Turnips in Unapool
Brassica rapa subsp. rapa
A quick-growing hardy root crop for the UK veg patch. Sow direct into fine, stone-free soil and keep the bed evenly moist for a clean, sweet root and useful leaves.
Growing Guide
Step-by-step instructions for growing Turnip
Planting Calendar
Prepare the bed
10 May – 31 MayWork the soil to a fine tilth and remove stones, clods and any fresh manure before sowing. Aim for a deep, open bed so the roots swell evenly from 10th May to 31st May.
Sow seed
10 May – 23 Augevery 3 weeksSow thinly in shallow drills at from 10th May to 23rd August. Sow a small batch every 21 days for a steadier harvest rather than one large glut.
Protect from pests
10 May – 23 AugFit insect-proof mesh over the bed straight after sowing and keep the edges sealed. It helps stop cabbage root fly and flea beetle from damaging seedlings during 10th May - 23rd August.
Thin seedlings
22 Jul – 29 JulThin seedlings to the final spacing once they are large enough to handle, usually about 22nd July - 29th July. Lift the extras gently rather than tugging them, so you do not disturb the roots left behind.
Harvest roots
9 Sept – 15 SeptLift roots from 9th September as soon as they reach usable size, then keep picking through 15th September. Leave a few in the ground only if the soil drains well, and cover the bed with fleece in hard weather.
Companion Plants
Tap a plant to see why it works (or doesn't) with Turnip.
Good companions
Plants to avoid
Why companion planting matters
Companion planting can deter pests, improve pollination, and make better use of space. Some plants confuse pests or attract beneficial insects; others improve soil or offer shade to neighbours that need it.
Suggested Varieties
Popular varieties of Turnip to consider
Oasis
A reliable white globe turnip with crisp flesh and a mild flavour.
Purple Top White Globe
A classic quick-maturing turnip with purple shoulders and white roots.
Snowball
A smooth white turnip that is best picked young for tender roots.
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