How to Grow Turnip Greens & Purple Tops: Complete Planting Guide

Turnips are a versatile crop that can serve many purposes in your garden or field. You can grow Seven Top turnip greens for tender, leafy harvests, plant Purple Top turnips for their flavorful roots, or sow turnip seeds to provide dependable forage for deer and cattle. You plant turnip seeds directly in well-prepared soil, give them full sun, and keep the ground moist for steady growth.

When you choose the right variety for your goals, you get the most value from your planting. Seven Top greens thrive when you want leafy growth without a bulb, while Purple Top turnips produce both edible greens and roots. For wildlife plots or livestock feed, turnips deliver reliable nutrition and can be planted in large areas with minimal effort.

Key Takeaways

• Choose varieties that match your goals
• Prepare soil and plant seeds with proper spacing
• Maintain healthy growth with care and timely harvest

Choosing the Right Turnip Varieties

Turnips are grown for different reasons, from tender leafy greens to nutrient-rich roots and reliable livestock forage. The variety you choose depends on whether you want edible greens, storage roots, or a dependable food plot for deer or cattle.

Seven Top Turnip Greens Overview

Seven Top is a leafy heirloom variety of Brassica rapa bred specifically for its greens rather than its root. Unlike other turnips, it produces little to no bulb, making it ideal when your goal is fresh, nutrient-dense leaves.

This variety matures in about 40–45 days. The leaves are serrated, deep green, and high in vitamins A, B, and C. They are best harvested when 12 inches tall, before the stems turn tough.

Seven Top grows well in cooler weather and is usually planted in fall or early spring. It thrives with 6–8 hours of sun and fertile, well-drained soil. You can learn more about how to grow Seven Top turnip greens for continuous harvests throughout the season.

Purple Top Turnip Seeds Selection

Purple Top turnips are the most common root-producing type of Brassica rapa. They form round roots with white bottoms and purple shoulders that grow above the soil line. The roots are mild and slightly sweet when harvested young, but they can become stronger in flavor if left too long.

This variety is typically ready in 55–60 days. The roots can reach 3–4 inches across, and the tops are also edible. Purple Top turnips grow best in cool conditions under 75°F. Hot weather can cause bolting and bitter roots.

If you are planting in northern climates, sow seeds 4–6 weeks before the first fall frost. In southern regions with mild winters, late summer or early fall planting works best. For details on how to grow Purple Top turnips, follow region-specific timing.

Turnip Varieties for Deer Food Plots

When planting for deer, you want a mix that provides both leafy forage and energy-rich roots. Turnips are a top choice because they are fast-growing, cold-tolerant, and regrow after grazing. Deer eat the leafy tops early in the season and dig up the roots later in fall and winter.

Purple Top turnips are often included in food plot blends because they offer both greens and roots. Seven Top can also be used, but it only provides leafy forage. Some hunters mix turnips with other brassicas like radishes or kale for extended grazing.

Choose varieties that mature in 45–60 days so they establish before frost. Planting in late summer or early fall ensures deer have access to fresh forage during peak hunting season.

Best Turnips for Cattle Forage

Turnips are widely used as forage for cattle because they provide high protein, digestible fiber, and energy during fall and winter. The entire plant—leaves and roots—can be grazed. This makes them a cost-effective option for extending pasture availability.

Purple Top turnips are the most common choice for cattle. They produce large roots and leafy tops that withstand grazing. Some farmers also use Seven Top for leafy forage, but it lacks the root bulk that provides extra feed value.

When planting for cattle, use 2–4 pounds of seed per acre if drilled or 5–7 pounds if broadcast. Allow cattle to graze once the plants are at least 12 inches tall to prevent overgrazing. Well-managed turnip forage can last into early winter, making it a reliable supplement.

Soil Preparation and Site Selection

Healthy turnip greens and roots depend on soil that is fertile, drains well, and receives plenty of sunlight. Paying attention to soil pH, adding compost, and choosing the right site will give your plants the best chance to grow strong and productive.

Soil Testing and pH Requirements

Start with a soil test before planting. A simple test kit or a local extension service can tell you the pH and nutrient levels. Turnips grow best in soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.

If your soil is too acidic, add lime to raise the pH. If it is too alkaline, apply elemental sulfur to bring it down. Balanced soil pH helps plants absorb nutrients more efficiently.

Soil testing also shows whether you need to add nitrogen, phosphorus, or potassium. Since turnip greens are leafy, they benefit from moderate nitrogen, but too much can reduce root growth. A soil test makes sure you apply the right fertilizer in the right amount.

Improving Soil Fertility with Compost

Turnips respond well to fertile soil that contains organic matter. Adding compost improves soil structure, increases water retention, and provides a steady release of nutrients.

Spread 2–3 inches of compost over the planting area and mix it into the top 8–12 inches of soil. This creates a loose, nutrient-rich layer where seeds can germinate and roots can expand.

If you don’t have compost, well-aged manure or leaf mold are good alternatives. Avoid fresh manure, as it can burn seedlings and introduce weed seeds. Consistent use of compost also supports beneficial soil organisms that improve long-term fertility.

Selecting Full Sun Locations

Turnips need full sun to thrive. Choose a site that receives at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Without enough light, greens may grow thin and leggy, and roots may fail to develop properly.

Avoid shaded areas near trees, fences, or buildings. Sunlight not only drives photosynthesis but also helps keep soil dry on the surface, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.

If you live in a hot climate, planting in early spring or late summer ensures plants get full sun while avoiding extreme heat. In cooler regions, full sun exposure helps speed up growth during shorter days.

Ensuring Well-Draining Soil

Turnips cannot tolerate soggy soil. Choose a site with well-draining soil to prevent root rot and stunted growth. Sandy loam or loamy soil types work best.

If your soil is heavy clay, improve drainage by mixing in coarse sand or organic matter like compost. Raised beds are another option, as they allow excess water to flow away from roots.

Check drainage by digging a small hole and filling it with water. If water remains after a few hours, the soil needs improvement. Proper drainage ensures oxygen reaches the roots and reduces the chance of disease.

Planting Turnip Seeds Step by Step

Turnips grow best in cool seasons with well-prepared soil that drains easily. Proper spacing, planting depth, and timing are key to producing healthy greens or roots, whether you are planting for home use, wildlife, or livestock.

When to Plant Seven Top Turnip Greens

Seven Top turnip greens are grown for their leafy tops rather than their roots. You should plant them in early spring or late summer when temperatures stay below 75°F. These cooler conditions prevent bolting and help the greens develop a strong flavor.

Prepare the soil by loosening it to about 12 inches deep. Use a garden trowel to create shallow furrows. Sow seeds about ½ inch deep and 1 inch apart. Keep rows spaced 18 inches apart to give the plants room to grow.

After seedlings emerge, thin them to 2–3 inches apart. Always clip extra seedlings with scissors instead of pulling them, since tugging may disturb the roots of nearby plants. Regular watering is important to keep the soil moist, especially during dry spells.

Seven Top greens can be harvested about 45 days after planting. You can cut the outer leaves while leaving the plant intact, which encourages more growth. For more details, see this guide on growing Seven Top turnip greens.

How to Plant Purple Top Turnip Seeds

Purple Top turnips are a dual-purpose variety grown for both greens and roots. They thrive in cool weather and should be planted 2–4 weeks before the last spring frost or 6–8 weeks before the first fall frost.

Work compost into the soil before planting to improve fertility. Use a garden trowel to sow seeds ½ inch deep and 1 inch apart. Space rows 12–18 inches apart. If you want larger roots, thin seedlings to 4–6 inches apart once they are a few inches tall.

Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist, but avoid waterlogging. Hot summer weather can make Purple Tops bitter or cause them to bolt. Roots are ready to harvest in 55–60 days, while greens can be picked earlier.

For further instructions, see this step-by-step guide on planting Purple Top turnip seeds.

Sowing Turnip Seeds for Deer Plots

Turnips are a popular choice for food plots because deer feed on both the greens and the roots. Plant seeds in late summer or early fall so they mature during hunting season.

Choose a sunny field with well-drained soil. Till the ground and mix in fertilizer with balanced nutrients. Broadcast seeds evenly across the plot, then lightly rake them in so they are covered with about ½ inch of soil.

Keep the seeding rate around 5 pounds per acre. Avoid planting too early in hot weather, as this reduces growth and palatability. Rainfall or irrigation is important during germination, but once established, turnips tolerate mild drought.

Deer will graze on the leafy tops in fall and dig for the roots later in winter, making them a reliable food source throughout the season.

Seeding Turnips for Cattle Grazing

Turnips also work well as forage for cattle because they provide both leafy tops and energy-rich roots. Plant them in late summer for fall grazing or in early spring for summer feed.

Prepare the soil by tilling and adding fertilizer with nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Broadcast seeds at a rate of 2–3 pounds per acre when mixed with grasses, or 4–5 pounds per acre if planted alone. Cover seeds lightly with soil using a rake or roller.

Turnips germinate quickly and can be grazed 6–8 weeks after planting. Allow cattle to graze the tops first, then return later for the roots. Rotational grazing helps prevent overuse and allows regrowth.

This method of planting turnips for cattle provides high-quality forage and extends grazing into cooler months when other pastures decline.

Turnip Care and Maintenance

Turnips grow best when you manage water, soil nutrition, and plant spacing with consistency. Proper care helps the roots form evenly and keeps the greens healthy for livestock, wildlife, or your own harvest.

Watering Frequency and Techniques

You should keep the soil evenly moist, especially during the first few weeks after planting. Turnip seeds need steady moisture to sprout, and dry soil can slow germination or cause uneven growth.

Water about 1 inch per week, either from rain or irrigation. In hot or dry conditions, you may need to water more often. Light, frequent watering is less effective than deep soaking, which encourages roots to grow downward.

Use a soaker hose or drip irrigation to deliver water directly to the soil. This helps prevent leaf diseases that can develop when foliage stays wet. Mulching around rows also helps retain soil moisture and reduces how often you need to water.

Thinning and Spacing Turnip Plants

Once seedlings reach about 2–3 inches tall, you should thin them to prevent overcrowding. Crowded plants compete for nutrients and water, which leads to small or misshapen roots.

For root harvest, keep plants 4–6 inches apart in rows spaced 10–15 inches apart. This gives each root enough room to grow to full size. If you are growing mainly for greens, you can leave them a little closer together.

Thinning can be done by pulling extra plants by hand or cutting them at soil level with scissors. The removed greens are edible and can be used right away. Consistent spacing improves airflow, reduces disease risk, and ensures uniform growth.

Fertilizing for Optimal Growth

Turnips grow best in fertile soil with a pH above 6.0. Before planting, mix in compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil structure and add organic matter. This helps roots develop smoothly and increases nutrient availability.

Apply a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, at planting time. Use about 2–3 pounds per 100 square feet, worked into the topsoil. Avoid excess nitrogen, which can cause large leafy tops but small roots.

Side-dress with a light application of fertilizer or compost halfway through the growing season if plants show slow growth. Healthy soil with steady nutrients supports both strong greens and well-formed roots.

Pest and Disease Management

Turnip greens and roots can face pressure from small insects and soil-borne diseases. Careful monitoring, protective barriers, and targeted treatments help you reduce damage and keep plants healthy throughout the growing season.

Identifying Flea Beetles and Aphids

Flea beetles are tiny black or brown insects that jump when disturbed. They chew small round holes in leaves, leaving a “shot hole” pattern. Seedlings are most at risk since heavy feeding can stunt growth or kill young plants.

Aphids are soft-bodied insects that cluster on the undersides of leaves and stems. They suck plant sap, causing curling leaves, yellowing, and sticky honeydew. This residue can attract ants or lead to mold growth.

Check your plants at least twice a week. Early detection allows you to act before pests spread. Use a hand lens if needed to spot aphids or small beetles.

Using Row Covers for Protection

Floating row covers create a physical barrier between pests and your crops. Lightweight fabric allows sunlight, air, and water through but blocks insects like flea beetles and aphids.

Install row covers immediately after planting seeds or transplants. Secure the edges with soil or garden staples to prevent gaps. Keep the cover loose enough for plant growth.

Remove the covers only when plants need pollination or when temperatures rise too high. For turnip greens, which don’t rely on pollinators, you can often leave the covers in place until harvest.

Organic Pest Control Methods

When pests appear despite barriers, organic methods can help. Neem oil works against aphids by disrupting feeding and reproduction. Spray in the evening to avoid harming beneficial insects.

For caterpillars that may feed on leaves, use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt). This natural bacteria targets larvae without affecting humans or most beneficial insects.

Encourage predators like lady beetles and lacewings by planting flowers nearby. These insects feed on aphids and help keep populations under control. Rotate crops each year to reduce pest buildup in the soil.

Preventing Clubroot and Powdery Mildew

Clubroot is a soil-borne disease that causes swollen, deformed roots and stunted growth. It thrives in acidic soil. To reduce risk, keep soil pH above 7.0 by adding lime. Avoid planting turnips or other brassicas in the same spot for at least 3–4 years.

Powdery mildew shows up as a white, powdery coating on leaves. It spreads in warm, dry conditions with poor airflow. Space plants properly to improve circulation and water at the base to keep foliage dry.

Remove and destroy infected leaves to slow the spread. If needed, apply sulfur-based sprays or potassium bicarbonate as organic treatments. Regular monitoring helps you act before disease becomes severe.

Harvesting and Crop Rotation

You can harvest turnip greens or roots at different stages depending on the variety. Proper timing helps you get tender leaves or well-formed bulbs. After harvest, rotating crops like turnips and radishes reduces soil problems and keeps your garden productive.

When and How to Harvest Turnip Greens

Seven Top turnip greens are grown only for their leaves, not for roots. You can start cutting leaves when they reach about 6–8 inches tall, usually around 45 days after planting. Use clean scissors or a sharp knife to snip leaves just above the crown.

Pick only a few leaves from each plant at a time. This lets the plant continue to grow and produce new foliage. If you harvest all the leaves at once, the plant may not recover.

For a steady supply, plan to cut greens every 1–2 weeks. Younger leaves taste milder, while older leaves can be stronger and tougher. Greens are best eaten fresh but can also be frozen for later use.

Harvesting Purple Top Turnips

Purple Top turnips are grown for both greens and roots. You can harvest the greens early, but avoid removing too many leaves if you want strong root growth. The roots are ready to pull when they reach 2–4 inches in diameter.

Check the shoulders of the turnips where they push above the soil. A firm, round root with a purple top indicates good maturity. If left too long, roots can become woody and lose flavor.

Loosen the soil with a fork before pulling to prevent damage. After harvest, cut off the greens about 1 inch above the root to extend storage life. Roots can be stored in a cool, damp place for several weeks.

Crop Rotation for Healthy Soil

Turnips belong to the Brassica family, which also includes radishes, cabbage, and mustard. Growing these crops in the same soil year after year can lead to disease buildup and nutrient loss. Crop rotation helps prevent these problems.

A simple rotation plan is to avoid planting Brassicas in the same spot for at least 3 years. Instead, follow turnips with legumes like beans or peas, which improve soil nitrogen.

You can also rotate with grains or root crops outside the Brassica family. This practice reduces pests such as root maggots and maintains soil fertility. By planning rotations, you improve yields and keep your soil balanced for future planting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Turnips grow best in cool weather, and timing matters for both wildlife and livestock use. Different varieties, such as Seven Top and Purple Top, have specific planting needs, and their uses vary depending on whether you want leafy greens, roots, or forage.

When is the optimal time to sow turnip seeds for deer food plots?

You should plant turnip seeds for deer in late summer to early fall. This timing ensures the plants grow during cooler temperatures, which improves root and leaf development. In northern regions, aim for about 4–6 weeks before the first expected frost.

What are the best practices for planting Purple Top turnips?

Purple Top turnips grow best in soil that is well-drained and fertile. Sow seeds about ½ inch deep and 1 inch apart, then thin seedlings once they sprout. These turnips perform well when daytime temperatures stay below 75°F, as hot weather can cause plants to bolt and turn bitter (Stone Post Gardens).

How long does it take for turnip greens to mature from seed?

Turnip greens are usually ready to harvest in about 40 to 50 days after planting. Seven Top turnip greens, which are grown only for their leaves, can often be picked around 45 days after seeding (Webgardner).

Can you compare the benefits of planting sugar beets versus turnips for deer?

Sugar beets provide a high-energy food source but require well-drained, sandy soil and a longer growing season. Turnips, on the other hand, are more tolerant of different soils and mature faster. Deer often eat both the leafy tops and roots of turnips, while sugar beets are mainly valued for their roots.

Are Purple Top turnips suitable for cattle consumption, and how should they be planted?

Yes, Purple Top turnips are suitable for cattle and are often used in forage mixes. You should plant them in late summer or early fall by broadcasting or drilling seeds into prepared soil. Roots and tops can both be grazed, but it’s best to introduce cattle gradually to avoid digestive issues.

What is the recommended planting schedule for turnips in Missouri to attract deer?

In Missouri, you should plant turnips in late July through early September. This schedule allows plants to establish before frost and ensures leafy growth during fall when deer activity increases. The cool-season growth also helps maintain forage availability into early winter.