Turnip Seeds

FAQs about Turnip Seeds

Look at some of the frequently asked questions we receive from those looking to buy Turnip Seeds in the UK. You can contact our Customer Service Team or browse our general FAQs for further advice. 

When is the best time to sow Turnip Seeds?

You'll get the best results when you sow turnip seeds between July and mid-August. This perfectly lines up your turnips for harvesting in autumn. Some early varieties can be sown as early as February in covered containers or under cloches. Turnip seeds are best sown straight in the ground or container where they are to be harvested.

What soil conditions do Turnip Seeds need?

Turnips love well-drained, rich soil. You can prepare your soil for your turnip seeds by digging in well-rotted manure or compost in the autumn before you intend to plant your turnip seeds. Ideally, you're looking for a fine, crumbly soil texture.

How do you care for Turnips?

Turnips grow best in a cool, open position with plenty of light. Hot, dry conditions or poor soil can cause roots to become tough or bitter. Watering is especially important. The roots underneath the tender part you eat are quite shallow, so the soil should always be kept evenly moist, particularly during dry spells. Irregular watering can lead to woody or split roots and turnips are prone to bolting when dry. Weeding regularly means your turnips don't have to compete for light or nutrients but forego the hoe and weed by hand to avoid the risk of damaging the tender roots you'll be eating later down the line. 

Can Turnip Seeds be grown in containers?

Yes, turnips grow very well in containers, making them a great option if you're short on garden space or just want a small crop of tender roots.

Choose a large pot at least 40 cm wide and place it in a warm, sunny spot. Fill it with peat‑free multi‑purpose compost and water thoroughly before sowing. Scatter the turnip seeds thinly over the surface, then cover with around 2 cm of compost and gently firm down.

Once the seedlings appear, thin them to about 10 cm apart. This spacing is ideal for harvesting turnips as mini vegetables, which are especially sweet and quick to mature.

How long does it take to harvest Turnip Seeds?

Turnip seeds are quick to reward you. Early varieties can be ready in as little as six weeks from sowing, while maincrop turnips usually take around 10 weeks. For the best flavour and texture, it's wise to harvest roots while they're still small and tender. If left to grow larger than a tennis ball, they can develop a bitter taste.

Late-sown turnips should generally be lifted before hard frosts, as the roots aren't fully hardy. In milder areas, they can be left in the ground over winter if protected with cloches, allowing you to harvest as needed. Alternatively, autumn crops can be stored for several weeks in a cool, frost-free place.

Bonus Tip: Turnip leaves are delicious and can be harvested either alongside the roots or earlier. Young leaves have a fresh, peppery flavour and are delicious raw, while larger leaves can be cooked like spinach. Pick a few leaves, and the turnip will produce more, but avoid removing too many as this can stunt root growth.

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