 Watering Can

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🌿 Plant Overview

Scientific Name Brassica rapa
Category vegetable
Days to Maturity 91 days
Starting Method Direct Sow

☀️ Growing Requirements

☀️

Sun

Full Sun

💧

Water

Regular

🌱

Germination

1-7 days

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Companion Planting Guide for Turnip

Discover which plants grow well with Turnip and which to keep at a distance for a healthier garden →

🌾 Seed Saving Guide

🟡 Moderate
✅ Open-pollinated — seeds grow true to parent

When to Harvest Seed

Biennial — allow roots to overwinter and harvest seed pods in year 2 when dry.

Processing

Thresh dried stalks, winnow seeds from pod fragments.

Seed Viability

Up to 4 years when stored cool, dark, and dry.

Pro Tip

Brassica rapa — crosses with bok choy, napa cabbage, and other rapa crops. Isolate by 300 feet.

Seed Storage Supplies

✉️ Seed Envelopes 🗂️ Mylar Storage Bags 🧊 Silica Gel Packets 📋 Seed Organizer

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Turnip Planting Calendar by Zone

Zone 1a Zone 1b Zone 2a Zone 2b Zone 3a Zone 3b Zone 4a Zone 4b Zone 5a Zone 5b Zone 6a Zone 6b Zone 7a Zone 7b Zone 8a Zone 8b Zone 9a Zone 9b Zone 10a Zone 10b Zone 11a Zone 11b Zone 12a Zone 12b Zone 13a

Turnip Planting Calendar by State

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Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Turnip? +

Sow Turnip seeds directly in the garden 6 weeks before your last frost date. Use the search on this page to find exact dates for your location.

How long does Turnip take to grow? +

Turnip typically matures in about 91 days from planting. Exact timing varies by variety, soil conditions, and local climate.

Should I start Turnip indoors or direct sow? +

Turnip does best when direct sown outdoors. Plant seeds directly in the garden at the appropriate time based on your local frost dates.

How much sun does Turnip need? +

Turnip requires full sun to thrive.

How much water does Turnip need? +

Turnip has regular water needs. Consistent moisture is important especially during germination and early growth.

Can you save seeds from Turnip? +

Yes — seed saving difficulty for Turnip is rated moderate. Biennial — allow roots to overwinter and harvest seed pods in year 2 when dry. Thresh dried stalks, winnow seeds from pod fragments.

How long do Turnip seeds last in storage? +

Properly dried and stored Turnip seeds remain viable for up to 4 years. Store in a cool, dark, dry location in an airtight container with a silica gel packet for best results.

Are Turnip seeds open-pollinated? +

Yes — Turnip is open-pollinated, meaning seeds saved from your harvest will grow plants true to the parent variety. This makes it an excellent candidate for building a self-sustaining garden.

About Turnip

Turnip (Brassica rapa) is a popular garden vegetable. It can be directly sown outdoors 6 weeks before your last frost date.

Expect your Turnip to be ready for harvest in approximately 91 days from planting.

Use the search above or browse by zone or state to find the perfect planting dates for your location.